Rio Olympic Park, Rio de Janeiro - a helicopter sitting on top of a tennis court
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Rio Olympic Park

4.7
·7k reviews·, Brazil

A sprawling complex built for the 2016 Rio Olympics, now a public park and venue for major events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

During major events

Experience the park's full energy

CrowdHigh
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Rio Olympic Park, Rio de Janeiro - a helicopter sitting on top of a tennis court

Rio Olympic Park

Best Time

During major events

Experience the park's full energy

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sprawling complex built for the 2016 Rio Olympics, now a public park and venue for major events.

4.7
(7k reviews)

"Interesting place to see even years after Olympics, with a living legacy."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Event Schedule

Verify upcoming events to plan your visit and potentially catch a concert or game.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast park grounds. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Olympic Way & Rita Lee Park

Olympic Way & Rita Lee Park

Stroll through public spaces dedicated to sport and recreation, a living legacy of the 2016 Games.

Maria Lenk Aquatic Center

Maria Lenk Aquatic Center

Home to the Brazilian Olympic team's training, this center offers a glimpse into elite athletic preparation.

Olympic Stadium (Estádio Olímpico Nilton Santos)

Olympic Stadium (Estádio Olímpico Nilton Santos)

A key venue from the Games, now hosting major sporting events and concerts.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Legacy

While the Rio Olympic Park is a testament to the 2016 Games, many venues are now public spaces for sports and recreation. Explore the Olympic Way and the Rita Lee Park for a glimpse into its ongoing legacy. Instagram+1

Event-Driven Visits

The park's vibrancy often depends on scheduled events like concerts or sporting championships. Check the event calendar before your visit to maximize your experience and avoid disappointment. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
During major events
Why
Experience the park's full energy
Crowd
High
When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Enjoy a peaceful stroll
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Itinerario de Rio de Janeiro en 5 días por tu cuenta sin pagar tour, en este itinerario a Rio de Janerio puedes conocer lo mas importante de este destino como El Cristo Redentor y las hermosas playas de Rio de Janeiro. Día 1️⃣ 📍Cristo Redentor 📍Parque Lage 📍Jardin Botanico 📍Playa Vermelha 📍Pan de Azucar Día 2️⃣ 📍Escaleras de Selarón 📍Arcos de Lapa 📍Catedral Metropolitana de Rio 📍Barrio Santa ...
@kimydeviaje
352.8K likes • 3.7M views

Check Event Schedule

Verify upcoming events to plan your visit and potentially catch a concert or game. Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast park grounds. :athletic_shoe:

Be mindful, but have fun 😌 CARNAVAL 2025 tips part one posted! #fyp #riodejaneiro #pedradosal #pedradosalrj #nightlife #travel #traveltiktok #traveltips #brazi #brazilian #braziltravel #riotravelers #usefullifetips
@yesimavirgohowdiduguess
225.2K likes • 2M views
@tcm.community made a special visit to the Olympic Park today in Rio de Janeiro at the Centro Aquático Maria Lenk where we met up with @ruiraggio, official massage therapist of the Brazilian Olympic team. “The TCM Community” 中醫共同體, the Global platform to exchange knowledge and experience about Traditional Chinese; Medicine, Philosophy, Food & Culture and to raise awareness, educate & inform. #t...
tcm.community
38 likes • 1.1K views

Stay Hydrated

Rio can be hot and humid; bring water or know where to refill. :droplet:

Consider Public Transport

Getting to the park via metro or bus can be more convenient than driving. :bus:

Olympic City 🏟️🥇 An afternoon flying over what's left of the Rio 2016 Olympic City. This is now mainly used as a public park but some of the arenas are still used for events and concerts. Here is the Central Tennis Grand Stand 🎾 • • • #dji #drone #droneoftheday #flyingfoxdrone #travel #birdseyeview #brasil #riodejaneiro #southamerica #brazil #olympics #stadium
flyingfox_drone
68 likes • 489 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Event Schedule

Verify upcoming events to plan your visit and potentially catch a concert or game. Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast park grounds. :athletic_shoe:

