If you’re looking for something to do in Tarlac City that’s free, grounding, and outdoors, this guide is for you. I’ve listed the public parks in Tarlac City where you can enjoy a simple picnic, go for a jog, let your kids run around, or just spend time under the trees.
So, I grew up in a household that didn’t have a Sunday family day tradition. Unlike many other families, we didn’t go out for picnics or weekend mall trips, not because we didn’t want to, but because we were a big family, and we don't have the means to do leisure stuff as a big family. Probably a Sunday tradition that we've done before is watching together 'Kay Susan tayo!' a GMA TV program hosted by Susan Enriquez, which was a fun show!
.png "Parks in Tarlac City: Where to Go for a Picnic, Jog, or Family Day") |
| MC Park (Photo by: Teresa Gueco) |
I can only remember one memory of us going out as a family, and it was an afternoon at Luisita Park. Back then, it wasn’t the business district it is today. It was a proper park, with tall trees, bike rentals, and lots of open space where kids like me could run and explore. It reminded me of Burnham Park in Baguio, only closer to home and much hotter!
That memory of our afternoon bonding as a family has been one of the best memories I have had as a kid. As far as I can recall, that only happened once. And looking back now, I think if we only had more public parks that are more accessible, we could have had more memories like that.
It probably shaped the way I see public spaces. My perception of public parks and family day before is very different. I thought going out to parks or going out as a family on a Sunday was expensive. It was expensive for us since we had to travel, and when I say travel, I mean commute.
I’ve always been fascinated by nature. Maybe that’s why I’m now trying to live a zero-waste lifestyle and practice minimalism. I’ve always loved trees, soil, grass, the calm and clarity that green spaces offer. Malls don’t give me that. But a park? A park feels like a pause. So I wrote this article just in case someone out there is looking for public parks in Tarlac City, places where you can breathe, walk, sit, or simply be. While I wish there were more, here are four public parks in Tarlac City that I’ve personally visited and would recommend.
1. Maria Cristina Park | Best for outdoor activities
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| Maria Cristina Park (Photo by: Teresa Gueco) |
Address: Romulo Blvd, San Vicente, Tarlac City
This has been my go-to jogging and running spot in Tarlac, especially when I was still working in the government and our office was nearby. It's a triangle-shaped area surrounded by government offices, so it feels relatively safe even at night.
What I love about MC Park is that it’s more than just a running area. There are trees and grassy patches, which make it a nice place for picnics or outdoor activities. The soil is covered with grass, and there’s enough space to sit on and chill or read a book.
Aside from joggers, the park also attracts skateboarders. I sometimes see them practice their jumps on the elevated stage. Although it is not a proper skatepark, it is still fun to watch them practice their tricks.
I’ve also seen people casually set up for volleyball, bringing their own nets and making it a lively recreational area.
During festivals, Maria Cristina Park is often used as a venue for concerts and community events. There are also regular Zumba sessions in the afternoon, usually on the stage.
.png "MC Park - Parks in Tarlac City: Where to Go for a Picnic, Jog, or Family Day") |
| MC Park (Photo by: Teresa Gueco) |
How to get there: Commute to Maria Cristina Park
From South: Ride a jeep that has a 'TSU' signage and ask to be dropped off at the INC Church in San Roque. Then, cross the street towards 7-Eleven and walk straight along Tarlac National High School until you reach the inclined area. Once at the top of the inclined path, you will see the park.
From Paniqui/Gerona: Ride a jeep from Paniqui/Gerona to SM Tarlac City and tell the conductor to drop you off at Oasias Colleges, from there ride the 3M jeep route that is going to the public market (if you are facing South, the 3M jeeps that are going right), tell the driver to drop you off at Maria Cristina Park. The 3M ride to MC Park will take around 5-15 minutes, depending on traffic, and will cost Php 13.00.
2. Luisita Business Park | Best for quick chill
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| Luisita Business Park (Photo by: Teresa Gueco) |
Address: San Miguel, McArthur Highway, Tarlac City
The earliest memory I have of our family having a day out is at Luisita Park, I must have been around 5 or 6 years old. I remember running around under the trees and being amazed at the bike rentals and wide-open paths. It had that Burnham Park energy, but quieter and more personal.
