16 Best Things To Do In San Fernando, The Philippines

1. Dine at the iconic Aling Lucing Sisig

The iconic Aling Lucing Sisig is undoubtedly one of the most Instagrammable places in San Fernando, Pampanga. Foodies should visit this place to savor one of the country’s most popular and delicious dishes. Aling Lucing is credited with inventing sisig, a sizzling and flavorful pork dish, and her restaurant has become a legendary destination for food enthusiasts. The delectable combination of chopped pork, onions, chilies, and a tangy marinade creates a mouthwatering explosion of flavors that will leave a lasting impression. This culinary gem offers an authentic and unpretentious dining experience, reflecting the heart and soul of Filipino cuisine.

As a local favorite and a significant part of Philippine culinary heritage, Aling Lucing Sisig provides a cultural immersion like no other, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to explore the rich and diverse flavors of the Philippines.

Aling Lucing Sisig

Address: 2MX8+5XQ, MacArthur Hwy, San Fernando, Pampanga

Website: Aling Lucing Sisig

2. Visit Lazatin House

A historic home in the city of San Fernando, Lazatin House is a popular landmark that boasts stunning colonial architecture. It was built in the mid-1920s on Consunji Street and was once occupied by General Masaharu Homma. Today, this architectural wonder is still owned by the Lazatin family and is still often visited by tourists who are interested in its rich history. Several famous people have also checked out the heritage home, including Martha Stewart.

Lazatin House

Address: 523 Consunji St, San Fernando, 2000 Consunji St, San Fernando, 2000 Pampanga

3. Spend some time at Golden Haven Memorial Park - Pampanga

Located in the beautiful district of Calulut, Golden Haven is one of the famous tourist attractions in San Fernando, Pampanga, and showcases the rich history and culture of its people. The structures here boast a mixture of American and traditional styles, featuring the famous colors of the giant lanterns. Here, you can find a replica of Lady Victory, which is meant to honor the memories of the fallen soldiers from World War I. There is an activity area within the premises to keep visitors occupied.

Golden Haven Memorial Park - Pampanga

Address: Brgy. Calulut, San Fernando, Pampanga

Website: Golden Haven Memorial Park - Pampanga

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8am - 5pm (closed on Sun)

4. Seek adventure at Sky Ranch Pampanga

If your family (or kids) are a huge fan of rides, Sky Ranch Pampanga is a destination you definitely need to check out. Located in SM City Pampanga, Sky Ranch Pampanga is one of the best places to go in Pampanga. It is filled with rides that are kid-friendly, like the Double Decker carousel, Kangaroo Jump and Express Train. If you’re looking for something a little bit more thrilling, you can scream as loud as you can on the Space Shuttle, hold on tight to your seat while on the Loop Roller Coaster, or go as high as you can on the Bungee Jump. Families can also ride the Pampanga Eye, the biggest and tallest Ferris Wheel in the entire Philippines. You can also play games and win prizes, and when you’re craving for some munchies, you can head over to the food stalls inside the park.

Sky Ranch Pampanga

Address: SM City Pampanga, Panipuan San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines

Facebook: Sky Ranch Pampanga

5. Go back in time at San Fernando Train Station

San Fernando Train Station looks like it came from a completely different era: and it did. It no longer functions today, but it was fully functioning back in the years prior to the early 1900s up until the second world war. Jose Rizal, the Philippines’ national hero, even stepped foot into this train station when he visited San Fernando and Bacolor! Now, it has a museum with photos, memorabilia and statues commemorating the time when San Fernando Train Station was alive and bustling. It also has a Bataan death march marker, to give honor to the lives lost during the Japanese occupation. Because of its historical significance, San Fernando Train Station was declared a historical landmark by the National Historical Institute – and a must-see attraction by many visitors.

San Fernando Train Station

Address: San Fernando, Pampanga

6. Visit the Arzobispado De Pampanga Church

Located along San Jose Road, Arzobispado De Pampanga Church is an attention-worthy addition to any family weekend itinerary. You can spend your Sunday morning attending mass here, or you can simply marvel at the fine architecture that encapsulates the place. It’s for this reason as well that Arzobispado De Pampanga Church is a famed weeding venue! Arzobispado De Pampanga Church is open to all guests and does not have any entrance fee whatsoever.

