La Alameda Park: a place that holds history

The Alameda Park, located in what was formerly known as "Los Potreros del Rey" (The King's pastures), holds a wealth of history. Just seeing La Columna de los Castigos Coloniales, passing by the first viewpoint of the city "El Churo de la Alameda" and finding the Astronomical Observatory of Ecuador, envelops us in the old colonial Quito.

This place was the scene of the battle of March 18, 1546, where Gonzalo Pizarro defeated the Viceroy of Peru.

What to do in La Alameda Park?

Parque Bicentenario, an airport transformed into fresh air

This place also has a history, although not as old as the Alameda Park, that many Quiteños may remember. Bicentennial Park used to be the runway where national and international airplanes arrived and took off. This was Ecuador's main airport. After some municipal decisions and due to noise pollution, it was decided to move the airport to Tababela, allowing many citizens to start doing more sports activities in the city.

What to do in the Bicentennial Park?

With its 125 hectares, it has a cycling track, jogging track, crossfit area, viewpoint, picnic area, wildlife observatory, children's playground, 2 km sculpture trail amid trees and green areas, restrooms and a convention center where several events have been held. In addition, the park is pet friendly; don't forget to pick up your pet's waste. It is a perfect place to spend with family, friends or just by yourself.

How to get there?

To get there, you can take a bus that goes along Avenida 10 de Agosto, La Prensa or Avenida Amazonas, as the park has several entrances since it is located in the urban parishes of La Concepción, Kennedy and Cotocollao.

Parque la Carolina, an urban oasis in the heart of Quito

The Carolina Park was, until 2013, one of the largest in Ecuador. This space was part of the land where the Inca Huayna Capac built several recreational ponds to practice hunting ducks, herons and other birds. Later, in the 20th century, it was part of the Hacienda La Carolina, belonging to María Augusta Barba de Larrea, descendant of the Marquises of Selva Alegre. 

This park has an area of 640,000 square meters. A visit to this place will keep you entertained for a whole day, because if you like nature, sports or spending time with your family without leaving the city, this is your ideal destination.

What to do in La Carolina Park?

The park has 15 volleyball courts, 9 basketball courts, clay tennis courts and even a bike cross track, there is no excuse not to get active. There is even a special court for the visually impaired.

Aerobic Area: It has an athletic track surrounded by natural grass. Here you can run, ride a bike, practice yoga or other activities under the open sky and connect with your body and nature.

A space for the little ones with their own adventure corner with slides, swings and even small climbing walls. 

If you are looking for something more romantic, the artificial lagoon offers pedal boats for a quiet moment on the water. The cost of this service is $5.50 and you can have a 30 minute ride.

For those who like adrenaline, the skating area is super complete. With ramps, obstacles and different levels of difficulty, it is the perfect place to practice your tricks on skates, skateboard or bike.

If you have furry friends, the pet area is equipped with games and obstacles for your dog to exercise, and even has drinking fountains for both your pet and its owners.

Visit the Botanical Garden, the Vivarium, the Ecuadorian Museum of Natural Sciences and more for a dose of culture and learning.

Don't leave without taking a stroll along the boulevards surrounding the park.

Around the park there are different boulevards such as the United Nations, Rumipamba, de la quebrada where its wide spaces will make you feel relaxed.

How to get there?

There are several transportation lines to get to the park, it is easier than you think. We recommend the most modern and convenient option "El Metro de Quito" you only have to get off at the station "La Carolina" and you will be a few steps away.

A unique experience in each park

Whether you choose La Alameda Park, Bicentenario Park or La Carolina Park, each will offer you a unique experience. Experience Quito's history while you play sports, recreate your mind or share with your family.

So, what are you waiting for? Get your sportswear ready and get ready to experience the city in a different way. 

For more information on places to visit in the capital city, go to https://visitquito.ec.