How to Explore Baguio City's Best Tourist Attractions in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide

Baguio, the “Summer Capital of the Philippines,” is one of the most iconic and beloved destinations in the country. Situated in the mountainous region of Luzon, this charming city offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat, with its cool climate, breathtaking views, and a wide array of attractions for tourists of all ages. In this guide, we will explore the best tourist spots in Baguio, from its historical landmarks to its natural wonders, helping you make the most of your visit to this scenic gem.

Burnham Park Main Gate during a foggy day. It is rare to have this sight in the tropical Philippines. But because of the altitude of Baguio City, it is has a cooler temperatures.

1. The Iconic Burnham Park: Nature’s Heart in Baguio

Burnham Park is the most popular tourist destination in Baguio. This expansive park, located in the heart of the city, is the perfect spot for outdoor activities, leisurely strolls, boat and bike rides. The park was designed by the renowned American architect, Daniel Burnham, and offers a beautiful setting surrounded by lush greenery, gardens, and a lake. Visitors can rent row boats, take a relaxing walk around the park’s walking paths, or simply enjoy a picnic on the wide lawns. Burnham Park serves as the perfect introduction to the city’s natural beauty.

Boating on the Burnham Lake is a must during a visit to Baguio City. For P200 to P400 Philippine Pesos ($3.60-$7.00) you can rent a boat good for 5-9 people for 30 minutes. (2025 prices)

From a view deck, you can see tourists boating on the man-made lake. In the distance on top of a hill is SM City Baguio Mall.

The Rose Garden just in front of the Main Gate has a fountain show at night. (Newly restored in 2024)

Watch our walking tour of Burnham Park on Christmas Eve 2024.

Watch a foggy day walking tour of Burnham Park.

What to Do at Burnham Park:

Rent row boats on the lake.
Enjoy a rental bike ride along the park’s designated bike lane.
Visit the park’s vibrant flower gardens and scenic views. The rose garden also has a fountain show at night.
Festivals often bring vendor stalls and the night market opens up at 9pm for great bargains.
Have a leisurely jog early in the morning to enjoy the Baguio cold and misty fresh air.

2. The Majestic Baguio Cathedral: A Historical Landmark

The Baguio Cathedral, also known as Our Lady of the Atonement Cathedral, stands proudly on a hill overlooking the city. Its striking neo-gothic architecture and vibrant stained glass windows make it an important cultural and religious site in Baguio. The cathedral offers breathtaking views of the city and is a peaceful spot for reflection and admiration of its historical significance. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just seeking tranquility, a visit to this beautiful cathedral is a must.

Side view of Baguio Cathedral. Perched atop Mount Mary Hill (formerly “Kampo” to the Ibaloi), it’s accessible via a 104-step staircase from Session Road or through roads near Saint Louis University, offering panoramic views of the city.

The Cathedral is an icon structure of Baguio City. Construction started in 1920 under Belgian missionaries from the Congregatio Immaculati Cordis Mariae (CICM), led by Fr. Florimond Carlu, and it was consecrated in 1936, making it the first church globally dedicated to Our Lady of Atonement.

Watch a walking tour around The Baguio Cathedral.

Why Visit the Baguio Cathedral:

Admire the neo-gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
Take in panoramic views of Baguio city.
Experience the peace and calm of one of Baguio’s most significant landmarks.

3. Explore the Vibrant Session Road

Session Road is Baguio’s busiest and most iconic street. Lined with numerous shops, cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, this vibrant street offers a lively atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re looking for the perfect souvenir, delicious local food, or just a place to relax, Session Road has something for everyone. The road also leads to several other attractions, making it a convenient stop for tourists looking to explore Baguio’s city center.

Session Road is the main road of Baguio City. It is the main business district and flows from the City Market up to SM CIty Baguio Mall.

A new attraction on top of SM City Baguio is the rooftop Sky Garden.

Baguio City Skyline as seen from SM City Baguio Mall terrace at sunset.

Watch one of our walking tours of Session Road Baguio City. This was on first Sunday of 2025.

Highlights of Session Road:

Shop for unique local products and handicrafts.
SM City Baguio Mall is on the top of the street. This is a large open air mall that has stunning views of the city. It also has Sky Ranch, a them park with the breath taking rides.
Enjoy authentic Baguio delicacies and international flavors.
Stroll through the historic street and soak in the vibrant city atmosphere.

