Parque Lázaro Cárdenas (Tile Park) - Image 1
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Parque Lázaro Cárdenas Tile Park

4.7
·757 reviews·Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

A vibrant urban oasis in Old Town PV, famous for its stunning mosaic tile art and lively atmosphere on the Malecón.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Vibrant market & live music

CrowdMedium
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Parque Lázaro Cárdenas (Tile Park) - Image 1

Parque Lázaro Cárdenas Tile Park

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Vibrant market & live music

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant urban oasis in Old Town PV, famous for its stunning mosaic tile art and lively atmosphere on the Malecón. Reddit

4.7
(757 reviews)

"This well-planned, colorful space is a hub for locals and tourists, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the vibe. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Beneath the Park

Convenient parking is available directly underneath the park, making access easy. :car:

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Malecón

The park is perfectly situated along the Malecón boardwalk, ideal for combining with a scenic walk. :walking:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mosaic-Covered Benches

Mosaic-Covered Benches

Throughout the park

Vibrant mosaic glass tiles transform ordinary benches and pillars into stunning works of art, adding a splash of color to the cement landscape.

Reddit
Saturday Market Delights

Saturday Market Delights

Central area

Experience a lively market with local crafts, art, clothing, and delicious food, often accompanied by live music.

Reddit
Amphitheater Stage

Amphitheater Stage

Beach-side

A small stage with an amphitheater offers a spot for performances and live music, adding to the park's lively atmosphere.

Reddit
Bust of Enrique Carothers Barreto

Bust of Enrique Carothers Barreto

Near central gazebo

A tribute to the engineer who significantly boosted tourism in Old Town Puerto Vallarta by developing local properties.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Mosaic Magic

Discover the vibrant tile art adorning benches and pillars. This park, built over underground parking, is a colorful hub in Old Town PV, perfect for people-watching and soaking in local life. Reddit

Timing is Key for Markets

If you're seeking local crafts and food, aim for Saturday mornings when a delightful market often takes over. It's a fantastic change from typical tourist souvenirs. Reddit

Best Times

When
Saturday mornings
Why
Vibrant market & live music
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Safe, lively, people-watching
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Need Location Advice

🚗 Parking Beneath the Park

Convenient parking is available directly underneath the park, making access easy. Reddit :car:

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Malecón

The park is perfectly situated along the Malecón boardwalk, ideal for combining with a scenic walk. Reddit :walking:

reddit.com

Solo trip to Puerto Vallarta

reddit.com

Outdoor exercise equipment anywhere in PV?

🌳 Let Nature Grow!

Some visitors wish for more lush vegetation to provide shade and a tropical feel. Reddit :evergreen_tree:

🛍️ Souvenir Shopping

Look for unique crafts and art at the Saturday market, a great alternative to typical tourist shops. Reddit :shopping_bags:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Beneath the Park

Convenient parking is available directly underneath the park, making access easy. Reddit :car:

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Malecón

The park is perfectly situated along the Malecón boardwalk, ideal for combining with a scenic walk. Reddit :walking:

🌳 Let Nature Grow!

Some visitors wish for more lush vegetation to provide shade and a tropical feel. Reddit :evergreen_tree:

🛍️ Souvenir Shopping

Look for unique crafts and art at the Saturday market, a great alternative to typical tourist shops. Reddit :shopping_bags:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(757 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Parque Lázaro Cárdenas for its vibrant mosaic art and central location on the Malecón, making it a colorful and convenient spot for people-watching and relaxation. The Saturday market is a highlight for unique crafts and local food. Some wish for more lush vegetation to enhance the tropical feel. Reddit

"This vibrant park is located right above the underground parking. I still remember what it was like before the garage was built, and I have to say, they’ve done a great job with the redesign. It’s now a well-planned, colorful space that people really seem to enjoy."

G Whizz

"If you've walked through old town PV, chances are you've walked through or at least passed by this park and not even noticed. I have, three times in the past three years and didn't even know its name until now.

