Quezon City, one of the most populous cities in the Philippines, is a vibrant metropolis known for its rich history, diverse culture, and bustling urban life. For those pondering things to do in Quezon City, exploring the Quezon Memorial Circle, a national park and shrine dedicated to the Philippines’ second President, Manuel L. Quezon, and visiting the Art in Island, an interactive 3D art museum, are top activities.
The city’s bustling Maginhawa Street offers a haven for food lovers, with numerous restaurants and cafes serving a wide variety of cuisines. Nearby, the La Mesa Eco Park provides a lush green space for recreation, with picnic areas, swimming pools, and hiking trails.
Beyond its urban attractions, Quezon City is also known for its educational institutions, including the University of the Philippines Diliman, which contributes to the city’s vibrant intellectual and cultural scene. For those seeking the best places to visit in the Philippines, Quezon City’s blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and urban energy makes it a compelling destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Quezon City, Philippines
1. Quezon Memorial Circle
The towering Quezon Memorial Shrine at the heart of Quezon Memorial Circle is dedicated to the memory of the Philippines’ second president, Manuel L. Quezon. The park surrounding the monument is a popular recreational area, complete with gardens, a museum, and a mausoleum where President Quezon and his wife are interred.
Location: Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines. Accessible via Quezon Avenue MRT Station.
Scenic Spot: The towering Quezon Memorial Shrine surrounded by gardens, museums, and a mausoleum.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. Weekends have more events and activities.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with play areas for kids, open spaces for seniors, and jogging paths for all.
Price: Free to enter; museum admission costs €1-€2.
Travel Tip: The park is a great place for family picnics, and on weekends, you can find a variety of food stalls and live entertainment.
2. Art in Island
Art in Island is an interactive 3D art museum that encourages visitors to become part of the artwork with optical illusions that create playful scenes. It’s the largest of its kind in Asia, making for a fun and memorable experience.
Location: 175 15th Ave., Brgy. Socorro, Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines. Near Araneta Center.
Scenic Spot: A 3D interactive art museum where visitors can take creative optical illusion photos.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds; mornings for better lighting.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, great for families, couples, and groups of friends.
Price: €8 for adults, €6 for children.
Travel Tip: Wear white or bright colors to stand out in pictures, and make sure your camera or phone is fully charged—you’ll want to take lots of photos!
3. Eastwood City
Eastwood City is a 17-hectare commercial and residential development known for its IT park, mall, and various dining and entertainment options. It’s often described as a city within a city and is a popular hangout spot both day and night.
Location: Libis, Quezon City, Philippines. Easily accessible by taxi or bus from EDSA.
Scenic Spot: A modern commercial district with shopping malls, restaurants, and an IT park.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for vibrant nightlife and weekend markets.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with kid-friendly zones, shopping for adults, and entertainment spots.
Price: Free to explore; event or dining costs vary.
Travel Tip: Check out the schedule of events, as Eastwood City often hosts free concerts and shows, especially around holidays and weekends.
4. Maginhawa Street
Maginhawa Street is the heart of Quezon City’s food scene, offering a stretch of restaurants, cafes, and food parks featuring cuisines from all over the world. It’s a must-visit for foodies looking to explore local and international dishes.
Location: Maginhawa Street, Teacher’s Village, Quezon City, Philippines. Best reached by car or taxi.
Scenic Spot: A food haven with diverse local and international cuisine, from street food to gourmet dishes.
Best Time to Visit: Evening or weekends when most food parks and pop-up stalls are open.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with casual dining spots for families and trendy cafes for younger crowds.
Price: Free to explore; food prices range from €2-€10 per meal.
Travel Tip: Go with an empty stomach and an adventurous palate—there’s a lot to try, and the offerings can be quite unique!
5. La Mesa Eco Park
La Mesa Eco Park is a public park situated at the La Mesa Watershed, the primary source of drinking water for Metro Manila. The park is an oasis with its forest, picnic spots, bike trails, and a reservoir.
Location: La Mesa Watershed, Novaliches, Quezon City, Philippines. Accessible via Fairview or Commonwealth.
Scenic Spot: A lush green park with hiking trails, a lagoon, picnic spots, and bike paths.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for cool temperatures or late afternoon for sunset views.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, ideal for nature lovers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Price: €0.90 for locals, €1.80 for foreign visitors.
Travel Tip: Bring insect repellent and sun protection if you plan to hike or take a boat ride, as you’ll be amidst nature.
6. EDSA Shrine
The EDSA Shrine is an important historical and religious site that commemorates the People Power Revolution of 1986. It’s a small church located at the crossroads of EDSA and Ortigas Avenue and is a symbol of peace and freedom.
Location: Ortigas Avenue, Corner EDSA, Quezon City, Philippines. Near Robinsons Galleria.
Scenic Spot: A small but significant church marking the site of the 1986 People Power Revolution.
Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for a peaceful visit.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but may not be engaging for young children.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Visit on a weekday if you prefer a quieter time to reflect, as the area can be quite busy during weekends.
7. Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center
The Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center is a zoo and botanical garden that offers a pleasant escape from the city’s bustle. The park serves as a sanctuary for various Philippine flora and fauna, some of which are rescued and rehabilitated.
Location: North Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines. Near Quezon Memorial Circle.
Scenic Spot: A sanctuary for rescued Philippine wildlife, set in a botanical garden.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon when animals are more active.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, particularly interesting for families and nature lovers.
