Parque da Juventude - A playground sits quiet under the trees.
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Parque da Juventude

4.3
·20k reviews·, Brazil

A symbol of transformation, this park offers green spaces, sports, and history on the former Carandiru prison grounds.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends, mornings

Enjoy activities before crowds

CrowdMedium
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Parque da Juventude - A playground sits quiet under the trees.

Parque da Juventude

Best Time

Weekends, mornings

Enjoy activities before crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A symbol of transformation, this park offers green spaces, sports, and history on the former Carandiru prison grounds.

4.3
(20k reviews)

"Beautiful open space green area. The museum and Carandiru prison are worth the visit."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring across this large park.

🐶 Dogs are welcome!

Bring your furry friends to enjoy the green spaces and designated areas.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Carandiru Memorial

The Carandiru Memorial

Former prison site

Explore the remnants of the infamous Carandiru prison, now a museum and a poignant reminder of São Paulo's history.

Reddit
Sports and Recreation Hub

Sports and Recreation Hub

Various courts and fields

From tennis and football to volleyball and skateboarding, this park is an athlete's paradise with dedicated areas for all.

TikTok
Green Oasis and Dog Park

Green Oasis and Dog Park

Expansive green areas

Relax on the vast lawns, enjoy a picnic, or let your furry friend roam free in the dedicated dog park.

TikTok
Circus and Workout Zones

Circus and Workout Zones

Designated areas

Catch a circus performance or get your workout in at the outdoor fitness stations scattered throughout the park.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the History, Respect the Space

Parque da Juventude stands on the former Carandiru prison grounds. While now a vibrant green space, its history is palpable. Be mindful of the past as you explore, and remember that some areas may have security concerns, especially after dark. Reddit

Plan Your Visit: Free Fun Awaits

This expansive park offers a wealth of free activities, from sports courts and skate parks to green areas for relaxation. Check for temporary exhibitions or events, as they often add to the park's appeal. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekends, mornings
Why
Enjoy activities before crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter atmosphere for strolls
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Roteiros de passeios/rolês gratuitos para se fazer em um sábado em São Paulo. Parque da Juventude: exposição de circo e ruínas do Carandiru Instituto Moreira Salles Parque Trianon Centro Cultural Coreano Itaú Cultural Japan House Sesc Paulista #oquefazeremsp #roleemsp #turismoemsp #passeiosgratuitosemsp #rolesgratuitos
@rolecomrenan
109K likes • 1.2M views

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring across this large park. TikTok

🐶 Dogs are welcome!

Bring your furry friends to enjoy the green spaces and designated areas. TikTok

muito daora estudar la 🤙
@fes.ti_
34K likes • 182.1K views
📣O Parque da Juventude de Portimão já reabriu‼️ . 🏡No rescaldo da reabertura oficial que teve lugar o fim de semana passado, é com orgulho que convidamos tod@s s portimonenses e visitantes a vir descobrir este espaço. . Passe por cá 🤩 Aguardamos a sua visita 🦚
portimaooficial
436 likes • 14.4K views

🚴‍♀️ Bike-friendly paths

Cycle through the park on designated paths for a fun way to see it all. TikTok

📜 Respect the history

Remember the park's past as the Carandiru prison; some find the energy heavy. TikTok

🌳✨ Vem aí o Parque da Juventude e ele já nasce olhando para o futuro! 🍎 Mais de 1.000 mudas já foram plantadas. 🌿E esse é só o começo: no futuro o parque vai ficar cada vez mais verde, lindo e acolhedor, um lugar feito para reunir famílias, amigos e boas histórias. \#Barueri #UmaCidadeFeitaPraVocê #PrefeituraDeBarueri #SecomBarueri #SemaBarueri
prefeituradebarueri
2.4K likes • 71K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring across this large park. TikTok

🐶 Dogs are welcome!

Bring your furry friends to enjoy the green spaces and designated areas. TikTok

🚴‍♀️ Bike-friendly paths

Cycle through the park on designated paths for a fun way to see it all. TikTok

📜 Respect the history

Remember the park's past as the Carandiru prison; some find the energy heavy. TikTok

🔒 Be aware of security

Some areas, especially around the park's perimeter, may not feel entirely safe. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(20k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Parque da Juventude is praised for its vast green spaces, diverse sports facilities, and the unique historical significance of its former Carandiru prison site. Visitors appreciate it as a free, dog-friendly urban escape for recreation and relaxation. However, some users express concerns about safety in certain areas, particularly after dark.

"Nice park to play tennis, soccer,volleyball and there is a special place to skateboard. You can use your bike in all the park, your dog is welcome too and if you like history, this place was a prison."

André Abreu

"It's seems to be divided into 3 really amazing sections.. and . .. you'll love all of them!"

Holanda Tsitudzi

"Beautiful open space green area. The museum and Carandiru prison are worth the visit."

