Baguio City, the “Summer Capital of the Philippines”, is a popular tourist destination known for its cool climate, scenic views, and rich cultural heritage. While many visitors flock to the usual tourist spots like Burnham Park, Wright Park, and the Baguio Cathedral, there are many hidden gems that are often overlooked. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the lesser-known tourist spots in Baguio that are worth exploring.
Exploring the Hidden Gems of Baguio
Baguio is a city that is steeped in history and culture, and there are many hidden spots that showcase its rich heritage. From museums to art galleries, and from historic landmarks to scenic viewpoints, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover in this charming city.
The Baguio Museum
Located in the heart of Baguio, the Baguio Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture. This museum showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage, with exhibits on the Igorot people, the American colonial period, and the city’s role in World War II. The museum also features a collection of artifacts, including traditional clothing, tools, and weapons.
Exhibits and Collections
- The Igorot People: The museum features exhibits on the Igorot people, including their traditional clothing, tools, and weapons.
- The American Colonial Period: The museum showcases the American colonial period in Baguio, including the city’s role in the Philippine-American War.
- World War II: The museum features exhibits on Baguio’s role in World War II, including the city’s occupation by Japanese forces.
- Artifacts: The museum has a collection of artifacts, including traditional clothing, tools, and weapons.
The Baguio City Market
The Baguio City Market is a bustling marketplace that offers a wide range of goods, from fresh produce to souvenirs. The market is a great place to try local delicacies and snacks, and to shop for unique souvenirs. The market is also a great place to experience the city’s vibrant culture and to meet the friendly locals.
What to Buy
- Fresh Produce: The market offers a wide range of fresh produce, including strawberries, vegetables, and fruits.
- Souvenirs: The market is a great place to shop for unique souvenirs, including handicrafts, jewelry, and clothing.
- Local Delicacies: The market offers a wide range of local delicacies, including strawberry tarts, ube halaya, and peanut brittle.
Scenic Viewpoints and Parks
Baguio is known for its scenic views and parks, and there are many hidden gems to discover. From scenic viewpoints to peaceful parks, there are plenty of spots to relax and enjoy the city’s natural beauty.
The Baguio Botanical Garden
The Baguio Botanical Garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. The garden features a wide range of plants and flowers, including orchids, ferns, and bamboo. The garden is also home to a variety of birds and insects, making it a great spot for nature lovers. (See Also: Tourist Spots in Bhutan – Hidden Paradise Awaits)
Features and Attractions
- Plants and Flowers: The garden features a wide range of plants and flowers, including orchids, ferns, and bamboo.
- Birds and Insects: The garden is home to a variety of birds and insects, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
- Pavilions and Walkways: The garden features several pavilions and walkways, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The Mines View Park
The Mines View Park is a scenic viewpoint that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The park is a great spot to relax and enjoy the city’s natural beauty, and it’s also a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.
Features and Attractions
- Scenic Views: The park offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
- Picnic Areas: The park has several picnic areas, making it a great spot for families and groups.
- Outdoor Activities: The park is a popular spot for outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Historic Landmarks and Monuments
Baguio is a city with a rich history, and there are many historic landmarks and monuments to discover. From historic churches to monuments and memorials, there are plenty of spots to learn about the city’s past.
The Baguio Cathedral
The Baguio Cathedral is a historic church that dates back to the 19th century. The cathedral is a beautiful example of Spanish colonial architecture, and it’s a great spot to learn about the city’s history and culture.
Features and Attractions
- Architecture: The cathedral is a beautiful example of Spanish colonial architecture.
- History: The cathedral is a great spot to learn about the city’s history and culture.
- Museum: The cathedral has a museum that features exhibits on the city’s history and culture.
The Philippine Military Academy
The Philippine Military Academy is a historic landmark that is home to the country’s military academy. The academy is a great spot to learn about the country’s military history, and it’s also a popular spot for tourists. (See Also: Tourist Spots in Zambales Province? Unveiled)
Features and Attractions
- Military History: The academy is a great spot to learn about the country’s military history.
- Tourist Attractions: The academy is a popular spot for tourists, with attractions like the museum and the parade grounds.
- Parade Grounds: The academy has a large parade grounds that is used for military ceremonies and events.
Recap and Conclusion
In this article, we’ve explored the hidden tourist spots in Baguio, from museums to art galleries, and from historic landmarks to scenic viewpoints. We’ve also highlighted the city’s rich cultural heritage, its vibrant market, and its natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Baguio has something for everyone. So why not plan a trip to this charming city and discover its hidden gems for yourself?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best ways to get around Baguio?
A: The best ways to get around Baguio are by jeepney, taxi, or tricycle. You can also rent a car or motorcycle if you prefer.
Q: What are the best places to eat in Baguio?
A: Baguio is known for its strawberry tarts, ube halaya, and peanut brittle. You can also try local delicacies like strawberry ice cream and coffee. For a taste of the city’s vibrant food scene, try visiting the Baguio City Market or trying some of the city’s many restaurants and cafes.
Q: What are the best things to buy in Baguio?
A: Baguio is a great place to buy souvenirs like handicrafts, jewelry, and clothing. You can also find unique gifts like strawberry jam and peanut brittle. For a taste of the city’s vibrant market scene, try visiting the Baguio City Market or trying some of the city’s many shops and stalls.
Q: What are the best places to stay in Baguio?
A: Baguio has a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. You can also try staying in a bed and breakfast or a vacation rental for a more unique experience. For a taste of the city’s vibrant nightlife, try staying in the city center or near the popular tourist spots. (See Also: Tourist Spots in Santa Fe – Must-See Attractions)
Q: What are the best things to do in Baguio?
A: Baguio is a great place to explore, with plenty of scenic viewpoints, historic landmarks, and cultural attractions. You can also try hiking, biking, or horseback riding in the surrounding mountains. For a taste of the city’s vibrant food scene, try visiting the Baguio City Market or trying some of the city’s many restaurants and cafes.