University Park: Lakes, oak trees and student life in Aarhus
The University Park is one of Aarhus' most well-known parks with lakes, old oak trees and the characteristic yellow university buildings.
A park created for both students and Aarhusians
The University Park was established together with Aarhus University in 1933 and covers approximately 15 hectares. The park is open to everyone and is used every day for walks, runs, reading and breaks by the lakes, while the university buildings frame the area.
Amphitheater
Sailing
Practical
Denmark's largest oak park
The University Park contains Denmark's largest oak park with hundreds of oak trees, which were planted when the university was established. Today, the trees have grown large and give the park its special appearance.
The lakes in the middle of the park attract ducks, coots and other birdlife, and the old oak trees are reflected in the water all year round. It is one of the most popular places in Aarhus for a walk or a break on a bench.
Award-winning architecture
The University Park is known far beyond Aarhus for its architecture. The yellow brick buildings, designed by CF Møller and Kay Fisker, are built in harmony with the landscape, so that buildings, lakes and green areas are naturally connected.
The facades are covered in many places with climbing plants, which change color with the seasons and give the campus its characteristic appearance.
The story of the sheep in the University Park
When the University Park was built in the 1930s, about 20 sheep were allowed to graze between the buildings to keep the grass down. However, the idea was quickly abandoned when the bleating of the sheep disrupted teaching.
The most famous story is about a ram who repeatedly punched his own reflection in a window until the pane shattered. Today the sheep are gone, but the story lives on at the university.
The Auditorium and Amphitheater
In the middle of the University Park lies the Aulaen with the characteristic sundial on the facade. Right next to it is the Amphitheatre, which has been a gathering place for students, lectures, events and joint activities since 1949.
The large grassy hills around the amphitheater are also frequently used as a place to stay when the weather is good.
The sailing race brings together thousands of students
Every year, the University Park forms the setting for The racing, which is one of Aarhus' greatest traditions. Since 1991, students have competed on the lake in front of up to 30.000 spectators, and the event is today considered Northern Europe's largest student-run event.
The Golden Stream is still the trophy that everyone is fighting for, and the Sailing Race has become a permanent part of Aarhus' student life.
Practical information about University Park
Parking
There is paid parking in the Øgade district and at Aarhus University.
Public transport
Bus 12 | 16 | 18 has a stop just outside the park. The light rail also stops next to the University Park.
Toilets
There are no public toilets in the park itself.
Location
Find University Park at Google Maps
See more from the Sailing Race
See pictures from University Park
See pictures from the University Park and experience the lakes, the old oak trees, the university's award-winning architecture and the green areas that make the park one of Aarhus' most iconic places.
Discover more parks in Aarhus
Aarhus has parks, each with their own unique character. Some are known for their historical surroundings, others for their lakes, flowers, playgrounds or large grassy areas. Here you will find our guides to the city's parks with inspiration for walks, picnics, nature experiences and excursions all year round.