Stay Hydrated

Rio can be hot and humid; bring water or know where to refill. :droplet:

Consider Public Transport

Getting to the park via metro or bus can be more convenient than driving. :bus:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Rio Olympic Park is seen as an interesting place with a significant legacy, particularly for sports enthusiasts and event-goers. While some find it eerily empty and underutilized, others appreciate its ongoing role as a public park and venue for major concerts like Rock in Rio. The park's potential is recognized, though its current state can feel underused outside of scheduled events. Reddit

"One of the best public parks at the city of Rio, with a stunning view at the end of the walking path from the Barra da Tijuca lake."

Alan Araruna

"Feels eerie and abandoned I wish I got to see it around 2016 when the Olympics were here. I went here to visit another Olympic park and the few workers there were confused why I was even there. Like um it’s an Olympic village. It’s still very pretty just shocking to see it so empty and not used."

Rob McDougall Travels

"This place is destroyed
It is ok fro some rock concerts but so sad they let it get ruined."

Etienne M

What People Like

Olympic legacy
Event venue
Public park spaces

What People Dislike

Feels abandoned
Underutilized

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Rio Olympic Park is accessible via public transport. The closest metro station is Jardim Oceânico, from where you can take a bus or a taxi to the park. Many visitors opt for ride-sharing apps for convenience. InstagramReddit

Parking is available, but it can be limited, especially on event days. It's often recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles. Reddit

The park is quite spread out. Walking is feasible for shorter distances, but for covering larger areas, consider using the park's internal shuttle services if available, or be prepared for a significant amount of walking. Instagram

Like any large urban area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-lit areas, especially at night, and be mindful of your belongings. TikTokReddit

Yes, ride-sharing apps like Uber are widely used in Rio and can be a convenient way to get to and from the Olympic Park and navigate within larger areas if needed. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the general park areas like Olympic Way and Rita Lee Park is typically free. However, specific venues or events within the park, such as concerts or sports championships, will require separate tickets. Instagram+1

Tickets for events are usually sold through official event websites or authorized ticketing platforms. It's best to check the specific event organizer's details for purchasing information. Instagram

The park grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours. However, specific venue operating hours and access may vary, especially on non-event days. It's advisable to check the official Rio Olympic Park website for the most current information. Instagram

While official guided tours might be limited, you can explore the park independently. Some private operators may offer tours, especially focusing on the Olympic legacy. Instagram

Some venues, like the Maria Lenk Aquatic Center, might offer limited access or tours, but many are primarily used for scheduled events. It's best to inquire directly with the venue management or check the park's official schedule. Instagram

🎫 🏟️ Onsite Experience

You can explore public spaces like Olympic Way and Rita Lee Park, visit the Maria Lenk Aquatic Center, or attend sporting events and concerts. It's a hub for sports and recreation. Instagram+3

Yes, the open park areas are great for families to walk around and enjoy. However, specific event venues might have age restrictions or be more suited for older children. Instagram

Restrooms and some food and beverage options are typically available, especially during events. It's wise to bring your own water and snacks if you plan to spend an extended period exploring the grounds. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed in the public areas of the park. However, restrictions may apply inside specific venues or during certain events, so always check signage. Instagram

The park serves as a lasting legacy of the 2016 Olympic Games, with many venues repurposed for public use, sports, and cultural events, promoting an active lifestyle. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Food and beverage options are usually available within the park, particularly during events. These can range from concession stands to more established eateries. Reddit

Expect typical event fare like snacks, fast food, and drinks. If attending a major concert like Rock in Rio, there will be a wide variety of food stalls. Reddit

Bringing outside food and drinks might be restricted, especially for ticketed events. It's best to check the specific rules for the event or venue you are visiting. Reddit

Options can vary greatly depending on the specific vendors present. It's advisable to inquire at the food stalls or check event-specific information if you have dietary needs. Reddit

