The City of Manila is filled with activities especially if you want to relax and chill with your family and friends. A great way to do this is to explore the numerous parks scattered throughout Manila. From historical sites to green parks, there’s something for you.
Here are some of the parks you can visit in Manila:
1. Rizal Park
Rizal Park is one of the most popular parks in Manila and is also called Luneta or Bagumbayan by locals. It was built in honor of Jose Rizal, a national hero, and is located along the shore of Manila Bay.
The park includes various attractions such as a grandstand, an open-air auditorium, a planetarium theater, a Chinese garden, an artificial lagoon, and several sculptures and fountains. The person who lives in a property in Manila may it be a house or a condo can easily access Luneta Park and appreciate the man and his contributions to the Pearl of the Orient.
2. Intramuros
Intramuros is another great spot to visit in Manila. This old Spanish-walled city is filled with historical sites and monuments that date back to the 16th century. The whole area has been turned into a park, making it the perfect place for strolls or to take in some of the city’s fascinating history. Roam around the Rizal Museum inside Fort Santiago and learn about the life, death, and contribution of Jose Rizal to a path of independence.
If you want to chill with the sunset go to San Diego Gardens inside Fort Santiago. Experience being immersed as one with history while capturing the magnificent sunset on the horizon. The reconstructed Fort Santiago also showcases dozens of stories from the Spanish Period to the Liberation of Manila. Intramuros, the Old Manila still endures and is a gem of the past.
3. Arroceros Forest Park
The Arroceros Forest Park is considered the “Last Lung of Metro Manila” due to its lush greenery and trees. It is home to over 3,000 trees and serves as a vital green space in an urban area that is often characterized by congestion and pollution. The park is known for its diverse flora and fauna and is also an important cultural landmark in Manila. It was once the site of the city’s old nursery, where seedlings were grown and then distributed to other parts of the city.
In 1993, the park was officially designated as a forest park by the Philippine government, and efforts have been made to preserve its natural beauty ever since. Today, the park serves as a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, who come to enjoy its peaceful atmosphere and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
4. Manila Ocean Park
If you are into the marine world, why not go to Manila Ocean Park? Manila Ocean Park is an oceanarium and marine theme park located in Manila, Philippines. It opened in March 2008 and covers an area of over 8,000 square meters.
The park features various marine creatures, such as sharks, rays, penguins, jellyfish, and sea lions, among others. Explore the marine world with your loved ones and get a chance to swim with these amazing creatures in one of the world’s largest oceanariums.
5. Paco Park
Paco Park is a historical park located in the center of Manila, Philippines. It was originally built as a municipal cemetery during the Spanish colonial period in the 18th century. The park is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike due to its rich history and tranquil atmosphere.
One of the main attractions of Paco Park is its circular garden, which is surrounded by a high stone wall. The garden is adorned with lush greenery and a variety of flowers, making it a perfect spot for picnics, meditation, and relaxation. In the center of the garden, there is a small chapel that was once used as a mortuary chapel during the Spanish colonial period. The chapel is now a popular venue for weddings and other events.
6. Pandacan Linear Park
The 500-meter public park is situated at the heart of the Pandacan District in Manila. The green space is a perfect place for strolling or just unwinding under the shade. The Pandacan Linear Park is a great example of how urban spaces can be transformed into green and sustainable areas that benefit both the local community and the environment.
It provides a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life and encourages people to connect with nature and lead a healthy lifestyle. The park also features a long wooden boardwalk and various seating areas, making it the perfect spot for picnics or just enjoying an afternoon with family and friends.
Manila is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are plenty of places to explore and discover. Its parks are no exception. Escape in the hustle and bustle of city life and be one with nature in parks just a few minutes away from schools, offices, and residential properties in the area. Play and hangout with family and friends without commuting far from home.
