Named after a former president, Quezon City is widely known as the country’s largest metropolis. The World Bank also gave recognition to its transformation from a debt-ridden area to one of the richest and cleanest cities. Apart from that, it’s starting to become the center of information technology and entertainment. The city is certainly worth exploring, and this list will serve as your guide. These are the 10 best things to do in Quezon City. Shopping malls, parks, museums, and many other attractions await you.
1. Quezon Memorial Circle
This park is located in Diliman, and it’s famous for its 66-meter-tall (217 foot) shrine, dedicated to the former president Manuel L. Quezon. Designed by renowned Filipino architect Federico Illustre, the shrine is comprised of three columns, with sculptures of angels on top of each one. Inside is a mausoleum, where you will see the remains of Manuel L. Quezon and his wife. There’s also a museum consisting of different relics related to the former president.
Your Quezon Memorial Circle trip isn’t complete without trying its other activities. Kids and kids-at-heart can proceed to the colorful Circle of Joy playground to enjoy the slides, swings, roundabouts and monkey bars. You can also just sit back and admire the surrounding trees. At the Bicycle Station, bikes for solo riders, families, and children are available for rent. Hop on a bicycle and explore the rest of the park. The lush scenery is sure to astound you. Other activities include zip lining, boating, sky biking, and go kart racing.
Quezon Memorial Circle
Address: R-7, Diliman, Quezon City
Website: Quezon Memorial Circle
2. Art in Island
Art in Island, in Cubao, will make you feel like you’re literally part of the paintings. Opened in December 2014, the museum features over 180 awe-inspiring 3D artworks of dinosaurs, animals, pop culture icons, historical personalities and places, and much more. Be mesmerized by the optical illusions or bring out your cameras and take as many photos as you want. The artworks have markers to show you where you can take the perfect picture. Since shoes are not allowed inside the museum, you can explore barefoot or with your socks on. Slipper socks are also available for rent, at around 3 USD.
Art in Island
Address: 175 15th Ave., Brgy. Socorro, Cubao, Quezon City
Facebook: Art in Island
3. People Power Monument
In 1986, millions of Filipinos gathered in Edsa, to protest against the corruption and tyranny of former president Ferdinand Marcos. Without using any ounce of force, the event led to the ousting of the president and the restoration of democracy in the Philippines. The peaceful protest was called the People Power Revolution, and this site was built to honor it. Visit the People Power Monument on the corner of White Plains Avenue, and be enthralled and inspired by the huge sculpture, depicting the historical event.
People Power Monument
Address: 47-P White Plains Ave, Quezon City
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4. La Mesa Eco Park
La Mesa Eco Park, in Novaliches, is part of the area that supplies Metro Manila’s water, and it’s where you can fully enjoy nature. You can go to the picnic area for a delightful meal and a wonderful view of the lagoon. Huts cost around 10 USD while the round tables are free of charge. If you want to do some exploring, then the mini forest is a good place to start. You will certainly love the lush greenery and tranquil vibes. At the Butterfly Haven, not only will you see the winged creatures up-close, but you will also learn more about their life cycle. When you reach the Shell Flower Terraces, get ready to be fascinated by the different types of colorful blooms.
Make sure you get to the top for a panoramic view of the nature reserve. Other attractions include Bungee Fun, fitness and mountain bike trails, a zip lining area, and a swimming pool complex.
La Mesa Eco Park
Address: 4332, Quezon City Dr, Novaliches, Quezon City
Facebook: La Mesa Eco Park
5. Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center
Nature appreciation continues at the 22-hectare (56-acre) Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center. It’s named after a former president, and it’s the perfect place to jog or go for a walk. The abundance of trees and the calm atmosphere are sure to keep you going. You can also bring your camera and take pictures or videos of the lovely surroundings. Another highlight of the park is the Wildlife Rescue Center. It serves as a shelter for sick, injured, confiscated, and donated animals, from all over the country. Some of the animals you will see here include birds, snakes, crocodiles, and macaques.
Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center
Address: Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City
6. TriNoma
TriNoma opened in 2007, and it’s now one of Quezon City’s most popular malls. It is home to some of the best shops and restaurants in the metropolis and the state-of-the-art theaters will give you a comfortable movie viewing experience. Outside the top floor is a huge, picturesque garden where you can go for a walk or just relax. It also has a stage, surrounded by pools, where different shows are held.
TriNoma
Address: North Ave., Quezon City
Website: TriNoma
7. SM North Edsa
Just in front of TriNoma is another mall worth checking out. SM North Edsa opened in 1985, and it’s the first super mall to be established by renowned businessman Henry Sy. If you’re into shopping, there are over 500 stores for you to choose from. As for the restaurants, you can choose from over 300 options.
The cinema complex consists of 12 theaters, and they show the latest local and international films. There’s also the famous Sky Garden, where you can go for a relaxing walk. You will enjoy not only the greenery but the sight of the artificial lake and waterfall, as well. Another significant feature of the Sky Garden is the 1,500-seat dome, where concerts and other major shows are held.
SM North Edsa
Address: Epifanio de los Santos Ave, Bago Bantay, Quezon City
Website: SM North Edsa
8. Jorge B. Vargas Museum and Filipiniana Research Center
This museum, on the campus of the University of the Philippines in Diliman, houses the collection of artworks and artifacts of Jorge B. Vargas, a former lawyer, diplomat, and executive secretary. Visit the Jorge B. Vargas Museum and Filipiniana Research Center and be captivated by the paintings of beloved Filipino artists, such as Juan Luna, Felix Hidalgo, Fernando Amorsolo, and Victorio Edades.
You will also see centuries-old coins, stamps, sculptures, and many other items. The library consists of over 3,000 books about Vargas’ favorite topics.
Jorge B. Vargas Museum and Filipiniana Research Center
Address: Roxas Ave, Diliman, Quezon City
Website: Jorge B. Vargas Museum and Filipiniana Research Center
9. Maginhawa Street
This is a big street, in Teacher’s Village, that promises to satisfy your appetite. Head to Maginhawa Street and enjoy a delightful meal in one of its many restaurants and food stalls. Crazy Katsu is the place to be if you’re looking for the finest Japanese dishes. If you prefer Italian delicacies, then try out the delicious pizzas and pastas of Friuli. At Casa Quesadilla, you will instantly fall in love with its authentic Mexican dishes. Local specialties such as bulalo, bagnet, and longganisa await you at MIXXX Vigan’s Best. For a lovely dessert, have a taste of liquid nitrogen ice cream at Iscreamist.
There are many other spots for you to choose from, on Maginhawa Street, all of which have something special to offer.
Maginhawa Street
Address: Maginhawa, Teacher’s Village, Diliman, Quezon City
10. Cubao Expo
This place started as a simple shoe expo, but now, it’s a one-of-a-kind nightlife spot. Aside from bars and restaurants, Cubao Expo, in Araneta Center, has a lot more to offer. There are antique shops as well as stores selling independently-produced clothes. If you’re into art and literature, then go check out the Warrior Café’s exhibits and spoken word events. At the Appraisery, you can enjoy their wide selection of coffee and sandwiches or play board games. Rumpus Room offers not only cold beers but also video games. A visit to Cubao Expo is certainly going to be a fun experience.
Cubao Expo
Address: Gen. Romulo St., Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City
Facebook: Cubao Expo
See you in Quezon City
The MRT train remains to be the most convenient mode of transportation in the city. From North Avenue Station, you can easily walk to SM North Edsa and TriNoma. If you go down from Kamuning or Cubao Station, plenty of taxis, buses, and jeepneys will be waiting for you.
What better way to get to know the Philippines than by exploring its biggest metropolis. Take a trip to Quezon City and enjoy its fascinating sights and vibrant atmosphere.