Welcome to La Plata, the vibrant, lively city nestled just an hour away from bustling Buenos Aires. As South America’s first planned city, La Plata boasts a unique grid system dotted with diagonal streets that make navigation a breeze, albeit causing some head-scratching at intersections, earning it the nickname “The City of Diagonals.” With a population exceeding 700,000, this university town offers a blend of trendy craft beer bars, local music venues, and delectable dining options that cater to all tastes.
Being the capital of the Buenos Aires province, La Plata is home to an array of ornate government buildings nestled amid lush green plazas, creating a picturesque backdrop for your exploration. Let’s delve into the 20 best things you can experience in La Plata:
- Museo de La Plata
- Marvel at the wonders of the best natural history museum in the world.
- Explore a diverse collection ranging from fossils and mummies to reconstructed dinosaurs.
- Journey through exhibits on biology, zoology, paleontology, cultural ethnography, and more.
- Don’t miss the temporary displays featuring intriguing topics like Pre-Columbian foods and evolutionary theory.
English tours are available to enhance your museum experience.
Catedral de La Plata
- Admire the grandeur of this Neo-Gothic cathedral dedicated to the Immaculate Conception.
- Climb up one of the towers for panoramic views of the city.
- Visit the crypt housing the city’s founders and explore the ecclesiastical museum.
Take a leisurely stroll through the neighboring Plaza Moreno for a complete experience.
Paseo del Bosque
- Escape to this expansive green oasis featuring a zoo, observatory, and botanical gardens.
- Embark on a boat ride on the serene lake or explore the trails on foot.
- Enjoy a picnic amidst nature or savor traditional Argentine delicacies from nearby stalls.
Unwind in the tranquility of this verdant haven, perfect for a sunny afternoon outing.
Teatro Argentino
- Immerse yourself in the cultural scene at the second-most important opera house in Argentina.
- Witness a diverse range of performances including operas, ballets, concerts, and orchestral showcases.
Experience the fabulous acoustics of Ginastera Hall in this architectural gem.
Casa Curutchet
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site designed by renowned architect Le Corbusier.
- Step inside this architectural marvel showcasing modernist design principles.
Gain insight into the history of Casa Curutchet, a unique blend of functionality and aesthetics.
Listen to Live Indie Rock
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant indie rock scene that La Plata is famous for.
- Catch local bands performing at popular venues like Bar Imperio, El Rincón de los Amigos, and Ciudad Vieja.
Experience the rich musical heritage of the city known for nurturing talent.
Explore La Plata’s Craft Beer Scene
- Indulge in the craft beer revolution at hip bars and breweries scattered across the city.
- Savor artisanal brews at La Posta del Angel, Chicha, Falkner, and Molly’s Beer House.
Pair your beer with delectable snacks and immerse yourself in the trendy beer culture of La Plata.
Go Hang Gliding
- Soar above the picturesque plains near La Plata with a thrilling hang gliding experience.
- Opt for tandem flights or embark on a solo adventure under the expert guidance of experienced instructors.
Enjoy breathtaking views and capture memorable moments during your flight.
La República de los Niños
- Venture to this unique theme park, known as the “City of the Children,” for a whimsical experience.
- Explore miniature replicas of government buildings, a petting zoo, and various attractions designed for children.
Discover the charm of this historic park that offers a range of entertainment options for the whole family.
Centro Cultural Islas Malvinas
- Discover a cultural center commemorating the historical conflict over the Falkland Islands.
- Explore exhibits, artworks, and outdoor spaces dedicated to preserving the memory of fallen veterans.
- Immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of the region at this intriguing cultural hub.
Feria Artesanal de Plaza Italia
- Browse through the bustling artisan market at Plaza Italia for unique souvenirs and local crafts.
- Shop for traditional Argentine products, including mate gourds, leather goods, textiles, and ceramics.
- Enjoy live music, street food, and a vibrant atmosphere at this vibrant market.
Eat Like an Argentine
- Delight your taste buds with high-quality steak at classic parrillas in La Plata.
- Indulge in traditional Argentine cuisine paired with local wines like Malbec at iconic eateries.
- Experience the culinary delights of the city at renowned establishments like Parrilla Los Discos and Parilla Lo de Tato.
Check out La Plata’s Art Museums
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene of La Plata by visiting the city’s art museums.
- Explore a diverse range of artworks by popular and emerging artists at the Municipal Art Museum and Museum of Contemporary Art.
- Marvel at the collection of fine arts at the Museo Provincial de Bellas Artes Emilio Pettoruti.
La Plata’s Government Buildings
- Discover the architectural splendor of La Plata’s government buildings, including the Palacio de la Legislatura and Casa de Gobierno.
- Tour the historic landmarks in Plaza San Martin and learn about the province’s governance and legislative processes.
- Capture the grandeur of the Palacio Municipal, an iconic building in the heart of the city.
Pereyra Iraola Park
- Escape to this sprawling nature reserve for outdoor adventures and leisure activities.
- Explore scenic trails, birdwatching spots, and camping grounds in the park.
- Visit the bustling markets on Sundays for shopping and cultural experiences.
In conclusion, La Plata offers a plethora of attractions and experiences that cater to a diverse range of interests. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, outdoor adventurer, or food connoisseur, this scenic city has something for everyone. Make the most of your visit by exploring these top recommendations and immersing yourself in the vibrant spirit of La Plata. Enjoy your stay and create unforgettable memories in this charming Argentine destination!