Due to quarantine restrictions, some of these attractions might be closed or might be implemented safety protocols and requirements for their guests. Please coordinate with the local government or park management before going.
Take a trip to Baguio to re-acquaint yourself with nature.
Baguio City may have already been well covered by tourists who have gone to this famed destination, but this only makes it more daunting for first-timers who’ve yet to see its tourist spots. There’s just so much to see!
Luckily, this list narrows everything down to the most must-see tourist spots that truly capture the essence of Baguio. So for novices out there, read on and take notes if you want to experience the scenic Summer Capital of the Philippines in the best way possible. Make sure to put these Baguio tourist spots in your travel itinerary!
1. Burnham Park
Greet the sunrise under one of the looming trees at Burnham Park.
The trip starts at the very heart of Baguio City. Burnham Park along Jose Abad Santos Drive used to be a retreat site for military personnel, until it was transformed into the beloved recreational park that it is today.
The more casual travellers out there may opt to take a breather at the Orchidarium, the Rose Garden, the Igorot Garden, the Picnic Grove, or at Sunshine Park—all within the almost 33-hectare estate. Meanwhile, kids and kids-at-heart can have fun at the Children’s Playground or the public skating rink towards the southern end of the park. There are also a soccer field, tennis courts, and basketball courts at the eastern end.
2. Mines View Park
If you come at the right time, you get to take in the foggy atmosphere of the park.
Another item on the list of remarkable parks in Baguio is Mines View Park. Once you scale it, you are greeted by the magnificent view of the abandoned mining towns of Itogon, Benguet. For first-timers, you might recognize the place from all your friend’s photos with the cuddly St. Bernard dogs and horses with colored manes. You can also pay to rent and wear an Igorot garb for a souvenir photo.
3. The Mansion and Wright Park
Security is stern at The Mansion, so be sure to take photos safely.
The landmark façade of The Mansion along Romulo Drive is nearly impossible to miss. Built in 1908, the grand structure serves as the President of the Philippine’s official summer palace. Admission is free, but you can only enter until the gates are open, as security is pretty strict.
With a view as beautiful as this, you’d be convinced that Wright Park is the right park to visit.
Across the mansion is another scenic vista: Wright Park. Perhaps the most recognizable sight in the park is the Pool of Pines, a long rectangular stretch of pristine pool right in the middle. Take a walk and take advantage of the scenery by snapping some photos too.
To get here from Mines View Park, just ride a jeepney and ask the driver to drop you off at the gates.
4. Baguio Cathedral, Lourdes Grotto, and Bell Church
The landmark frescoes of the Baguio Cathedral are impossible to miss.
Just a stone’s throw away from Burnham Park is the Baguio Cathedral. Originally called the Our Lady of the Atonement Cathedral, the structure stands out due to its bright pink façade and blue and tan details. After saying a quick prayer, you can then go to Porta Vaga Mall beside the church where you can buy souvenirs or grab a quick lunch.
If you’re a devout Catholic, it is a worthy suggestion to visit the Lourdes Grotto as well. The 252 steps towards the grotto is a tough climb, but pilgrims and devotees will surely find meaning and solace in the journey.
Take in the tranquil views and study the Taoist way at the Bell Church.
Perhaps you’d want to explore other bodies of faith. Then the Bell Church, a renowned Taoist temple, should be the perfect destination for you. The meticulously sculpted garden and the majestic pagodas make it an ideal venue to seek solace.
5. Philippine Military Academy, Teacher’s Camp, and Baguio universities
Know how the finest servants of the nation are forged in flame in the Philippine Military Academy.
Image: Philippine Military Academy "Face-Bok")
If you’re down for a more educational trip to the highlands, then a detour to the country’s premier military school should be a must. In the Philippine Military Academy there are exhibits of helicopters, planes, and even a well-kept museum.
Other educational institutions worth paying a visit to are UP Baguio, St. Louis University, and the University of the Cordilleras, among others.
On the other hand, the Teacher’s Camp, while not exactly an educational spot, is also a good place if you want to see and feel the vintage vibe that everyone experiences towards the place.
6. Strawberry Farm and STOBOSA Houses
Satisfy your sweet cravings by picking the bounties as they grow in La Trinidad Strawberry Farm.
A vacation in Baguio wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the popular Strawberry Farm in La Trinidad, Benguet. Just be sure to drop by during peak season around December to March to get the prime choices on the bounty of strawberries.
Talk about an Instagram-worthy view!
A walk towards the highway from where the strawberry fields are located in La Trinidad will take you to the colorful STOBOSA houses. It’s a portmanteau of the towns of Stonehill, Botiwtiw, and Sadjap in Baranggay Balili in La Trinidad. In this famous spot, catch all the colors of the rainbow with the colorful sight of the STOBOSA houses.
7. BenCab Museum and Tam-Awan Village
Discover what built the legacy of National Artist Benedicto Cabrera in his namesake museum.
If you’d want to take in beauty within a confined and curated space, then add the BenCab Museum to your itinerary. For just PhP150 (PhP120 for students and PhP80 for senior citizens/PWD), you get to marvel at the magnificent artworks of the National Artist, Benedicto Cabrera.
July 2020 Update: BenCab Museum is temporarily closed.
Draw the line between art and culture through Tam-Awan Village’s rich artistic offerings.
Image: Albien Sison
While you’re on your artistic escapade, take a trip to Tam-Awan Village as well and take in the sights of the beautiful murals and paintings in the venue. The place is also usually a venue for workshops and art exhibits, and it aims to promote a deeper understanding of the cultural legacy of the people of Cordillera.
8. Camp John Hay
The Manor, which is located within the area of the Camp John Hay, remains a sight to behold across the skyline.
Image: Camp John Hay Facebook page
Baguio City is almost synonymous with Camp John Hay, a recreational center originally owned by the Americans until it was turned over to the Philippines during the 90s. If your budget can bear it, you can even check-in at The Manor, the famed luxurious hotel which offers a picturesque view of the park and the surrounding highland panorama.
9. Session Road and Harrison Road
The hustle and bustle of Baguio’s Session Road is worth traversing on an empty stomach.
Would it be a trip if it didn’t involve all the gastronomical feasts of the place? Perhaps Session Road can show you a thing or two about Baguio’s rich palate. Both the lower and upper areas of the Session Road are homes to some of the best local restaurants and diners, including Vizco’s Restaurant and Café and Oh My Gulay..
If you’re already rushing to buy pasalubong (take home gift) for your friends back home, the Baguio Night Market along Harrison Road is your go-to place. Score great deals from the abundance of ukay-ukay (secondhand) stalls that riddle the entire avenue.
Take your time and take advantage of your first-ever trip to Baguio. After all, the first time is always the most special!
Which of these Baguio spots would you visit first? Let us know in the comments section below!
Stay safe as you travel! Make sure to follow social distancing protocols and observe health precautions wherever you go. Have a great trip!
This article was originally published in Yoorekka on November 5, 2018.
