Exploring the Best of Quezon City Tourist Spots in 2024

Welcome to our journey through the vibrant and diverse Quezon City Tourist Spots! Nestled in the heart of the Philippines, Quezon City offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, bustling modernity, and lush green spaces. As a former capital and the largest city in Metro Manila, it’s a destination that’s rich in history and brimming with activities for all kinds of travelers. From awe-inspiring art galleries and lush eco-parks to historical sites and family-friendly attractions, Quezon City is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored. Join us as we uncover the best places this dynamic city has to offer, ensuring an unforgettable adventure for every visitor.

Art In Island: A Canvas of Fun and Interaction

Art In Island, the world’s first selfie museum in Quezon City, is a unique adventure in the art world. Renowned for its interactive 3D paintings and murals, it offers visitors a chance to become part of the art, resulting in fun, memorable photos. It’s an ideal spot for an array of visitors, from families and couples to solo explorers, providing an immersive experience that spans 1-2 hours of artistic exploration.

The museum is particularly family-friendly, with special offers like free entry for birthday celebrants accompanied by an adult, and no charge for small children. However, changes post-pandemic have been noted, including a price increase and alterations in the art displays. New LED light shows add a vibrant touch but can be overwhelming for some, so visitors with light sensitivity should be prepared.

Despite these changes, Art In Island remains a must-visit for those seeking a playful and unique art experience. Its blend of light, projection, and optical illusions offers a delightful introduction to art in a fun, family-friendly setting. Visitors recommend booking through services like Klook for convenience and suggest visiting during quieter hours for a more peaceful experience.

Eastwood City: A Symphony of Lights, Life, and Leisure

Eastwood City in Quezon City is a dazzling example of urban sophistication, known for its world-class towers and vibrant city life. Described as beautifully decorated with dancing, multi-colored lights, it’s a destination where atmosphere and accessibility harmoniously blend. The City Walk area, a particular highlight, boasts an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it a shopper’s paradise and a foodie’s delight. The pedestrian-friendly streets invite visitors to explore and indulge in diverse cuisines and retail therapy.

The charm of Eastwood City extends beyond shopping and dining. It’s praised for its stunning architecture and balanced mix of commercial, residential, and open spaces. Dog-friendly and family-oriented, it’s a place where memories are made under the sparkling night lights. The area hosts various events, adding to its dynamic ambiance. Visitors appreciate the clean environment and the cool breeze, making it a perfect spot to unwind. Its size is just right, neither too big nor too small, offering an intimate yet expansive urban experience.

Accessibility is another key feature of Eastwood City. With ample parking spaces and convenient church locations like St. John Paul II Church and St. Padre Pio along C5, it caters to various needs. The culinary scene is diverse, ranging from American to Italian, and the shopping options vary from affordable apparel to high-end fashion. The fountain display near Eastwood Mall is a must-see, especially at night. Despite its years, the area remains well-maintained and welcoming to all, from high-end diners to fast-food lovers. It’s not only a great place for shopping and movies but also for bowling and enjoying food and beverages in a well-maintained, air-conditioned environment.

In essence, Eastwood City is more than just a commercial hub; it’s a lifestyle destination. While it’s not an actual city, it combines the elements of fun, entertainment, business, and residential life, making it a small community that offers almost every convenience. The dedication of security guards and the community’s love for the area make it a beloved spot for both residents and visitors.

La Mesa Eco Park: An Oasis of Green in the Heart of the City

La Mesa Eco Park stands as a serene sanctuary amidst the urban landscape of Quezon City, offering a refreshing escape into nature. The park is celebrated for its range of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding, set against a backdrop of stunning scenic beauty. Visitors are enveloped in an atmosphere of tranquility, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature, providing a much-needed break from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Visitors to the park frequently commend the knowledgeable guides like Kuya Julie, who enhance the experience by sharing local insights, such as tasting fresh passion fruit right off the trees. The park’s well-preserved natural environment, complete with sightings of wild chickens, offers a peaceful and invigorating hiking experience. It’s also a popular spot for dates, where one can immerse themselves in nature and forget they’re near a city. The extensive area and diverse attractions ensure there’s always something new to discover.

La Mesa Eco Park is accessible and affordable, with an entrance fee of just 50 pesos. Its forest-like setting, complete with picnic areas and local street food options, makes it an ideal spot for a quick getaway. For Quezon City residents, the park offers discounts, making it an even more attractive destination. Visitors suggest bringing your own snacks and drinks, as food stalls are limited. The park is not just a place for leisure but also for Instagram-worthy moments, popular for prenup photo sessions and family outings.

