Old Schoolhouse Park

Description

If you’re looking for a laid-back spot to unwind or play in New Westminster, Old Schoolhouse Park at 500 Ewen Ave is a delightful place you’ll want to include on your itinerary. Sitting in the Queensborough neighborhood, this park is a central hub for local families, sports enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates an open green space bordered by the charm of a residential community. I found myself drawn to its casual, unpretentious atmosphere; it’s the kind of park where you feel at home whether you’ve come to stretch your legs, enjoy a spontaneous picnic, or watch your kids run freely.

One of the most appealing aspects for me was the sense of community. People greet each other as they walk their dogs, and it’s easy to find a conversation over the playground fence or at the tennis courts. The park’s name pays homage to the historical schoolhouse nearby, lending an educational echo to your visit. Though it’s not the largest park in New Westminster, Old Schoolhouse Park packs a lot into its well-maintained grounds, making it a lasting favorite for locals and a pleasant surprise for visitors.

Key Features

Accessible Playground: The playground includes modern slides, climbing structures, and swings, thoughtfully designed with accessibility in mind, so all kids can join in on the fun. I noticed the ground surface near the play area is soft, reducing bumps and scrapes.
Sports Facilities: If you enjoy being active, you’ll love the tennis court and the open field often set up for soccer. Both are well-used in the afternoons and weekends by people of all ages sharpening their game or just having fun.
Outdoor Exercise Machines: Scattered around the park are outdoor fitness machines. I tried a couple of them while watching a soccer match—perfect for squeezing in a workout without the gym commitment.
Picnic-Friendly Spaces: There’s an inviting collection of picnic tables across shaded and open areas, making outdoor meals stress-free. The tables are conveniently close to the playground, so parents can supervise children while sharing snacks.
Clean Public Restroom: Always a relief to find, especially if you’re staying for a while with kids, the restrooms here are well-maintained and easy to access.
Dog-Friendly Policies: Many locals bring their dogs for walks around the paved paths, and with handy waste bins provided, it stays tidy and pleasant for everyone.
Wheelchair Accessibility: Both the park entrance and parking lot were designed with mobility in mind. Navigating the space is smooth, making it inclusive for all visitors.

Best Time to Visit

Old Schoolhouse Park has its own rhythm throughout the year. From my visits, I’ve discovered that the late spring and early summer months—May through July—offer some of the best experiences. The weather is warm but not stifling, local gardens are in bloom, and there’s a lively but not overcrowded energy. If you stop by on a weekend morning, you’ll catch local families starting their day, and the tennis court is especially popular.

Autumn also deserves a mention. The mature trees along the park’s edge turn brilliant shades, and it’s less busy, giving you space for quiet reflection or an energetic game of soccer. Weekdays in the late afternoon or just before sunset tend to be quieter; that’s when I managed uninterrupted strolls with a coffee in hand or spent time sketching at a picnic table.

I’d recommend avoiding particularly rainy days in the winter unless you’re dressed for it—while the park is open year-round, the playground and exercise equipment are best enjoyed dry.

How to Get There

Getting to Old Schoolhouse Park is straightforward, whether you’re local or visiting New Westminster. The address—500 Ewen Ave—is easy to input into your GPS, and street signage in the area is clear. If you’re driving, there’s a dedicated parking lot with marked accessible spaces; I’ve never had trouble finding a spot, even during busier hours.

Biking to the park is popular too, as New Westminster has expanded its cycling paths, especially in the Queensborough area. There are bike racks near the park entrance, so you won’t need to worry about your ride while you explore.

Using public transit is also an option. Several bus routes stop within a short walk of the park. I’ve taken the bus from downtown New Westminster, and the ride was quick, dropping me just a couple of blocks away. There’s a slight walk on level ground, handy for parents with strollers or travelers with mobility challenges.

Tips for Visiting

Pack Some Essentials: While there are shady spots and trees, the park can get sunny in the midday hours. Bring a hat or some sunscreen, especially if you’re planning to spend time at the playground or on the soccer field.
Bring Out the Sports Gear: Old Schoolhouse Park is ideal if you want spontaneous recreation. Pack a tennis racket and balls, or just a soccer ball, and you’ll make the most of the facilities available.
Plan for a Picnic: The picnic tables tend to fill up during lunch hour on weekends, so arriving early or planning a mid-afternoon meal might get you the best spot. I like stopping by a local bakery for a fresh sandwich before heading to the park.
Dog Etiquette: Leashed dogs are welcome and greeted with enthusiasm here. Waste disposal bags are available, and there’s plenty of room along the paved perimeter for a good walk.
Restroom Access: The restrooms are on the far side of the playground, convenient but slightly hidden from the main entry; keep this in mind with small children, especially after a long play session.
Mind the Schedule: Weekday mornings are typically the quietest, ideal if you prefer a less crowded atmosphere. Afternoons and weekends, especially during soccer season, the energy ramps up—great if you love the community buzz.
Outdoor Exercise: Try the fitness equipment! Even with just a few minutes, you’ll appreciate the variety, and it’s quite motivating seeing others give them a go.
Photography: If you enjoy photography, the light in the late afternoon is beautiful, shining through old trees and casting long, interesting shadows on the fields. It’s also a great setting for candid family photos.

All in all, Old Schoolhouse Park makes good on its promise of being a community cornerstone and a relaxing retreat for locals and out-of-towners. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with young kids who need to burn off some energy, there’s a pocket of the park for everyone—complete with a dash of New Westminster history and everyday charm. If you find yourself in the area, it’s well worth a stop. Don’t forget your running shoes and your sense of curiosity. Every visit has had something new in store for me, and I’m sure you’ll leave with your own favorite memories, too.