Taipa has long been considered a family-friendly area with its lush green surroundings and relaxed atmosphere. A popular choice of residence for expats, it is close to cultural and heritage sites, and many choices of restaurants! Taipa boasts two extraordinary garden-park-playgrounds. Moreover, these multifunctional spaces are more than just a place to sit, stroll or play. They are perfect for children and adults alike to commune with nature and unwind after a busy day. On weekdays, this is also a great place to witness the local life, as elderly people gather there to chat with each other while walking their pets or taking grandkids to the park after classes. We particularly enjoy Flower City Garden and Taipa Central Park for the greenery and more, detailed as such:
Flower City Garden: A Chinese-inspired Eden in Taipa
The strategic location of Flower City Garden makes it a popular destination for visitors of all ages. In between the high-rise buildings and shops, it sits across the bustling street of the ParknShop supermarket. The garden is an elegant and modern interpretation of the classical Chinese garden. There are lotus ponds with fish, winding bridges, and pavilions and you’ll find that it’s popular with people of all ages.
There is a children’s playground, a skating and scooter area, and a small exhibition area featuring aquatic animals. The educational area features bones, charts, and scientific facts of sea creatures in a laid-back environment. Admission is free and kids can run wild through the play area complete with slides, swing, and more.
Snack time
If you’re hungry or want to grab something to eat and drink during your visits, head to Liège for tasty traditional Belgian waffles, or Nata Bakery–sandwiches, cakes, and daily homemade bread–both located at ParknShop supermarket. For freshly made baguettes and other delicious goods, Élysée Bakery is a short walk away from the garden as well.
Ah, and Mugs Taipa is located on the left side outside the park, which means you can go directly there for a late afternoon craft beer. Visit the park with your little ones or hang out with friends and head for snacks at this modern and hip restaurant and bar. There are many other shops and restaurants in the area to explore with the whole family! Explore the streets in the neighborhood and enjoy Japanese, Korean, Cantonese, and even French snacks at these places.
Bus routes nearby: 11, 15, 26, 26A, 30, 33, 34, MT1, MT3, N2
Flower City Garden Rua de Évora, Taipa, Macau, www.en.macaotourism.gov.mo
Taipa Central Park: Unwind at this Urban Hidden Gem
There are two playgrounds located at each end of the park with slides, swings, animal rides, and monkey bars here. One of its main features is a huge swimming pool with a children’s area, which is very popular amongst locals and expats as well. There might not be enough sunbeds for all the sun lovers, but grab your towel and find your piece of heaven here! It’s also equipped with lockers and showers.
As for the park, it’s well shaded with comfortable wooden and concrete seats perfect for relaxing or taking a break. There is also fitness equipment for those looking to exercise a bit, especially if you live around the area. Free of charge and in the middle of greenery and a relaxed environment, it’s a nice place to start getting fit!
You will also find a gym, pet area for dogs, jogging path, basketball court, vending machines, a yoga lawn also used for Zumba, and a chess area. Everything in the area is free to use except the Taipa Central Park swimming pool with an entrance fee of MOP $15. Turn off the television, hang up the phone, and head out for some fresh air in one of Taipa’s parks!
Also read: 5 Best Public Pools in Macau
Also read: Where to Find Outdoor Fitness Equipment Around Macau
Underground Reading
Another feature not to be missed is the underground library, one of this park’s most unique features. Situated on the basement floor of Taipa Central, it boasts a total area of 2,200 sqm. It is one of the largest spaces for public use among all public libraries in Macau. The interiors are sleek and minimalist exuding a serene vibe for visitors to sit, read, and study. Kids are in for a treat because the library also houses a theater for children!
There’s also an outdoor garden, multi-function room, nursing room, and a book drop device installed on the garden level. The library has a seating capacity of 413 with a collection of some 85,037 volumes. The volumes include 29,872 children’s books and 8,434 audiovisual materials.
Bus routes nearby: 11, MT4, 21A, 25, 26A, 22
Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 7:00am–9:00pm, Monday, 1:00pm–9:00pm
Taipa Central Park Rua De Seng Tou, Taipa, Macau, +853 2886 0072
Also read: Read On: Best Libraries in Macau
This article was originally written by Apple Salangsang in October 2016 and updated by Leonor Sá Machado in October 2020.