Parque de la Retreta - Image 1
1 / 10

Parque de la Retreta

4.6
·1k reviews·Cali, Colombia

Cali's vibrant cultural hub, alive with music, events, and local flavors, especially after sunset.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Thursdays & Fridays evenings

Vibrant atmosphere, live music

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Parque de la Retreta - Image 1

Parque de la Retreta

Best Time

Thursdays & Fridays evenings

Vibrant atmosphere, live music

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Cali's vibrant cultural hub, alive with music, events, and local flavors, especially after sunset.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"The atmosphere is just wonderful! It truly comes alive in the early evening."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Evening is Best

Visit after sunset for the best atmosphere and comfortable temperatures. The park truly comes alive at night!

🍻 Try Local Drinks

Don't miss out on Lulada, Cholao, and Champus. Perfect for enjoying the Colombian beer scene.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Music & Cultural Events

Live Music & Cultural Events

Various stages and areas within the park

Experience the vibrant cultural heart of Cali with live music, festivals, and performances. A true taste of local life.

Tascas Poker & Casetas Colombia

Tascas Poker & Casetas Colombia

Designated event areas

Enjoy local beers, traditional drinks, and lively music at these popular pop-up event spaces, especially during Feria.

Biodiversity & Community Stands

Biodiversity & Community Stands

Green zones

Discover local entrepreneurs and initiatives focused on biodiversity and sustainability. A chance to support local causes.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Evening Vibes & Events

Parque de la Retreta truly comes alive after sunset, especially on Thursdays and Fridays. It's a prime spot for enjoying live music, local drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere. Check local listings for special events like festivals and concerts, as the park frequently hosts them.

Beat the Heat & Crowds

While the park is enjoyable during the day, visiting after sunset offers a more comfortable experience and a livelier ambiance. During major events like the Feria, expect crowds, so plan accordingly if you prefer a more relaxed visit. The park is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Best Times

When
Thursdays & Fridays evenings
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, live music
Crowd
Medium
When
During Feria de Cali
Why
Special events, Tascas Poker
Crowd
High
When
After sunset
Why
Comfortable temperatures, lively
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Te invitamos a que vengas hasta el 1 de noviembre a nuestra carpa blanca ubicada en la zona verde del parque de la retreta. Estamos comprometidos con nuestros visitantes y con nuestros vallecaucanos!! #cadagotacuenta #bancodesangrehuv #salvando3vidas❤
bancosangrehuv
13 likes • 1K views

🎯 Evening is Best

Visit after sunset for the best atmosphere and comfortable temperatures. The park truly comes alive at night! Reddit

🍻 Try Local Drinks

Don't miss out on Lulada, Cholao, and Champus. Perfect for enjoying the Colombian beer scene. Reddit

@sucursalfest ya está aquí. ☀️ Este 4 y 5 de octubre, Cali vivirá el festival donde la diversidad de manifestaciones artísticas y culturales dice presente. Vení al Parque de La Retreta y al Parque Uribe para vivir lo mejor del talento local, nacional e internacional com géneros como el hip hop, rap, dancehall, electrónica y fusiones que hacen de este nuestro universo diversx. Te esperamos. 😎 E...
caliculturacol
697 likes • 21.6K views
Cerramos la noche del viernes con música jazz desde el parque de La Retreta en compañía del guitarrista israelí Yoav Eshed. La Feria Internacional del Libro de Cali es una fusión de expresiones culturales y conocimientos. @fil_cali
alcaldiadecali
1.8K likes • 45.3K views

🎶 Check Event Schedules

The park hosts many festivals and concerts. Look for schedules for Sucursal Fest or Feria de Cali events. Instagram+1

💰 Affordable Entry

Casetas Poker often have an entry fee around $10,000 COP which includes a beer. Instagram+1

¡Qué manera de cerrar el primer día de #SucursalFest2023! Con @superlitio de fondo y el Parque de la Retreta repleto. ¡Nadie va a entender esto que pasó esta noche! 🤟🏼🎸
sucursalfest
214 likes • 3.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Evening is Best

Visit after sunset for the best atmosphere and comfortable temperatures. The park truly comes alive at night! Reddit

🍻 Try Local Drinks

Don't miss out on Lulada, Cholao, and Champus. Perfect for enjoying the Colombian beer scene. Reddit

🎶 Check Event Schedules

The park hosts many festivals and concerts. Look for schedules for Sucursal Fest or Feria de Cali events. Instagram+1

💰 Affordable Entry

Casetas Poker often have an entry fee around $10,000 COP which includes a beer. Instagram+1

🩸 Blood Donation Opportunities

During major events like COP16, blood donation drives are often set up. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the wonderful atmosphere at Parque de la Retreta, especially in the evenings when it truly comes alive with music and culture. It's praised as a safe and enjoyable place to experience local drinks and vibrant events, particularly during the Feria.