Price: €0.90 for adults, €0.50 for children.
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the Wildlife Rescue Center within the park where you can learn about conservation efforts for Philippine wildlife.
8. Smart Araneta Coliseum
Also known as the Big Dome, the Smart Araneta Coliseum is an indoor multi-purpose sports arena that has hosted everything from basketball games to large religious gatherings and international concerts.
Location: Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines. Near MRT and LRT Cubao Stations.
Scenic Spot: A historic indoor arena hosting concerts, basketball games, and major events.
Best Time to Visit: Event-dependent; check the schedule in advance.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, depending on the event.
Price: Ticket prices range from €5-€50 depending on the event.
Travel Tip: Check the event schedule online; if something interests you, it’s advisable to purchase tickets in advance as they often sell out quickly.
9. Sining Kamalig
Sining Kamalig is a gallery that provides a platform for contemporary Filipino artists to showcase their work. The exhibits here are dynamic and reflect the vibrant art scene in Quezon City.
Location: Ali Mall, Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines.
Scenic Spot: A contemporary art gallery showcasing Filipino artists.
Best Time to Visit: Midday to explore exhibits without crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for adults and art enthusiasts.
Price: Free to enter.
Travel Tip: The gallery is relatively small, so consider combining your visit with other activities in the Ali Mall area.
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Quezon City, Philippines: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Quezon City: 8/10 – Quezon City offers a variety of family-friendly attractions, including the Quezon Memorial Circle with its playgrounds and picnic areas, the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center, and interactive museums like the Mind Museum. The city’s numerous parks and malls with play zones also provide plenty of activities for children.
Nightlife in Quezon City: 8/10 – Quezon City has a vibrant nightlife scene, particularly in areas like Tomas Morato, Eastwood City, and Timog Avenue. The city offers a wide range of bars, clubs, live music venues, and late-night restaurants, catering to different tastes and ensuring lively evening entertainment.
Sport in Quezon City: 7/10 – Quezon City provides good opportunities for sports, including basketball, badminton, and tennis in various sports centers and clubs. The city also has numerous gyms and fitness centers, as well as public parks suitable for jogging and other outdoor activities.
Culture and Attractions in Quezon City: 7/10 – Quezon City is rich in cultural and historical attractions, such as the Quezon Memorial Shrine, the University of the Philippines Diliman campus, and various art galleries and theaters. The city’s diverse cultural scene includes festivals, live performances, and historical landmarks.
Gastronomy in Quezon City: 8/10 – The culinary scene in Quezon City is diverse, offering a mix of traditional Filipino cuisine and international dishes. The city’s numerous restaurants, food parks, and street food stalls provide a wide range of dining experiences, from casual eateries to fine dining.
Shopping in Quezon City: 8/10 – Shopping in Quezon City includes modern malls like Trinoma, SM North EDSA, and Vertis North, which offer a variety of local and international brands. The city also has numerous markets and shopping districts where visitors can find unique items and bargains.
Prices in Quezon City: 8/10 – Quezon City is relatively affordable, with reasonable prices for accommodation, dining, and entertainment. The city offers a good value for money, making it accessible for budget-conscious travelers.
Average price for a hotel night: $60
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: $8
Price of a beer: $2
Price of a coffee: $2.50
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Quezon City, Philippines
For those looking to explore beyond the urban sprawl, top day trips near Quezon City offer a chance to immerse in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Philippines. From the refreshing waters of Daranak Falls to the historical charm of Intramuros, each destination provides a unique escape from the city life.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Quezon City accommodations range from cozy, boutique hotels nestled in vibrant neighborhoods to luxurious high-rises with panoramic city views, ensuring every traveler finds a comfortable base to experience this dynamic metropolis.
FAQ About Things to Do in Quezon City, Philippines
What are the must-visit spots in Quezon City?
Quezon City boasts a variety of attractions, including the Quezon Memorial Circle, Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center, and the Art in Island interactive museum.
Can I experience nature within Quezon City?
Absolutely! La Mesa Eco Park is a great place to enjoy nature, with its lush forest, picnic grounds, and a large reservoir. It’s perfect for families and nature enthusiasts.
Is there a place to learn about Philippine history in Quezon City?
Yes, you can visit the Quezon City Experience (QCX) museum which offers an immersive and interactive history lesson on both Quezon City and the Philippines.
Where can I shop for local goods in Quezon City?
Dapitan Arcade is known for its wide array of locally crafted items, perfect for souvenirs and home decor. Meanwhile, Farmers Market in Cubao offers fresh produce and a variety of local food items.
Are there any food destinations in Quezon City that I shouldn’t miss?
Yes, Maginhawa Street is a popular food strip that features a diverse range of eateries and food parks offering a taste of the local cuisine and international dishes.
What are the best places for entertainment in Quezon City?
Eastwood City is a commercial and residential hub known for its vibrant nightlife, while the Smart Araneta Coliseum hosts a variety of entertainment events, from concerts to sports games.
Are there any green spaces for outdoor activities in Quezon City?
Aside from La Mesa Eco Park, the UP Diliman campus offers a scenic and peaceful environment for jogging, picnicking, and other outdoor activities.
Does Quezon City have any cultural festivals or events?
Quezon City celebrates the annual Quezon City Day every August with various activities like parades and cultural shows. Additionally, the city participates in the Metro Manila Film Festival every December, showcasing local films.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quezon_City
https://www.getyourguide.com/quezon-city-l95759/
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