4. The Botanical Garden: A Cultural Oasis in the City

Baguio’s Botanical Garden, tucked away in the northern part of the city, is a peaceful haven filled with lush gardens, vibrant flowers, and towering pine trees. This sprawling green space is perfect for nature lovers and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The garden also features native huts and sculptures that showcase the indigenous culture of Baguio’s locals. For a minimal fee, visitors can take leisurely walks through the garden’s many pathways, or simply relax and enjoy the serene environment.

The Botanical Garden often gets decorated during Christmas with lights.

Watch our walking tour of the Baguio Botanical Garden during Christmas Season 2024.

Another walking tour of the Botanical Garden during normal days.

What to See at the Botanical Garden:

Beautiful flower gardens showcasing a variety of local plant species.
Traditional huts and sculptures reflecting Baguio’s indigenous culture.

5. Mines View Park: Panoramic Views and Souvenir Shopping

For an unforgettable view of the vast mountain ranges surrounding Baguio, a visit to Mines View Park is a must. This popular tourist spot offers a panoramic vista of the nearby mining town of Itogon and the surrounding mountain ranges. Visitors can also explore the park’s souvenir shops, which offer a wide variety of locally made products, including jewelry, handicrafts, and fresh strawberries. If you’re looking for a scenic spot to take photos or buy souvenirs, Mines View Park is the place to be.

Mines View Park scenery. This is the view that attracts thousands of tourists on peak days. Established in the early 20th century, Mines View Park offers breathtaking views of the Cordillera mountain range and the abandoned gold and copper mines of Itogon, Benguet, once a bustling mining hub.
Initially a simple lookout, it transformed into a popular tourist spot by the 1970s, featuring a concrete observation deck built in 1972 to enhance safety and visibility for visitors.

You can have a picture with the pink horse.

Watch our walking tour of Mines View Park.

Things to Do at Mines View Park:

Capture breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
Shop for unique local souvenirs such as woodcrafts and jewelry.
Visit the park’s viewpoint and take photos of the stunning scenery.
Have a photo taken riding a pink haired pony.

6. Camp John Hay: A Perfect Blend of History and Nature

Camp John Hay, a former American military base, is now a luxurious leisure and recreation complex offering visitors a wide range of activities. With its cool climate, lush forests, and beautiful surroundings, it’s the perfect place to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. The area also includes the historical Bell House, which showcases artifacts and exhibits about the American military presence in Baguio, as well as numerous outdoor activities such as golf, hiking, and horseback riding.

The entrance to Camp John Hay.Established on October 25, 1903, by U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt, Camp John Hay was initially a rest and recreation base for American military personnel, named after his Secretary of State, John Milton Hay.

The Manor at Camp John Hay is arguably the best hotel in Baguio City. Opened in 2001, it is a four-story hotel designed in a log cabin style with a Baguio stone exterior, shingled roofing, and tinted glass, blending seamlessly with the pine forests of Camp John Hay.

Watch our walking tour of Camp John Hay.

Why Visit Camp John Hay:

Get immersed in the pine trees of Baguio via hiking trails.
Enjoy recreational activities like golf and zip lining.
Experience the cool climate and beautiful landscapes.
They have picnic areas for families to enjoy.
You can rent a horse with a guide and explore the country side.

7. Wright Park: Experience Baguio’s Equestrian Charm

Wright Park, located just a short distance from Mines View Park, is one of Baguio’s most popular spots for horseback riding. The park is where visitors can enjoy guided horseback rides along the scenic pathways that wind through the park. At the entrance, you’ll find a row of horses ready for riders of all ages. Whether you are an experienced rider or a first-timer, Wright Park offers a unique and fun experience amidst Baguio’s stunning natural surroundings.

The reflection pool with the newly installed(2024) fountain. Enjoy a leisurely walk from Wright Park to The Mansion House while admiring the dancing waters of the pool.

Highlights of Wright Park:

Enjoy horseback riding with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Take memorable photos with the horses or ponies.
See the Reflection Pool with a Lighted Dancing Fountain show which is on from 4-7pm daily. Times may vary on weekends.

