McBurney Park, Skeleton Park

Imagine a quiet green oasis nestled in the middle of a residential neighborhood. McBurney Park, which locals call Skeleton Park with a touch of mystery, is a 3.2-acre public space in the city of Kingston. Despite its unofficial name, this is a cozy and bright spot in Canada, where historical legacy harmoniously coexists with modern recreation.

Once, this site housed the Upper Burial Ground city cemetery, which opened back in 1819. At the end of the 19th century, it was transformed into a park, becoming a favorite spot for strolls. Today, the park is famous not only for its unusual history but also for its developed infrastructure: it features well-maintained paths, sports courts, and family leisure areas.

Officially named after a prominent local resident, the park remains one of the city's most atmospheric attractions. It draws those who want to see a "different" Kingston—one that isn't formal, but deeply personal, filled with legends and the silence of old trees.

To contact the park administration or find event details, you can use the official city service resources.

Visiting this park offers much more than just a stroll along the paths. Active recreation enthusiasts can take advantage of the basketball court, while younger travelers will find a modern play area and a water splash pad, which is a real lifesaver on hot summer days. It’s an excellent spot for a family picnic or simply reading a book comfortably on the grass in the shade of century-old trees.

Special attention should be given to the cultural component. During the summer solstice, the park transforms into the main stage for the Skeleton Park Arts Festival. This is a free arts festival that brings together musicians, artists, and artisans, making the atmosphere truly festive and creative. This event is a great opportunity to get to know the local community and the culture of modern Kingston.

For those interested in history, a walk here can turn into a kind of quest. Observant visitors might notice old stones or landscape irregularities that recall the site's past. The quiet aura of the residential neighborhood makes a visit here safe and relaxing, allowing you to forget the hustle and bustle of downtown streets for a while.

The park is located at 30 Alma St in the eastern part of the city. Thanks to its central location, it is only 1–2 kilometers from downtown, making it easily accessible on foot. The walk from the center takes no more than 15–20 minutes through picturesque residential blocks.

For those who prefer public transport, Kingston Transit city buses stop nearby. Cyclists will also appreciate the convenient routes: the city's infrastructure allows for a comfortable ride to the site via flat roads or the nearby trails along the Rideau Canal.

If you plan to visit by car, keep in mind that parking in this area is limited. There are a few parking spots on Alma Street itself, but the street is quite narrow due to the historical landscape, so it is often more convenient to park on neighboring streets and walk a short distance.

The history of this site began in 1819 with the opening of the Upper Burial Ground—the city's main cemetery. In the first half of the 19th century, it became the final resting place for thousands of people, including British and French soldiers, as well as victims of terrible cholera and typhus epidemics. Historians estimate that up to 10,000 people were buried in this small area; due to a lack of space, several bodies could be placed in a single grave.

In 1864, the cemetery was closed and fell into neglect for decades. As the surrounding residential area grew, change was needed, and in the 1880s, city authorities decided to turn the abandoned graveyard into a public park. The exhumation process was partial and extremely difficult, so a significant number of burials remained deep underground, giving the park its unofficial but enduring name—Skeleton Park.

Even today, the earth sometimes reveals its secrets. In 2019, an old headstone for Mary McLeod, dated 1834, was discovered here, having been carefully hidden by locals for a long time. The park serves as a silent reminder of the times when Kingston was the first capital of Canada and endured its harshest historical trials.

Visitors usually find 30–60 minutes enough for a leisurely walk through the area, reading the information plaques and taking in the unique atmosphere. It’s an ideal location for a short break during a busy sightseeing day.

However, if you are traveling with children or visiting during one of the local festivals, you should plan for 1.5 to 2 hours. Time will fly by while playing on the modern playground or listening to live music under the shade of old trees.

McBurney Park is open to the public 24/7 every day. There are no gates or strict time limits, so you can enjoy a morning run or the silence of the evening twilight any day of the week.

However, for visits with children or participating in events, it is best to choose daylight hours. For up-to-date information on festivals and summer splash pad operations, it's recommended to check the official city parks portal.

Exploring the surroundings of Kingston will allow you to delve deeper into the atmosphere of one of the region's oldest cities. Numerous historical and cultural sites are clustered near McBurney Park, making them great additions to your walk.