Arzobispado De Pampanga Church

Address: San Jose Road, City Of San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines

Facebook: Arzobisapdo De Pampanga Church

7. Enjoy some swimming fun at Villa Alfredo’s

Wondering where to go in Pampanga? Then I suggest Villa Alfredo’s. It is the place to be in San Fernando City if you want to spend your family bonding weekend splashing around in the water and having fun. Located in Barangay Baliti, Villa Alfredo’s allow its guests to swim around in its vast swimming pools, enjoy its waterslides, sing to their favorite songs on its karaoke machines, and awe at nature’s wonders by checking out its exotic bird sanctuary, botany garden or marine aquarium. Your family can spend a good afternoon here!

Villa Alfredo's

Address: Villa Alfredo’s Resort, Barangay Baliti, San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines

Website: Villa Alfredo’s

8. Relax at Citronnelle Spa & Café

Located on the 2nd floor of ESSEL Commercial Complex along MacArthur Highway, Citronnelle Spa and Café offers guests the chance to relax and unwind without burning your pockets. So if you get tired from all the adventures in San Fernando City, you can head over to Ctronnelle Spa & Café for a relaxing one-hour massage at only 200 PHP (4.00 USD). They’re open from 10 am – 12 mn, and offer other pampering and relaxation services such as body and facial care treatments, steam room access, and waxing services as well. What a perfect way to end the day than to treat yourself to that hard-earned massage.

Citronnelle Spa & Café

Address: Unit A, 2nd Floor, ESSEL Commercial Complex, MacArthur Highway, Telabastagan San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines

Website: Citronnelle Spa

9. Shop ‘til you drop at Eyicka’s Fashion Boutique

Located in Floridablanca Pampanga, Eyicka’s Fashion Boutique is admittedly not that easy to find – unlike your typical malls and shopping complexes, Eyicka’s Fashion Boutique is a humble store near St. Augustine Academy of Pampanga. It’s very popular in the area for carrying affordable yet stylish fashion pieces, from clothes and shoes, to kid’s wear and cosmetics. Typically, tops, bottoms and shoes start at 80 PHP (1.60 USD) and given how stylish these pieces are, it won’t be surprising if you end up spending a few hours in the store. So if you’re looking for a way to get your fashion shopping fix, Eyicka’s is a great place to do so in San Fernando City – and here, you can do so without burning through your wallet.

Eyicka's Fashion Boutique

Address: Floridablanca, San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines

Facebook: Eyicka’s Fashion Boutique

10. Bounce your way to family fun at the Jump Yard Indoor Trampoline Park

The Jump Yard Indoor Trampoline Park in San Fernando, Pampanga is the best fun for athletic families. The facility is strong on safety and there’s a special warm-up area. Lockers are available. Inside the main trampoline area, numbers of people are controlled. Kids under five-years-old are allowed, but only in the toddler area. Visitors can register online at their website or at the counter. There are many fun things to do, like a climbing wall and bouncy basketball. Jump and fall, land in the giant foam blocks. This is simply good family fun-time at a unique entertainment center in Pampanga.

Jump Yard Indoor Trampoline Park

Address: Paseo Las Palmas Jose Abad Santos Avenue 2000 San Fernando, Pampanga

Website: Jump Yard Indoor Trampoline Park

11. Take the family to Nona's Kitchen for a feast

The city in the Philippines is known as a destination that offers great food, so don’t miss out on a family meal at Nona’s Kitchen, which is one of the best places to visit in San Fernando, Pampanga. Families with kids are welcome and they have several dining options. Choose to sit at the wooden tables outside, or enjoy the pleasant dining room facility. The restaurant has waiter service and it’s ideal for lunch or dinner, although it’s best to make a reservation. If you’re out and about, they have delicious ready-to-go trays of a large range of Filipino food which will spoil you for choice. Try different dishes like Binalot rice, Arelyenong Bangus, and Atsara.

