30 Best Things To Do In Baguio: A Guide to The Summer Capital of the Philippines
Written by Bianca Versoza
Baguio, officially the City of Baguio, is widely known as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines.”
It is a 1st class, highly urbanized city in the Cordillera Administrative Region, which is located in the Luzon tropical pine forests ecoregion. Because of this, Baguio is home to growing mossy plants, orchids, and pine trees, which resonates with its first signature name, “City of Pines.”
Baguio offers a wide range of tourist spots. You can do everything—from nature trips and recreational activities to thrift shopping and cultural appreciation to food tripping. But where should you start?
Here is this local’s top 35 things every tourist should do in Baguio on an extended stay.
Witness the Panagbenga Festival
If you visit Baguio in February, you’re in for a treat! The city hosts the month-long Panagbenga Festival, also known as the “Flower Festival.”
The festival’s name, Panagbenga, translates to “season of blooming” in the Kankanaey (the local dialect) language. During Panagbenga, you can enjoy a flower float parade, traditional and contemporary street dances, and various cultural activities.
The festival holds special significance for locals, as it honors the city’s resilience and determination to rebuild after a devastating earthquake in 1990. This spirit of renewal has earned Baguio the nickname “Flower Festival Capital of the Philippines.”
It’s a must-see for tourists!
Just make sure to book your accommodation a month or two early if you are planning to attend Panagbenga because hotels fill up quickly during this holiday. Pack a jacket and comfortable shoes, too. It’ll be a lot of walking and standing, but it’ll be worth it.
Pray at Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto
The Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto is a Catholic shrine in Baguio City, located on Mirador Hill. Built in 1913, the grotto is primarily made of limestone used in the construction of the Mirador Jesuit Villa. Inside, you’ll find the Our Lady of Lourdes statue.
To reach the statue itself, you will have to climb up a stairway made up of around 252 steps. You may visit the grotto to seek the blessing of the Virgin Mary for guidance and health.
You can enjoy a scenic view of Baguio City from the top as a pat on your back for the effort.
I recommend visiting the grotto during the dry season, which is usually from December to May. These months have fewer chances of rainfall, so you can enjoy the view from the shrine better.
Aside from the clear view, Baguio has a cooler temperature than most of the country during the dry season, making the Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto a perfect place to escape the Philippine summer heat.
Discover the Igorot Stone Kingdom
Opened to the public in the second half of 2021, the Igorot Stone Kingdom is one of the newer, but no less important, tourist attractions in Baguio City.
The Igorot Stone Kingdom offers a sight and experience that is a blend of modern and traditional Igorot culture, showcasing the values of the Cordillera Region. For instance, you’ll find a ton of statues and figures that showcase the craft and skills of Igorots, like the Fertility Tower, White Carabao Monument, and Tower of Igorot God Kabunyan.
Text panels also share stories about the owner’s childhood, adding depth to the experience.
You can also explore the Igorot Gold Mine, Wishing Well, and Golden Bridge here. These sites pay tribute to the Igorots’ traditional practices, beliefs, and craftsmanship and provide insight into their rich heritage.
If you want a more lasting reminder of your stay, you can also get a tattoo inside the Igorot Stone Kingdom. They offer both permanent and henna tattoos, with hundreds of designs to choose from. The price depends on the design, but some of my friends managed to get three tattoos for only $25.
Watch the sunrise in Mines View Park
If the weather is clear, you can witness sea clouds at Mines View Park. Here, you can connect with nature by overlooking nearby mountains, forests, and the abandoned mines of Itogon, Benguet. However, my favorite part of our visits is the sunrise. The view from here is stunning.
Plus, the tourists tend to only come into the area after 7AM.
After taking in the sights, you can have your picture taken with the giant St. Bernard dogs around the area or go for a horse ride wearing a cowboy hat.
If you’ve had your fill of photo ops, you can browse for small souvenirs here, too. Several shops sell woven items, knitted garments, wooden house displays, and silverwork. You can also find rows of succulents, flowers, and bonsai trees for sale here.
