Renowned as a green oasis amidst the bustle of Saigon, Hoang Van Thu Park is an ideal getaway for those who want to get rid of all the pressure and fatigue from their busy lives. Here, you can experience rare moments of peace and relaxation beneath the green trees and join in interesting activities in a truly poetic setting.
1. Overview of Hoang Van Thu Park
- Location: Ward 2, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening hours: 24/7
- Entrance fees: Free of charge
For a long time, Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, has been one of Vietnam’s largest cities, with noticeable population growth every year. In order to address the recreational demands of the locals, the authority has constructed numerous parks scattered throughout the city.
Hoang Van Thu Park stands among the biggest parks in Saigon, along with Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, Tao Dan Park, and September 23rd Park. It is situated right in the heart of the city, approximately 1.5 kilometers to the south of Tan Son Nhat International Airport. The park spans an estimated total area of up to 106,500 square meters, including a large lake of 7,852 square meters wide in the center.
One of the park’s unique features is its triangular layout, which is encircled by three major streets: Tran Quoc Toan, Phan Dinh Giot, and Hoang Van Thu. The design of its welcoming gate is another highlight. With a contemporary design of elegance, the gate embodies the exceptional growth of a dynamic Saigon.
The paths leading to the center of Hoang Van Thu Park are fully lined with lush trees and vibrant flower beds. Visitors can stroll around the park, then find a picturesque spot to rest while soaking in the soothing atmosphere.
Check out more places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City for a fulfilling itinerary!
2. History of Hoang Van Thu Park in Ho Chi Minh City
Before 1975, this area served as a helicopter airfield for a field hospital. Following the liberation of Saigon in 1975, the management of the area was transferred to Tan Binh District in 1988.
Hoang Van Thu Park was officially established on March 28, 1989. Besides an array of trees, flowers, and a tranquil lake, the park also boasts an 820-square-meter outdoor playground for children, which was inaugurated in 2012. These features are what make this park appealing to visitors of all ages.
Hoang Van Thu Park is one of the few parks in Saigon that were built after 1975. Since its opening, the park has welcomed millions of people, hosting numerous entertainment activities and cultural events.
3. Best things to do in Hoang Van Thu Park
Coming to Hoang Van Thu Park, you will have an opportunity to experience the daily life of an authentic local. You can wander around, take in the lush surroundings, enjoy the fresh air, and engage in enticing activities.
3.1. Stroll around the park
If you seek a quick escape among the bustle of Saigon, Hoang Van Thu Park is the perfect place to come. Here, you can leisurely take a stroll beneath the leafy trees, listen to the harmony melodies of birdsongs, and observe people passing by on nearby streets. Enjoying a calm break amidst this natural setting is much like taking a dose of healing medication for your soul.
Early mornings and evenings are the busiest times of the day, when visitors go to the park to take a walk, do exercises, or just simply enjoy its fresh air. Furthermore, the park offers a wonderful background for young people and families who want to capture unforgettable moments through gorgeous photographs.
3.2. Go for a picnic at Hoang Van Thu Park
With lush grass, Hoang Van Thu Park is an ideal destination for a picnic. Simply bring a lovely mat, snacks, and drinks, and you are all set for a comfortable picnic with friends and family in these refreshing surroundings. In addition, the spacious playground will keep your children entertained, while the large lake is perfect for those who enjoy fishing. Notably, this park is also home to flocks of pigeons, with which visitors are welcome to interact with, feed, and take photos of. The combination of these elements is what makes Hoang Van Thu Park an ideal destination for a weekend picnic.
3.3. Take a cup of coffee in a nearby cafe shop
Apart from engaging in enjoyable activities within the park, you can roam throughout the neighborhood and relax at a cafe in Saigon. Here are some recommendations that you might want to try:
- Trung Nguyen Legend Coffee: 249A Hoang Van Thu Street, Tan Binh District
- Blue Coffee & Restaurant: 202 Hoang Van Thu Street, Phu Nhuan District
- Hom Nao Cafe: 159/4 Hoang Van Thu Street, Phu Nhuan District
3.4. Enjoy Saigonese specialties around the park
Coming to Hoang Van Thu Park, don’t miss the opportunity to explore nearby mouth-watering eateries that feature Ho Chi Minh City street food such as vermicelli with tofu and fermented shrimp paste (bun dau mam tom), kebab rice noodles (bun cha), and chicken rice (com ga). Fill your hungry tummy at the recommended eateries below:
- Bun dau A Chanh: 404 Hoang Van Thu Street, Tan Binh District
- Bun cha Xuan Tu: 26A2 Bui Thi Xuan Street, Phu Nhuan District
- Com ga Hong Phat: 87 – 89 Hoang Van Thu Street, Phu Nhuan District
Explore more things to do in Ho Chi Minh City and plan the most wonderful vacation!
4. How to get to Hoang Van Thu Park
Hoang Van Thu Park is easily accessible by various means of transportation:
- By bus: Several bus routes pass by the park, including No. 04, 08, 103, etc. Taking the bus will give you the taste of being an authentic local.
- By motorbike/car: Renting a motorbike or car to travel around is a favorable choice for those who seek flexibility. Rest assured, as the park offers a spacious parking area for your vehicles.
- By taxi: Taking a taxi is favorably opted by those who seek comfort. Among many taxi companies in the city, Xanh SM stands out as Vietnam’s pioneering brand that utilizes VinFast electric cars with supreme customer service. With a quick and easy booking process, Xanh SM promises to bring tourists a fresh experience at reasonable prices.
Amidst the bustle of Saigon, Hoang Van Thu Park attracts tourists with its tranquil yet vivid charm. When in Saigon, you should also explore other famous attractions such as Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, War Remnants Museum, Saigon Central Post Office, Ben Thanh Market, Ho Chi Minh City Book Street, Cu Chi Tunnels, etc. Each of these attractions boasts rich architectural, historical, and cultural values, giving visitors a multi-dimensional view of the beauty of the city.
Once you conclude your Ho Chi Minh City trip, Vietnam travel beckons with countless other destinations, including Hanoi, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, etc. These alluring spots offer distinctive natural scenery, local cuisine, engaging activities, and premium accommodations. Notably, the complexes of VinWonders and Vinpearl never cease to leave visitors with awe-inspiring memories.
Entering the magnificent world of VinWonders, a leading brand of entertainment complexes in Vietnam, tourists will get to experience endless excitement. With a series of thrilling games, interactive activities, and mesmerizing shows, VinWonders promises to satisfy visitors of all ages.
And to round out your vacation in Vietnam, don’t forget to reserve a stay at the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl to enjoy luxurious accommodations with modern amenities after a long day of exploration.
Book tickets to VinWonders Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Nam Hoi An, VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium and VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park to relish your dream vacation in Vietnam!