Ibirapuera Park is one of São Paulo's most iconic green spaces, offering a range of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you're interested in art, nature, or outdoor recreation, the park has something to explore. Spanning over 390 acres, it is a hub for cultural, recreational, and educational activities - with several museums and galleries in side the park area, as well as courts for various sports, and plenty of quiet green space for those who just want to relax.
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Getting Around the Park
Ibirapuera Park is accessible and easy to navigate, with a network of walking and biking paths. You can rent bikes suitable for adults and children from rental stations located around the park. Roller skating is also a popular activity, with skaters sharing the bike paths and open spaces. Whether walking, biking, or skating, getting around the park is easy.
Here are my top 10 things to see and do when visiting Ibirapuera Park in Sao Paulo
1. Visit the Museu Afro Brasil
The Museu Afro Brasil highlights the history, culture, and influence of African heritage in Brazil. It contains over 6,000 items, including art, photographs, documents, and artifacts. The museum provides an educational experience for those interested in understanding the contributions of African culture to Brazilian society. Located within the park, it is easily accessible by foot or bike. The museum is free to visit on Wednesdays, or just R$15 on other days. It is located by Gate 10.
2. Explore the Museu de Arte Moderna São Paulo
The Museu de Arte Moderna (MAM) is an art museum featuring modern and contemporary works by Brazilian and international artists. Its permanent collection includes thousands of pieces, and the museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions. The MAM also has an outdoor sculpture garden where you can enjoy art in a natural setting. The museum is located near the park’s main entrance, by gates 1 and 2. Tickets cost R$30, and entry is free on Sundays.
3. Experience the Planetário
The Planetário, or planetarium, offers educational programs and shows about astronomy and space. It is a popular spot for families and science enthusiasts. The facility hosts multimedia presentations that explore the universe, making it both entertaining and informative. Check the schedule ahead of your visit for specific showtimes. It is accessible via Gate 10.
4. Discover the Oca
The Oca is a large, dome-shaped pavilion designed by renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer. It serves as a multi-use space for exhibitions, events, and cultural activities. Its unique design and architecture make it a must-see landmark within the park. Depending on the schedule, you may find art exhibitions or other special events inside. The building is currently hosting a large Harry Potter exhibition (Jan 2025). It is located by the park's main entry, near Gates 1 and 2.
5. Bird Watch at Rosa dos Ventos
Rosa dos Ventos is a designated area within the park that is ideal for bird-watching. Here you can observe various bird species, including migratory and native ones. Bring a pair of binoculars or simply take a walk through the area to enjoy the park's biodiversity. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for bird-watching. It is located just behind the Planetario.
6. View Buildings Designed by Oscar Niemeyer
Oscar Niemeyer, one of Brazil's most famous architects, designed several iconic buildings in Ibirapuera Park. These include the Auditório Ibirapuera and the Bienal Pavilion. Here you can admire Niemeyer’s signature modernist style, characterized by clean lines and bold shapes. Walking or biking along the park's pathways offers easy access to these architectural landmarks. The Auditório is located by the main entry, near gates 1 and 2.
7. Rollerblade around Antiga Serraria
The Antiga Serraria, a historic sawmill repurposed as a recreational space, is another highlight of the park. It is often used by roller skaters due to its smooth tiled floors and open design. This area is most easily accessible form Gate 7.
8. Get a team together to play sports
Ibirapuera Park is well-equipped for sports. Facilities include basketball courts, soccer fields, volleyball courts, and a skate park, among others. Nearby the wide open spaces in Praca da Paz are also perfect for activities like yoga, frisbee, or altinha. These areas are mostly located in the central and southern areas of the park.
9. Visit the children's playgrounds
Families with children can take advantage of Ibirapuera Park’s many playgrounds. A large area of the park is dedicated to children - with numerous different playgrounds and vendors selling balls and toys. These play areas feature swings, slides, climbing structures, and other facilities designed for kids. The playgrounds are located among the trees in shaded areas, ensuring a comfortable environment for children to play while parents relax nearby. This area can be found towards the center of the park, marked as Playgound Infantil on the map, easily accessed via gates 5 and 6.
10. Have a Picnic
Ibirapuera Park is full of beautiful grassy spots for picnicking. If you are planning to picnic, bring mats or blankets and find a shady tree to sit under. Food and drink options are plentiful within the park, with vendors selling cold coconut water, açaí, churros, pastels (deep fried pastries), hot dogs, ice cream, popcorn, and other typical Brazilian snacks. There is also a restaurant, a cafe, and a couple of coffee shops throughout the park.
Ibirapuera Park offers a combination of cultural, recreational, and natural attractions, making it a top destination for locals and tourists alike.
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