Panoramic view of Bogotá cityscape with tall buildings and mountainous backdrop

Simon Bolivar Park

Simón Bolívar Park Bogotá: Complete Guide to Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Top Attractions

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Simón Bolívar Park (Parque Metropolitano Simón Bolívar) is Bogotá’s largest and most cherished urban green space, spanning more than 400 hectares at the heart of Colombia’s capital. Since its inception during the city’s rapid expansion in the mid-20th century, the park has symbolized Bogotá’s commitment to ecological health, cultural vibrancy, and social inclusion. Named in honor of the great South American liberator, Simón Bolívar, the park is an essential destination for residents and travelers seeking recreation, cultural events, and a connection to the city’s natural landscape.

This comprehensive guide details everything you need to know about Simón Bolívar Park—including visiting hours, ticketing information, accessibility, key attractions, cultural events, travel tips, and nearby points of interest—so you can make the most of your visit. (GPSmyCity, Visit Bogotá, Trek Zone)

Informative signboard of Parque Simón Bolívar at Plaza de Ceremonias entrance

Cafeteria inside Parque Central Simón Bolívar with outdoor seating and greenery

Off-road trail at Parque Central Simón Bolívar

Sculpture of Simón Bolívar in Simón Bolívar Park Bogota

View from Ferris wheel at Magic Salitre Park in Bogota Colombia

Eucharistic temple in Simon Bolivar Metropolitan Park, Colombia

Introduction
Historical Background
Visiting Hours & Ticket Information
Accessibility & Visitor Services
Main Attractions & Activities
Cultural and Social Events
Environmental Impact & Sustainability
Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips
FAQs
Visuals & Media Suggestions
Conclusion & Visitor Recommendations
References

Historical Background

Simón Bolívar Park’s origins trace back to the 1960s, a period marked by accelerated urban growth and a pressing need for public green spaces. The park’s design was inspired by major metropolitan parks worldwide, aiming to provide Bogotá with a “green lung” for leisure, sport, and cultural engagement. In the 1970s, initial developments included the creation of open lawns, a central lake, and basic walking paths.

Subsequent decades saw major expansions. Sporting facilities, event venues, and playgrounds were added, culminating in the construction of the Plaza de Eventos—the city’s top venue for large-scale concerts and festivals, with capacity for over 80,000 spectators (Concert Archives). Over time, the park has evolved into a vibrant focal point for Bogotá’s social and cultural life.

Visiting Hours & Ticket Information

Opening Hours: Simón Bolívar Park is open daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Hours may extend during special events or festivals.
Admission: Entry to the main park grounds—including green spaces, playgrounds, and trails—is free for everyone.
Special Attractions & Events: Certain facilities (such as the Aquatic Center) and major events (like concerts or festivals in the Events Plaza) require tickets. Tickets can be purchased online or at authorized sales points; check the official event or tourism websites for up-to-date information.

(WeGoTrip, The Tourist Checklist)

Accessibility & Visitor Services

Location: Centrally situated in the Teusaquillo district, bordered by Avenida 68 and Calle 63.
Public Transit: Easily reached via Bogotá’s TransMilenio system (Salitre Greco, CAN–British Council, 7 de Agosto, and Movistar Arena stations nearby).
Cycling & Walking: Connected to Bogotá’s extensive cycling network and pedestrian routes.
Parking: Available but limited; public transportation or cycling is recommended during peak times.
Accessibility: The park offers paved, wheelchair-accessible paths, designated parking, and accessible restrooms to ensure inclusivity for all visitors.
Amenities: Restrooms, drinking fountains, security patrols, information kiosks, first aid stations, and food kiosks are found throughout the park.

(Intl Pollution Commons)

Main Attractions & Activities

Expansive Green Spaces

Vast lawns, mature trees, and gardens provide tranquil settings for picnics, yoga, jogging, and relaxation.

Central Lake (Lago Central)

A scenic lake at the park’s core offers pedal boat rentals, birdwatching, and peaceful walking paths.