THE PARK:
It's about the size of a city block and is located in the heart of Old Town Puerto Vallarta at the middle point of the Malecón Boardwalk near numerous vendors and restaurants. The park was named after Lázaro Cárdenas, once an army general, former president of Mexico from 1934 to 1940 and the founder of Pemex, a huge state-owned petroleum company.

The park is mainly all cement sans for four raised gardens that sport a few trees and not much greenery in terms of grass or flowers. Shadiness is at a premium. At the center of the park is a small raised gazebo. On the beach-side of the park is a small stage with an amphitheater. The once boring cement columns holding up the trellises are now covered in beautiful mosaic glass, giving the monochromatic scheme a splash of pizzazz.

Near the central gazebo is a bust of Enrique Carothers Barreto. He was an engineer by profession who purchased the nearby Playa Los Arcos Hotel which he expanded & remodeled. He did the same with several other properties nearby which in turn jumpstarted the area's tourism boom.

Due to its open-design and nearby activities, it felt very safe even at night. During the day it's abuzz with locals, peddlers and tourist.

TIP:
Parking is located beneath the park.

OVERALL:
Great place for people-watching and relaxing."

Maui World Travelers

"It could be a super cool beautiful park square but the landscaping being done it’s terrible 😢! All the vegetation is constantly being cut down! It’s a tropical area it’s supposed to be lush and overgrown to give shade and shelter for birds! Please let the trees and plants grow!"

Al Not art

What People Like

Vibrant mosaic art
Central Malecón location
Saturday market

What People Dislike

Limited greenery

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Parque Lázaro Cárdenas is located in the heart of Old Town Puerto Vallarta, right on the Malecón boardwalk. It's easily accessible by foot if you're staying in the area. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. Reddit

Yes, there is convenient parking located directly beneath the park. This makes it very easy to access if you are driving. Reddit

The park is largely paved and has a relatively open design, making it generally accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Reddit

From Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR), you can take a taxi or a pre-booked shuttle to Old Town. The park is a central landmark once you arrive in the area. Reddit

If you are staying in the Romantic Zone or downtown Puerto Vallarta, walking to Parque Lázaro Cárdenas is very feasible and a pleasant experience along the Malecón. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Parque Lázaro Cárdenas is a public park and entry is completely free for everyone. Reddit

The park is generally open 24/7, as it's a public outdoor space. However, specific market events or performances may have set times. Reddit

There is no entrance fee to browse the Saturday market. You only pay for any items you choose to purchase from vendors. Reddit

Yes, the park is open at night and is considered safe due to its central location and open design, making it a good spot for evening strolls. Reddit

While the park itself is always accessible, any scheduled events or performances at the amphitheater will have specific start and end times. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy people-watching, admire the mosaic art, relax on benches, visit the Saturday market for crafts and food, and enjoy the atmosphere of Old Town PV. Reddit

Yes, it's a safe and open space for families to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Kids might enjoy the colorful tiles and the general buzz of activity. Reddit

While there isn't a dedicated playground, the open space and vibrant environment can still be engaging for children. Reddit

The park is famous for its extensive mosaic tile work that decorates benches, pillars, and walls, creating a visually striking environment. Reddit

Public Wi-Fi availability can be spotty in outdoor areas. It's best to rely on your mobile data or check for nearby cafes with Wi-Fi if you need a stable connection. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The park itself doesn't have restaurants, but it is surrounded by numerous eateries and cafes in Old Town Puerto Vallarta, offering a wide variety of dining options. Reddit

The Saturday market often features delicious local food stalls offering everything from snacks to full meals, showcasing authentic Mexican flavors. Reddit

Yes, you'll find vendors selling drinks, as well as many cafes and restaurants surrounding the park, especially along the Malecón. Reddit

You can certainly bring food to enjoy in the park, especially if you purchase items from the Saturday market or nearby vendors. Reddit

Given its location, you're spoiled for choice! Explore the numerous seafood restaurants, taco stands, and cafes lining the Malecón for diverse culinary experiences. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The vibrant mosaic tiles on benches and pillars are incredibly photogenic. The park's location on the Malecón also offers great shots of the bay and coastline. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for photography. The Saturday market also provides dynamic scenes with people and colorful goods. Reddit

