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National Heroes Park
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Landmark
National Heroes Park is Jamaica’s most sacred commemorative space, serving as a botanical garden, a military shrine, and the final resting place for the nation’s greatest leaders. Located in central Kingston, this 50-acre site was formerly a horse racing track known as the Kingston Race Course before being designated a national park in 1973. The park features the 'Shrine of the National Heroes,' where monumental tombs and sculptures honor figures like Marcus Garvey, Paul Bogle, and Nanny of the Maroons. It is also the burial site for several former Prime Ministers and prominent cultural icons. Visitors can witness the ceremonial changing of the guard performed by the Jamaica Defence Force. The park’s serene atmosphere and grand monuments provide a profound look into the island’s struggle for social justice and political independence, making it a cornerstone of national identity.
- Location: Jamaica
- Top sights: Fletchers Land · Emmett Park · Gleaner Company
- Nearby: Hellshire Beach (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 33 | 19 | 29 | 41 | 111 | 89 | 69 | 104 | 127 | 170 | 87 | 49 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
National Heroes Park is a public park and memorial that can be visited at any time during daylight. The green space is freely accessible, suitable for walks and reflection. The graves and monuments of national heroes can be viewed.
Typical hours
The park is usually open from sunrise to sunset. There are no fixed opening hours as it is a public green space. Special ceremonies or holidays may affect access.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the park, including at the monuments. However, respectful behavior is requested out of reverence for the resting places. The memorials make for atmospheric shots.
Time needed
A visit to National Heroes Park takes about 30 minutes to an hour. For a leisurely walk along the graves and memorials, allow a bit more time. History enthusiasts often spend longer reading the inscriptions.
Combine with
The park is in central Kingston and can be combined with the National Museum or Emancipation Park. Devon House and Bustamante Park are also within walking distance. A city tour of Kingston is a great option.
Getting there
National Heroes Park is located on Oxford Road in Kingston, easily reached by taxi or bus. Parking in the area is limited, but public transport is a good alternative. Many hotels also offer shuttle services.
Insider tip
Visit the park early in the morning when the air is still cool. Take time to read the inscriptions on the graves of national heroes to learn more about Jamaica's history. A guided tour provides additional insights.
Geography
Facts
- Spans 50 acres and was originally a racecourse for over 150 years.
- Houses the spectacular star-shaped monument of Marcus Garvey.
- Final resting place for National Heroes including Sir Alexander Bustamante.
- Features a War Memorial dedicated to Jamaicans who died in World Wars I and II.
- Site of the official annual ceremony for National Heroes Day in October.
- Managed by the Jamaica National Heritage Trust as a Grade 1 monument.
- Includes monuments for cultural figures like the folklorist Louise Bennett.
- The location for major state funerals and official commemorative parades.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town National Heroes Park (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Who is buried in National Heroes Park?
It contains monuments and burial sites of Jamaican National Heroes and former Prime Ministers.
Can you see the changing of the guard?
Yes, the changing of the guard at the cenotaph happens daily and is a popular ceremony to watch.
Is the park safe for a stroll?
It is best to visit during daylight hours; security personnel are usually present on-site.
What is the historical significance of the site?
It was once a racecourse and is now the primary site for commemorating Jamaica's national pride.
Do you need to pay for entry?
No, access to the park and monuments is free to the public.
National Heroes Park: where is it located?
National Heroes Park is located in Jamaica.
National Heroes Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Fletchers Land, Emmett Park, Gleaner Company.
National Heroes Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
National Heroes Park: why is it worth visiting?
National Heroes Park is Jamaica’s most sacred commemorative space, serving as a botanical garden, a military shrine, and the final resting place for the nation’s greatest leaders.
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History & landmarks
Holy Trinity Cathedral
A Roman Catholic cathedral in Kingston known for its impressive dome and frescoes.
Gordon House
The official meeting place of Jamaica's Parliament, named after national hero George William Gordon.
Emancipation Park
A public park in New Kingston symbolizing freedom and the end of slavery.
Sabina Park
Jamaica's most famous cricket stadium in Kingston, home to the Kingston Cricket Club.
Ward Theatre
A historic theater in downtown Kingston, rebuilt after the 1907 earthquake.
Institute of Jamaica
The primary institution for the encouragement and preservation of Jamaican literature, science, and art.
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National Gallery of Jamaica
The country's premier art museum, housing an extensive collection of Jamaican artwork.
King's House
The official residence of the Governor-General of Jamaica in Kingston.
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