Guadalajara has dozens of green spaces, but these four are among the very best. Thanks to the city’s central management under the Agencia Metropolitana de Bosques Urbanos, entry to all four of these beautiful public spaces is now completely free of charge.
Bosque Los Colomos
This cool and leafy urban forest – split into two sections – contains hundreds of tall eucalyptus trees, an enchanting Japanese Garden donated by the people of Kyoto, and well-maintained paved walking and running tracks. Visitors will find several small lakes populated by ducks and birds, outdoor exercise equipment, and a beautifully mature garden created by the city of Portland, Oregon. Free weekend cultural and arts workshops for children take place on Saturdays and Sundays. Vehicle parking is 35 pesos with no time limit.
Hours: Monday–Sunday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Address: Calle Chaco 3200, Colonia Providencia.
Parque Agua Azul
Located right in the heart of the city, this traditional and historic park acts as a peaceful sanctuary from downtown traffic. It boasts a beautiful butterfly house (mariposario), a small aviary, an orchid greenhouse, and a small lake surrounded by shaded benches. The park regularly hosts community markets, such as the recent vibrant Mundo Jalisco cultural festival. Best of all, it offers direct pedestrian access to the adjacent Jalisco Institute of Handicrafts, which showcases and sells some of the finest traditional art and pottery the state has to offer.
Hours: Monday–Sunday, 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Address: Avenida 16 de Septiembre and Campesino, Centro.
Parque Metropolitano
Measuring a massive 113 hectares, this is the largest park in the city and features several miles of pristine walking, running, and cycling tracks. It gets lively on weekends with local picnickers, but there is always plenty of room for everyone. Bicycles (including fun multi-person tandem bikes) are available for hire near the main plazas — just remember to bring a valid ID to leave as a deposit. Located on the western outskirts of the city, it is an ideal spot for catching stunning Jalisco sunsets.
Hours: Monday–Sunday, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Address: Avenida Beethoven 5800, Colonia La Estancia, Zapopan.
Parque Alcalde
Formerly known as Parque Rehilete Alcalde, this popular downtown hub underwent a massive modern renovation. It features an expansive central lake with pedal-boat rentals, an electric mini-train, and an adrenaline-pumping zipline path that flies over the water. While general entrance to the park grounds is free, these individual rides carry nominal ticket fees.
The park has also gained a major new neighbor: it sits directly adjacent to the state-of-the-art Acuario Michin, making the area a fantastic full-day destination for families. Free general admission, but attractions such as the boats and the zipline range from 30 to 100 pesos.
Hours: Monday–Sunday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Address: Calle Jesús García 700, Centro.