“There is no love more sincere than the love of food and travel.”
Anonymous
Considered one of the most famous provinces in the Central Luzon region, Pampanga is known for its delectable food and irresistible Kapampangan cuisine.
Without a doubt, it lays claim to being the culinary capital of the Philippines—and rightly so. The province is home to some of the country’s best and most beloved restaurants and famous chefs. Visitors and local tourists can expect epicurean offers and gastronomic experiences from the many Kapampangan restaurants in the province. As a result, the food tourism in Pampanga is robust and thriving. However, while Pampanga is better known for being a food enthusiast’s haven of all sorts, it is also a city primed and poised for other activities. Intrepid adventurers will know that Pampanga is home to Mt. Pinatubo, where they can go on treks and hikes. Outdoor enthusiasts will particularly love Pampanga’s natural wonders, such as majestic mountain views, calm wetlands, and stunning waterfalls—all of which make for relaxing destinations. Also, it is worth noting that Pampanga’s modern city of Clark is famous for its well-preserved ancestral homes, an array of amusement parks, and vibrant, cheery, colorful year-round festivals. Indeed, one might say that there is something for every type of traveler in this part of the world.
So, if you have been meaning to visit Pampanga or are looking for reasons to fall in love with the city, below are some of the things you should do down below for your next visit.
1.) Visit a farm and drink horchata at Nuan Cafe by Katrina’s
Tucked inside the perimeter of Nuan Farm Resort, Nuan Cafe by Katrina’s is a recently opened cafe that offers plenty of caffeine-based selections. Although the menu primarily offers beverages in hot and cold options, the restaurant also has an assortment of snacks, such as nachos and chicken wings, if you wish to have something to pair with your drinks. However, if you are looking for something a little more filling, the cafe also serves burgers, pizza, pasta, and breakfast rice meals—all of which are reasonably priced and would not hurt your pockets.
2.) Ride a 4X4 to Mt.Pinatubo
Indulge the adventurer in you by visiting Mt. Pinatubo, one of the most famous attractions not only in Pampanga but the country as a whole. Located between Zambales, Pampanga, and Tarlac provinces, what makes Mt. Pinatubo so special is that this active volcano features interesting lahar formations.
After its 1991 eruption made history worldwide, it has become a premier spot for tourism, particularly for travelers in search of adventure.
3.) Try the original sisig at Aling Lucing’s
If Pampanga had its own national dish, it would undoubtedly be sisig. Apart from being credited as the people who originally came up with the dish, you would be hard-pressed to find authentic sisig that is not made in Pampanga. So, regardless of whether you have a penchant for this iconic sizzling pork dish or not, making a stop at the Queen of Sisig’s restaurant in Angeles City is definitely a must.
Along Lucing’s sisig is said to be the original. It is made from chopped pork ears, cheeks, and liver and seasoned generously with calamansi, onions, and chili peppers. It is then served on a sizzling plate. Whether as a beer match or a dish on its own, sisig has remained a hit and is now a staple at many Filipino restaurants.
4.) Sweat it out at the Sandbox
In more ways than one, Pampanga is synonymous with adventure. That said, the province is rife with adventure parks that the outdoor enthusiast in you will certainly love and enjoy. If you feel particularly daring, blow off stress from the workweek by trying the thrilling activities at Sandbox in Porac, Pampanga.
The outdoor adventure park has a myriad of adventure zones to choose from, including the Aerial Walk Challenge, The Avatar One, The Adventure Tower, and the Giant Swing. If you wish to try your hand at ATV and mini-ATV rides, the adventure park also offers them. Alternatively, those who want to stay on the level ground may opt to sit at the camping sites or visit the kiddie playgrounds.
5.) Indulge Your Inner Child at the Sky Ranch
If adventure parks are not your thing, then perhaps amusement parks will be more of your speed. If you have a penchant for fun and adventure rides, visit Pampanga’s Sky Ranch and indulge the kid in you.
Sky Ranch is quite hard to miss as it is located just behind SM City San Fernando, Pampanga. Here, visitors have 23 rides to choose from—Drop Tower, Super Viking, Bungee Jump, Space Shuttle, and Loop Roller Coaster. Of course, you should never miss getting on the Pampanga Eye to get a panoramic view of the city. Keep in mind that while the park does not charge an entrance fee, you need to pay to get on each of the rides.
