Buenos Aires Outdoors

Description:

Designed by world-renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, the only work he's done in South America, Puente de la mujer (Bridge of the woman) is a sight that shouldn't be missed by any visitor to Buenos Aires. The 335-foot-long pedestrian bridge connects both sides of the upscale Puerto Madero, which is separated by an artificial canal. This beautifully astounding structure was engineered in such a way so the central portion of the bridge is enabled to open at a 90-degree angle to allow for easy passage of mid-sized water traffic. Inspired by the Latin dance know as the Tango, Calatrava's design abstractly resembles a couple moving to Argentina's most sensual type of dancing. Argentinean businessman, Alberto Gonzales, donated the funding for Puente de la mujer to the city in 2001.

Description:

Visit Leandro for the meats and the Roasted Achuras. And eat your meal at the terrace, watching the river flow by quietly. No wonder romantically-inclined couples make a beeline for this place! To come back to the food, vegetarians may order the Glaseados Vegetables or the delicious macrobiotic salads.

Description:

In Argentina, soccer is more than just a sport; it's practically a national cult. The River Plate stadium, nicknamed "The Monumental", has been the country's' largest stage for sporting events and concerts since its inauguration in 1938. Besides being the home of Club Atletico River Plate, it is used by the Argentinean soccer team, the Pumas (National rugby team) and also to host world-class international artists such as Madonna, U2, and the Rolling Stones. Argentinean fans are extremely passionate, so watching a soccer game can be a colorful experience even if you don't particularly enjoy the game.

Our Local Expert Says:

When the antiques stalls are taken down at sunset on Sundays, take a seat at an outdoor café in the plaza and watch as the locals slowly drift in to create an outdoor milonga, or tango hall. The spectacle rivals just about any overpriced tango show.

Description:

This historic plaza was the sight of the swearing of National Independence in 1816 before Don Juan Martín de Pueyrredón. During the colony, it was a resting post for wagons travelling from the port to what is now Plaza de Mayo along the first roadway, known today as Calle Defensa. Today it is the site of the San Pedro Telmo Antique Fair, where street performances by tango dancers, musicians, mimes and colourful characters mingle with the painters, antiquarians and street vendors in a bohemian rhapsody of song, dance and nostalgia. Ramble the colonial cobblestone streets of the Barrio de San Telmo to Avenida Independencia and Balcarce, to see El Viejo Almacén from the early colonial days, now a traditional tango bar/restaurant.

Our Local Expert Says:

Bar Dorrego is especially atmospheric on Sunday evenings, when the antiques market comes down and the milonga begins in the plaza. The square hums with tango dancers searching for the right partner for the evening, and spectators who drift in to watch and enjoy a nightcap from the bar's outdoor tables.

Description:

In a traditional corner of Buenos Aires, with a rich colonial past, Bar Plaza Dorrego boasts of a melting pot clientele of visitors from all over the world. It was the first bar in Buenos Aires, established in 1881. In its hey days the bar decoration was considered sumptuous. Today, this busy spot has lost some of its former splendor but it still manages to keep the charm and simplicity of the old days. Pictures of celebrities such as Borges and Gardel, who used to stop by, are hanging on its walls. Like in most bars in Buenos Aires, you have a menu with a good selection of alcoholic beverages and coffees. The beer comes with a side of roasted peanuts and the coffee with shortbread cookies. Before leaving, you may carve your name for posterity in one of the wooden panels.

Our Local Expert Says:

A lovely way to spend an early morning or late evening is to stroll from Plaza de Mayo down the grand Avenida de Mayo, a wide avenue parading some of the most magnificent architecture in Buenos Aires. With antique street lamps and grand old cafes, Avenida de Mayo retains the elegance of a past era. Walk until you get to Plaza de Congreso, another equally beautiful plaza with a daytime market located about ten blocks from the Casa Rosada.

