Panoramic view of the old Central Penitentiary of Lima in June 1961 before demolition

Park Of The Exposition

Park of the Exposition Lima: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Attractions Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Parque de la Exposición (Park of the Exposition) is one of Lima, Peru’s most iconic urban parks, blending rich historical heritage with modern cultural life. Established in 1872 for the Lima International Exhibition, it remains a testament to Peru’s 19th-century modernization and its ongoing commitment to the arts, community engagement, and green space in the city’s historic core. Today, the park is a vibrant destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a unique mix of stunning architecture, museums, gardens, and lively events. This guide covers visiting hours, ticketing, key attractions, accessibility, practical tips, and recommendations to help you make the most of your visit.

Historic Biblioteca Popular Ricardo Palma building from 1913 in Revista Variedades

Sculptures of molosser dogs displayed in Parque Exposición Lima

Aerial black and white photo of Ministerio de Fomento and Arco de la Amistad in Lima, 1926

Historical image of Instituto Nacional de Vacuna in Lima from 1900

Historical Jardines del Parque de la Exposición garden with lush trees and pathways

Bohemian music group La Palizada performing in Lima at the end of the 19th century

Laguna del Parque de la Exposición in Lima, 1911

Laguna del Parque de la Exposición with Pedro Ruiz Gallo clock on the far right

Old Ministry of Development building in Lima, Peru

Historic machinery exhibit at the Permanent Industries Exhibition in Lima

Paseo de la República street in the 1930s with vintage buildings and cars

Paseo de la República highway in Lima Peru with trees and buildings on both sides under a cloudy sky

Historic gate of the alameda in front of the penitentiary in Lima, 1872

Historic restaurant at Parque de la Exposición in 1872

View of the Teatro Parque de la Exposición and the Farola de las Tres Gracias near Santa María gate in 1872

Historic electric tram station in Lima in 1904

Historic Horse-Drawn Tram in Lima Peru near Exposition Park

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

Origins and Architectural Heritage

Commissioned under President José Balta and designed by Italian architect Antonio Leonardi, the park was developed as part of Lima’s urban renewal and to mark fifty years of Peruvian independence. Its opening in 1872 coincided with the International Exhibition, which showcased Peru’s economic and cultural advancements. The park’s centerpiece, the Palacio de la Exposición, is a neo-Renaissance marvel constructed with iron and glass imported from Europe, reflecting the era’s fascination with industrial innovation. Today, it houses the acclaimed Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI), renowned for its comprehensive collection of Peruvian art (Museo de Arte de Lima).

Evolution and Urban Role

Over the decades, the park has mirrored Lima’s urban and social transformations. It served various public and strategic roles, including as a hospital and military headquarters during the War of the Pacific. In the 20th century, the addition of pavilions and monuments—such as the Moorish and Byzantine Pavilions and the Chinese Fountain—deepened its multicultural appeal. After a period of decline, the park was revitalized in the 1990s, restoring its gardens, lakes, and amphitheater, and reestablishing it as a dynamic urban and cultural hub (Municipalidad de Lima, Ministerio de Cultura).

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Park Hours: Open daily, typically from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM. Hours may extend during special events.
Admission: General entry to the park is free. Some attractions, including MALI and special exhibitions, require tickets.
- MALI Admission: Around PEN 10–30 (USD 3–8), with discounts for students and seniors.
- Magic Water Circuit Admission (adjacent, Parque de la Reserva): Separate ticket required. See Magic Water Circuit official site for details.

Always check official websites for the most current schedules and ticket prices, especially during holidays or special events.

How to Get There and Accessibility

Location: Av. 28 de Julio, Lima Central (Cercado de Lima).
Public Transport: Easily reached via the Lima Metro (Estación Central) or Metropolitano bus system. Various bus and taxi services also serve the area.
Accessibility: The park is wheelchair accessible, with paved paths, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
Parking: Limited on-site parking; public lots and street parking available nearby, but these fill quickly during weekends and events.

Main Attractions

Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI)

Located in the historic Palacio de la Exposición, MALI is a must-see for art lovers, featuring over 17,000 works from pre-Columbian to contemporary Peruvian art. Guided tours are available in multiple languages (Museo de Arte de Lima).