Test your courage around Diplomat Hotel
For those intrigued by spooky tourist attractions, the Diplomat Hotel is a must-visit. Due to its grim history, this place is considered one of the most haunted locations in the Philippines.
Originally known as the Dominican Hill Retreat House, the Diplomat Hotel was constructed as a retreat for Dominican priests and nuns in the early 20th century. During the Japanese Occupation from 1942 to 1945, it became a home to Dominican priests and Filipino refugees to escape the chaos of the war. The Japanese forces then invaded the area, turning it into their police headquarters.
Innocent people suffered inhumane acts (such as physical and sexual violence) in this place. No “tenant” was spared, leaving its walls a reminder of the sufferings of the victims there.
Today, the entire hill area is designated as a heritage and historical site by the local government of Baguio and is named the Dominican Heritage Hill and Nature Park.
Despite its eerie reputation, you can do photoshoots, films, wedding receptions, and other events and functions here. It has also been featured by several local and national YouTubers, adding to its mystique.
Harvest Strawberry in La Trinidad Strawberry Farm
If you are a berry lover, remember to visit La Trinidad, the Strawberry Capital of the Philippines. It’s a 20 to 30 minute drive from the city proper on a carless day, but whatever wait you experience will still make the visit worth it.
La Trinidad lets people pick strawberries (no matter the season) and makes them per for them by the amount they take out. It’s usually $2 to $20 per kilo, with the harvest being more expensive during their ripe seasons (February to April).
Farmers are also eager to share their harvesting techniques, so you don’t have to worry about doing it wrong if it is your first time. Our local farmers sell jams, preserves, and even wines.
If you missed the strawberry season, you could still enjoy the farm by picking all-year-round vegetables like tomatoes, lettuce, cabbage, and more—this is only why our preferred way to stay in Baguio is in a family home or an Airbnb with a kitchen. Vegetables here are really cheap—think one-fifth of the price of vegetables in the metro. If you know how to cook, don’t waste the opportunity to enjoy a couple of farm-to-fork dishes.
Before you leave Baguio, make sure to try their local delicacy, strawberry taho. It’s a soy-based snack topped with sago pearls and strawberry syrup. The creamy soy, combined with the burst of flavor from fresh strawberries, creates a perfect and delicious combination that you’re sure to love too.
I highly recommend it, especially if you’re a sweet tooth like me!
Go thrift shopping at Baguio Night Market
If you’re looking for something to do at night, definitely visit the Baguio Night Market. From 9PM to 2AM, a part of Harrison Road northeast of Burnham Park transforms into a bustling market packed with ukay-ukay.
Ukay is a Filipino term for surplus items and second-hand clothing, including dresses, bags, and footwear, sold at bargain prices. This makes Baguio Night Market a paradise for thrift shoppers, offering the best bargains for souvenirs, clothing, accessories, local handicrafts, and more.
You might even find some vintage treasures here!
After shopping, don’t forget to head to the northern side of the hill for some sweet corn, noodle soup, and other local street delicacies you can try.
Learn about cordillera culture in Tam-Awan Village
Tam-Awan Village, also known as Garden in the Sky, is about a 20 minute drive from Session Road. This cultural hub is home to many works of art from famous artists of Benguet. For a $2 entrance fee per person, you can immerse yourself in the rich history and untouched heritage of the Cordillera people.
One of the unique experiences offered at Tam-Awan Village is the chance to sleep in authentic Cordilleran Huts. These huts vary in size and appearance, symbolizing the traditional craftsmanship of the Ifugao and Kalinga tribes. You can stay in one for $10 to $20 per person!
If you are interested in the arts, you can even participate in creative sessions. These are hosted by seasoned artists from Tam-Awan, where you can learn Basic and Solar Drawing, Oil Pastel, and Watercolor techniques. Additionally, they teach Painting, Wood Carving, Bamboo Craft, and Dream Catcher Making—all rooted in Cordilleran heritage.