Quezon Memorial Circle: A Historical Haven with Endless Fun for Families

Quezon Memorial Circle stands as a historical and recreational landmark in the heart of Quezon City, offering a delightful mix of amusement facilities ideal for families. Praised for its cleanliness and maintenance, the park transforms into a magical wonderland at night with its Christmas-themed lighting and decorations. The year-round multi-colored lighting of Quezon’s monument and the dancing fountain add to its charm, creating an enchanting experience for visitors of all ages.

The park offers a wide array of activities, from horse-riding and Zumba to unique dining experiences. Food stalls range from the unusual to childhood favorites, catering to diverse tastes. However, visitors recommend avoiding weekends due to the large crowds and long queues at food stalls. Weekday mornings are ideal for a more peaceful experience, with affordable parking making it easily accessible for residents.

The park is particularly popular among families, thanks to its vast play area and variety of food options. Its festive atmosphere during December, with Christmassy decorations and a plethora of snack stalls, makes it a favorite destination. Visitors also appreciate the park’s artistic touches, such as underground and stair wall paintings. The emphasis on cleanliness and proper garbage disposal is highlighted, ensuring a pleasant environment for everyone.

The circle is not just a place for daytime outings; it also comes alive in the early afternoon and continues well into the night with coffee shops and food stalls. The playground in the east wing is a hit among families, while the tomb of the late President Quezon underneath the monument adds historical significance. The park also includes a water park with rides, providing entertainment for all ages. Emergency services are available on site, ensuring safety for all visitors.

Greenhills Shopping Center: A Bargain Hunter’s Dream

Greenhills Shopping Center, located in San Juan City, is a paradise for shoppers with its unique blend of over 2,000 stores in an indoor/outdoor setting. Renowned for its extensive range of items and bargain deals, the shopping center is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the vibrant retail culture of Manila. Visitors should be prepared for a lively and somewhat intense shopping experience, with salespeople eager to make deals.

This shopping hub is celebrated for offering everything from luxury goods at a fraction of their original price to a vast array of electronic gadgets, clothing, snacks, and souvenirs. Bargain hunters will find the Tiangge, or flea market section, particularly enticing with its myriad of options spread across different floors. Those with a keen eye for authenticity will appreciate the knowledgeable vendors who can distinguish genuine products from imitations.

The shopping experience at Greenhills is unique, with sections of the market offering open-air shopping, adding to the charm and authenticity of the place. While it can get hot during the summer season, the diverse shopping environment, ranging from regional style malls to traditional market settings, provides an immersive experience. Located just a 20-minute drive from Makati on a good day, Greenhills is easily accessible and well-known for its English-speaking vendors who are dedicated to ensuring customer satisfaction.

Apart from shopping, Greenhills Shopping Center also boasts a variety of restaurants, spa services, hair salons, banks, theaters, arcades, and even a chapel and prayer room. The center is not just a shopping destination but a community hub where every visit can be a full day’s excursion. Generosity towards the hardworking vendors and salespeople is appreciated, as many rely on the shopping center for their livelihood, especially in the wake of the pandemic’s impact on the industry.

SM Megamall: The Ultimate Shopping and Entertainment Destination

SM Megamall, standing proudly as the second-largest mall in the Philippines, is a shopper’s paradise. It’s a colossal one-stop destination offering an incredible variety of stores, restaurants, cafes, galleries, and pop-up stalls. Visitors can easily spend a whole day, or even two, exploring the vast array of shopping and dining options. The mall also boasts areas for activities, appealing to people of all ages with its skating rink, bowling center, kiddie places, and arcades.

The layout of SM Megamall can be a maze for newcomers, with numerous branches leading to quieter shopping areas away from the bustling main corridors. The food hall in the basement is a highlight, presenting an array of culinary delights, while other restaurants are scattered throughout the mall. During festive seasons like Christmas, the mall transforms into a spectacular wonderland, with grand decorations that become a backdrop for countless family photos and holiday gatherings.

Despite its size and the large number of visitors, particularly during the holiday season, SM Megamall maintains pockets of tranquility away from the main thoroughfares. The cleanliness of the mall is commendable, contributing to a pleasant shopping experience. The diverse range of affordable and stylish clothing options is a major draw for budget-conscious fashion enthusiasts.

The mall’s facilities, particularly the availability of strollers for babies, add convenience for families. The cleanliness and orderliness of the bathrooms, however, could be improved for an even better visitor experience. With its location in the Ortigas business district, SM Megamall isn’t just a shopping center but a cultural hub, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle and preferences of locals and tourists alike.