"The atmosphere is just wonderful! Didn't know it was every Thursday and Friday. The culture there catches you, and you want to be part of it."

Leo Suarez

"Don't miss this place when you come to Cali. If you're crazy, visit during the heat of the day. However, if you want to enjoy yourself, then visit after sunset. It truly comes alive in the early evening."

Jon-C Stubblefield

"A nice urban park with plenty of space to walk around and surrounding spots where to enjoy music and have some Colombian beers in a safe atmosphere."

Jose L. Gerhartz

What People Like

Wonderful evening atmosphere
Live music and culture
Safe and vibrant environment

What People Dislike

Can be crowded during events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Parque de la Retreta is conveniently located near the CAM (Centro Administrativo Municipal) in Cali. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available and a common way to reach the park. Public buses also serve the area, making it accessible for budget travelers. Reddit

While street parking might be available in the vicinity, it can be challenging, especially during events. It's often recommended to use taxis or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles. Reddit

During the Feria, public transport and taxis are highly recommended due to increased traffic and crowds. Many attendees opt for ride-sharing apps for convenience. Instagram+1

The park generally offers flat pathways suitable for walking. However, specific event areas might have uneven terrain. It's advisable to check event details or contact organizers for specific accessibility information. Instagram

Depending on your starting point, it can be a pleasant walk from some downtown areas. However, consider the heat and distance, especially during the day. Taxis are a quick option if you're short on time. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General entry to Parque de la Retreta is usually free. However, specific events hosted within the park, such as concerts or festivals like Sucursal Fest or Casetas Poker, may require paid admission. Instagram+2

The park itself is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, the vibrant evening activities and event spaces like Casetas Poker typically open in the late afternoon or early evening, often around 5 PM or 6 PM and run until late. Instagram+1

The Casetas Poker during Feria de Cali usually have an affordable entry fee, often around $10,000 Colombian Pesos, which typically includes a complimentary beer. Instagram+1

Parque de la Retreta frequently hosts a variety of events, including music festivals, cultural celebrations, and community gatherings. It's best to check local event listings or social media for the most up-to-date information on upcoming happenings. Instagram+2

Yes, during certain major events like COP16, blood donation drives are organized at Parque de la Retreta, offering a chance to contribute to vital causes. Instagram+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Expect a wonderful, vibrant atmosphere, especially in the evenings. It's a place where culture, music, and community come together, making you want to be part of it. Reddit

The park is known for hosting live music, cultural events, and festivals. You can also find areas with food and drink vendors, and during special occasions like Feria, themed areas like Casetas Poker are set up. Instagram+2

Parque de la Retreta is generally considered a safe place, especially when visiting during organized events and in the evenings when it's more populated. It's a good place to walk around and enjoy music and drinks in a safe atmosphere. Reddit

For the best experience, visit after sunset when the atmosphere is lively and the temperatures are more comfortable. Thursdays and Fridays are particularly popular for evening events. Reddit

During the Semana de la Biodiversidad, the park hosted stands with families and entrepreneurs focused on nature. While many events are evening-focused, check for daytime family-oriented activities or festivals. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You can find typical Colombian drinks like Lulada, Cholao, and Champus. During events like Feria, you'll also find beer vendors and food stalls offering various local treats. InstagramReddit

While the park itself might not have permanent restaurants, it's surrounded by areas with dining options. During events, temporary food vendors and pop-up bars like Casetas Poker offer a wide array of refreshments. Instagram+1

Prices can vary, but entry to event areas like Casetas Poker often includes a beer for around $10,000 COP. Other drinks and snacks will have individual pricing, generally considered reasonable for the experience. Instagram+1

Food options can vary greatly depending on the specific event. It's advisable to inquire with vendors directly about vegetarian or vegan choices, as traditional Colombian fare might be more meat-centric. Reddit

