Bicentennial Park (Parque Bicentenario) is one of many excellent urban parks spread throughout the city of Santiago. Partake in recreational activities, investigate a collection of interesting sculptures and watch free concerts in the park’s amphitheatre.
This park sits on the banks of the Mapocho River and its name celebrates the 200th anniversary of Chilean independence. Join dog-walkers, joggers and people practicing yoga on the landscaped lawns. Follow the trails that wind around the park and look for black swans and flamingos on the man-made lakes. Purchase food from the kiosk and feed the swans and koi fish.
Lay down a blanket and picnic beneath the shade of the park’s many trees. As you eat, take time to admire the snow-covered peaks of the surrounding Andes mountain range. You’ll also find several benches and picnic tables in addition to free-to-use sun loungers and umbrellas. Bring the kids to the modern playground, where they can play on climbing frames and slides.
Don’t miss the Sculpture Walk (Paseo de las Esculturas), which features works by eight recognised Chilean artists, including Sergio Castillo. Be sure to stop by the Jardín de Ciegos (Garden for the Blind), a thematic area designed especially for visually-impaired visitors to enjoy through the use of different senses. Check to see if any free blues, classical or jazz concerts are happening in the amphitheatre during your visit.
While in the area, you might want to explore nearby Vitacura, an attractive neighbourhood famous for shopping and dining. Discover independent boutiques and luxury brands, eat in innovative restaurants and browse exhibitions at the Museo de la Moda (Fashion Museum), which features clothing dating from the 17th century to the present day.
Bicentennial Park is situated in the Vitacura neighbourhood. To get there, take a 15-minute drive from Santiago’s city centre, use public buses or ride a hop-on hop-off tourist bus. Free parking is available at the southern entrance. The park also has several bicycle parking areas.
