If you want to experience Medellin’s friendly yet energetic vibe, there’s hardly a better place to do this than at one of the city’s parks. Some of them feature community activities, while others focus on nature and tranquility. Whatever you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find a park in Medellin that’ll make the perfect hangout spot.
Parques del Rio
This is technically two parks, which were developed on either side of the Medellin River. The initial stages were completed by 2019, and there are plans to expand over the next few years; eventually, the park will cover about 12 miles in length. You don’t have to wait for the park to be finished before enjoying it, though; there are plenty of walking trails, bike paths, and green spaces. It’s popular with dog walkers and local families, making for a pleasant getaway from the busy city. If you’re interested in getting some cool pictures along the way, don’t forget to check out the towering Montaña Medellin sculpture, created by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone.
Parque de los Pies Descalzos
Otherwise known as “Barefoot Park”, this area was designed specifically for those who love walking barefoot. There’s an expanse of sand, plus plenty of lush grass. The landscape also contains bamboo groves and fountains, where visitors can sit and relax to the sound of bubbling water. This park is also the perfect place to be if you start feeling hungry; Carrera 57 (in the Plaza Mayor complex) has plenty of top-notch restaurants.
Parque de los Deseos
This park is right in the middle of the University of Antioquia, Medellin’s botanical gardens, and the Parque Explora science museum and planetarium, making it a great destination if sightseeing is your goal. The park’s name in English is “Park of Desires”, and often has something going on like movie screenings or free concerts. There’s a big sandbox where children love to play, water fountains, and outdoor picnic tables. If you ever feel the need to slow down while in Medellin, this is the place to do it.
Parque de El Poblado
Medellin’s El Poblado neighborhood is famous for its party culture and nightlife, but it has more to offer than bars, nightclubs, and high-end shops. This quaint park offers a nice contrast from the rest of the neighborhood, with plenty of shady spots where you can sit down and relax with an empanada or some other snack. If you’re in the mood for people-watching, this park is ideal. You’ll see families, business people, and tourists from all over the globe. There’s also an outdoor market on the weekends, with all kinds of interesting items to check out.
Parque Arvi
If you want a park experience that involves more than an easy stroll, Parque Arvi should be at the top of your list. There are almost 60 miles of walking trails, an open-air market that sells souvenirs and snacks, and flower and butterfly exhibits. Even arriving at the park is an adventure, as Medellin’s cable car tour will give you incredible views of the city as you make your way to the destination.
El Cerro de Moravia
As a former dumpsite that’s been turned into a lavish garden, there’s hardly a better symbol of Medellin’s transformation than El Cerro de Moravia. It covers 30,000 square meters at the top of a hill; you can take a taxi to the park, but many people choose to make their way up on foot. There are a few paved walking trails that take visitors to the hill’s peak; along the way, signboards and historical photos illustrate the area’s story. Once you reach the top, you can explore the greenhouse, and enjoy the 360-degree views of the entire city. Don’t forget to bring a camera, and make sure you visit when the weather is clear!
Cerro Nutibara
Anyone who wants the full tourist experience has to visit Cerro Nutibara. It’s located in Medellin’s geographic center, and features a replica “Pueblito Paisa” (a typical Colombian town) at the peak. Visitors can view the model church and central fountain in the “town square”, and take a look at what the souvenir vendors have to offer. There are also a few restaurants that serve regional Antioquian dishes. If you want to make the most of your time in the area, don’t forget to visit the nearby sculpture park.
Estadio Atanasio Girardot
This stadium complex is mostly taken up by the 45,000-seat soccer venue, but there’s a lot more to it than that. It’s popular among residents who want to exercise by doing laps around the stadium, or practice on the sports fields nearby. Facilities include sand and indoor volleyball courts, basketball courts, a gymnastics area, a handball court, a martial arts coliseum, an outdoor gym, and a skateboarding park. Even if you aren’t interested in participating yourself, all of the activities going on will certainly make for an interesting stroll.
Plaza Botero
Fernando Botero is definitely the most famous artist to have come from Medellin, if not from Colombia. This plaza is dotted with 23 of Botero’s sculptures, which he donated to the city. They’re iconic examples of the artist’s style, with voluminous yet strong lines that command the attention. You can walk among the sculptures, or take a seat on one of the many benches to watch the crowds pass by.
Staying safe in Medellin’s parks
All of the parks listed here – as well as many more throughout the city – are fairly safe to visit during the day. The main risk comes from pickpockets, which is the case in every major city in the world. However, after dark the parks usually aren’t so safe. The risk of theft increases, and you’re more likely to run into drug use or worse. For the best views of the parks, and to keep yourself safe, it’s recommended to visit during the daylight hours.
If you want to fully experience Medellin, you should consider visiting at least one or two of the city’s most popular parks. They offer a glimpse of Medellin’s community and culture that’s hard to get in the more tourist-oriented parts of the city, and will definitely enrich your visit to Colombia.
