Nestled in the mountains of the Philippines, Baguio City is renowned for its cool climate, picturesque landscapes, vibrant culture, and tourist attractions for explorers of all ages. Embarking on a family trip to Baguio offers an adventurous retreat that is not only refreshing but also exceptionally family-friendly. Here, we unveil the top five activities that will make Baguio your family’s next favorite travel destination.
Explore Mines View Park: Postcards from the Mountains
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Mines View Park is a panoramic viewpoint that offers breathtaking vistas of the Cordillera mountain ranges. Picture the cloud-capped peaks, the gentle mists that descend over the trees, and a sense of tranquility that’s hard to find in the bustle of everyday life.
This popular spot is a great place to enjoy the fresh mountain air. Wander through the market stalls, where your kids can interact with local artisans crafting traditional souvenirs. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse your children in native culture and hand-hewn crafts. Laser-printed images featuring traditional Cordilleran attire offer a glimpse into indigenous beauty, making it ideal for family photo ops.
Before you leave, don’t forget to take home a jar of Baguio’s famous strawberry jam from one of the stalls. For the adventurous eater, be sure to sample the ‘taho,’ a local dessert made of silken tofu, caramelized sugar, and sago pearls— an absolute treat for the whole family.
Discover the Beautiful Flora at Botanical Garden: For a Nature-Inspired Day
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The Baguio Botanical Garden is an ideal destination for families seeking to connect with nature. With so many species of flowers, plants, shrubs, and trees, its magnificent display of flora helps soothe the mind and body.
What makes the Botanical Garden special for families is that it’s not just about admiring the plants. Its various gardens offer a sensory experience that showcases an array of plants and flowers, each with a unique texture, fragrance, and color. Themed gardens such as the Japanese Garden, Chinese Garden, and Oriental Garden add an element of cultural immersion to the experience.
The garden also has statues of indigenous people and a mini-tribal village, giving kids an educational glimpse into the traditional way of life in the Cordillera region. There’s also a lot of space for children to run around and play, making it a perfect spot for a day of family fun.
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Visit Burnham Park: The Heart of Baguio’s Natural Beauty
Burnham Park is the quintessential green space at the heart of Baguio, a social and recreational hub that caters well to families. It offers a cornucopia of activities, including rowboat and pedal boat rentals on its man-made lake, with swan-shaped paddle boats for the kids. There are also pony rides and skate rentals, providing an entire afternoon of family fun.
For a more relaxing activity, families can lay out a blanket and savor a picnic amidst the park’s serene environment. The kids can stretch their legs at the sprawling playgrounds, a mammoth-sized jungle gym designed for exploration, creating a little adventurers’ club with potential new friends.
If hunger strikes, the park’s winding paths are lined with food stalls selling roasted corn, cotton candy, and other local snacks, providing an array of options to satisfy every family member’s cravings.
Take a trip to BenCab Museum: Where Art and Nature Collide
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The BenCab Museum is a dedication to the prolific Philippine National Artist Benedicto Cabrera’s (BenCab’s) work and the collective beauty of Philippine art. What makes this attraction ideal for families is how it melds its artistic offerings with the surrounding natural landscapes, creating an intertwined experience for all senses.
Interactive spaces engage the young audience, offering hands-on encounters with art forms and diverse cultural expressions. The museum’s verdant gardens and water features allow for a blend of educational exploration and leisure strolls, keeping both parents and children entertained and inspired simultaneously.
BenCab’s collection spans a myriad of mediums and themes. Whether you prefer canvases of dynamic colors, sculptures that emphasize form, or textiles that speak of the archipelago’s heritage, there’s something to captivate every member of the family.
Experience Panagbenga Festival: A Tapestry of Color and Life
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Panagbenga, which means ‘a season of blooming,’ is a month-long flower festival that takes place every February and traditionally heralds the arrival of spring. What makes it exceptional for families is the sheer vibrancy and liveliness that radiate throughout the festivities, making it a heartening cultural immersion for kids of all ages.
The festival includes a grand parade where floats adorned with flowers weave through the streets alongside costumed dancers. Families are encouraged to join in the revelry—kids can participate in age-appropriate workshops to learn dance steps and even take part in the children’s parade, adding an interactive and hands-on dimension to the celebration.
Marketplaces erupt with colors, selling local crafts and delicacies, and various entertainment acts cater to diverse family interests. Watching traditional music performances and sampling native foods provide an enriching experience for the entire family, offering a feast for the senses amidst the flower-bordered streets of Baguio.
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Additional Tips for Your Baguio Family Adventure
Where to Stay
Baguio is home to a variety of family-friendly accommodations, from cozy cottages to spacious homes. Look for lodgings that offer easy access to the city’s main attractions, such as those near Burnham Park or Mines View Park, for added convenience.
What to Eat
Baguio is famous for its fresh produce, particularly its juicy strawberries. Indulge in a strawberry-inspired feast, from strawberry taho to the classic strawberry-flavored ice cream. Don’t forget to check out the local markets for tasty regional delicacies.
When to Visit
While Baguio is a year-round destination, the city comes alive during the Panagbenga Festival in February. For those who prefer a quieter visit, the months after the festival, when the flowers are still in bloom and the weather is still cool, offer the perfect blend of celebration and serenity.
A Fun-Filled Family Adventure Awaits You at El Retiro
Baguio City, with its scenic mountain vistas and cultural landmarks, serves as a sanctuary for families looking to create everlasting memories. The city’s blend of natural beauty, artistic offerings, and vibrant festivals provide endless opportunities for exploration and bonding.
At El Retiro, we welcome families to experience the best of Baguio within our tranquil retreat. Our luxurious heritage home offers family-friendly accommodations and modern amenities, including a sprawling garden and play area for kids. Our team is dedicated to making your family’s stay as comfortable and memorable as possible, providing personalized service and insider recommendations.
So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and head to El Retiro for an unforgettable adventure in the City of Pines. We look forward to having you and your family as our guests.