Maginhawa Food Park: A Culinary Adventure in the Heart of the City

Maginhawa Food Park is a vibrant gastronomic destination in Quezon City, offering a wide array of local and international cuisines. This lively spot is a hit for its Instagram-worthy setup and diverse food choices, despite some stalls occasionally being closed or having issues with change. Even during rainy conditions, which can add a bit of a challenge to the dining experience, the park maintains its charm and appeal.

Mt. Carmel Shrine: A Sanctuary of Serenity and Spirituality

Mt. Carmel Shrine in Quezon City stands as a beacon of peace and spiritual solace. This serene church is not just a place of worship but a sanctuary for those seeking a quiet escape and a deeper connection with their spirituality. The Shrine, with its tranquil ambiance and sacred spaces, invites visitors to reflect, pray, and find comfort in its hallowed halls.

Visitors to Mt. Carmel Shrine often comment on the sense of calm and peace that envelops them as they step into the church. The architecture and design of the shrine contribute to its serene atmosphere, making it an ideal location for contemplation and prayer. The church is well-maintained, and its surroundings are kept clean and orderly, adding to the overall experience of tranquility.

The shrine is not only a place for individual reflection but also a community of faith. Regular services and special events held at the church allow for communal worship and spiritual growth. The welcoming and inclusive nature of Mt. Carmel Shrine ensures that everyone, regardless of their background, feels at home.

Mt. Carmel Shrine is more than just a church; it’s a spiritual haven in the midst of the bustling city. It’s a place where one can pause from the demands of daily life and reconnect with their spiritual roots. Whether seeking solitude, participating in worship, or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of the church, visitors leave feeling rejuvenated and spiritually enriched.

Smart Araneta Coliseum: The Epicenter of Entertainment and Sports

Smart Araneta Coliseum, a renowned multi-purpose arena in Quezon City, stands as a testament to the city’s vibrant event and entertainment culture. Known for hosting an array of events ranging from high-energy sports matches to grand musical concerts, the coliseum is a landmark in the Philippine entertainment landscape.

Fondly referred to as “The Big Dome,” the coliseum is celebrated for its vast seating capacity and state-of-the-art facilities, making it an ideal venue for various large-scale events. Sports enthusiasts flock here to witness thrilling basketball games, boxing matches, and other sporting events, reveling in the electrifying atmosphere. Music lovers, on the other hand, are treated to unforgettable concert experiences, with the coliseum having hosted some of the biggest names in the music industry, both local and international.

The coliseum’s acoustics and lighting systems are often lauded, enhancing the overall experience of each event. Visitors appreciate the well-organized layout, which allows for smooth entry, seating, and exit, despite the large crowds that these events attract. The strategic location of the coliseum in Quezon City makes it easily accessible to both locals and tourists, adding to its appeal as a premier venue for entertainment.

In addition to sports and concerts, the Smart Araneta Coliseum is versatile enough to host a variety of other events, including religious gatherings, cultural shows, and large-scale corporate events. This adaptability ensures that the coliseum remains a central hub for a diverse range of activities and celebrations.

Conclusion: Discover the Diverse Charms of Quezon City

Quezon City, a vibrant tapestry of culture, entertainment, and nature, offers a multitude of unique experiences for both tourists and locals alike. From the immersive art encounters at Art In Island to the urban sophistication of Eastwood City, the city caters to a vast array of interests and preferences.

Nature enthusiasts find a peaceful retreat in the lush La Mesa Eco Park, while history buffs are drawn to the historical significance of Quezon Memorial Circle, a park that combines leisure with a deep respect for the past. For those in pursuit of retail therapy, Greenhills Shopping Center and SM Megamall offer extensive shopping experiences, from bargain hunts to luxury buys.

Food lovers revel in the culinary delights of Maginhawa Food Park, where a mix of local and international cuisines awaits. Meanwhile, spiritual seekers find solace and tranquility at the serene Mt. Carmel Shrine. Adding to the city’s dynamic character is the Smart Araneta Coliseum, an epicenter for sports and entertainment, showcasing the city’s love for excitement and communal experiences.

In Quezon City, every corner tells a story, every street hums with life, and every visit leaves a lasting impression. It’s a city where tradition meets modernity, nature blends with urban landscapes, and every visit is an adventure. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, entertainment, spiritual enrichment, or culinary adventures, Quezon City is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences for all.