8. The Mansion House: A Glimpse into Baguio’s American History

Located a few steps away from the Wright park reflection pool, the Mansion House, often referred to simply as “The Mansion,” is a significant historical site in Baguio, serving as the official summer residence of the President of the Philippines. It was originally built by the Americans as a summer residence of the American Governor-General of the Philippines. The grand estate, with its stunning architecture and manicured gardens, offers visitors a glimpse into the country’s colonial past. The Mansion is now open with a museum, visitors can visit free from 9am to 5 pm daily except Mondays and holidays. The Mansion is also one of the most photographed spots in Baguio, making it a must-see attraction for history and architecture enthusiasts.

The gate that leads to the Mansion House. In 2024 a museum was opened that now enables visitors to go into the Summer Residence of the President of the Philippines.

Watch our walking tour that covers the Mansion House and Wright Park and the newly installed reflection pool water fountain.

Why Visit The Mansion House:

Admire the beautiful architecture and sprawling gardens.
Take photos at the iconic entrance gate and surrounding grounds.
Learn about the historical importance of the site as a presidential residence by visiting the recently opened museum.

9. The Famous Baguio Public Market: A Sensory Delight

No visit to Baguio is complete without a stop at the famous Baguio Public Market, where visitors can find a wide array of local produce, fresh flowers, and handmade crafts. The market is a bustling hub of activity and is one of the best places to experience Baguio’s vibrant culture. From fresh fruits and vegetables, to local handicrafts, the market offers a variety of items that showcase the unique flavors and artistry of the region.

Spanning several blocks, it’s one of the largest public markets in Northern Luzon, with over 5,000 stalls offering everything from fresh produce and Cordilleran coffee to handicrafts and second-hand goods.

A section of the Baguio Market recently experienced a fire. Watch here our walking tour of the Market as it recovers from the mishap.

What to Buy at the Baguio Public Market:

Fresh strawberries and local produce.
Handwoven items and handmade wooden crafts.
Delicious local delicacies like Baguio’s famous peanut brittle.

10. The BenCab Museum: An Artistic Retreat

For art lovers, the BenCab Museum is a must-visit attraction. Established by the national artist Benedicto Cabrera, this museum is dedicated to showcasing the diverse and rich art culture of the Philippines. Located in a serene area surrounded by lush greenery, the museum features a collection of contemporary Filipino art, sculptures, and traditional crafts. The museum also has an art gallery that rotates exhibits, making each visit a new and unique experience.

Opened on February 8, 2009, the museum was established by National Artist Benedicto “BenCab” Cabrera to showcase his works and promote Philippine art, located on a hillside in Tadiangan, Asin Road.

Beyond BenCab’s art, it features the Cordillera Gallery with indigenous artifacts—bulul sculptures, textiles—and the Erotica Gallery with bold pieces by Filipino modernists, celebrating regional heritage.

It houses over 150 of BenCab’s paintings and prints, including his iconic “Sabel” series, alongside works by other Filipino masters like Fernando Amorsolo and contemporary artists across four levels.

Highlights of the BenCab Museum:

Explore contemporary Filipino art in a peaceful and natural setting.
Visit the museum’s art gallery showcasing rotating exhibits.
Enjoy a meal at the café overlooking the scenic view.

11. The Philippine Military Academy: Where Heroes Start their Journey

Founded on December 21, 1936, via Commonwealth Act No. 1 (National Defense Act), the PMA traces its roots to the 1898 Academia Militar in Malolos, Bulacan, and became Baguio’s premier military training institution. Situated at Fort Gregorio del Pilar in Loakan, about 10 kilometers from downtown Baguio, it spans 373 hectares at 5,000 feet above sea level, named after the young hero of the Battle of Tirad Pass.

Open to visitors on weekends, PMA features the PMA Museum with historical displays, vintage tanks, and cadet drills, set amidst manicured grounds and pine forests, drawing crowds to its cool, high-altitude setting.

Watch our walking tour of The Philippine Military Academy.

