Users’ emotional and experiential relations to urban parks and urban forests

Urban green areas enhance quality of life by providing recreational, social, and environmental benefits —yet realizing this potential depends on how well spaces are designed to align with users’ needs and experiences. With urban populations growing and green spaces under mounting pressure, planners and policymakers need such insights to design socially inclusive and environmentally resilient cities with green spaces that effectively support well-being, biodiversity, and community cohesion. Yet not all green spaces function identically. This study examines urban parks and urban forests in Zurich, asking about users’ emotions and experiences related to their use of these two types of green areas. Using walking interviews and qualitative analysis, the research explores differences in emotional attachment—capturing both overall satisfaction and specific emotions experienced during park visits—and user experiences—including activities, interactions with nature, and perceptions of vegetation—associated with these areas. Findings indicate that urban parks are primarily valued for social interaction, leisure, and accessibility, whereas urban forests are appreciated for their natural aesthetics, tranquility, and restorative benefits. By identifying these distinctions, the study contributes to urban planning and environmental policy, emphasizing the importance of designing inclusive and sustainable green spaces that accommodate diverse user needs.