15 Best BACOLOD TOURIST SPOTS (The City of Smiles)

Ah, the “City of Smiles”. If you’re looking for the best place to spend your vacation here in the Philippines, one of your best choices has got to be Bacolod City. There are lots and lots of fun and exciting things to do here such as exploring historical landmarks, visiting natural wonders, and of course, enjoying an unforgettable gastronomic adventure!

I know, I know. One of the first things that automatically come to mind when we talk about Bacolod City is the iconic delicacy that every Filipino loves. Can you guess it? Yup! I’m talking about the delicious Bacolod Chicken Inasal. There’s absolutely no better way to enjoy this delicious dish than eating it right here in Bacolod. Oh, and you should also consider trying some of Bacolod’s famous delicacies like Kansi, Piaya, Napoleones, Batchoy, and a whole lot more.

The incredible thing about Bacolod is that even though it’s located in the province, the city can still offer high-end amenities and facilities just like other metropolises in the country.

What’s even better is that the traffic here is much less! And lastly, there’s a beautiful reason why Bacolod City has been hailed as the City of Smiles. It just means that the culture and the people in this city are very welcoming and inviting that can make you feel at home every time. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and join me for another adventure as we explore the 15 Best Tourist Spots in Bacolod!

 

1. The Ruins

Number one on the list and probably the most controversial cultural landmark in Bacolod is The Ruins. It’s kinda like the iconic Taj Mahal of India but with a far more tragic ending. The Ruins Mansion was originally built by Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson, an extremely rich Filipino Bachelor in the 1900s who wanted to express his love to Maria Braga. Also known as the Nutsberry Garden, the mansion was then eventually destroyed because Filipino guerillas were against Don Mariano’s decision to harbor some Japanese soldiers during the heights of World War II.

Ultimately, the spectacular mansion was destroyed and burned to the ground. But what’s really amazing is that the pillars and arches of the mansion remained standing, making it a beautiful ancient landmark as of this day.

Indeed, The Ruins is one of the most popular tourist spots in Bacolod because it’s an aesthetic location to take some pictures, have a nice dinner, and just admire the rich history of its past. Especially if you know about the tragic backstory of something this grand and beautiful. CHECK THE BEST HOTELS IN BACOLOD

 

2. Negros Museum

Of course, your trip to Bacolod wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Negros Museum. It’s the perfect way to know more about the City of Smiles’ rich culture and history. Located at the Negros Occidental Provincial Capitol Complex, this unique museum doesn’t house any archaeological artifacts. Why? Because it wants to highlight the delightful Negrense lifestyle and society.

The museum aims to showcase to the world why Bacolod City is considered the happiest place in the country, so be sure not to miss out! Oh, and aside from the museum tours, you can also take a quick break at the equally beautiful Museum Café.

 

3. Negros Capitol Park and Lagoon

The Negros Capital Park and Lagoon is also a nice place to explore the city of Bacolod where I’m sure you’ll meet a bunch of wonderful people, spot some hidden cultural gems, and ultimately know the city better. The huge park covers an area of about 3 hectares and is ideally located at the heart of the city.

While walking around, you’ll be able to spot two incredible sculptures highlighting the diverse culture of Bacolod City, these are the Paghimud-os Monument and the carabao masterpieces by Italian sculptor Francesco Riccardo Monti. Oh, and having a picture with the Negros Occidental Provincial Capitol Building in your background is also a must when you visit here!

 

4. San Sebastian Church

Another must-visit landmark in Bacolod City is no other than the San Sebastian Church also known as the Catedral de San Sebastián de Bacolod, one of the most famous religious institutions in the country. This three-arched 19th-century Baroque-style cathedral attracts a lot of tourists, especially Catholic pilgrims, from different parts of the world.

The facade and the architecture of the church itself are already a gem you must see. So whether you’re visiting to offer prayers or just to catch a glimpse of Bacolod’s center of religion, adding the beautiful San Sebastian Church to the list is definitely the right thing to do.