Nona's Kitchen

Address: Alfredo G. Castro Sr. Blvd San Fernando, Pampanga

Website: Nona’s Kitchene

12. Have fun playing laser tag at Lazer Maxx

While hanging out with your friends in San Fernando Pampanga, a fun activity to check out is laser tag at Lazer Maxx. Re-live your childhood and pick up a blaster to show your friends who among you has the skills to pay the bills. Lazer Maxx is the premier choice for laser tag in the entire Philippines, and the arena at San Fernando Pampanga can fit up to 24 participants for an affordable price. Admission is free on your birthday, and its location on Jose Abad Santos Avenue puts it right next to an assortment of eateries to visit afterward.

Lazer Maxx

Address: Unit 100 Paseo Las Palmas Jose Abad Santos Ave., Dolores, San Fernando, Philippines

Website: Lazer Maxx

Nearby options

13. Embark on thrilling adventures at SandBox Pampanga

SandBox Pampanga is a fantastic place to visit for thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Located in Porac, this sprawling outdoor adventure park offers a wide array of exhilarating activities suitable for all ages. From heart-pounding zipline rides that provide stunning views of the landscape to exciting ATV and UTV rides through rugged terrains, the adrenaline-fueled experiences are endless.

For those who prefer a more laid-back adventure, SandBox offers giant swing rides and a giant net playground, allowing visitors to enjoy the park’s offerings at a more relaxed pace. With its well-maintained facilities and safety standards, visitors can partake in the activities with confidence.

SandBox Pampanga

Address: 4G75+6V Alviera Subdivision, Sapang UWAK Rd, Porac, Pampanga

Website: SandBox Pampanga

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon)

14. Take a visit at St. James the Apostle Parish Church

Also known as “Betis Church” St. James the Apostle Parish Church is a gorgeous Baroque-style church that’s steeped in history. Built in 1607, this historic church has withstood the test of time and has been standing for over 4 centuries now. Its stunning interior decor, coupled with ornate carvings and well-sculpted religious icons, makes this church a spectacle to appreciate. Declared as a National Cultural Treasure, St. James the Apostle Parish Church is truly a long-standing institution in Pampanga. Celebrate Mass with the family or just admire its beauty - either way, this lovely church is a must-visit when in the area.

St. James the Apostle Parish Church

Address: Betis, Guagua, 2003 Pampanga, Philippines

15. Spend a day at Dinosaurs Island (from USD 12.49)

Situated about 40 minutes away from the city of San Fernando, Clark has so much to offer to its visitors, from large golf courses to quaint cafes. One of the most family-friendly attractions in the area, Dinosaurs Island can offer both kids and adults an educational experience. Learn more about the magnificent creatures from the prehistoric era with a tour through the creative exhibits at Dinosaurs Island. Children can also enjoy an opportunity to feed the dinosaurs during their visit. Here, you can also find giant insects that are sure to fascinate the little ones.

Dinosaurs Island Ticket in Clark

from USD

12.49

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16. Shop, dine, and play at Ayala Marquee Mall

Ayala MarQuee Mall is one of the best places to visit and hang out in Pampanga. Located on Aniceto Gueco Street in Angeles, this commercial hub is easy to get to using local public transportation. It hosts a large assortment of international brands as well as local Filipino ones and has many services like banks, clinics, salons, free WiFi, a church, and even a spa to relax in. A cinema plays all the latest movies, while a massive selection of restaurants and cafés offer lots of variety. There is always something to do at Ayala MarQuee Mall.

Ayala Marquee Mall

Address: Marquee Mall, 2135, Aniceto Gueco St, Angeles, 2009 Pampanga, Philippines

Website: Ayala Marquee Mall

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 10am - 7pm; Fri - Sun: 10am - 8pm

A family getaway close to the Metro

San Fernando City in Pampanga is one of the out-of-town destinations closest to Manila. In fact, reaching San Fernando City from Metro Manila is very easy as well - you can choose to drive (44 minutes) or you can take a bus (1 hour and 40 minutes). This proximity, alongside a fun-filled itinerary, and the best tourist destinations in San Fernando, Pampanga, are what makes it an ideal short weekend getaway for the family. So whether the kids are in the mood for adrenaline-pumping rides or the parents are in the mood for some R&R, you can bet that you can find a place to enjoy in Pampanga’s capital.