La Sabana Metropolitan Park
San José
La Sabana Metropolitan Park, located in downtown San José, Costa Rica, is the country's largest and most significant urban park, covering 0.72 square kilometers. Often called "the lungs of San José," it provides vital green space and recreational facilities to city residents. The park features important landmarks including the national stadium and the Costa Rican Museum of Art, the latter housed in the former main building of the old La Sabana Airport. Visitors can enjoy a large artificial lake, multiple sports fields, running and skating tracks, a gymnasium, and a shooting range. The park is surrounded by key national institutions such as the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad and the Comptroller General's headquarters. La Sabana's rich vegetation and recreational role have been cultivated over centuries, making it a cherished urban oasis in the capital.
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Tip: The best time to visit La Sabana Metropolitan Park is during the dry season, typically from December to April, when outdoor activities are most pleasant. Visitors are encouraged to explore the park's walking and skating tracks and to check schedules for sports events at the national stadium. Entrance is free, but it is advisable to verify opening hours and any special event restrictions on the official website before visiting. The park's large area makes comfortable walking shoes recommended.
Interesting facts
- •La Sabana Metropolitan Park is the largest urban park in Costa Rica, covering 0.72 square kilometers.
- •The park is home to the Costa Rican Museum of Art, located in the former main building of the old La Sabana Airport.
- •The national stadium, built within the park, stands on the site of the former old stadium.
- •The park was once partially occupied by Costa Rica's first international airport until the 1930s.
- •La Sabana was officially classified as a Metropolitan Park in 1977 and declared a National Architectural Heritage site in 2001.
History
The origins of La Sabana Metropolitan Park date back over two centuries when Manuel Antonio Chapuí donated land for public benefit in the late 17th century.
Over time, it became a recreational and sports area, with preservation efforts by early Costa Rican leaders like President Juan Mora Fernández.
In the 1930s, part of the park was used for the country's first international airport until it was relocated.
In the 1960s, efforts to restore and enhance the park as the "lungs of San José" resumed, leading to its official designation as a metropolitan park in 1977.
In 2001, it was declared a National Architectural Heritage site by executive decree.
Place Guide
National Stadium of Costa Rica1970s
A key landmark within La Sabana Park, the stadium hosts major sports events and concerts. It is built on the site of the former old stadium, serving as a modern venue for football and athletics.
Costa Rican Museum of Art1930s (original building)
Housed in the former main building of the old La Sabana Airport, this museum showcases Costa Rican art and culture, offering visitors a cultural experience within the park's green space.
Artificial Lake and Sports Facilities
The park includes a large artificial lake surrounded by walking paths, as well as multiple sports fields, running and skating tracks, a gymnasium, and a shooting range, providing diverse recreational options for visitors.
Contact
Phone: 2549 0700
