Kid-friendly Places in IIoilo near Lumina Homes

A peek across the Philippines shows that this gorgeous province is positioned in the heart of it all. Iloilo has earned the moniker "Heart of the Philippines" for its central position and abundance of historical and cultural attractions.

The islands and islets in the province are so beautiful that they could easily compete with Boracay Island at any given moment. As a matter of fact, even the Queen of Spain, Queen Maria Cristina, coined Iloilo City as the "Luy muy leal y noble Ciudad" or as "the most loyal and gentle city."

Apart from this, the province is also full of captivating natural resources-- There are secret caverns and lagoons, breathtaking mountains and falls, and a complete lineup of historic residences and century old churches that exist today as museums.

So if you are looking for a place to travel for your whole family this summer vacation, including the kids, we collected a list of places that you can visit in the most loyal and gentle city:

Jaro Cathedral in Iloilo City

As one of Iloilo's oldest and most storied cathedrals, the Jaro Cathedral is steeped in legend and tradition. Jaro Cathedral, also known as the Church of St. Elizabeth of Hungary and the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Candles, is affectionately referred to by locals.

It was founded in 1587 as a tiny parish. It evolved into a cathedral throughout time and now serves as the seat of the Archdiocese of Jaro, a Roman Catholic diocese. In 1948, an earthquake destroyed the church, and it was reconstructed in 1956. The Jaro Cathedral was designated a historical landmark in 1976.

While the Jaro Cathedral is referred to as the "male church" and the Molo Church is referred to as the "female church," both these churches are located in Iloilo City. The titles of the churches were given to them because of the saints adorning their walls. In the pillars of Jaro Cathedral, there are male saints, whereas, in the pillars of Molo Church, there are female saints.

Apart from these images, most residents also think that the church's 400-year old picture of the Blessed Virgin and Child is a miracle, particularly among those who live in the area. Plaza Rizal Street in Jaro is where the Jaro Cathedral can be found. If you're planning a day trip to Iloilo, go here first thing in the morning or just before sunset, when the city is winding down.

You can also check out the neighboring Campanario de Jaro bell tower, another well-known Iloilo monument, while you're there, as well as the Central Philippine University which has a library that is an excellent location to study. They also have a prayer garden in which you can find a quiet place to reflect.

Jaro Cathedral is located in Jaro, Iloilo City, 5000 Iloilo Province.

Goducate Training Center

Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Goducate Training Center in Iloilo, Philippines, had been shut down for eight months. Now that the Local Government Unit of Iloilo has opened it up for gatherings, the center is bustling once again, though protocols such as facemasks and social distance must be observed. There has been a resume of training as well as the opening of the facility to guests.

Aside from great accommodations, its amusement and theme parks also have recreational amenities for your whole family including zip line, vertical wall, biking, archery range, fishing, horseback riding, archery assault, and the jungle dipping pool and waterpark.

Goducate Training Center is located at 20 Santiago St, San Miguel, Iloilo Province.

Islas de Gigantes

In Iloilo, it's impossible to visit the Gigantes Islands and not attempt a variety of activities there including island hopping.

Tourist destinations like this one are known as "Islas de Gigantes" in Iloilo, and they're known for their pristine beaches and mouthwatering seafood buffets, making them one of the most popular spots for tourists in Iloilo.

Bantigue Bantayan Island

Take a trip to Bantigue Island, which has an incredible sandbar. If you want to see how the sandbar appears, you need check the current weather conditions first.

Bantigue Island is a great place to spend the night if you're looking to camp out on a tropical island. In addition to swimming and sunbathing for a few hours, camping and having some scallops are one of the nicest things to do in the area!

Antonia Beach

This beach in Iloilo has enormous stones along its shoreline, making it an excellent place for swimming. If you get a closer look, you'll see that the boulders' erosion patterns make them appear like a stack of sandwiches. This is the reason why Antonia Beach is also referred to as Sandwich Island but there is more to that! In the case of island hopping cruises, Antonia Beach is also often suggested as a place to halt for lunch.

Iloilo River Esplanade

See Iloilo City's efforts to safeguard the Iloilo River and encourage a healthier, more active lifestyle among its residents by visiting this Iloilo business park. Signs proclaiming "I Am Iloilo" may be seen on or near the Iloilo River Esplanade. It's a great place for a jog, a nice walk, or just taking in the vista, and it has something for everyone.

The Esplanade is often referred to by locals as just the Esplanade, and it's readily accessible through both jeepneys and taxis. The Esplanade is a wonderful area to visit, with entertainment and nice settings, as well as stunning views of the Iloilo River and the sunset.

Molo Mansion

It was the home of an Iloilo aristocratic and affluent family when this impressive house was built. The Yusay-Consing Mansion, also known as the Molo Mansion, was previously considered unsalvageable. This is no longer a closed museum, however, since it is now a tourist attraction. Take some time to take in the intricate intricacies of Filipino colonial architecture while you're here.

Export-quality Philippine souvenirs and apparel, especially those depicting Ilonggo culture, may be found at a number of local shops in this area. After a brief tour, you may proceed to the Molo Estate Café, which is situated behind the mansion and eat native Ilonggo cuisine like Pancit Molo with Kinihad (toasted bread).

Molo Mansion is located at Yusay-Consing Mansion, Locsin St, Molo, Iloilo City, Iloilo.