Description:

Founded by Juan de Garay in 1580, this is the original centre of the city. The city's first monument, Pirámide de Mayo, is situated at its centre. Important institutions flank the plaza: the Casa Rosada (Pink Government House), Banco de la Nación (Nation's Bank), Catedral Metropolitana and Cabildo (Town Hall). Internationally known for the Madres de la Plaza de Mayo, women gather here in a silent vigil, every Thursday at 3pm to claim justice for their "disappeared" during the military rule in the 1980s.

Our Local Expert Says:

Ostinatto offers discount tickets for local events, including sports games and parties. Inquire at the desk for a schedule of events. Also, the hostel offers a 10% discount on your room if you make reservations 5 days ahead of time. Reservations can be made online.

Description:

Located in the historical San Telmo neighborhood, Ostinatto is a fully refurbished, contemporary hostel occupying five levels in an antique building. The fashionable stark white interior is offset by touches of color, and the lowest level houses an art gallery. The fourth floor is an open dining area and lounge, where film screenings, tango classes, and Spanish lessons are held, along with community dinners, often prepared by the owner himself. The rooftop terrace overlooks the beautiful San Telmo skyline, and the small pool offers a bit of relief from the searing summer heat. Ostinatto has dorms and private rooms, all with clean bathrooms, lockers, and balconies.

Our Local Expert Says:

Oftentimes live music entertains the crowds during the weekend fair, so if you're worn out from browsing, take a seat on the hill and enjoy the music and people-watching.

Description:

This plaza, founded in October 1909, comprises some 15,400 square meters of local flora surrounded by cultural centers and the largest outdoor handicrafts fair in the city, La Feria de Recoleta, taking place every Sunday. The appropriately named Francia a Argentina monument at its center was donated in 1910 by France to Argentina commemorating the Centennial of the Revolution of May. The Museum of Fine Arts, monolithic National Library and imposing University Faculty of Law flank the area.

Description:

Located in a restored mansion and outfitted with modern art installations, Milion is a great place to meet friends for a drink or to take a date for dinner. Climb the grand staircase leading to the dimly lit main dining room and the crowded bar, or pass through this area to the outdoor courtyard, complete with open-air tables, lawn sculptures, torches, and a white tent for film screenings. The tables and bar area are a hotspot for young locals and travelers, so make reservations if you want to ensure a table.

Our Local Expert Says:

Check out the plaza on weekends when the flea market is in full swing to browse through a great selection of antique housewares, used books (some are in English), and old coins from all over South America.

Description:

Named for its location directly across from the National Congress Building, this plaza contains a large monolith that represents the start (Km 0) for all its national highways. This plaza almost encompasses three city blocks (its western-most point along Ave. de Mayo), and is an ideal place for recreation and rest. One of the city's best and most valuable sculptures is a bronze reproduction of "The Thinker" by Auguste Rodin, which can be found inside the plaza.

Our Local Expert Says:

Off-season (April-October) tickets are half-price.

Description:

A dream park where roller coasters exist side by side with modern Hollywood style special effects, circus performances, live concerts and much more. Choose from traditional rides such as bumper cars, as well as the many events that take place in specially designed indoor and outdoor spaces. There is also an amphitheatre, an IMAX cinema, a short catamaran excursion down the river, dancing water fountains and light shows. There are many dining options to cater to all tastes and budgets. This park is the only one of its kind in Latin America.

Description:

Cabaña La Lopez is a comfortable bar located just blocks away from Tigre's main attraction, Puerto de Frutos. It's the perfect place to have a cup of coffee or a light meal after a shopping spree. Traditional Argentinean snacks such as the classical "Medialuna" (similar to a croissant) or the "Tostado" (toasted white bread with ham and cheese) are house favorites. The air-conditioned dining room can hold up to 150 people. Cabaña La Lopez is a popular spot for tourists because English as well as Italian are spoken throughout the establishment. If you go by car, you'll find a convenient nearby parking lot at your disposal.

Description:

Kimia, conveniently located in easy reach from almost any part of the city, usually brings very good DJs, particularly on Saturday night. If you are new in town and you want to meet interesting people, this is your chance. The bar offers good drinks (if not the best to be found in Buenos Aires). Your best bet here is to go for the beer. Speaking of beer… I would recommend, if it is summer, to go to the terrace on the top floor and ask for a Warsteiner. There is a deck with wood tables and a Brazilian style bar. When combined with a cool breeze at night I can guarantee that you won't leave early.

