Dubbed as the mall capital of the Philippines, Ortigas has more to offer than just shopping centres — although of course, it’s blessed with its fair share of excellent malls, too! If you are looking for a quick getaway without leaving the city, there are a plethora of things to do in Ortigas. From enjoying a leisurely stroll at the park to having a fun night out with friends, here are some of our favourite ways to spend the weekend without leaving the city.
Also read: 10 Must-Try Restaurants & Cafes in Pasig
Kicking off our list of things to do in Ortigas, Ortigas Park in Ortigas Center is a family and pet-friendly option for spending your day. This park offers a variety of activities suitable for relaxation, recreation, and social gatherings. Pack some snacks and set up a picnic for some afternoon tea.
Many visitors come here for their morning jogs, yoga sessions, or light workouts. Moreover, Ortigas Park occasionally hosts events such as outdoor concerts, art exhibits, and holiday-themed bazaars, providing a range of entertainment and shopping opportunities. Additionally, the surrounding area boasts a variety of restaurants and cafes, including Pho Hoa, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, and 22 Prime.
Looking for a spot to unwind and let loose? O Bar is a must-visit if you’re seeking new and entertaining things to do in Pasig. The well-loved bar is renowned for live performances, including drag shows bursting with high energy, fabulous costumes, and talented performers. These events often become the evening’s centrepiece, attracting both local residents and visitors.
The bar also features DJs spinning a mix of current hits and classic dance tracks. The dance floor at O Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a night out with friends. If all that dancing leaves you hungry, try their best-selling combo platter, which includes chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, and calamari — all pair well with an ice-cold beer!
Red Carpet Cinema, located at Shangri-La Plaza, offers a luxurious treat for all cinephiles. Watch the latest movies in a comfortable and state-of-the-art movie theatre featuring stadium-type seating and cutting-edge sound technology. Be sure not to fall asleep in their reclining chairs!
What’s a movie date without some snacks? The Red Carpet Cinebar offers a wide selection of snacks, including buttery popcorn, juicy hotdogs, and ice-cold drinks. You can also conveniently book and track your tickets with their online ticketing system.
Located in the heart of Pasig, Capitol Commons is a one-stop destination to keep you entertained. Take a breath of fresh air while enjoying a sip of your favourite coffee in their open spaces. Some people take this opportunity to squeeze in their workouts or simply enjoy the view of a relaxed green environment.
Ready for some retail therapy? Capitol Commons has a wide array of store options for beauty, fashion, gadgets, and more. It is also home to a diverse range of dining options, from casual eateries and coffee shops to fine dining restaurants. Visitors can enjoy a variety of cuisines, including local Filipino dishes, international flavours, and gourmet offerings.
Adding to our list of things to do in Ortigas, coffee enthusiasts will find The Podium in Mandaluyong a delightful destination.
Besides all its other offerings, The Podium features an array of coffee shops that focus on serving high-quality, artisanal coffee, such as ANGKAN Coffee, Café Kitsuné and Caerus Specialty Coffee. Many feature cosy, stylish interiors that make them ideal spots for relaxation, casual meetings, or simply enjoying a book alongside your coffee. In addition to their coffee offerings, many cafes at The Podium serve a variety of pastries, desserts, and light meals that perfectly complement their beverages.
Willing to splurge? EDSA Shangri-La Manila in Ortigas Center offers the ultimate relaxation experience for everyone! The hotel’s health club and spa serve as a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can enjoy a variety of treatments and massages, utilise the sauna and steam rooms, or participate in yoga and fitness classes.
EDSA Shangri-La Manila provides luxurious rooms and suites with stunning city views, ensuring a comfortable stay for guests. The hotel is conveniently connected to or located near upscale shopping malls, giving guests easy access to a broad selection of retail stores, luxury boutiques, and souvenir shops. If your budget allows, Shangri-La Manila is a must-visit when considering things to do in Ortigas.
If you’re not in a position to shell out money for a hotel stay, perhaps a meal will do. Make a reservation at upscale dining spots in EDSA Shangri-La like Heat and Summer Palace.
Also read: 10 Best Hotel Buffets in Manila for Your Holiday Celebrations
If you’re in the mood for a casual night out with friends, there are plenty of nightlife hotspots in Ortigas. Our pick: Moonshine in Ortigas! It’s celebrated for its extensive selection of craft cocktails, meticulously crafted by skilled bartenders. The Mango Mojito and Grape Hooch are particularly light and refreshing choices.
Beyond their drink offerings, Moonshine serves a menu of elevated pub food that complements their cocktails beautifully. Some must-tries include the Oh Golly burger, aligue wings, fried sardines, and pork adobo nachos.
On select evenings, Moonshine hosts live music performances, featuring everything from acoustic sets to jazz bands. For those who prefer to enjoy their drinks and meals outdoors, Moonshine offers outdoor seating areas where you can soak up the city atmosphere while enjoying your favourite beverages.
Next on our list of things to do in Pasig, the Ortigas Foundation Library offers the chance to engage in a variety of educational and cultural activities centred around Philippine history, art, and literature. Discover an extensive collection of books, documents, photographs, and maps that highlight our country’s rich history.
The Ortigas Foundation Library also hosts exhibitions, lectures, seminars, and cultural events that celebrate our Filipino heritage. The library serves as a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city, where visitors can dive into local and relevant reading material.
Next thing to add to your Pasig to-do list, The Grounds in Ortigas East is the perfect place to bring your furry friends along. They have designated an area where fur babies can run around freely and safely.
With its array of retail stores and speciality shops, Ortigas East caters to a wide range of shopping needs and preferences, from everyday essentials to luxury items. It also boasts a diverse selection of dining options, including cafes, restaurants, and food stalls offering both local and international cuisines.
Also read: 15 Pet-Friendly Airbnbs in the Philippines That Are Absolutely Purr-fect
Calling all adrenaline junkies! Wrapping up our fun list of things to do in Ortigas, Climb Central Manila is the biggest sport climbing venue in the Philippines that is fully air-conditioned. Try your hand at bouldering, a form of rock climbing performed on small rock formations or artificial rock walls without the use of ropes or harnesses.
For more experienced climbers, try lead climbing where you clip the rope into quickdraws attached to the wall as you ascend, which requires more skill and confidence. Climb Central also hosts group activities and team-building events, making it a fun place for corporate groups, friends, or families to challenge themselves and bond.
Also read: Where to Eat in Ortigas: 10 Must-Try Restaurants
As a hub of activity, culture, and community, Ortigas invites everyone to discover its many charms and create memorable experiences in the heart of the city. You’ll never run out of fun things to do in Ortigas!
Featured image credit: Ortigas Land, Ortigas East, Edsa Shangri-La, Manila, Climb Central Manila| Official Facebook Pages
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