Sicogon Island

The Sicogon Island resort, which was popular in the 1970s and 1980s, attracted tourists from all over the world to Iloilo. Today, the opulent resort has been shut down. However, the island is still a favorite Iloilo tourist destination due to its woods, mountains, and beaches with sand that is either yellow or orange in color.

The Barangay Buaya Beach is regarded as the greatest swimming place on the entire island. Nipahuts and coconut trees line the beach, making it one of the greatest Iloilo beaches for relaxing. For snorkeling, Tumaguin Island is the place to go; for trekking, Mount Opao's 1-2-hour ascent is the best option.

Miagao Church

The Miagao Church on Zulueta Avenue in Miagao, Iloilo, is one of the most physically stunning, historic churches in the province. Completed in 1797 and also known as the Church of Saint Thomas of Villanova, it was dedicated in that year. Since its construction, it has become a popular tourist destination in the Philippines, as well as one of the best examples of Baroque-style architecture in the world.

Sculptures adorning its front showcase a unique blend of Spanish, Muslim, and Chinese influences and traditions. They are a major draw for tourists and residents alike. St. Thomas of Villanueva, the town's patron saint, is shown above its elegant wooden doors.

There isn't much of a challenge in getting to Miagao Church. From Iloilo City, take a jeepney to Miagao. The church is located around 45 minutes outside the city proper.

Miagao Church is located in Zulueta Ave, Miagao, 5023 Iloilo Province.

Vicente Lopez Heritage House

To visit Iloilo's so-called Queen of Heritage Houses, travel to Jaro and have a tour of the Vicente Lopez house, which is located in the city. Nelly's Gardens, also known as the Mansion de Lopez, was built in 1928 and is located in the city of Valencia. Nelly Lopez y Hofilea, the oldest daughter of local couple Don Vicente Lopez and Doña Elena Hofileña, was the inspiration for the name of the home. As a National Historic Landmark because of its beauty and history, it demonstrates its aristocratic beginnings.

The Vicente Lopez Heritage House is located in Brgy E Lopez St, Jaro, Iloilo City, Iloilo Province.

Santa Barbara Church

One of the best churches in the Philippines belongs to the Ilonggos. The NHCP designated it as a historical landmark in 1990, and the National Museum designated it as a national cultural asset in 2013. There were notable historical events that took place there in the late 19th century and early 20th century when it was built.

In addition to the cathedral, there is a stunning convent nearby that was recently renovated. To get the most out of your visit to the cloister, be sure to read the historical markers displayed at the entry. Just 20 minutes drive from the city center, this historic site is a must-see not just for its stunning architecture, but also for its fascinating past.

Molo Church

Visit the Molo Church in Iloilo City if you wish to witness Greek gods and goddesses adorning the walls of a Catholic church. This so-called "female church" goes all the way back to 1831. White coral rock is used to build the outside walls. After a decade of preparation, the Molo Church was designated as a national historic site in 1992.

Saint Anne, the mother of Mary, is honored on the magnificent altar of the church as a result of the Spanish influence, and the devotees pray to her for guidance and intercession.

Lizares Mansion

Lizares Mansion in Jaro's Tabuc Suba is the site of a number of terrible occurrences, including Filipinos being tortured by the Nazis during World War II. When you visit here, you can see how Iloilo's aristocratic and affluent families lived in colonial times by visiting this gorgeous but yet somber relic of the province's history.

Camiña Balay nga Bato

Unquestionably the most notable landmark in Iloilo is the Camia Balay nga Bato. The 4th generation of the Melocoton-Avancena family is still living in this house. You can find here Lola Rufina Heritage Curio Shop which is open to guests while they are in the historic home, and they may shop for souvenirs and antiques there.

Some of the more unusual items on display here are saint statues fashioned from red bricks, paintings, and fabrics. Visitors are instructed to mount the large staircase sideways, revealing a century-old Spanish design. Meanwhile, on its second floor, you can see the Oratorio or prayer chamber, the Grand Sala, and the café.

Camia Balay nga Bato offers Iloilo's best Pancit Molo and hot chocolate in their bright, balcony dining room and informal dining room. Kapitan Ising, a local legend, created the Pancit Molo dish. Pork, chicken, and shrimp fill the delicious liquid of each dumpling.

It is true that it's possible to get a taste of Iloilo's natural splendor and luxury by spending a few days in the city and its surrounding communities. You can also find shopping malls here like the SM City Iloilo where you can try the dishes from Casa Ilongga in their food court, and the Festive Walk Mall. But if your want to divulge in Iloilo Province's rich history, why not invest in a brand new home or a vacation house in the area and make your next travels here more comfortable!

Lumina Homes is offering one of its premium communities in the province called Lumina Iloilo. Aside from being close to some of the great travel attractions in the province, Lumina Iloilo is also near to educational institutions that ensure your kids will get the quality education they deserve. Some of the schools near the subdivision are the Georgia International Academy, Central Philippine University, and theUniversity of the Philippines Visayas.

In addition, commuting and travel around the area are also made more convenient with the Build Build Build projects from the government like the Panay East West Highway, Iloilo Bypass Road, Aganan Bridge, and the Tumagbok Bridge.

To know more about what are the available accessible and convenient home model units Lumina Iloilo has to offer, you can visit our website or follow our social media accounts. Make your reservations now!