1. Rizal Park, Manila
Rizal Park is quite a crowded place with families, couples and groups of friends all over the area, but nevertheless it’s an ideal park within the Metro for relaxing picnics. Located in Roxas Boulevard, as the name suggests, the park plays a major part in the history of our nation, as it is where the Philippine national hero, Jose Rizal was executed.
More information:
Address: Roxas Blvd Ermita, Barangay 666 Zone 72, Manila, 1000 Metro ManilaOpening hours: 05:00 AM to 09:00 PM everyday
Photo credit: villarinarnel8
2. Paco Park, Manila
Quiet and intimate – this is how we describe Paco Park. A favourite venue for weddings, its garden setting is also perfect for picnics with the family. Paco Park is well known for traditional music concerts, but anybody can still have their own peace and quiet by strolling around. Open every day of the week except on Wednesdays, you could take your loved ones here even on holidays; especially now that summer vacation is fast approaching.
More information:
Address: Belen, Paco, Manila, Metro ManilaOpening hours: 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM
Photo credit: rpggerona
3. Fort Santiago, Manila
Set inside the historic "walled city" of Intramuros, Fort Santiago is widely visited because of its century-old Spanish architectural design and well-maintained landscapes and park grounds. Everything in here takes you to an important piece of history – significantly the time and place where Jose Rizal spent the last few months of his life. You can enjoy a Kalesa ride with the coachman as your guide and see military guards, all in full costume.
More information:
Address: Intramuros, Manila, Metro ManilaOpening hours: 12:00 AM to 5:00 PM, 8:00 PM to 12:00 AM everyday
Photo credit: cebupacificair
4. Legaspi Park, Makati
During weekends, the Legaspi Park becomes a bustling place filled with markets and stalls. Despite the crowds, Legaspi Park still remains an awesome venue for relaxing picnics though, because of the calming atmosphere of tall trees beside clear ponds and stone bridges breathes. Along with the comforting mood, you can peacefully stroll along the park while reflecting on the inspirational quotes engraved on the benches and stone paths. The Legaspi Park is strictly a no-smoking and no-pets zone.
More information:
Address: Trasierra, Legazpi Village, Makati, Metro ManilaOpening hours: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM everyday
Photo credit: mikan.loperez
5. Salcedo Park, Makati
Ever since it started being open to public in 2004, Salcedo Park has been famous for its weekend market. A great place to unwind for the adults and with a dedicated playground area for the kids, it is indeed perfect for a family weekend together. All that and plus a picnic, your family bonding day will definitely be something every member is going to look forward to. Salcedo Park prohibits pets, smoking as well as ball games.
More information:
Address: 121 H.V Dela Costa Street Salcedo Village, Makati, 1227 Metro Manila
Photo credit: jsnmns578
6. Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati
A lush garden that waits to be explored by nature enthusiasts – the newest attraction in Makati – the Ayala Triangle Gardens. The awesome thing about this park is that it allows your kids to run around and play around, plus gives you and your family more room for your picnic bonding; clean and well-maintained that there are a few trash bins and a separate bin made specifically for pet waste – obviously, pets are allowed in Ayala Triangle Gardens.
More information:
Address: Paseo De Roxas St Cor Makati Ave Cor Ayala Ave, Makati, 1209 Metro ManilaOpening hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Photo credit: Flickr/Ayala Triangle Gardens/Gino Mempin/CC-BY
7. Quezon Memorial Circle, Quezon
A great place for a family day as well, the Quezon Memorial Circle is sure to give visitors relaxing picnics and so much more. Many different fun activities for the whole family are in store at the Quezon Memorial Circle. It’s friendly on the budget too! That’s why people from all walks of life opt to take their loved ones here during their free days.
More information:
Address: R-7, Diliman, Quezon City, Metro ManilaOpening hours: Open 24 hours
Photo credit: ohnibells
8. La Mesa Ecopark
It’s as if you’re not in the city when you visit La Mesa Ecopark. Upon entering, you will see the surrounding beauty of trees of the shady forests. The Lopez picnic ground is a nice, serene and peaceful area to relax and spend family time. There are picnic cottages available at an affordable price, or you may put up tents and picnic mats to fully enjoy what nature in the city has to offer.
More information:
Address: La Mesa Dam Compound, Greater Lagro, Quezon City, Luzon 1118, PhilippinesOpening hours: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Photo credit: reubencarlos
9. Manila American Cemetery and Memorial, Taguig
Take a quick look on history as you walk through the graves of uniformed men who gave up their lives during the Second World War. There are tropical trees and shrubbery surrounding the area, making it a favourite picnic spot for families.
More information:
Address: Taguig City, Manila, Metro ManilaOpening hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM everyday
Photo credit: Flickr/Manila American Cemetery and Memorial/Francisco Daum/CC-BY
10. Pasig Rainforest Park, Pasig City
Clearly, the Pasig Rainforest Park has a soft spot for kids and the young at heart. There’s an awesome mini-zoo and children’s playground, sports areas, and many different activities for kids to grandparents; thus making it a must visit in any list of the top spots to have a relaxing picnic weekend for the family.
More information:
Address: Francisco Legaspi, Pasig, Metro ManilaOpening hours: 08:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Photo credit: Flickr/Test Rainforest Park/Ferdz Decena/CC-BY
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