Queen's Park Savannah
Port of Spain
Queen's Park Savannah (QPS), located in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, is the city's largest open space, spanning approximately 260 acres. Originally sugarcane farmland purchased by the town council in 1817, it evolved from a cattle pasture into a public park by the mid-19th century. The Savannah has a rich history, having served as an airstrip in the early 20th century and hosting horse racing until the 1990s. Today, it features multiple cricket, football, and rugby pitches, surrounded by a ring of trees and the ornamental Hollows area. Adjacent to the Savannah are key landmarks including the Royal Botanic Gardens, Emperor Valley Zoo, and prestigious residences such as those of the president and prime minister. The western edge is lined with the Magnificent Seven, a collection of flamboyant late-Victorian buildings. The southern side hosts the Grand Stand, a focal point for cultural events, especially the annual Carnival, where it becomes the "Big Yard," the central venue for parades and competitions. The Open Air Food Court offers local delicacies in the evenings, making the Savannah a lively community space blending nature, culture, and history.
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Tip: Visit Queen's Park Savannah in the early evening to enjoy the Open Air Food Court's local street food stalls, which operate from around 6 PM to 10 PM. For Carnival events, plan ahead as the Savannah becomes the central hub with live broadcasts and competitions. Weekdays and mornings are quieter for leisurely walks and sports activities. No need to purchase tickets for general park access, but check for event-specific passes. The park is accessible year-round, with the dry season offering more comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.
Interesting facts
- •Queen's Park Savannah covers about 260 acres, making it the largest open space in Port of Spain.
- •The park was once used as an airstrip in the early 20th century before airports existed in the area.
- •Horse racing was regularly held at the Savannah race track until the early 1990s.
- •The "Big Yard" at the Savannah is the central location for Trinidad and Tobago's Carnival since the early 20th century.
- •The western edge features the Magnificent Seven, a group of eclectic late-Victorian buildings with unique architectural styles.
- •The Open Air Food Court operates nightly offering local street foods like doubles, corn soup, bake and shark, and jerk chicken.
History
The land that is now Queen's Park Savannah was originally sugarcane farmland owned by the Peschier family until 1817 when it was acquired by Port of Spain's town council.
Initially used as a cattle pasture, it transitioned into a public park by the mid-19th century.
In the early 1900s, the Savannah functioned as an airstrip before airports were established.
Horse racing was a prominent activity here until the early 1990s.
Over time, the area developed into a major cultural and recreational space, hosting sports fields and becoming the central venue for Trinidad and Tobago's Carnival celebrations.
Place Guide
The Grand Stand and Big Yard
Originally built for horse racing spectators, the Grand Stand now serves as the main venue for Carnival events, including live broadcasts of the Parade of Bands and competitions such as the Calypso Monarch and Panorama finals.
The Magnificent Seven HousesLate 19th to early 20th century
A collection of seven flamboyant late-Victorian buildings along Maraval Road, showcasing various eclectic architectural styles. Notable buildings include Queen's Royal College, Hayes Court, Whitehall, Mille Fleurs, Roomor, and Stollmeyer's Castle.
The Hollows
A small landscaped area in the northwest corner of the Savannah, formerly a reservoir, now planted with ornamental shrubs and serving as a peaceful garden spot within the park.
Royal Botanic Gardens and Emperor Valley Zoo
Located immediately north of the Savannah, these adjacent attractions include the city's major botanical gardens and zoo, as well as official residences and Queen's Hall, the main performing arts venue in Port of Spain.
Contact
Phone: (868) 622-1670
