Top 21 Best PAMPANGA TOURIST SPOTS + Things to Do
Pampanga Itinerary: Discover the Best Things to Do in Pampanga
Pampanga is a province located in Central Luzon, Philippines. It is known for its rich culture, history, and cuisine. Pampanga is a popular tourist destination in the Philippines with various attractions catering to different interests.
For those who love history and culture, Pampanga has several old and historical churches worth visiting, especially during the Lenten Season. Visita Iglesia, or the tradition of visiting seven churches in one day, is popular during Holy Week. The province is also home to the famous San Guillermo Parish Church in Bacolor, which was half-buried in lahar during the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991.
Aside from its cultural attractions, Pampanga offers natural wonders such as Mount Pinatubo and Mount Arayat. Hiking to the summit of these mountains is a popular activity among adventure seekers. Pampanga is also known for its culinary delights, including the famous sisig, which originated in the province. With its diverse attractions, Pampanga is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Philippines.
Natural Wonders
Pampanga is a province that boasts of natural wonders that will leave visitors in awe. From majestic mountains to stunning waterfalls, there are plenty of natural attractions in Pampanga that are worth exploring.
Mount Pinatubo Crater Lake by shotbymikafrbs via Unsplash
Mount Pinatubo
Mount Pinatubo is a popular tourist spot in Pampanga that draws in visitors from all over the world. It is an active volcano that last erupted in 1991, and its eruption was one of the most devastating in history. Mount Pinatubo is a popular hiking destination today, thanks to its breathtaking views and challenging trails. Visitors can hike to the volcano’s crater, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Miyamit Falls
Miyamit Falls is another natural wonder in Pampanga that is worth visiting. It is a 25-meter waterfall that cascades down into a natural pool below. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers. Visitors can take a dip in the cool waters of the pool or simply enjoy the serene surroundings.
Mount Arayat By Andrew Martin, CC BY 3.0 , cc
Mount Arayat National Park
Explore the majestic Mt. Arayat and be rewarded with breathtaking views and thrilling trails! Home to a national park, the mountain is teeming with a variety of flora and fauna, including some that are endemic and endangered. Take a journey through the park’s trails and discover its geological rock formations, which offer potential for ecotourism. Not only is Mt. Arayat a popular hiking destination, but it also serves as an important source of water for the people of Arayat and Magalang, providing for both domestic and agricultural use.
Candaba Swamp By Judgefloro – Own work , Public Domain, cc
Candaba Swamp
Candaba Swamp is a wetland area located in the province of Pampanga. It is a popular spot for birdwatching, as it is home to a variety of migratory birds. Visitors can take a boat ride through the swamp and enjoy the sights and sounds of the birds. The swamp is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including fish, reptiles, and amphibians.
Religious and Historical Landmarks
Pampanga has several religious and historical landmarks showcasing the province’s rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the must-visit landmarks in Pampanga:
San Fernando Pampanga train station By Ramon FVelasquez – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0 , cc
San Fernando Train Station
The San Fernando Train Station is a historical landmark located in the City of San Fernando. Built in 1892, it served as the terminus of the Manila-Dagupan railway line and played a significant role in the province’s economy during the American colonial period. Today, the station has been restored and converted into a museum, showcasing the history of the railway system in the Philippines.
San Guillermo Parish Church, Bacolor, Pampanga By Carl Flores Trinidad, CC BY-SA 3.0 , cc
San Guillermo Church in Bacolor
Visitors to Pampanga can experience a unique piece of history at the San Guillermo Church. Built in 1576, this ancient church is located in Bacolor and is named after the town’s patron saint. While the church’s façade and bell tower remain standing, the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991 left its mark on the building, giving it the nickname of the “half-buried church.” Step back in time and witness the damage caused by the eruption, and marvel at the strength of this centuries-old structure.
Holy Rosary Parish Church (Angeles City, Pampanga) by Ramon FVelasquez via Wikimedia cc
Holy Rosary Parish Church in Angeles City
The majestic Holy Rosary Parish Church stands tucked away in the old Culiat town, now known as Angeles City. Also known as Santo Rosario Church or the “Pisambang Maragul,” the National Museum of the Philippines declared the church a National Cultural Treasure. Built in 1877, the church is renowned for its unique architecture that combines Gothic and Baroque styles. A religious landmark, the Holy Rosary Parish Church, or the Angeles Church, is a sight to behold.
Museums
Pampanga is a province rich in history and culture, and one of the best ways to learn about its past is by visiting its museums. Here are three museums that are worth checking out:
Museo Ning Angeles by Judgefloro via Wikimedia cc
Museo Ning Angeles
Museo Ning Angeles in the city of Angeles is an incredible museum that takes visitors on a journey through the city’s rich history and culture. The museum has some interesting collections, from pre-colonial pottery and weapons to artifacts from the Philippine Revolution and the American colonial period. Even the building has a fascinating past; the current site was once the casa tribunal or courthouse during the Spanish colonial era and was burned down in 1860.
Later, in 1922, the building was reconstructed and served as the town hall until 1998, when it was repurposed as a museum. The city jail and police station were also converted into a museum office and souvenir shop. Imm erse yourself in the rich history of Angeles and visit Museo Ning Angeles today!
Pamintuan Mansion in Angeles City
Pamintuan Mansion
Pamintuan Mansion is a historic mansion located in the city of Angeles. The mansion was built in the 1890s and served as the headquarters of the Philippine Revolutionary Government during the Philippine-American War. Today, the mansion has been converted into a museum that showcases the history of the revolution and the mansion itself. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion and learn about its significance in Philippine history.
Inside Clark Museum and 4D Theatre in Pampanga
Clark Museum and 4D Theatre
The Clark Museum and 4D Theatre is a museum located in the Clark Freeport Zone. The museum has a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Pampanga and the Philippines. Visitors can learn about the indigenous Aeta people, the Spanish colonial period, and the role of Clark Air Base during World War II. The museum also has a 4D theatre that shows films about Philippine history and culture.
Amusement Parks
Pampanga is home to several amusement parks that offer a fun-filled experience for visitors of all ages. From thrilling rides to water parks, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best amusement parks in Pampanga:
