Jaro Plaza Iloilo City
A beautifully restored historic plaza in Iloilo City, known for its stunning night lights, fountain shows, and peaceful atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical lighting & fountain shows
Jaro Plaza Iloilo City
Best Time
Magical lighting & fountain shows
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully restored historic plaza in Iloilo City, known for its stunning night lights, fountain shows, and peaceful atmosphere.
"Jaro Plaza is absolutely stunning after its recent beautification and restoration!"
🎯 Evening Ambiance is Key
Visit at night for stunning lights, fountain shows, and a safe, well-lit atmosphere.
👟 Comfortable Shoes for Strolling
You'll want to walk around and enjoy the restored plaza, so wear comfy shoes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Graciano Lopez Jaena Park
Jaro Plaza
A beautifully restored historic plaza, now a vibrant community hub with stunning landscaping and statues.
Jaro Belfry
Across from Jaro Cathedral
The iconic, free-standing belfry, restored to its former glory, stands as a magnificent centerpiece.
Water Fountain & Ballerinas
Central plaza area
Mesmerizing water fountain displays, often featuring twirling ballerinas, add a captivating visual element.
Relaxing Classical Music
Throughout the plaza
Soothing classical music fills the air, creating a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere for visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Evening Charm & Safety
Beat the Heat, Enjoy the Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Evening Ambiance is Key
Visit at night for stunning lights, fountain shows, and a safe, well-lit atmosphere. +1
👟 Comfortable Shoes for Strolling
You'll want to walk around and enjoy the restored plaza, so wear comfy shoes!
📸 Perfect Photo Opportunities
Capture the beauty of the restored plaza, belfry, and cathedral, especially at night.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Iloilo can be hot; bring water, especially if visiting during the day.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Evening Ambiance is Key
Visit at night for stunning lights, fountain shows, and a safe, well-lit atmosphere. +1
👟 Comfortable Shoes for Strolling
You'll want to walk around and enjoy the restored plaza, so wear comfy shoes!
📸 Perfect Photo Opportunities
Capture the beauty of the restored plaza, belfry, and cathedral, especially at night.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Iloilo can be hot; bring water, especially if visiting during the day.
🚌 Easy Jeepney Access
Regular jeepneys like JARO CPU/UNGKA can take you directly to the plaza.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the beautifully restored Jaro Plaza, now Graciano Lopez Jaena Park, praising its peaceful ambiance, stunning night illuminations, and captivating fountain shows. Many highlight its historical significance, proximity to Jaro Cathedral, and the relaxing classical music that fills the air. It's considered a safe and well-maintained public space, perfect for leisurely walks and experiencing local culture.
"Very nice place to have relaxing time listening to music and watching the fountain. I visited this place at night and it was well let, well maintained and felt safe due to police presence. The plaza is very clean with a lot of seats. I recommend night time du too heat during the day and the plaza not fully treed."
Hussein Al
"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Beautifully Restored Historic Plaza - A Must-Visit!
Jaro Plaza (officially Graciano Lopez Jaena Park) is absolutely stunning after its recent beautification and restoration! This historic plaza was completed in 1927 and was considered "the most beautiful plaza on the island of Panay" in the 1930s (Wikipedia) . Now after a comprehensive P90 million restoration project (Wikipedia) , it has reclaimed that title!
The plaza is beautifully landscaped with flat pavements, comfortable benches, and shade from giant tree canopies. Small speakers play relaxing classical music like Vivaldi and Tchaikovsky throughout the plaza (Art World Database) , creating a peaceful atmosphere. The restored 29-meter free-standing Jaro Belfry (Wikipedia) is magnificent, along with the monument to Ilonggo veterans from World War II and the well-preserved bandstand (Wikipedia) .
The location is perfect - directly across from the majestic Jaro Cathedral and surrounded by beautiful old Spanish mansions and the Archbishop's Palace. It's clean, well-lit at night, and perfect for jogging, relaxing, taking photos, or simply people-watching. The area is safe for families, and there are nearby cafes and restaurants.
This is more than just a plaza - it's a living piece of history where faith, culture, and community come together. Highly recommend visiting, especially during the evening when everything is beautifully lit!"
Crisyl Pacanza
"Me and my partner visited Jaro Plaza during our trip to Iloilo and we really loved the experience. The plaza has a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, surrounded by heritage sites like the beautiful Jaro Cathedral. It’s a nice place to take a walk, enjoy the fresh air, and observe the local lifestyle. We also liked that there are food stalls and shops nearby, which made our visit more enjoyable. A charming spot to experience both history and culture in Iloilo."