You can also get your portraits sketched by experienced village artists, allowing you to take home a tangible piece of your experience.
Of course, your visit is not complete without indulging in the culinary delights of Tan-Awan Café.
Tan-Awan Café offers authentic Cordilleran dishes, such as Igorot’s traditional chicken soup, “pinikpikan,” and smoked meat, “kiniing,” and “kinuday.” They also serve Sinigang na Bagnet, a local dish with fresh lowland vegetables served with mountain red rice. Their strong emphasis on cultural immersion and local cuisine using their own produce sets Tan-Awan Café from others.
My best friend, a coffee enthusiast, loves their signature coffee boost with Muscovado. It’s a good pick if you want to add rich and deep flavor to your dining experience.
If you are up for night activities, you can enjoy a bonfire night under the serene sky, accompanied by music, dance, and the warmth of Cordilleran hospitality
Visit Burnham Park
Burnham Park offers a wide range of activities, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy during their stay in Baguio City. It’s named after Daniel Hudson Burnham, the American architect and urban planner who designed it.
The entrance is free, and there are 11 areas catering to local and foreign tourists seeking outdoor recreational activities such as biking, boating, picnicking, jogging, and more.
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Man-made Lake
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Children’s Playground
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Skating Rink
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Rose Garden
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Picnic Grove
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Orchidarium
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Igorot Garden
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Melvin Jones Grandstand
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Athletic Bowl
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Pine Trees of the World Park
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Japanese Peace Tower
I’ll list down the more notable things to do in the area in the sections after this, but just note that there are a TON of things to do here—so much so that you might need more than a day to explore the entirety of the park.
Just make sure not to leave your trash and follow the governmental and environmental policies they implement inside the park.
Boating in Man-made Lake
At the heart of Burnham Park lies the century-old man-made lake known as Burnham Lagoon, where you can enjoy a boat ride.
For about $6 per person, you can rent swan boats or paddle boats for an hour. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, you can add $2 for a rower to do the paddling for you. These boats are suitable for 2-4 people, depending on their size.
This boating activity is particularly perfect for couples looking to spend quality time together while taking in the scenic views of the park.
Spend time with your family in the Children’s Playground
This playground, located in Burnham Park, is a delightful spot for children, offering swings, slides, and other fun equipment to keep them entertained. The playground is free to use and also features a small train that goes around the park, which kids find fun.
Children can also indulge in many street snacks around here, such as corn, cotton candies, and peanut brittle.
Stroll at the Skating Rink
The skating rink inside Burnham Park is a circular road around a mini fairground. You can have fun strolling at the rink with roller skates on her. They also offer child-friendly rides ranging from $1 to $3 per person, including the bungee tramp, animal fantasy, mini viking boat, dancing car, and more.
For an extra thrill, try the bumper cars, which are a personal favorite of mine. This is a must-try for those looking to avoid crowded spaces outside the park, especially for those young at heart. My best friend and I make it a point to do this activity every time we visit Baguio!
Take pictures in Rose Garden
If you like plants and flowers or are out for a walk, you must visit the Rose Garden in Burnham Park.
The garden boasts a variety of vibrant roses, offering a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. The fragrance of the flowers adds serene vibes, making it the best option for people who want to connect with the healing powers of nature.
You can also watch dancing fountains here (they run on interval schedules).
Watch it at night because the lights make it more majestic and dramatic at the same time.
Eat in Picnic Grove
The Picnic Grove in Burnham Park is a great spot if you want to enjoy the scenery without much physical effort, like walking. You can set up your food on tables or lay out a blanket for a more aesthetic vibe.
I find that it’s also the best location to catch up with friends or family.
Picnic Grove is my best friend’s favorite place for cottage-core-themed photoshoots. She even had her pre-birthday shoot there. The sunshine and gentle breeze of the air made it more magical.
Buy orchids in Orchidarium
Located at the corner part of Burnham Park is the Orchidarium.