Events Plaza (Plaza de Eventos)

One of Latin America’s premier open-air venues, hosting massive music festivals and cultural gatherings, including Rock al Parque (Concert Archives).

Family & Sports Facilities

Modern playgrounds, football fields, basketball courts, cycling and jogging tracks, and fitness stations cater to all ages and interests.

Aquatic Center

An Olympic-size pool complex with recreational swimming, diving, and water sports; open to the public for a nominal fee.

Adjacent Attractions

Bogotá Botanical Garden (Jardín Botánico José Celestino Mutis): A showcase of Colombia’s biodiversity, with guided tours and workshops.
Salitre Mágico: A family-friendly amusement park.
Maloka Science Museum: Interactive science and technology exhibits.
Movistar Arena: Major indoor sports and concert venue.

Simón Bolívar Park is the epicenter of Bogotá’s major cultural celebrations:

Rock al Parque: The largest free rock festival in Latin America, attracting more than 300,000 attendees (Visit Bogotá).
Festival Cordillera, Salsa al Parque, Jazz al Parque, Hip Hop al Parque: Showcasing Colombia’s musical diversity.
Bogotá Half Marathon & Sports Events: Drawing athletes and spectators citywide.
Religious & Civic Gatherings: Hosting papal masses and national commemorations.

Environmental Impact & Sustainability

Simón Bolívar Park is critical to Bogotá’s environmental health:

Air Quality & Urban Cooling: The park’s tree cover and gardens help filter air pollution and moderate temperatures.
Biodiversity: Habitats for local wildlife are preserved within the park and neighboring botanical garden.
Sustainable Initiatives: Bogotá invests in tree planting, waste management, and sustainable mobility, including over 300 km of bike lanes and the promotion of Ciclovía—car-free Sundays for cyclists and pedestrians (SEI).
Community Well-being: The park supports recreational, educational, and environmental programs that promote public health and ecological stewardship.

Nearby Attractions

La Candelaria: Bogotá’s historic district, renowned for colonial architecture, street art, and museums.
Museo del Oro (Gold Museum): Home to the world’s largest collection of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts.
Estadio El Campín: The main football stadium and event venue.

Travel & Visitor Tips

Best Times to Visit: Early mornings and weekdays for tranquility; weekends and evenings for vibrant atmosphere.
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, sun protection, reusable water bottle, and a jacket or rain gear due to Bogotá’s changeable climate.
Safety: The park is generally safe, with security patrols, but remain vigilant with personal belongings during crowded events.
Guided Tours: Periodically available through local operators; check official sources for details.
Weather & Altitude: Bogotá sits at high altitude—stay hydrated and dress in layers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are Simón Bolívar Park’s visiting hours?
A: The park is open daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Hours may extend for special events.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: General park access is free; tickets are required only for certain facilities and special events.

Q: Is the park accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with paved paths, accessible restrooms, and designated parking.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Yes, pets are permitted in designated areas and must be kept on a leash.

Q: How do I get there by public transport?
A: Use the TransMilenio system; several stations are located near the park’s entrances.

Visuals & Media Suggestions

Park Map: Highlighting entrances, major attractions, and facilities (alt text: Map of Simón Bolívar Park in Bogotá).
Festival Photos: Images from Rock al Parque and other major events (alt text: Crowd at Rock al Parque in Simón Bolívar Park).
Nature and Accessibility Scenes: Pictures of the lake, gardens, and accessible paths (alt text: Wheelchair-accessible trail and lake view).
Virtual Tours: Links to official virtual tours or multimedia guides.

Conclusion & Visitor Recommendations

Simón Bolívar Park is a cornerstone of Bogotá’s cultural, environmental, and social landscape. With its free public access, inclusive amenities, and role as the city’s premier venue for world-class events, the park invites visitors to experience the best of Colombian urban life and nature. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, cultural enrichment, or outdoor fun, Simón Bolívar Park delivers a rich and memorable experience.

For up-to-date visiting hours, event ticketing, and guided tour options, consult official resources before your visit. Enhance your experience by downloading the Audiala app for real-time updates, interactive maps, and insider tips.