Suan Lumphini
Rama 4 Rd., MRT Silom. Open daily 4:30am-9pm.
The place: The ultimate oasis in the heart of Bangkok, it sure is convenient and pleasantly shady. While you might have visited countless times, we bet you didn’t know that this place had a rotating dance floor.
The boat: There are duck-shaped pedalos or grownup row boats. Both cost B80 for a half an hour rental, including the B40 deposit just in case you hit the park’s patron, Mr. Hia, and sink.
Suan Luang Ror 9
Srinakarin Rd., next to Seri Center, 02-328-1385/6. Open daily 6am-6pm. Entrance B10 per adult, extra B10 for a vehicle.
The place: Perhaps the biggest green space in town with two botanical gardens, a glass house, a “bird paradise”, and its own tram service. Dedicated to HM the King, the park houses a collection of the King’s personal artifacts in a museum in the middle of the lake.
The boat: It’s a big lake and takes around an hour to do a complete circuit. The rental fee for both their pedal and row boats is B40 for half an hour with an additional B40 deposit.
Benjakitti Park
Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Ratchadapisek Rd. MRT QSNCC. Open daily 5am-9pm.
The place: This is a place for serious keep-fit fans. The park is circled with a shock absorbing track, making it popular with joggers and cyclists. There’s also an exercise trail and bike hires available (B20 for an hour).
The boat: You can choose from the standard pedal type or go for the large, easy to capsize, row boats. All are up for rent at B30 for 30 minutes, with B30 deposit.
Wachirabenchathat Park (Suan Rod Fai)
Kamphaengphet 3 Rd., 02-272-4359/60. Open daily 4:30am-9pm.
The place: This shady spot used to be a private park for the State Railway of Thailand. Rental bikes are now the best way to enjoy the space (B20 for whole-day use). It’s also good for picnics thanks to the big baan-baan market next door, great for drinks, snacks, or even a whole dish of khao gaeng.
The boat: Unlike other parks, colorful kayaks (B30 an hour) are here for rent, so be sure you know what you are doing, or how to swim.