Joanne Bodanio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From the airport, you can take a taxi or a ride-sharing service directly to Jaro Plaza. Alternatively, you can take a jeepney towards the city center and then transfer to a jeepney bound for Jaro Plaza.
Regular jeepneys like JARO CPU/UNGKA or UNGKA aircon jeepneys are convenient options. Look for them on the Rose Pharmacy side of Jaro Plaza for direct routes.
Yes, Jaro Plaza is accessible by car. There is usually parking available nearby, though it can get busy during peak hours.
Depending on your starting point, walking might be an option, but it can be quite hot. It's generally more comfortable to use public transport or a taxi for longer distances.
Jaro Plaza is conveniently located directly across from the majestic Jaro Cathedral, making it easy to find.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Jaro Plaza (Graciano Lopez Jaena Park) is a public space and does not have an entrance fee. Entry is free for everyone.
Jaro Plaza is generally open 24/7 as a public park. However, the best time to visit for its illuminated features and fountain shows is in the evening.
Yes, you can visit Jaro Plaza during the day. However, it can get quite hot, and the full charm with the lights and fountains is best experienced at night.
As a public park, general rules of conduct apply. It's important to keep the area clean and respect the historical monuments.
No, booking tickets in advance is not necessary as Jaro Plaza is a free public space.
📸 📸 Photography
The area around the Jaro Belfry, the facade of Jaro Cathedral, and the illuminated fountain are prime spots for photography. The well-landscaped areas also offer beautiful backdrops. 
Absolutely! Jaro Plaza is beautifully lit at night, making it an excellent location for night photography, capturing the vibrant atmosphere and illuminated features.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the city tourism office before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.
A versatile camera with good low-light performance is recommended for evening shots. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive plaza and surrounding heritage buildings.
Don't miss the chance to photograph the restored Jaro Belfry, the historical monuments, and the dynamic water fountain displays, especially during their evening shows.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Jaro Plaza itself is a park, there are often food stalls and vendors nearby, offering local snacks and refreshments. The surrounding area also has cafes and restaurants.
You can find a variety of local Filipino dishes and snacks. Nearby establishments offer everything from casual dining to more formal meals.
The plaza has benches and open spaces, making it suitable for a casual picnic. However, be mindful of disposing of your trash properly to keep the park clean.
Yes, there are several cafes and coffee shops in the vicinity of Jaro Plaza, perfect for a relaxing break.
While local cuisine is prevalent, you can find some international dining options in Iloilo City, though they might require a short trip from Jaro Plaza.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
+1 It's a safe and well-maintained area, perfect for enjoying a peaceful evening and soaking in the local culture. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The plaza truly shines at night with its beautiful lighting, making it a prime spot for capturing stunning evening shots. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grand Restoration of Jaro Plaza
Key aspects of the restoration include improved landscaping with lush lawns, the installation of comfortable benches, and the preservation of historical monuments dedicated to local heroes. The iconic Jaro Belfry, once neglected, has been meticulously restored to its former grandeur. The plaza now features a well-maintained bandstand and is surrounded by beautiful old Spanish mansions and the Archbishop's Palace, further enhancing its historical charm.
The revitalized Jaro Plaza is now a testament to Iloilo City's commitment to preserving its heritage and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle. It serves as a gathering place for locals and a must-visit destination for tourists seeking to experience the city's rich history and culture.
Experiencing Jaro Plaza at Night
The centerpiece of the evening experience is often the mesmerizing water fountain, which sometimes features synchronized light and music shows, occasionally with twirling ballerinas. Small speakers strategically placed throughout the plaza play relaxing classical music, such as Vivaldi and Tchaikovsky, further enhancing the tranquil mood. The presence of police personnel also ensures a sense of safety and security for visitors enjoying the night.
This nighttime transformation makes Jaro Plaza an ideal spot for unwinding after a day of sightseeing, enjoying a peaceful walk, or simply people-watching. The combination of soft music, gentle lighting, and the historical backdrop creates a truly memorable experience.
+1Historical Significance and Surroundings
The area surrounding Jaro Plaza is dotted with beautiful old Spanish mansions and the Archbishop's Palace, adding to its colonial charm and historical narrative. These structures provide a picturesque backdrop and offer a glimpse into the city's past. The plaza also features monuments honoring Ilonggo veterans from World War II, serving as a place of remembrance and respect.
This concentration of historical and cultural landmarks makes Jaro Plaza more than just a park; it's a living piece of history where faith, culture, and community converge. It offers visitors a rich tapestry of Iloilo's heritage, all within a beautifully restored and accessible public space.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit