(photo via Shutterstock) There’s nothing like a calming stroll along the park after a stressful day at work or at school, and at Capitol Park and Lagoon you get that plus more. Located at the heart of Bacolod City, the complex offers a place for the community to unwind with a jogging trail, an open recreational area, and a man-made lagoon. The Capitol Park complex is also where the Capitol Hall, the provincial library, the Negros Museum, and a few more government buildings are located.

The Ruins is one of the most photographed Bacolod tourist spots and for a good reason. This architectural masterpiece is a sight to behold. While the mansion may have been stripped down of its walls after being destroyed by World War II, there’s enough structural frame left as a testament to its former beauty. What makes it even more enthralling is the story behind it. Known as the “Taj Mahal of Negros”, the mansion was built by Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson in memory of his lost love, Maria Braga. Today, what survives of the structure has been turned into a high-class Ilonggo-Spanish restaurant.

(photo via Facebook, @lakawonisland) Fine white sand, clear blue waters, the biggest floating bar in Asia -- these make up a perfect vacation and all these are found in Lakawon Island. The 16-hectare banana-shaped island has everything the family will enjoy. Water sports activities are plenty in this patch of paradise, while those looking to party can enjoy the biggest floating bar in the continent. It’s a trip for the whole family!

Established in the 1890s and completed in 1901, Balay Negrense is one of the several Heritage Houses recognized by the National Historical Institute in Negros Occidental. The house was commissioned by Victor Fernandez Gaston, a sugar magnate during the 19th century. After his death in 1927, the house was neglected and abandoned until it was taken in by the Negros Cultural Foundation (in cooperation with the heirs) and transformed into a museum. It now serves as a lifestyle museum in the province, giving guests a peek into the lifestyle of the wealthy during the Spanish colonial era.

(photo via Commons, @Hbalairos) Another heritage site in Silay City, the Bernardino Jalandoni Museum houses memorabilia from the Jalandonis that reflect the history of Silaynons. Also known as “Pink House”, the two-story house reflects the typical structure of the iconic Nipa Hut. Parts of the house’s structure have been flown in from Mindoro, while others came from Germany. Memorabilia and antiques from the 19th century are exhibited in the museum, as well as impressive artworks.

Balaring Mangrove is an eco-tourism park that serves as a home to over 20,000 mangroves. Being one of the main sources of food and income among locals, the 50-hectare haven aims to preserve these water submerged trees, as well as to offer protection to marine life and birds found in the area. Aside from the mangroves, this site is also home to the longest bamboo bridge in Visayas, making it a must visit in Bacolod.

(photo via Commons, @SnappyHip) Negros Museum is the first of its kind in the Philippines in that it doesn’t focus on curating artifacts. Instead, this museum located at the heart of Bacolod City features contemporary artworks and reproductions to tell the story of Negros. It may not have much memorabilia from the olden times, but Negros Museum makes sure to focus on showing what the province was like hundreds of years ago and how its locals have evolved through time through art.

If you only had one site to visit in Bacolod, Campuestohan Highlands Resort should be on your shortlist. The resort offers a variety of amenities and activities you, your family, and your friends will enjoy. Kids can enjoy the swimming pools, playground, and heroes hall. Those who are looking for an adventure can try the zipline, sky bicycle, hanging hamster wheel, or the wave pool. Seniors can relax at the spa or coffee shop. There are enough activities to keep you busy for days at Campuestohan Highlands Resort.

(photo via Shutterstock) If you like enjoying nature, you should drop by Mambukal Mountain Resort. The site offers a range of adventures waiting to be explored. You can enjoy their butterfly sanctuary and bat watching areas, or go on their famous seven-waterfall trek course. They also have wall climbing facility, a lagoon, a zipline, and swimming pools among others.

An 80-meter high majestic waterfall sits in the forest of Patag in Silay City. The waterfall got its name from the color of the water that ran from the falls during the Japanese regime. It is said that a Japanese headquarters sat atop the mountain and the waters turned red from the soldiers’ blood. It’s quite a long trek to reach the waterfalls, but the view is absolutely worth it!

Enjoy a fun experience and check out other restaurants, things to do and more in Bacolod. Discover cheap hotel deals and cheap flights from carriers like Philippine Airlines, AirAsia, and more with Traveloka!]]>