If you love horticulture or simply want to connect with nature, don’t miss Baguio’s local Orchidarium. Here, you can find a variety of potted plants, tree seedlings, and pots, making it a great place to buy gifts or add to your green collection.
It’s also a great place for container gardening enthusiasts. There, you can find a wide selection of potted flowers, herbal plants, compost materials, and landscaping plants.
Just make sure to ask the present florist how the plant you are buying will thrive. Consider the environment where you plan to plant it and inquire about ways to keep it healthy.
The Orchidarium is less crowded than other parts of the park, offering a peaceful and scenic environment in which to appreciate the greenery.
Rest at Igorot Garden
After a tiring day at Burnham Park, my last favorite thing to do is rest in Igorot Garden.
In fact, Igorot Garden feels more like a park than a garden, offering a peaceful spot to rest and people-watch. Every time I spend time here, I just watch people doing their own stuff. It is therapeutic to see how they laugh and enjoy themselves.
Throughout the day, you’ll often see elderly individuals playing chess. It’s a popular meeting place, easy to locate, even for those who struggle with directions like myself.
This small park is home to the Igorot Five Warrior Statue, also known as the Cordillera Freedom Monument. The sculpture, located in the center of the garden, features five Igorot men dressed in traditional clothing, headpieces, and adornments.
Attend an event at Melvin Jones Grandstand
Did you know that Pope John Paul II celebrated a mass at the Melvin Jones Grandstand during his visit to Baguio City in 1981? This historical site serves as the venue for major events in the city, including football games, concerts, parades, and more.
But if you visit Baguio in February, you’ll have the chance to experience events associated with the Panagbenga Festival.
Jog in Athletic Bowl
For fitness enthusiasts worried about missing their workout routines on vacation, Burnham Park’s Athletic Bowl is the perfect solution. This 7-hectare sports complex features a track oval, tennis courts, volleyball courts, and a swimming pool open from 5 AM to 6 PM.
You can enjoy all of these facilities for roughly $1 to $ 3 per person. Senior citizens and persons with disabilities can even enjoy all of these free of charge.
Take a break in the Pine Trees of the World Park
It was called Pine Trees of the World Park because it was planned to be a site for different Pine tree species from around the world. Unfortunately, it is still a plan until now. But what is important is that it still cradles Pine trees.
Only a few people are aware of this hidden gem in Burnham Park, but its tranquility makes it my personal favorite spot after a long bike ride.
The calming aroma of pines soothes my mind and body, making it an ideal place for soul-searching and relaxation. I recommend visiting early in the morning to experience the crisp Baguio breeze.
Admire the Japanese Peace Tower
Located within Burnham Park is the Japanese Peace Tower, a lesser-known but significant monument. Built to promote reconciliation between Baguio and Japan, the Japanese Peace Tower commemorates the victims of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Since the crowds are much thinner than the other major tourist attractions in the area, it’s the perfect spot to spend some quiet time alone.
Most people do not know about this, making it less crowded than other parts of the park. So, if you want to take a break from the heat and just want to spend time with yourself casually, this is where you need to go!
Live the extreme life in Treetop Adventure
Treetop Adventure offers a range of thrilling activities for those who enjoy extreme sports. Some of the most popular activities include the Superman Ride (zipline), the Canopy Ride, and the Tree Drop (harnessed free fall).
Additionally, there’s the Silver Surfer ride (diagonal motorized zipline), a skywalk, and trekking (cable ride). These activities offer a mix of adrenaline rush, challenge, and nature tripping, making it a must-try for those who love extreme sports and outdoor adventures.
You can try these activities for $7 to $22 per person, individually or in combo packages.
Try Forest Bathing Trail
Immerse yourself in Baguio’s pine trees through the forest bathing or Yellow Trail.
Indeed, the presence of Japanese culture and influence after they occupied Baguio during World War II is still evident today. Forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, was adopted from the Japanese practice of spending time in the forest to connect with nature and heal your body and soul.
