Lush greens in the concrete jungle

The sweltering heat makes us want to stay indoors all day long with the electric fan or air conditioner in full blast. But don’t let the hot weather discourage you from having fun outdoors and getting some healthy dose of sun.

Aside from the popular parks like Luneta and Fort Santiago, there are quite a number of parks and pocket gardens where one can freely relax in the shade of trees, enjoy the lush greenery and take in the cool breeze, all while doing some catching up with the family.

Turn the tables around on mom this weekend. Get that picnic basket, fill it with all of her favorite goodies and take her on a date at the park.

Ayala Triangle Gardens

Located right in the heart of Makati’s central business district, Ayala Triangle Gardens has been a popular stop for those looking for a breather from the fast-paced urban life. It has also become a favorite among families who love bringing their furbabies along because pets are much welcome at the park. See to it, however, that you will clean up after your dog, or cat.

The landscaped expanse abounds with trees and the park’s over 20,000 sqm area is enough for those who want to engage in ball games, do some yoga or simply run around with their dogs and kids. There are also restaurants and cafés right at the park.

Where to find it: Paseo de Roxas cor. Makati Ave. cor. Ayala Ave., Makati

Operating hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Jaime Velasquez Park

Also known as Salcedo Park, this refreshing pocket of greenery has become popular thanks to the Salcedo Market which happens every Saturday, and Art in Park, which is meanwhile held yearly. The 1.7-ha park has a children’s playground and stone benches. Pets are not allowed at the park.

Where to find it: Velasquez St. between Tordesillas and L.P. Leviste Streets, Makati

Operating hours: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Washington Sycip Park and Legazpi Active Park

Another oasis in the midst of Makati’s skyscrapers, the Washington Sycip Park features pavilions and gazebos where one can relax and unwind especially after a long week—or day—at work. Cross the street and you’ll find yourself at the newly upgraded Legazpi Active Park, which is spacious and has bike and running tracks. Pets are not allowed in both parks.

Where to find it: Legazpi St. corner Rada St., Makati

Operating hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Bonifacio High Street

The open-air retail space in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig features expanses of green—a welcome change for many mall-goers. Bonifacio High Street (BHS) in particular is pet-friendly and has enough space for you to have a picnic, chill with your dog or cat (this writer even spotted a civet once!), or simply let your kids run and tumble on the grass.

There are also two running tracks—Track 30th and Terra 28th—for joggers and fitness buffs.

Being a mixed-use development, there are a lot of restaurants and food establishments to choose from. As with other parks, make sure that you clean up after yourselves, especially those with pets.

Paco Park

A favorite and popular venue for weddings and receptions, Paco Park was once Manila’s municipal cemetery. The hustle and bustle of Manila seems to fade once you step into the park’s tranquil and serene atmosphere. The circular park is teeming with history as this was where Jose Rizal was initially buried. National artist Ildefonso P. Santos Jr. was involved in the design of the park.

Where to find it: Gen. Luna cor. Padre Faura cor. Romualdez cor. Belen Streets, Manila

Operating hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.