What Actually Defines the City of Smiles? The Answer Goes Beyond the Nickname

I have already visited Bacolod twice and I have been to some of its popular tourist destinations during those times. If you’re wondering what is Bacolod best known for, then you’re in for a treat.

Bacolod is the capital city of Negros Occidental, a province in the Philippines that is part of the Western Visayas region.

It is a city that charms visitors with its rich history, colorful festival, warm hospitality, and mouthwatering delicacies.

Known as the “City of Smiles,” Bacolod has a lot to offer to local and foreign travelers who want to experience its culture and beauty.

In this blog post, I will tell you some of the things that make Bacolod truly special and reveal some of its best-kept secrets.

Bacolod’s 5 Best-Kept Secrets

1. The Sweet Symphony of Masskara Festival

Dancers wearing colorful costumes and masks dancing a festival dance in the street.

Bacolod is perhaps best known for its world-renowned Masskara Festival, one of the festivals in the Visayas that showcases the creativity and happiness of the Bacolodnons, who wear masks and costumes that are colorful and elaborate and dance to upbeat music on the streets.

Masskara Festival is a reflection of the city’s strength and optimism, especially after overcoming challenges and calamities in the past.

Being able to witness this festival in person, its nightlife parties along Lacson Street, colorful and creative masks everywhere, street dancing competition, and both the local and foreign crowds, I would say that this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that anyone should try.

2. The Gastronomic Paradise

Different kinds of skewers (hotdog, chicken inasal, tocino, isaw, prok blood, etc.) on top of a table covered with banana leaves.

For food enthusiasts, Bacolod is a paradise for the taste buds. Renowned for its delicious cuisine, a harmonious blend of indigenous flavors and Spanish influences, has earned it a reputation as a foodie’s paradise.

From the iconic Chicken Inasal, a savory grilled chicken dish marinated in a secret blend of spices, to the sweet and creamy piaya, a local delicacy made of flatbread filled with muscovado sugar, Bacolod’s food scene is a symphony of flavors that will tease your palate and leave you craving more.

If you like to try different styles of Chicken Inasal and other grilled dishes, there is a famous place that every first timers in Bacolod should visit, the Manokan Country.

If you don’t have a sweet tooth like me but still want to try the pastries in this province, El Ideal Bakery in Silay City is perfect for you. Angel Cookies from this heritage place is my favorite by the way.

3. The Majestic Ruins of The Ruins

The Ruins of an old mansion surrounded with trees and a clean green lawn.

One of the most popular attractions in Bacolod is The Ruins, a magnificent mansion that was built by a wealthy sugar baron in the early 1900s and burned down during World War II.

The Ruins is a beautiful example of architecture and romance, as it was built as a tribute to the sugar baron’s beloved wife who died young.

This place is especially beautiful at sunset when the light creates a magical and enchanting effect. But be aware that most crowds also go here at this time.

So, if you don’t like other people on your frame, early morning or noon time is a good time to visit this tourist destination.

4. The Ancestral Homes of Silay City

Two-story ancestral white house gated with white and black fence and is surrounded with plants.

A short drive from Bacolod, there is a city called Silay, which is known as the “Paris of Negros” because of its well-preserved ancestral homes that date back to the Spanish colonial era.

These homes with intricate details reflect the elegance and wealth of the sugar barons who lived there in the 19th century.

Visitors can take a walking tour through Silay’s ancestral homes and learn about the history and culture of the city.

As of now, out of the 31 heritage houses in Silay, there are only 3 houses that have been converted into a museum (Balay Negrense, Hofilena Museum, and Bernardino Jalandoni Museum).

5. The Talisay City’s Campuestohan Highland Resort

For those who are looking for adventure, Bacolod’s Campuestohan Highland Resort in Talisay City is an ideal destination.

The resort is located in the highlands and offers a breathtaking view of the mountains and the countryside.

This also has a variety of activities for all ages, such as zip-lining, rope courses, and swimming pools with water slides.

Campuestohan is a fun and exciting place for families and friends that can be enjoyed even for a day.

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Best Time to Visit Bacolod

The best time to visit Bacolod depends on what you are looking for: weather, festivals, or budget.

The driest and coolest months are from January to April, which are ideal for outdoor activities.

The wettest months or rainy seasons are from June to September, which are not recommended if you don’t like the heat and the rainy days.

The months of May, October, November, and December are in between, with moderate temperature and rainfall.

The most popular festival is the Masskara Festival, which is held every October. However, this is also the peak season, which means higher prices and crowds.

I even experienced ATMs running out of cash because of an increase in withdrawals in the previous days due to the large number of visitors!

If you are traveling on a budget, you might want to avoid the peak seasons and go during the low seasons, when the prices are lower, and the availability is higher.

Conclusion: What Is Bacolod Best Known For?

In conclusion, Bacolod unveils its best-kept secrets through a journey of festivals, culinary delights, architectural wonders, and natural retreats.

It is a city that not only charms with its smiles but also invites you to savor its unique blend of experiences and discover the hidden gems that make it a truly special destination.

If you want to discover the secrets of this city, book your trip to Bacolod today and experience the best of the Philippines.

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About the Author

Hi! I’m Kristine (aka KR). I’m the main developer of Philippine Hidden Gems. My work includes going to places to cover events and places that I’m happy to share with the readers.

Even though I’m an introvert who loves to read and stay indoors all the time, I love to travel outside the country (at least once a year) and nearby regions within PH.

My recent hobbies include learning Japanese culture and exploring the world of K-Pop as a Carat.

What Actually Defines the City of Smiles? The Answer Goes Beyond the Nickname

Bacolod’s 5 Best-Kept Secrets