Tascas are temporary event spaces, often set up during major festivals like Feria de Cali. They typically feature live music, dancing, and a selection of drinks, providing a lively social gathering spot. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The park offers a great backdrop for photos, especially during evening events with colorful lights and lively crowds. Capture the energy of live performances or the unique ambiance of the Casetas Poker. Instagram+1

Generally, personal photography and videography are allowed for non-commercial use. However, for professional shoots or if filming events, it's always best to check with event organizers or park authorities beforehand. Instagram

Expect a mix of ambient lighting from the city, stage lights during performances, and decorative lighting for events. This can create dynamic and atmospheric shots, but may require adjusting camera settings for low-light conditions. Instagram+1

The park is located near the Centro Administrativo Municipal (CAM), which can serve as a landmark. The vibrant event setups, like the Casetas Poker, also make for unique photographic subjects. Instagram+1

While daytime offers a green space, the park truly shines after sunset. Capturing the transition from dusk to night, with the lights and activity, provides the most compelling photographic opportunities. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While many of the park's most vibrant events are evening-focused and might be more suited for adults, Parque de la Retreta can still offer family-friendly experiences. During events like the Semana de la Biodiversidad, the park has hosted stands featuring local entrepreneurs and families focused on nature and sustainability, providing an educational and engaging atmosphere. Instagram It's advisable to check the schedule for daytime events or festivals that might have specific activities geared towards children. The open green spaces can also be pleasant for a relaxed stroll during the day, though the true 'buzz' of the park is often felt after sunset. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Parque de la Retreta is an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers. General entry to the park is free, and many of the most popular evening activities, like the Casetas Poker during Feria, have very affordable entry fees, often around $10,000 COP, which includes a beer. Instagram+1 This allows visitors to experience the lively atmosphere, enjoy local music, and sample traditional drinks without significant expense. Utilizing public transport or walking when feasible can further reduce costs. Reddit

🎶 Music Lovers

For music enthusiasts, Parque de la Retreta is a must-visit. The park frequently hosts a diverse range of musical performances, from jazz concerts featuring international artists to hip-hop and electronic music at festivals like Sucursal Fest. Instagram+2 The Casetas Poker and Tascas during Feria de Cali are legendary for their live bands and orchestras, providing a non-stop soundtrack to the night. Instagram+1 If you're looking to immerse yourself in Cali's vibrant music scene, checking the park's event schedule is key.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Vibrant Event Scene of Parque de la Retreta

Parque de la Retreta is more than just a green space; it's a dynamic hub for events in Cali. From music festivals like Sucursal Fest to cultural celebrations and even blood donation drives, the park consistently buzzes with activity. Instagram+3 During the renowned Feria de Cali, the park transforms into a lively entertainment zone, famously hosting the Casetas Poker and Tascas Club Colombia. These pop-up venues offer a quintessential Cali experience with live music, local beers, and a festive atmosphere, often with an affordable entry fee that includes a drink. Instagram+2 The park's ability to host such diverse events, from international jazz artists to community biodiversity initiatives, highlights its importance as a cultural and social venue for the city. Instagram+2

Visitors should always check local event listings or social media for the park to stay updated on what's happening. The atmosphere is particularly electric during these organized events, drawing large crowds eager to partake in the festivities. It's a place where you can truly feel the pulse of Cali's vibrant culture and community spirit. Reddit

Experiencing Cali's Flavors at the Park

Parque de la Retreta is a fantastic spot to sample authentic Cali flavors. While not a traditional dining destination with permanent restaurants, the park and its surrounding areas, especially during events, offer a rich culinary experience. Visitors can indulge in classic Colombian beverages such as Lulada, a refreshing lime and lulo drink, Cholao, a fruit-based dessert, and Champus, a corn and fruit beverage. Reddit These are perfect for cooling down while enjoying the park's ambiance. Reddit

During major events like the Feria de Cali, the park becomes a focal point for temporary food and drink vendors. The Casetas Poker and Tascas Club Colombia are prime examples, offering a variety of local beers and often featuring live music, creating a lively social scene. Instagram+2 While specific vegetarian or vegan options might require direct inquiry with vendors, the emphasis is on enjoying local tastes in a festive setting. The affordability of entry fees, often including a beer, makes these experiences accessible to a wide range of visitors. Instagram

You may also like