Baguio City would not be complete without visiting tourist spots like Burnham Park, Good Shepherd Convent and Mines View Park. There are other Baguio destinations that are not so popular among local tourists. Here are just some of these destinations:
- Museo Kordilyera – UP Baguio Ethnographic Museum
This is an ethnographic museum is the first of its kind and is a great place to learn about the indigenous people of the Cordilleras and their rich culture. A wide range of photographs, clothes, tools, and other artifacts can be found here. After exploring the museum, visit the gift shop for souvenirs or enjoy a hot drink at the café.
- Baguio Museum
During the past 100 years, Baguio has grown from a tiny Spanish-established community into the highly urbanized college town that it is today. The Baguio Museum is a Baguio destination where you can see pictures and dioramas documenting all those changes. The exhibit on the ground floor will give you a glimpse of the indigenous culture of the North.
- Laperal House
This Victorian-style house is actually a museum that features bamboo carvings and other wood-based artworks. However, that’s not the only thing it’s known for. Due to a dark history and stories of violence from World War II, this Baguio destination has long been rumored to be haunted. Some believe that if you walk past it at night, you have to look away as you might see the gaunt image for a former resident on the front steps.
- Mount Costa
If you are visiting La Trinidad, stop by Mount Costa to reconnect with nature and take gorgeous pictures while you are at it. If you have a green thumb or simply love being surrounded by greenery, this is the perfect Baguio destination for you.
- Lion’s Head
Conceptualized in 1971 and unveiled to the public the following year, this giant icon was a project of the Baguio Lions Club. Ifugao woodcarver Reynaldo Lopez Nanyac was commissioned to make what was once a limestone boulder into the sculpture it is today.
- Bridal Veil Falls
Located along Kennon Road in Tuba, Benguet, you will have to go a bit out of your way to see this natural wonder. The waterfalls resemble the veil that brides wear during their wedding. You are not advised to take a dip unless you are confident with your swimming skills. The freezing temperature of the waters is also something to take note of.
- Botanical Garden
Formerly known as the Centennial Garden, the Botanical Garden is more of a park that is rich with history. Inside, you will find reminders of Baguio’s friendship with foreign countries like the bridge and pond on the Chinese Pavilion and the Buddha Statues that line up the path to the Japanese tunnel. The tunnel itself was once used during World War II to transport supplies. Nowadays, it is open to the public as a Baguio destination.
- Ifugao Woodcarvers’ Village
The Ifugao Woodcarvers’s Village is where you can appreciate the local artistic streak. This Baguio destination showcases tiny figurines and practical furnishings.
- The Mansion House
Built in 1908 during the American Colonialist Era, the Mansion House was originally the official summer residence of past US Governor Generals, among them William Cameron Forbes. It now serves as the official summer residence of the Philippine President.
- Dinosaurs Island / The Ruins
More or less 15 minutes before you reach Baguio City proper along Marcos Highway, you will find the newest Baguio destination from Baguio Eco Park – The Dinosaurs Island and The Ruins. Dinosaurs Island Baguio is a dinosaur animatronics themed park in Baguio Eco Park Development. It is located in the forested area in Badiwan in Tuba, Benguet along Marcos Highway. The dinosaurs are scattered all around the hill. At the bottom of the hill, you will find The Ruins. It features replicas of famous relics from the ancient civilizations of Egypt, China and Greece.