 

5. Pope John Paul II Tower

One of the highlights of Bacolod City’s colorful history is when the late Pope John Paul II visited the city on February 20, 1981. Being one of the most dedicated Catholic provinces, the Pope’s visit was definitely appreciated by the Negrense people. Numerous festivities, events, and programs were held to commemorate Pope John Paul II and one prime example is the construction of Pope John Paul II Tower. This 7-story building which serves as a pilgrimage center became one of Bacolod’s significant landmarks because of its history and the statue of Pope John Paul II erected at the building’s entrance.

 

6. Panaad Park and Stadium, Bacolod City

Another one of Bacolod’s pride and most popular tourist spots is Panaad Park and Stadium. This 25-hectare park serves as the home of some of the Philippines’ prestigious sporting events like the ASEAN Games, Palarong Pambansa, Philippine Football League Games, and many more.

Built in the year 1997, the stadium consists of a rubberized oval where athletes and even locals can take their exercise and work out. The park is also surrounded by about 60,000 Eucalyptus trees. Yup! 60,000. There’s really no better place to work out and jog in the morning in Bacolod other than Panaad Park and Stadium! Oh, and aside from the huge field, there are also Olympic-sized swimming pools inside the park where you can go for a quick swim. Just don’t forget to ask permission, alright?

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7. Experience the Masskara Festival

Well, aside from unraveling Bacolod City’s most beautiful landmarks, another great thing to do in the City of Smiles is to experience the iconic Masskara Festival. This annual festival held every 4th of October represents the resilience and creativity of the Negrense people.

The Masskara Festival was created to uplift the spirits of the people after a devastating tragedy hit the province in the 1980s. Colorful masks, costumes, and exciting activities all await the guests attending the Masskara Festival! It’s also the perfect time to immerse yourself in the wonderful culture of Bacolod and try out all their delicious delicacies and treats. This is also the best time to buy different souvenirs and pasalubongs because there will surely be lots and lots of bazaars set up around the city.

 

8. CALEA Pastries

And just like what I keep on saying, definitely, one of the best things to do in Bacolod City is going on a gastronomic adventure. Well, that’s exactly what we’ll be doing right now! Our next destination is the famous CALEA Pastries & Coffee. A lot of people who’ve been to Bacolod City are saying that your trip to the City of Smile wouldn’t be complete if you haven’t tried CALEA’s best-selling pastries and coffee.

Located along Lacson Street, CALEA offers a wide variety of cakes such as Chocolate Cakes, Cheesecakes, Frozen Cakes, and also Hot and Iced Coffees. One of the best-sellers and something I would personally recommend is their Chocolate Mud Pie. It’s amazingly delicious so be sure not to miss out!

 

9. Sharyn’s Cansi House

Another popular food trip experience a lot of people are crazy about is dining at Sharyn’s Cansi House. As we all know, Cansi or Kansi is one of Bacolod City’s iconic delicacies. Kansi is a Filipino sour soup dish made of Beef shanks usually paired with jackfruit, kamias, tomato, garlic, and other seasonings.

The beef is boiled until it reaches a gelatinous consistency which is what locals love. Basically, Kansi is the delicious combination of both Bulalo and Sinigang so trust me, you’ll never regret tasting this heavenly creation! And the best place to eat Kansi not only in Bacolod but in the entire country is definitely Sharyn’s Cansi House. Since 1986, this has been the go-to Kansi eatery in Bacolod City so make sure to drop by!

 

10. Mambukal Mountain Resort

Well, as I’ve mentioned earlier, Bacolod City isn’t only about historical, cultural, and religious landmarks. The city is also known for its amazing natural wonders! One best example is the Mambukal Mountain Resort. If you want to experience the beauty of nature at its finest, booking your vacation here at Mambukal is probably the best way to do it.

Situated at 1,200 feet above sea level and covering an area of about 23.6 hectares at the foothills of Mt. Kanlaon, the mountain resort offers bunches of fun and exciting activities to get you closer to nature. From natural hot sulfur springs to boating lagoons, swimming pools, and many more, I’m sure that guests will really have a wonderful time just chilling out, relaxing, and admiring the beauty of nature.

Oh, and during your stay, be sure to try out all of the exciting activities waiting for you! Swimming, bat-watching, visiting the butterfly garden, kayaking, or even relaxing at the Ishiwata Bath House will definitely be one of the highlights of your trip.

 

Side Trips Near Bacolod

11. Lakawon Island

Now that we’re done exploring the beautiful city of Bacolod, let us now discover some hidden gems near the city! The first one we’ll visit is the one and only Lakawon Island. This 16-hectare banana-shaped island is easily one of the most popular island destinations in Western Visayas.

From its white-sand beaches, shady coconut trees, and glamorous cottages and resort facilities, I’m sure that you’ll have the best summer of your life here. Lakawon is indeed a world-class resort and spa that you should add to your list of must-visit destinations in Negros Occidental. Why? Well, it’s already an all-in package allowing tourists to sit back, relax, and enjoy the tropical paradise life!

 

12. Balay Negrense

Balay Negrense, on the other hand, is another prized gem by the Negros Occidental province. This ancestral house and museum are owned by Victor Fernandez Gaston, son of one of the pioneer sugar barons in Negros. Balay Negrense attracts a lot of tourists simply because of its old-world beauty and architecture.

The house showcases what it’s like to live as a member of a powerful family of sugar barons in the late 19th century. Personal artifacts, collections, and perfectly-preserved antique furniture are housed inside the ancestral house. I’m sure that history buffs and scholars will have a great time here!

 

13. Pulang Tubig Falls

I know, I know. I was intrigued by the name too when I first read it! The iconic Pulang Tubig Falls of Mt. Patag in Silay City, Negros Occidental has been attracting tourists from different parts of the country for many years already. To answer your questions, here are a few origin stories about the controversial name of the waterfalls. Are you ready? Here it goes! One story suggests that the name “Pulang Tubig” or Red Water is said to have come from the blood of Japanese soldiers killed during World War II. Another possible reason is that the red water is said to have been caused by the sulfuric reaction of the river stones along the water bed. Well, no matter what the true story about Pulang Tubig Falls really is, only one thing’s for sure. Its beauty is truly enchanting.

Towering at a height of about 80 meters, Pulang Tubig Falls easily becomes a gigantic and amazing sight for visitors. The best part? You can take a swim and dive any time of the day because the crystal clear waters are always cold! Oh, and also make sure to be wary of your surroundings because this might be your chance to meet some of the Philippines’ endangered animal species up close like the Visayan Warty Pig, Philippine Spotted Deer, and the Bleeding Heart Pigeon.

 

14. Bernardino Jalandoni Museum

Another one of Negros Occidental’s highly esteemed cultural landmarks is the Bernardino Jalandoni Museum also known as the Pink House because of the captivating pink paint of its facade. This huge ancestral house in Silay City became recognized as a “Natural Historical Landmark” by the National Historical Institute.

The house was built in 1908 when Don Bernardino and his beautiful wife, Doña Isabela Lopez came to Negros Occidental to start their family. Up to this date, lots and lots of tourists visit the Bernardino Jalandoni Museum to know more about the province’s colorful history through its antique furniture, artifacts, and collections.

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15. Ramon Hofileña Heritage House

And last but definitely not the least in our Bacolod City adventure is the incredible Ramon Hofileña Heritage House which is again situated in Silay City. Ramon Hofileña is known as the Father of Heritage Conservation which is why it isn’t surprising that you’ll get to witness up close some of the finest and rarest Filipino art collections of the 19th century.

The works of legendary Filipino artists like Juan Luna, Félix Resurrección Hidalgo, Vicente Manansala, and many more are perfectly preserved in this mansion. Moreover, the antique furniture and house equipment in the house are also quite a sight to see! And of course, the architecture of the heritage house itself is also something that will make you feel like you’re traveling back in time.

 

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