The surrounding areas, especially Barra da Tijuca, offer a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars if you prefer to dine outside the park. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Olympic Way, the exterior of the arenas, and the general park grounds offer good photo opportunities. Drone shots can capture the scale of the complex. Instagram

Drone usage is often restricted in and around large public venues and stadiums due to safety and security regulations. It's crucial to check local drone laws and park policies before flying. Instagram

While general photography is usually permitted, professional photography or filming may require special permits. Always be mindful of signage and event-specific rules. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, making for more pleasant photography conditions. TikTok

The distinctive architecture of the various arenas, the Olympic rings (if still displayed), and the overall layout of the park are key photographic subjects. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Rio Olympic Park offers open spaces like the Rita Lee Park and Olympic Way, which are great for families to explore and let kids run around. Instagram While specific venues might have age restrictions for events, the general park areas are accessible and provide a safe environment for a family outing. Pack snacks and drinks, as options can be limited outside of event times. Reddit

Consider visiting during daylight hours for a relaxed experience. If attending an event, check the family-friendliness of the specific show or game beforehand. The sheer scale of the park can also be an exciting aspect for children, offering a sense of wonder about the Olympic Games. Instagram

⚽ Sports Enthusiasts

For sports lovers, the Rio Olympic Park is a pilgrimage site. You can visit the Maria Lenk Aquatic Center, a training ground for Olympic athletes, and imagine the intense competitions that took place there. Instagram The Olympic Stadium continues to host major football matches and athletic events, offering a chance to experience live sports in a world-class venue. Instagram

Even if there isn't a specific event, exploring the park allows you to appreciate the architecture and scale of the facilities that hosted the 2016 Olympic Games. It’s a chance to connect with the spirit of athletic achievement and the enduring legacy of the Olympics. Instagram

🎶 Music & Event Goers

The Rio Olympic Park is a premier destination for large-scale events, most notably the Rock in Rio festival. Reddit If you're planning to attend a concert or festival here, book your tickets well in advance, as they sell out quickly. TikTok Be prepared for large crowds and consider public transport for easier access. Reddit

Beyond Rock in Rio, the park's arenas host various concerts and sporting championships throughout the year. Instagram Always check the official event schedule and venue guidelines for information on what to bring, entry times, and any specific rules for attendees. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Olympic Legacy: More Than Just Arenas

The Rio Olympic Park, built for the 2016 Summer Games, is a significant piece of modern sporting history. While some venues were repurposed, the park's legacy is about more than just the structures themselves. It represents a commitment to promoting sports and an active lifestyle within the city. The Olympic Way and the Rita Lee Park are prime examples of this, transforming former Olympic sites into vibrant public spaces for recreation and community engagement. Instagram

Beyond these public areas, many of the original arenas continue to host major events. The Maria Lenk Aquatic Center remains a hub for elite athletes, and the Olympic Stadium (Estádio Olímpico Nilton Santos) is a popular venue for concerts and football matches. This ongoing use ensures the park remains a dynamic part of Rio's cultural and sporting landscape, rather than becoming a forgotten relic. Instagram+1

Visitors can experience this legacy by exploring the grounds, attending an event, or simply appreciating the scale and ambition of the project. It's a chance to connect with the spirit of the Olympics and see how a city embraces its sporting heritage. Instagram

Navigating the Park and Its Events

Rio Olympic Park is a sprawling complex, and understanding how to navigate it, especially during events, is key to a good experience. Public transport, particularly the metro to Jardim Oceânico followed by a bus or taxi, is often the most practical way to reach the park. Reddit On event days, expect crowds and plan for extra travel time. TikTok

When attending events like concerts or sports championships, familiarize yourself with the specific venue's entry requirements, prohibited items, and seating arrangements. Many visitors recommend checking the event schedule in advance to make the most of their visit. Instagram For major events like Rock in Rio, be aware of potential pickpocketing and take precautions to safeguard your belongings. Reddit

Even on non-event days, the park offers a pleasant environment for walking and enjoying the open spaces. Comfortable footwear is essential, as the park is extensive. Staying hydrated is also important, especially during Rio's warmer months. TikTok

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