It came from the Japanese terms “Shinrin,” which means “forest,” and ‘Yoku,’ which means “bath.” With many claims that it is good for the body’s overall wellness, it became the talk of the town, especially during and after the pandemic.
Essentially, the presence of Japanese culture in Baguio as a whole is the result of historical immigration and contemporary efforts to celebrate and share this culture with locals and tourists alike.
I haven’t tried it yet, but my friend has, and she said that it made her feel pretty refreshed afterward. So, if you think you need nature therapy, don’t miss this out.
Go extreme in Paintball Republic
Paintball Republic offers thrilling activities to those who love challenges. Some of their more popular ones include Woodland Paintball, Paintball Target shooting, and Airsoft Target shooting.
Here, you can play with your own company or against other teams. These activities allow you to meet new people, make friends, and expand social circles. It’s a fun way to connect with others who share similar interests and passions.
You can also try their zip lines and rappels, wall climbing, and pump action for those on a solo adventure.
Their price range starts from $7 to $15 per hour, depending on the activity you’ll take part in.
Bury your negative thoughts in the Cemetery of Negativism
The Cemetery of Negativism, also known as the Lost Cemetery, is located at Camp John Hay, Baguio City. This was established by the base’s commanding general, John Hightower, in the early 1980s. It’s not an actual cemetery, mind you, but a symbolic site for burying your negativities, such as thoughts, emotions, and attitudes.
Fun fact: Major Hightower believed that negative thoughts hinder soldiers’ potential, so he set up this cemetery to help them develop a habit of freeing their emotional and mental burdens.
I’m also sure that the tombstones with funny yet thought-provoking epitaphs will keep you entertained while walking through the area.
Some of my favorites are “Here lies my fear of failure. I hope it rests in peace,” “Here lies my anger. I hope it never rises again,” and “Here lies my negativity. I hope it never comes back. They reflect a mindset of letting go of negative emotions and moving forward with positivity.
Indeed, it’s just a simple place with a unique experience!
Buy Baguio goods at the Good Shepherd Convent
Before you leave Baguio, be sure to include a side trip to Good Shepherd Convent to complete your trip. Here, you’ll find the best Baguio delicacies made from produce sourced from La Trinidad, Benguet.
I recommend their most-sought Strawberry and Ube Jam. Definitely a 10 out of 10 with toast bread!
Another favorite of mine is baked goods like Lengua de Gato, a Filipino butter cookie, and their peanut brittle. They also offer homemade ice cream and strawberry-calamansi juice, perfect for a light snack, and their snowballs and vanilla cookies with cashews formed into balls.
Their goods are more expensive than those of other pasalubong centers because their proceeds go towards youth training and scholarships. Since 1952, they have helped unfortunate Cordillera children, mostly young girls, finish school. We’re a frequent buyer because of this!
In any case, remember to be extra patient and prepared to line up for at least 30 minutes as you wait to be serviced. However, you can use this time to take photos from the view deck overlooking the Cordillera Mountains!
Taste local beers in Baguio Craft Brewery
Baguio Craft Brewery is a gastro pub located in Marcos Highway. This pub is known for its handcrafted beers that are made from local ingredients from the Cordillera region.
Some of the popular signature beers include Pugaw (Indian pale ale), Lagud (strawberry beer), Kabunyan (American Wheat Beer), Dalom (brown ale), and Daya (Lager). These flavors are named after different realms in Ifugao mythology, adding a touch of local culture to your brewing experience.
With their panoramic windows, you can enjoy your beer with the breathtaking view of the city. To elevate your experience, you can also pair your beer with their signature barbecue ribs or some Spanish-style sisig.
Grab a taste home in Cafe by the Ruins Dua
Cafe by the Ruins Dua is a bakery and cafe located on Upper Session Road. It is known for its homey and rustic interior design.
When you step into the cafe, the displays of wine and bread will welcome you. It creates a cozy and nostalgic ambiance, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a quaint countryside cafe.