Today, Luisita Park has been transformed into a business district, so it’s no longer the quiet park it once was. Still, there are areas where you can sit, walk, or have a quiet picnic under some remaining trees. But be warned, it’s not as secluded anymore. Cars are passing by, and a lot of the open space has been replaced with establishments, and a lot has been transformed as parking spots and terminals.
It's a good jogging spot, especially in the early mornings. If you plan to jog here, avoid bringing valuables and stick to the more well-lit and populated paths, especially if you go in the evening. And don't end your run/exercise with a quick dine-in at McDonald's or Jollibee there!
How to get there: Commute to Luisita Business Park
From South: Going to Luisita Business Park from Capas or Bamban is pretty simple, as both Metro and TSU jeepney routes will pass through San Miguel Luisita. Ask the driver to drop you off at Luisita, although most jeeps will be more likely to stop there to get passengers. You'll know you're there already when you see the Starbucks and the old coach of a train.
From North: From Tarlac City, ride a jeep that drives and has signage to Capas, Bamban, and Mapalacsiao. Tell the driver to drop you off at Luisita San Miguel, the fare from Tarlac City is Php 20.00 only.
3. Tarlac City Plazuela | Best for family and kids
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| Tarlac City Plazuela (Photo by: Teresa Gueco) |
Address: Espinoza Street, Tarlac City
This is probably the most popular and crowded public park in the city, located right between Tarlac City Hall and San Sebastian Cathedral. It’s lively, colorful, and full of activity.
There’s a kiddie park with big slides and even a carousel ride, plus human-sized Marvel character statues that kids love. At the center, you’ll find a dancing fountain that lights up beautifully at night.
When I had a doctor's check-up up which is near Tarlac City Plazuela, I spent some time reading in the Plazuela while waiting for my turn. There are benches and enough trees to offer a bit of shade and quiet. In the late afternoons and evenings, there are busking and acoustic performances, and there’s even a swinging anchor-style ride that opens at night.
.png "Tarlac City Plazuela - Parks in Tarlac City: Where to Go for a Picnic, Jog, or Family Day") |
| Tarlac City Plazuela (Photo by: Teresa Gueco) |
How to get there: Commute to Tarlac City Park
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From the South (e.g., Capas or Bamban):
Ride a jeep with a TSU/Metro signage. Fare is around ₱13–₱25 depending on distance. Get off at Magic Star or San Sebastian Cathedral, then walk to the cathedral’s main gate and cross the street. The Plazuela gate is on the left side. -
From the North (e.g., Camiling):
After crossing the Aquino Bridge, get off and follow the downward-sloping path toward the cathedral. From there, you’ll easily spot the Tarlac Plazuela. -
From Paniqui/Gerona:
Ride a bus and get off at Osias Colleges, then walk to the gas station. Take a 3M jeep bound for the Cathedral (₱13 fare). It’ll drop you off right in front of the church and near the Plazuela.
4. Cresendo | Best for park and chill
Address: Central, Tarlac City
Cresendo is a relatively new development in Tarlac, it is a business district that’s starting to become a popular space for park-and-shot photography, fun runs, and casual picnics. It’s spacious, open, and clean, with good potential as a go-to space for locals. It is not a public park but you can do most things that you can do in public parks.
There are no formal park facilities yet, but the area is great for jogging or strolling, especially in the mornings. You have to know first that this place is not commute-friendly, it’s much more accessible if you have your own vehicle. There's no direct route going to Cresendo but there are ways to commute.
How to get there: Commute to Cresendo
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From Tarlac City Public Market:
Ride a Mapalacsio jeep, but note that this route is infrequent and may require waiting. Ask the driver to drop you off at Cresendo. -
From the North (e.g., Burot, Capas, Bamban):
Take a jeep to Starbucks Luisita San Miguel (₱20 fare). Cross MacArthur Highway and walk toward Robinsons Luisita, then continue to the covered court jeep terminal. From there, take a Mapalacsio jeep (₱13 fare) and ask to be dropped at Cresendo. -
From the South (e.g., Bamban or Capas):
Ride a jeep going to TSU/Metro and get off at Starbucks Luisita San Miguel. Cross the road and follow the same path to the Mapalacsio jeep terminal.
I know this isn’t a long list. I wish I had more public parks to write about in Tarlac City. But it is what it is, fingers crossed we'll have more in the future.
If you’re in Tarlac and looking for something free and simple to do, skip the malls for a day and head to one of these parks. Maybe, like me, you’ll find a moment of calm that sticks with you for years.
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