New John Abel Park is a place to connect to Nature and Creativity

The Town of Aurora is thrilled to announce the grand opening of John Abel Park, a beautiful new green space designed to celebrate nature, community, and creativity. The park, named in honour of former Councillor John Abel, officially opened yesterday.

“John Abel’s dedication to Aurora’s cultural and natural landscape is beautifully reflected in this park,” said Mayor Tom Mrakas. “John Abel Park is a living tribute to his vision, blending art, nature, and community, and providing a space for all to connect and celebrate.”

Located on Hartwell Way, John Abel Park offers a range of amenities for all ages including a unique playground designed with primarily wooden log features, a natural rock amphitheatre to facilitate group learning activities, a Trail-Head Plaza that includes a shade structure, play-themed tables and seating, shade sails and seating throughout the park and walkways linking the park to the Town’s trail system and the David Tomlinson Nature Reserve, enhancing accessibility and encouraging exploration.

The park also features Community Gardens that provide an opportunity for residents to cultivate plants and contribute to the community’s green efforts, an open grass area where visitors can relax, play, or enjoy casual gatherings.

While the park is now open, there are many more features to be added in 2025, such as wood pole carvings with a flora and fauna theme that will be installed at several locations within the park, an indigenous garden area and park and trail signage.

To find out more about John Abel Park, please visit aurora.ca/JohnAbelPark.