Description:

Established in 1992, Pacha is one of the longest running nightclubs in Buenos Aries, a city where turnover rates are high. An international club, based in Spain, it draws in huge names in house and techno music. It regularly attracts the city's most stylish crowd, who get the party started fashionably late - around 3am. Buying a VIP ticket reserves you a spot removed from the thumping mass of bodies and loud music on the main floor. You can also enjoy the outdoor patio area, which is especially pleasant when the sun rises over the Rio de la Plata.

Our Local Expert Says:

Ostinatto offers discount tickets for local events, including sports games and parties. Inquire at the desk for a schedule of events. Also, the hostel offers a 10% discount on your room if you make reservations 5 days ahead of time. Reservations can be made online.

Description:

Located in the historical San Telmo neighborhood, Ostinatto is a fully refurbished, contemporary hostel occupying five levels in an antique building. The fashionable stark white interior is offset by touches of color, and the lowest level houses an art gallery. The fourth floor is an open dining area and lounge, where film screenings, tango classes, and Spanish lessons are held, along with community dinners, often prepared by the owner himself. The rooftop terrace overlooks the beautiful San Telmo skyline, and the small pool offers a bit of relief from the searing summer heat. Ostinatto has dorms and private rooms, all with clean bathrooms, lockers, and balconies.

Our Local Expert Says:

Don't be fooled by San Telmo's reputation as the "old neighborhood." While crumbling buildings abound, this place is now buzzing with hip new cafes, bars, and restaurants featuring a huge variety of cuisine, along with a wealth of independent designers opening up shops all along Defensa.

Description:

In 1871, with the outbreak of Yellow Fever, these mansions were soon overtaken by squatters, creating the city's historic conventillos (tenement houses). It was not until 1970 that an edict stipulated protection for property owners. Today the neighborhood of San Pedro Telmo is an important historic corner of the city. Locals and tourists alike flock to the Plaza Dorrego on the oldest street in the city, for the antique market and vibrant street performances, including tango. On the corner of Independencia and Balcarce streets is El Viejo Almacén, a traditional tango establishment.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Sunday fair also features a huge variety of clothes and accessories from local designers at a fraction of the price of similar things in Palermo. Be sure to venture down side streets to have a look in the stalls.

Description:

The San Pedro Telmo Antiques Fair is held every Sunday and the streets of charming San Telmo are extremely lively during the fair. Tourists can have a gala time, as there are tons of activities to choose from. Enjoy live performances by musicians or tango with the dancers. If you are in the mood for some shopping, check out the antiques and handicrafts sold here.

Description:

Parque Lezama is located at the southern border of San Telmo, and is a wonderful way to spend a sunny afternoon. With a view of the bright blue onion domes of the Russian Basilica, lazy tree-lined paths, antique marble fountains, and groups of men crowded around the built-in stone chess boards every afternoon, this park recalls a past time when time moved a little bit slower.

Our Local Expert Says:

This might be the most authentic "del campo" Argentine experience available (not to mention that leather and silver is cheapest here) within city limits and shouldn't be missed if you have an extra Sunday. The long bus or taxi ride is well worth it.

Description:

This traditional fair located across from the cattle market (Mercado de Hacienda) brings a little countryside to the city. Artisans offer traditional crafts made from silver, wood, textiles and ceramics, as well as regional food like empanadas, tamales, tortas fritas (sweet fried pastry), alfajores and mate cocido, a local infusion. There is also a small music and dance festival and skilled demonstrations of horsemanship and "gaucho." Visitors should try their luck at the game of sapo, climbing a lathered pole. Admission is free.

Our Local Expert Says:

Home has lush gardens around its courtyard pool and is one of the most relaxing respites from the blazing heat in the summer months. Plan to spend a leisurely morning over breakfast in the garden.