Architectural Landmarks

Moorish Pavilion (Pabellón Morisco): Notable for its horseshoe arches and intricate tilework.
Byzantine Pavilion (Pabellón Bizantino): Distinguished by its domed roof and Eastern Orthodox design elements.
Chinese Fountain and Japanese Garden: Symbolize Lima’s multicultural ties, offering tranquil spaces for relaxation and photography.

Amphitheater and Performance Spaces

The open-air amphitheater and additional stages host concerts, theater, dance, and community festivals, especially on weekends and during cultural events.

Gardens, Lagoon, and Recreational Areas

Botanical Gardens: Diverse native and exotic plant species.
Artificial Lagoon: Paddle boat rentals available; a family-friendly favorite.
Playgrounds and Sports Areas: Modern play equipment, skating rink, and open lawns cater to all ages.

Magic Water Circuit (Parque de la Reserva)

While technically adjacent, this spectacular attraction features 13 illuminated fountains synchronized to music and light, with nightly shows Tuesday to Sunday (Magic Water Circuit).

Historic Monuments and Sculptures

Ornate entrance gates (notably on Avenida 28 de Julio), historic fountains, and statues such as the Monument to Manuel Pardo reflect the park’s storied past.

Special Events and Cultural Programming

The park regularly hosts:

Art fairs and exhibitions
Music and dance festivals
Food markets and seasonal fairs
Historical reenactments and themed tours

Check the park’s official and affiliated museum websites or social media for event calendars (Municipalidad de Lima).

Practical Tips for Visitors

Best Time to Visit: Mornings and late afternoons for cooler weather and fewer crowds. Weekends are lively with events.
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, sun protection, reusable water bottle, and cash for small purchases.
Language: Spanish is predominant; major attractions and tours offer English support.
Food: On-site vendors and nearby cafes offer local snacks and international fare. Picnics are welcome; alcohol is not permitted.
Photography: Iconic spots include the pavilions, lagoon, and Japanese garden. Drones require advance permission.
Safety: The park is safe by day, with security presence. Remain alert after dark and avoid isolated areas.

Nearby Attractions

Magic Water Circuit (Circuito Mágico del Agua): 1.66 km away, famous for illuminated fountains.
Estadio Nacional del Perú: 12-minute walk; Peru’s national stadium.
Museo de Arte Italiano: 6-minute walk, featuring European art collections.
San Martin Plaza: 2 km away, surrounded by colonial architecture.

Guided Tours

Guided tours are available for the park and MALI, enriching your visit with expert insights on history, architecture, and art. Book through the museum or reputable tour operators (Free Walking Tours Peru).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Park of the Exposition visiting hours?
A: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM; some attractions may differ.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: Park entry is free. Tickets are required for select attractions like MALI.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, through MALI and local operators.

Q: Is the park accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with paved paths, ramps, and accessible facilities.

Q: Can I bring pets?
A: Pets are allowed on a leash.

Q: Are there food options?
A: Yes, food vendors and cafes offer a variety of cuisines.

Visitor Recommendations

Visit during the week for a quieter experience or weekends for cultural events.
Take advantage of guided tours for a deeper understanding of the park’s heritage.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions for a full day in Lima’s historic center.
Download the Audiala app for guided tours and up-to-date event information.

Visuals & Interactive Resources

High-quality images and virtual tours are available on the Museo de Arte de Lima website.
For an interactive park map and virtual exploration, visit examplelink.com/parkvirtualtour.

Image Alt Tag Example: “Palacio de la Exposición showcasing 19th-century iron and glass architecture in Lima’s Park of the Exposition.”

Summary and Final Thoughts

Parque de la Exposición is more than a historical green space—it’s a living cultural landmark that reflects Lima’s rich past and vibrant present. With its architectural gems, museums, gardens, and year-round programming, it is essential for anyone seeking to experience the city’s heritage and community life. Plan ahead to enjoy its attractions, events, and proximity to other key landmarks, and enhance your visit by making use of guided tours and official resources.

References and Official Links

For more travel tips and up-to-date information on Lima’s top attractions, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media. Explore related articles on Lima’s historical sites and cultural experiences to plan your perfect trip!