Dubbed as the “City of Pines” and as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines,” Baguio City has effortlessly established itself as a preferred choice for travelers seeking a respite from the heat and to experience a plethora of attractions, establishments, cool climate, culinary delights, and artistic offerings, among others.
On 31 October 2017, Baguio was designated by UNESCO as a Creative City for Crafts and Folk Arts, becoming the first Philippine city to be recognized as a member of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN).
Panagbenga Festival
Recognized for its verdant natural surroundings, Baguio presents an ideal destination for visitors seeking an immersive experience of Panagbenga, the renowned Flower Festival. The term “Panagbenga” originates from the Kankanaey language, translating to “season of blooming.” This festival incorporates numerous traditional Filipino elements, including vibrant street performances. It serves as a poignant tribute to the resurgent spirit of Baguio following the catastrophic 1990 earthquake.
Burnham Park
Burnham Park, one of Baguio’s premier attractions, stands as one of the city’s oldest parks, perfected with its man-made lake. Engage in rejuvenating activities such as strolls, cycling, or boating to savor the park’s captivating atmosphere.
Baguio Cathedral
Baguio City’s most magnificent edifice, the Baguio Cathedral, boasts an opulent interior adorned with intricate decorations. Perched majestically atop Mount Mary Hill, it offers breathtaking panoramas of Session Road and the city’s surrounding landscape. Renowned as the Our Lady of Atonement Cathedral, the cathedral can accommodate up to 850 individuals for a single mass.
Mines View Deck
Situated on the outskirts of Baguio City, Mines View Park is conveniently located five kilometers from the city center. This proximity allows visitors to easily access renowned attractions such as the Botanical Garden, the Mansion House, Wright Park, and Pacdal Circle. From its elevated vantage point, Mines View Park offers an exceptional panoramic view of the Amburayan Valley and the mining town of Itogon.
Wright Park
Horseback riding has gained significant popularity among visitors to Baguio City, with Wright Park serving as an ideal destination for the sport. Established as a recreational hub, the park is named after American Governor Luke E. Wright.
Botanical Garden
Baguio Botanical Garden is a landscaped park in the City featuring a wide collection of native and ornamental plants, themed gardens, and cultural displays inspired by Cordilleran heritage. It serves as a peaceful green space for leisure, education, and cultural appreciation within the city’s cool highland environment.
The Mansion
The Mansion House is an iconic landmark in Baguio City and known to be the official summer residence of the President of the Philippines. Built in 1908 during the American colonial period, it features elegant neoclassical architecture and well-kept gardens that attract many visitors. Known for its grand gate and historical significance, it symbolizes Philippine leadership in the highlands. On September 8, 2024, it was reopened as the Presidential Museum, showcasing curated exhibits and restored spaces that highlight the country’s rich presidential history.
Camp John Hay
Originally established in 1903 during the American colonial period, Camp John Hay was once a U.S. military base and served as a rest and recreation facility for American soldiers stationed in the Philippines. Its strategic location, nestled within Baguio’s cool, pine-covered mountains, made it a perfect retreat from the heat and humidity of the lowlands. Over the decades, Camp John Hay became a symbol of American influence in the Philippines, and its impact on the city of Baguio can still be felt today.
Tam-awan Village
Tam-awan Village is a cultural space in Baguio dedicated to preserving and showcasing Cordilleran heritage, serving as a living hub where art, history, and indigenous traditions are shared through exhibitions, workshops, and performances that foster a deeper appreciation of Cordilleran culture and identity.
Baguio Night Market
Although Baguio is well known for its parks and green spaces, its vibrant night market along Harrison Road is also a major draw for visitors. Open nightly, with vendors typically setting up by around 9:00 PM, the area transforms into a lively street bazaar offering far more than just secondhand clothing. Locally and popularly known as “ukay-ukay,” the secondhand clothing market features a wide range of pre-loved items such as jackets, bags, shoes, and apparel. Alongside these are stalls selling arts and crafts, souvenirs, accessories, and other locally made merchandise. The night market is also widely visited for its diverse street food offerings, making it both a shopping and culinary experience in the heart of the city.