Generally, casual photography is allowed. However, it's always respectful to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. Reddit

Drone usage in public spaces can be restricted. It's advisable to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone in or around the park. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the mosaic art and the park's expanse. A standard zoom lens is versatile for general shots and people-watching. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Parque Lázaro Cárdenas offers a safe and engaging environment for families. Its open, paved layout is easy to navigate with strollers, and the vibrant mosaic art can capture children's imaginations. Reddit While there isn't a dedicated playground, the lively atmosphere, especially during the Saturday market, provides plenty of stimulation. Parents can enjoy people-watching while kids explore the colorful surroundings. Reddit

Being located directly on the Malecón means you can easily combine a visit to the park with a stroll along the waterfront. Numerous restaurants and cafes nearby offer convenient options for snacks and meals, making it a practical stop for families exploring Old Town Puerto Vallarta. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

This park is a fantastic free attraction for budget-conscious travelers. Entry is free, and it offers a great opportunity to experience the local vibe without spending money. Reddit You can spend hours people-watching, admiring the unique tile art, and enjoying the ocean breeze from the Malecón. Reddit

To keep costs down, take advantage of the Saturday market for affordable and delicious local food options, which is often more budget-friendly than sit-down restaurants. Reddit The park's central location also means you can easily walk to many attractions in Old Town, saving on transportation costs. Reddit

🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts

For art lovers, Parque Lázaro Cárdenas is a must-visit. The park is renowned for its extensive and vibrant mosaic tile work that adorns benches, pillars, and walls, creating a visually stunning urban art installation. Reddit Take your time to appreciate the intricate designs and the way the light plays off the glass tiles. Reddit

Beyond the tile art, the park often hosts a Saturday market featuring local artisans and craft vendors, offering a chance to discover unique pieces and engage with the local art scene. Reddit The presence of a bust honoring Enrique Carothers Barreto also adds a layer of local history and entrepreneurial spirit to the cultural experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of the Tiles

Parque Lázaro Cárdenas is affectionately known as the 'Tile Park' due to its stunning mosaic art. The once plain cement columns supporting trellises have been transformed into vibrant canvases adorned with intricate glass tile designs. These colorful mosaics cover benches, pillars, and containment walls, injecting a lively and artistic flair into the urban space. Reddit The sheer variety and brilliance of the tile work make it a unique visual experience, offering endless photo opportunities and a delightful aesthetic for visitors. Reddit

This artistic transformation is a key feature that sets the park apart. It's not just a place to pass through; it's a destination in itself for appreciating public art. The way the light catches the glass tiles throughout the day creates a dynamic and ever-changing visual spectacle. Reddit

A Hub of Local Activity

Located in the heart of Old Town Puerto Vallarta, right on the Malecón boardwalk, Parque Lázaro Cárdenas serves as a vibrant gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. Reddit Its central position means it's always buzzing with activity, from daily strollers to the lively Saturday market. This market is a highlight, featuring local crafts, art, clothing, and delicious food, often accompanied by live music, offering a genuine taste of local culture. Reddit

The park's open design and proximity to numerous vendors and restaurants contribute to its safe and energetic atmosphere, even at night. It's an ideal location for people-watching, enjoying a snack, or simply soaking in the lively ambiance of Puerto Vallarta. Reddit The park also features a small stage with an amphitheater, which hosts performances, further enhancing its role as a community hub. Reddit

Historical Significance

The park is named after Lázaro Cárdenas, a significant figure in Mexican history. He served as President of Mexico from 1934 to 1940 and is credited with founding Pemex, the state-owned petroleum company. Reddit His legacy is honored in this public space, reflecting a connection to national history within the local Puerto Vallarta context.

Additionally, near the central gazebo, you'll find a bust of Enrique Carothers Barreto. Barreto was an engineer whose entrepreneurial spirit and investments in local properties, like the Playa Los Arcos Hotel, were instrumental in jumpstarting the tourism boom in this area of Puerto Vallarta. Reddit His contributions are recognized as vital to the development and prosperity of Old Town, making the park a place that subtly acknowledges key figures in both national and local history. Reddit

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