Description:

Home Hotel is a hip guesthouse originally constructed as a place to host the friends of the owners. With 14 single and double rooms outfitted in an eclectic mix of vintage and contemporary furnishings, and located on a wide, quiet residential street in Palermo Soho, Home features lively common areas such as the lobby library, cocktail lounge, outdoor barbeque, courtyard garden, heated pool, tapas bar, and full-service spa.

Our Local Expert Says:

Be sure to buy the tickets (you will have three different options) that allow access to the marine life and reptiles so that you don't miss the penguins, giant tortoises, or walruses!

Description:

This is one of the most well-preserved areas of Buenos Aires, founded in 1874. At present the owners are Mexican and Argentine businessmen, who protect the conservation and the development of species that run a danger of extinction. In this place 2,500 animals belonging to 350 different species can be appreciated, from doves to white tigers. It has an open precinct for bears and a cage for condors. But do check out the living quarters of the elephant, similar to the sanctuary of Shiva. In 1988 an aquarium and an air-conditioned penguin colony were inaugurated here.

Description:

The botanical gardens take up a wide acreage in Plaza Italia, adjacent to the zoo and the La Rural complex. Visitors can stroll on lovely pebble paths through the variety of foliage, notably the prickly cactus garden and the steamy greenhouses. The real highlight of the gardens, though, is the cats. Hundreds of cats dwell in the gardens year-round, lazily basking in the sun and entertaining visitors. This is a wonderful place to bring kids.

Description:

The traditional good taste of the Swedish is present in this unique restaurant located in the residential zone of Palermo. Located in what used to be a warehouse, Olsen has a sober yet elegant 1960s atmosphere. Choose between an impressive array of tasty Nordic dishes and appetizers. During the hot summer nights it would be a sin not to take advantage of the outdoor tables in the park to savor one of their many vodka drinks, with several high-end types of the spirit available from countries all around the world. This trendy spot is very popular with locals and tourist alike. All members of the staff speak perfect English as well.

Our Local Expert Says:

Come during the week, when admission is half-price and crowds are much, much smaller.

Description:

When the summer heat makes pounding the pavement too unpleasant to bear, do what the locals do and head over to Punta Carrasco, a riverfront swimming complex featuring three pools (including one for kids only and one for adults only), bars, cafes, live DJs, volleyball and soccer courts, and enough beautiful Argentines to keep you busy all day. Try to find a coveted spot on one of the pools' crowded islands, and swim your drinks out there for a relaxing afternoon in the sun. You may want to carry in your own refreshments, as the lines become long during the day.

Our Local Expert Says:

Don't worry about bringing your own picnic - the food vendors are plentiful, serving up local specialties such as choripan, a tasty sausage sandwich. There are also lots of drinks and ice cream available.

Description:

Originally owned by Governor Rosas, this park opened to the public in 1874. Visit the Jardín de los Poetas, with sculptures of famous writers such as Alfonsina Storni, Félix Amador, Paul Groussac and Enrique Larreta. Enjoy the Rosedal where the colorful roses are kept. Other features include pergolas, bridges, fountains, seats, street lamps and a magnificent array of sculptures. Many activities are available at the lake, including rowing and pedal boats. These woods are the preferred choice for local joggers and bicyclers.

Description:

Mott has a gourmet kitchen that can run with the best of them, but the mixed drinks really stand out among bars in Buenos Aires. In a city that swears by the wretchedly bitter Italian Fernet Branca, a well-made, creative cocktail is hard to come by. Mott features a rotating drink specials list, ranging from a frozen ginger mojito to a sour apple and basil martini. The open-air sofas on the elevated front deck offer a perfect people-watching platform, where, with fresh, smooth drink in hand, you will undoubtedly be the object of envy for passersby.

Our Local Expert Says:

Home has lush gardens around its courtyard pool and is one of the most relaxing respites from the blazing heat in the summer months. Plan to spend a leisurely morning over breakfast in the garden.

