It’s no secret that Metro Manila’s poor air quality and scarcity of green spaces have a detrimental effect on locals’  health and well-being. Green open spaces play a significant role in enhancing physical health and overall well-being. 

Thankfully, Metro Manila has a few free and safe green spaces for those who want to breathe, relax, or bond with their loved ones. Here are eight accessible parks in Metro Manila for the next time you need a break from all the concrete.

Rizal Park

Located in the heart of Manila lies one of the Philippines’ most historic parks. Named after Jose Rizal, Rizal Park (also called Luneta Park) is a tourist attraction and an excellent spot to spend time with your loved ones or pets. Its open lawn, gardens, paved walks, and wooded areas are ideal for relaxation, exercise, or picnics.

If you happen to drop by at night, watch the colorful fountain that dances to the beat of music!

Address: Ermita, Manila
Operating Hours: 5 AM – 8 PM

Arroceros Forest Park

Also known as “Manila’s Last Lung,” this forest park in Manila is home to thousands of tree varieties, ornamental plants, and habitats for bird species.

The serene atmosphere of this park has rooms for tiled pathways, fish ponds, viewing decks, and bridges that can make you forget the noise and busy city life.

Address: 659 A Antonio Villegas St., Ermita, Manila
Operating Hours: 8 AM – 5 PM

Ayala Triangle Gardens

Within the high buildings of Makati Central Business District lies this public garden with hundreds of trees to shield you from the sun’s heat. Its location makes it a great place to take a break from work, and you’ll never be hungry because the park has so many food spots.

Every December, the park also displays stunning Christmas lights and sound displays.

Address: Paseo De Roxas St., Cor. Makati Ave, Cor. Ayala Ave, Makati
Operating hours: 6 AM – 10 PM

Jaime C. Velasquez Park

Also known as Salcedo Park, this is a space for locals to sunbathe and experience calm nature within Makati. 

You’ll surely enjoy strolling around this pocket park with its rich greens, trees, playground, pet park, lawn, and benches. Visit on a Saturday to catch the popular Salcedo Weekend Market!

Address: Velasquez St., Salcedo Village, Bel Air, Makati City
Operating hours: 5 AM – 10 PM

Quezon Memorial Circle

Built in remembrance of the late President Manuel L. Quezon, this 67-hectare park is a place to create lasting memories as it has so many exciting activities. Here, you can exercise, shop, dine, visit the museum, and just sightsee. 

Address: Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City
Operating hours: 5 AM – 8 PM

Valenzuela City People’s Park

Further up north lies the urban People’s Park in Valenzuela City, which offers a good place to spend time and relax.

Aside from its interactive dancing fountain, playground, amphitheater, garden, and gazebo, there are also different types of animals in the park– monkeys, turtles, birds, and fish. 

The trip to the North is worth the journey!

Address: MacArthur Highway, Valenzuela City
Operating Hours: 6 AM to 10 PM

Marikina River Park

The stretch of the park along the Marikina River is best enjoyed on Sundays with the family.

The river view and sunset are wonderful sights to witness after a long day. It is also a place to sightsee and do recreational activities, like walking, dancing, and playing games.

Address: 300 Shoe Ave, Sto. Nino, Marikina City
Operating hours: 24 Hours

BGC Greenway Park

Explore or feel the breeze of nature landscape at this newly opened 1.6-kilometer BGC Greenway Park, one of the longest linear parks in Metro Manila. 

The green pathway serves as a place to socialize, exercise, and just take in the breeze of nature!

Address: 130 McKinley Rd, Taguig City
Operating hours: 6 AM – 10 PM

What are your favorite parks?