Exploring Santiago’s Public Parks
Santiago's a busy city, no doubt, but tucked away between all those buildings and busy streets are vibrant green spaces just waiting to be explored. They're an escape from the city’s noise, offering everyone a chance to chill out, have some fun, and soak up some culture. So, let's dive into the amazing variety of public parks Santiago has to offer!
Parque Metropolitano
Parque Metropolitano de Santiago, or Parquemet for short, is the king of Santiago's parks and known as the city's green lung. As one of the world's biggest urban parks, it's got something for everyone. You can relax by one of the two outdoor pools in summer, get up close with animals at the Chilean National Zoo, wander through Japanese gardens, or work up a sweat on the hiking and biking trails.
If you're looking for something more low-key, there are plenty of picnic spots under shady trees for a quiet lunch. On a clear day, head to the top of Cerro San Cristóbal for amazing city views. You can choose how you get up there, with options for hiking, cable car rides, funicular rides, or even a shuttle bus.
Atmosphere, Key Features and Activities
- Key features: Cerro San Cristóbal summit, two large outdoor pools, the Chilean National Zoo, Japanese gardens, an adventure park, playgrounds, picnic areas, hiking and biking trails, a cable car, and a funicular railway.
- Atmosphere: Varies depending on location, it’s lively by the pools, peaceful in gardens, and more active on trails. Weekends are noticeably busier and events can bring large crowds.
- Popular activities: Hiking, cycling, swimming, having a picnic, visiting the zoo, and enjoying city views at Cerro San Cristóbal.
Parque Forestal
Right in the heart of Santiago, you'll find Parque Forestal, a long, narrow park hugging the Mapocho River. This park's got a real charm to it, with wide tree-lined paths and eye-catching sculptures dotted around. It's also home to the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (the National Museum of Fine Art), making it a hotspot for art fans.
If you're looking to unwind after checking out downtown Santiago, take a stroll through Parque Forestal or grab a bench and watch the world go by.
Atmosphere, Key Features and Activities
- Key features: Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, Castillo Forestal (a Parisian brasserie), interesting sculptures, a children’s playground, and tree-lined paths.
- Atmosphere: Busy yet relaxed, especially popular with lunch crowds and art lovers.
- Popular activities: Visiting the art museum, eating at Castillo Forestal, and people-watching.
Parque Bicentenario
Parque Bicentenario, out in the Vitacura district, has a whole different vibe from Santiago's other parks. This modern green space is all about sleek, perfectly groomed lawns, cool water features (including a lagoon), and jaw-dropping views of the Andes. It's especially pretty at dusk when the park and city lights up, creating a sophisticated park experience.
Pack a picnic and a blanket to really soak up Parque Bicentenario. It's all about peace and relaxation, making it a go-to for couples and families who want to escape the crowds of the city.
Atmosphere, Key Features and Activities
- Key features: Monet By The Water (an immersive art experience featuring paintings by Monet), a lagoon, manicured lawns, food trucks, Mestizo (a fine dining restaurant), and mountain views.
- Atmosphere: Tranquil and upscale.
- Popular activities: Having a picnic, cycling, walking, enjoying the views, visiting Monet By The Water and eating at Mestizo.
Parque O'Higgins
Parque O'Higgins, Santiago's second-biggest park, is buzzing with energy and packed with things to do. Sports fans can hit the tennis courts, football fields, or even take a dip in the Olympic-sized pool. Thrill-seekers can get their kicks at Fantasilandia amusement park, music lovers can check out what's on at Movistar Arena, and families can have a blast at the aquarium and playgrounds. With heaps of space, it's also a top spot for picnics and family gatherings.
Atmosphere, Key Features and Activities
- Key features: Tennis courts, a public pool, Fantasilandia amusement park, football fields, an aquarium, playgrounds, a skate park, a lagoon, Chinese gardens, a roller skating rink, restaurants, and the Museo Paleontológico de Chile (The Paleontological Museum of Chile).
- Atmosphere: A hive of activity during weekends, especially around Fantasilandia and during festivals.
- Popular activities: Having a picnic, attending a concert, visiting the aquarium, playing various sports, visiting Fantasilandia, hiring surrey bikes, feeding the swans, and renting paddle boats.
Cerro Santa Lucía
Back in 1882, Mayor Vicuña Mackenna turned this historic hill into a beautiful public park. He built elaborate fountains, terraces, gardens, and ponds, all connected by winding paths and carriage roads. There’s a small viewpoint at the top, but heads up, it's best to visit on weekdays if you want to dodge the selfie-stick crowds.
If you're into history, check out Castillo Hidalgo, which was built for defence but has been everything from a museum to an event space. You can also find the tomb of Mayor Vicuña Mackenna up there, just follow the signs that say 'Sepulcro de Benjamín Vicuña Mackenna'.
Atmosphere, Key Features and Activities
- Key features: Remnants of Castillo Hidalgo, the impressive Neptune’s Fountain, a hill-top lookout and several gardens.
- Atmosphere: Historical charm.
- Popular activities: Walking through the gardens, viewing the castle ruins, and posing for photos at the summit.
Parque Araucano
Out in the Las Condes neighbourhood, Parque Araucano's got a bit of everything, wide-open spaces, fun activities, and entertainment. It's got big lawns, picnic spots, playgrounds, sports areas, food stalls, and even a gorgeous rose garden. One cool thing is KidZania, where kids can try out over 80 different jobs in a mini city. Sometimes, you'll also stumble across open-air markets with locals selling art, crafts, and food.
Weekends get a lot busier, so if you're looking for a more chilled-out vibe, head over on a weekday.
Atmosphere, Key Features and Activities
- Key features: A rose garden, children’s playgrounds, KidZania, a gym, various sports facilities, large lawns and several restaurants.
- Atmosphere: Lively and family friendly.
- Popular activities: Sitting in the rose garden, having a picnic, visiting KidZania, playing sports, and wandering around the open-air markets.
Parque Quinta Normal
Parque Quinta Normal is a historic park, but has all the modern perks you’d expect. You've got wide walking paths, old trees giving you shade, open lawns, and even a small lagoon. Inside the park, there are playgrounds, areas to hang out, a café, and museums like the National Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Science and Technology.
Atmosphere, Key Features and Activities
- Key features: The National Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Science and Technology, the Railway Museum, a lagoon, an outdoor swimming pool (seasonal), picnic benches and children’s playgrounds.
- Atmosphere: Lively but relaxed. Particularly popular with families on weekends.
- Popular activities: Having a picnic, visiting the museums, swimming in the summer, and renting paddle boats.
So, whether you're up for a hike with epic views, a relaxed picnic in the shade, or some family fun at the zoo, Santiago's got a park that's perfect for you. Each one's got its own unique vibe, so why not check out a few and find your new favourite green space in the city?