Description:

Home Hotel is a hip guesthouse originally constructed as a place to host the friends of the owners. With 14 single and double rooms outfitted in an eclectic mix of vintage and contemporary furnishings, and located on a wide, quiet residential street in Palermo Soho, Home features lively common areas such as the lobby library, cocktail lounge, outdoor barbeque, courtyard garden, heated pool, tapas bar, and full-service spa.

Description:

This excursion consists of a ride in a steam train through 'Don Federico Lacroze's old Rural Tramway railroad' and finishes on arrival at Estación Fátima. The train departs from Federico Lacroze train station, in Chacarita. There are several options to choose from, all of which include lunch. It is worth considering that tickets can be delivered to your address at no extra charge, when making telephone reservations.

Our Local Expert Says:

For about a dollar you can purchase a map of the cemetery from vendors at the entrance. It will prove to be quite useful when you find yourself in the maze inside.

Description:

This cemetery was a church graveyard until 1882 when the Governor opened it to the general public and renamed it Cemetery of the North. Small, and situated on the city's most valuable land, its importance resides in the many illustrious people that rest here. One of the most visited tombstones is Eva Peron's. The majority of materials used in the construction of tombs between 1880 and 1930 were imported from Paris and Milan, and important sculptural works grace many of the tombs.

Description:

Pride is San Telmo's landmark gay-friendly cafe, situated on a well-appointed corner on a leafy side street, this coffee shop draws film students from the nearby academy as well as a host of other locals and travelers from all walks of life. Order waffles with dulce de leche, a colorful spinach salad, or a chunky chocolate chip cookie (a Buenos Aires rarity) and dine at casual sidewalk tables. For inventive and surprisingly inexpensive cocktails, like Vodkatinis and Frozen Gancias, slip into the sleek white and silver interior. The window seating is an ideal nook for reading the Sunday paper, cappuccino in hand.

Description:

Located in the center of the city, this park occupies 12 hectares filled with centennial trees of different species. In the middle, there is an enormous artificial pond with ducks and exotic birds. On Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, from 11am to 8pm peruse exhibits of works in metal, clay, leather, fabrics, et cetera, made by local artisans. There are also different artistic performances throughout the year, sponsored by the Government of the City of Buenos Aires. Admission is free.

Our Local Expert Says:

.Eating in el Caminito can be very expensive and of poor quality because you are mostly charged for the tango performances during your meal. You might consider sitting at an outdoor café for a drink instead, and you can watch all of the street shows for free.

Description:

This open-air "museum" brings the brushstrokes of painter Benito Quinquela Martín to life in its colors, sculptures and ceramics. In fact, more than a museum, it is an art market where a constant exhibit of works inspired by the surrounding port area and neighborhood are sold. A stroll through here is sure to thrill the tourist for its uniqueness and air of bohemia. Humble dwellings painted in vibrant colors frame the pedestrian street known as el Caminito and immortalized in a tango tune of the same name. Its first inhabitants were the working-class Genoese immigrants who settled along this path, which led from the river to the railroad tracks and is now home to innovative artists. Italian cantinas can be found in the surrounding vicinity near the port area.

Description:

Boca Juniors is, without a doubt, Argentina's most popular soccer club. And that, in such a soccer-mad country, is not a small feat to accomplish. Inaugurated in 1940, the stadium is nicknamed "La Bombonera" (The chocolate box). The mad roaring of Boca's loyal fans (often including Diego Armando Maradona, arguably one of the greatest soccer players ever) during home games reverberates in such a way that is said to intimidate even the most seasoned opposition. The stadium also houses the Museo de la pasion Boquense, a small museum that celebrates the club's tradition.

Description:

This fashionable, gay-friendly eatery and art space occupies an antique building on the corner of a very desirable San Telmo intersection. Ascend the creaky wooden steps to find cozy nooks with black polka-dot tablecloths, red walls, and dramatic track lighting illuminating whimsical paintings. Succulent, unusual dishes like black spaghetti with seafood, trilla fish in white wine sauce, and salmon-stuffed ravioli, all stylishly presented on square white ceramic plates, evoke exclamations from the diverse clientele. Try to snag a table by one of the wrought iron balconies, complete with charming original glass panes, for choice views of the busy street below.