What to see at the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) :

Cadet Parades and Drills: Catch the cadets in crisp uniforms performing precision drills or the Silent Drill Platoon’s rifle routines, typically on weekends at Borromeo Field, showcasing military discipline against a backdrop of pine trees.
PMA Museum: Explore this small but rich museum near the entrance, featuring historical artifacts like old uniforms, weapons, and photos from the academy’s founding in 1936 through WWII, plus a tribute to notable alumni.
Relics Point: Check out the outdoor display of vintage military hardware—tanks, cannons, and a fighter jet—offering a tangible glimpse into the PMA’s wartime past and a great photo spot with mountain views.
Fort Gregorio del Pilar Shrine: Visit this modest monument honoring the academy’s namesake, a young Filipino general, surrounded by well-kept lawns and offering a quiet spot to reflect on his 1899 heroism at Tirad Pass.
Melchor Hall and Sundial: Admire the grand architecture of Melchor Hall, the academic hub, and the nearby sundial, a cadet landmark, both framed by the cool, high-altitude scenery of the 373-hectare campus.

12. New Attractions in Baguio: The Stone Kingdom & Dragon Treasure Castle

Baguio is not just a destination for nature lovers and history buffs; the city is also home to exciting new attractions that add an adventurous and fantastical flair to the tourism scene. Two of the newest must-see destinations are The Stone Kingdom and Dragon Treasure Castle, which provide visitors with an experience of magic and myth.

The Stone Kingdom: A Fascinating Adventure of Legends

The Stone Kingdom is a newly developed attraction in Baguio, featuring a series of stone sculptures and intricate structures that depict various mythical creatures and legendary figures. Visitors can explore this fascinating “kingdom” and immerse themselves in the unique art installations that bring igorot folklore to life. The park offers an otherworldly atmosphere with towering stone castles, ancient-looking structures, and paths that feel like stepping into a fantasy world. It’s perfect for those who enjoy photography, exploration, and discovering new cultural experiences.

Opened in June 2021, the Igorot Stone Kingdom is a 6,000-square-meter man-made park along Longlong Road, Pinsao Proper, built by Pio Velasco to honor his Igorot mother, Rita “Rosing” Gal Velasco, and showcase Cordilleran heritage.

Its signature stone walls, inspired by the Banaue Rice Terraces, are constructed using riprap—interlocked stones reinforced with cement—reflecting traditional Igorot rock-laying skills.

Watch our walking tour of the Igorot Stone Kingdom when it reopened in 2023.

Highlights of The Stone Kingdom

Explore the stone castle and its intricate designs.
Take stunning photos in a mystical, nature-inspired setting.

Dragon Treasure Castle: A Magical Experience for Families

The Dragon Treasure Castle is another exciting addition to Baguio’s list of attractions. This themed destination is a blend of fantasy, history, and art, where visitors can enter a castle filled with dragon statues, treasure rooms, and themed displays that transport you to a world of adventure and mystery. The castle is designed with beautiful architectural details, offering a mix of Eastern and Western influences, making it an engaging attraction for visitors of all ages.

Located at Jade Street, Irisville Subdivision, Phase 2, it’s reachable by jeepney (NPC Housing route from Kayang Street) or taxi, with entrance fees set at ₱150 for adults and discounted rates for seniors, PWDs, and kids.

The Dragon Treasure Castle officially opened to the public on February 10, 2025, in Irisville Subdivision, Upper Irisan, making it one of Baguio’s newest tourist attractions with a medieval-inspired design.

You can catch a glimpse of cosplayers and performers during your visit.

Built with limestone sourced from the owner’s property, it features towering stone walls and turrets that fuse European castle aesthetics with Cordilleran stone masonry, reminiscent of *Game of Thrones*-style architecture.

Watch our walking tour of the opening of the Dragon Treasure Castle.

Things to See at Dragon Treasure Castle:

Explore the mystical atmosphere and stunning raw stone architectural designs.
Enjoy shows that are medieval themed.

Conclusion: Plan Your Perfect Baguio Trip

Baguio offers an abundance of experiences that cater to every kind of traveler. Whether you are drawn to its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, cool climate, or thrilling new attractions, Baguio promises a memorable and refreshing escape. From historical landmarks and stunning views to vibrant markets, serene gardens, and new fantastical spots like The Stone Kingdom and Dragon Treasure Castle, the city has everything you need for a perfect vacation.

By visiting these top attractions, you can immerse yourself in the charm of Baguio, creating lasting memories and experiences. Be sure to plan ahead to maximize your time and explore the best that this mountain city has to offer.