As for their offers, they have a wide range of menus for different preferences. Their beverage selection includes Cafe Espresso, Siphon Coffee, Teas & Infusions, and refreshing Cold Drinks.
For those with a sweet tooth (like me), you can get yourselves Chocolate Treats and a variety of Cafe Desserts. My personal favorite is their strawberry shortcake. Its creamy, sweet, and sour flavors blend is worth the calories. This is their signature item on the menu, but unfortunately, it is not available year-round.
The cafe also features an array of Special Breads, Salads, and Appetizers. There are also choices for Soups, Slow Foods, Vegetarian Fare, and Pasta.
In addition to its culinary offerings, Cafe by the Ruins Dua has a second-floor gallery where visitors can see the works of talented Cordillera artists. This unique blend of art and food creates a vibrant and engaging atmosphere.
Buy fresh produce at Baguio Public Market
Baguio Public Market is located at Rajah Soliman Street and stretches along Magsaysay Avenue. You can buy fresh produce and traditional handicrafts here for a low price. From strawberries and tomatoes to lettuce, the market offers a wide variety of choices, all locally grown and guaranteed fresh.
I recommend buying here to support our local farmers and take advantage of discounts for bulk purchases. It’s my best friend’s favorite place to buy fresh vegetables for her mom.
In addition to fresh produce, you can also find traditional handicrafts such as hand-woven baskets, wooden sculptures, and embroidered fabrics.
These handicrafts are not just souvenirs but also a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Filipino people. Plus, our friendly vendors are always ready to help you find pieces that suit your liking.
Dine in Choco-late De Batirol
Choco-late De Batirol is a garden restaurant inside Camp John Hay’s Igorot Park. Unlike popular fast-food chains that can prepare your meals within minutes, this restaurant prides itself on its slow-cooked menu.
I highly recommend three in particular: beef caldereta (tomato-based stew), pork binagoongan (pork in shrimp paste), and dinuguan rice (rice with blood stew).
The restaurant serves Baguio veggies and red eggs with a tomato salad for vegetarians or visitors who want to add more greens to their food.
For dessert, you can get their best seller: the Choco-late de Batirol. It is a handmade traditional chocolate drink made from local cacao beans. It’s prepared using a traditional wooden whisk and slowly mixed until the creamy froth appears on top. I personally like it iced because the not, which, naturally, has no ice, is too rich for my taste.
This restaurant also uses recycled materials to create tables, chairs, and other materials, making it fairly eco-friendly!
Eat healthy meals at Oh My Gulay
Oh My Gulay is a vegetarian restaurant located on Session Road in Baguio City. Here, they serve healthy meals made with the Baguio local produce.
What sets this restaurant apart is its top-notch recipes from fresh vegetables. Some of their best-sellers are “Anak ng Putanesca,” a pasta dish with chunks of tomatoes and olives and a hint of cayenne pepper, and “Talong Parmigiana,” a breaded eggplant over whole wheat bread with a tangy red sauce, pesto, and cheese.
Along with the best sellers, they also offer tofu rolls, veggie burgers, and meatless omelets. Meanwhile, their crepe desserts spotlight Baguio’s local fruits, which are filled with apples, peaches, mangoes, or bananas.
You can enjoy these dishes with their organic cold beverages like Raspberry and Blueberry Juice and Limonada, a freshly squeezed native lemonade drink. Their choices are all best paired with their offerings, so you can not go wrong choosing what to pick.
For $2 to $5, you can enjoy their menu with a serene overlooking view of Baguio.
A retreat into the heart of nature’s embrace
Baguio City offers a wonderful mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty, guaranteeing excitement and pleasure throughout your visit.
Whether you’re enjoying the region’s unique cuisine or exploring its stunning landscapes, your time here will be enriching, leaving you with a lasting sense of happiness and fulfillment. Leave the summer capital of the Philippines with a refreshed heart!