P4K to

What People Like

Vast green spaces
Diverse sports facilities
Historical Carandiru site

What People Dislike

Safety concerns in some areas

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Parque da Juventude is accessible via public transport. The closest metro station is Carandiru on Line 1-Blue. From there, it's a short walk. Buses also serve the area. TikTok

While specific parking details can vary, it's generally recommended to use public transport due to potential limited parking and to avoid traffic. TikTok

Taking Metro Line 1-Blue from a central station towards Tucuruvi and alighting at Carandiru station is a straightforward route. TikTok

São Paulo has been expanding its bike lane network, and it's advisable to check local cycling maps for routes leading to the park. TikTok

The park aims to be inclusive, with paved paths in many areas. However, it's always a good idea to check for specific accessibility information if needed. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Parque da Juventude is a public park and offers free entry to all visitors. TikTok

The park is generally open daily, but specific hours can vary. It's best to check the official São Paulo city parks website for the most up-to-date information. TikTok

Entry to the park itself is free. For any specific exhibitions or events within the park, it's advisable to check their individual booking requirements. TikTok

Yes, the former prison site is integrated into the park and often features a museum or memorial. Entry to these areas is typically free or has a nominal fee. Reddit

As a public park, general rules of conduct apply. Large groups might need to check for specific regulations. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can play tennis, football, volleyball, skateboard, cycle, walk, picnic, visit the museum, and enjoy the green spaces. TikTok

While the park is a popular recreational spot, some Reddit users have noted that certain areas might not feel entirely safe, especially after dark. It's advisable to be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

Public parks typically offer restrooms and water fountains. It's recommended to carry your own water bottle. TikTok

Yes, dogs are welcome in the park, and there's even a dedicated dog park area. TikTok

It's a symbol of transformation, built on the site of the former Carandiru prison, offering green spaces, sports facilities, and a place for community gathering. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The park primarily focuses on recreational activities. While there might be occasional food vendors during events, it's best to bring your own snacks and drinks or dine in nearby areas. TikTok

Absolutely! The park's large green areas are perfect for picnics. TikTok

The surrounding neighborhoods, like Santana, offer a variety of restaurants and eateries. You can explore options before or after your visit. TikTok

Generally, public parks have regulations regarding alcohol consumption. It's advisable to check local ordinances or park rules. TikTok

During special events or on busy weekends, food trucks might be present, but this is not a consistent feature. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The green expanses, sports facilities, and the historical remnants of Carandiru offer diverse photographic opportunities. Instagram

Regulations for drone usage in public parks can be strict. It's essential to check with park authorities or local aviation guidelines before flying a drone. TikTok

For professional or commercial shoots, it's usually necessary to obtain permits from the park administration. TikTok

Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer beautiful lighting for capturing the park's landscapes and architecture. TikTok

While general photography is allowed, be mindful of privacy. It's courteous to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Parque da Juventude is a fantastic destination for families. The expansive green areas are perfect for picnics and letting kids run around. There are also sports courts where families can play together, and the general atmosphere is welcoming for all ages. TikTok

While the park doesn't have dedicated playgrounds in the traditional sense, the open spaces, the opportunity to cycle, and the general vibrancy of the park make it an engaging environment for children. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as on-site food options might be limited. TikTok

🐶 Dog Owners

Parque da Juventude is a dog-friendly park, making it a great spot for pet owners. Your canine companions are welcome to explore the grounds with you, and there's even a dedicated dog park area where they can socialize and play off-leash. TikTok

Ensure your dog is on a leash when not in the designated dog park and always clean up after them. It's a wonderful place for dogs to get exercise and enjoy the outdoors alongside their owners. TikTok

🚴‍♀️ Cyclists and Skaters

For those who love to cycle or skate, Parque da Juventude offers dedicated facilities. You can ride your bike throughout the park on its paths, enjoying the scenery. TikTok The park also boasts a professional skate park, attracting skaters looking for a place to practice their tricks. Instagram

It's an excellent spot for both casual riders and more experienced athletes to enjoy their respective sports in a safe and engaging environment. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Transformation of Carandiru

Parque da Juventude is a powerful symbol of urban renewal, built on the grounds of the former Carandiru prison. This transformation, spearheaded by landscape architect Rosa Kliass, aimed to reclaim a space associated with tragedy and turn it into a vibrant hub for the community. The park's design emphasizes green spaces, sports facilities, and areas for leisure and culture, creating a stark contrast to its grim past. Instagram+1

The project involved extensive landscaping and the creation of diverse recreational zones. It's a testament to how urban planning can redefine a location's identity and improve the quality of life for its residents. Visitors can still find elements that hint at the site's history, offering a unique blend of remembrance and recreation. Reddit

This ressignification of the Carandiru site is a significant example of how cities can address challenging histories through thoughtful development. The park now serves as a place for sports, relaxation, and community events, demonstrating a successful transition from a place of confinement to one of freedom and activity. Instagram

Sports and Recreation Galore

Parque da Juventude is a haven for sports enthusiasts, offering a wide array of facilities. Visitors can enjoy tennis courts, football fields, volleyball courts, and a dedicated skate park. TikTok The park is designed to encourage physical activity and provide spaces for both organized sports and casual recreation. Instagram

Beyond team sports, the park also features areas for cycling and jogging, with paths winding through its green expanses. This makes it an ideal destination for those looking to stay active outdoors. The inclusion of a professional skate park is a major draw for skaters of all levels. Instagram

Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just looking for a fun way to spend your day, Parque da Juventude provides ample opportunities to engage in sports and outdoor activities. The variety of facilities ensures there's something for everyone, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. Instagram

Navigating Safety and Community Sentiment

While Parque da Juventude is a beloved public space, community discussions on platforms like Reddit highlight some concerns regarding safety. Some users have indicated that certain areas, particularly around the park's perimeter or after dark, may not feel entirely secure. Reddit

This sentiment suggests that while the park is generally a place for recreation and enjoyment, visitors should remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings, especially during less crowded times or in less frequented sections. It's always advisable to stick to well-lit areas and avoid venturing into isolated spots alone, particularly at night. Reddit

Despite these concerns, the park remains a vital community asset, offering much-needed green space and recreational opportunities. The balance between enjoying its amenities and exercising caution is key to a positive experience. Reddit

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