Beneath our feet lies a tale of transformation. This is the story of Parque Bicentenario. It is a story of how Quito turned its old airport into the city’s largest green space.
Before us stretches a vast park. It spans 125 hectares. Imagine this space as Quito’s former Aeropuerto Mariscal Sucre. For decades, planes took off and landed here. In 2013, the airport moved to Tababela. The city then had a blank slate in its heart.
The idea for Parque Bicentenario began to take shape. It was to commemorate 200 years of Ecuador’s independence from Spain. The park’s name reflects this historical milestone.
In 2008, a competition sought designs for the space. Architects Ernest Bilbao and Robert Sproull Jr. won. Their vision was a park prioritizing nature and pedestrians.
Today, Parque Bicentenario is a vibrant hub. Families gather. Children play. People picnic. It’s a place for relaxation and recreation. Many people enjoy playing soccer on the grassy fields. Bikers and joggers make use of the old runway. It is now called Bulevar Amazonas.
Look around you. See the joggers, the families and the dogs. Despite a rule requiring leashes, dogs run freely here. This bustling park is now a far cry from its days as an airport.
Notice the trees around us. Many are still young. They offer limited shade. Quito’s weather changes quickly so sunscreen and umbrellas are useful.
To our left is Quito’s old airport terminal. It cannot be entered. It now houses Quito’s Tourism division offices. Imagine countless planes once parked here. Think of all the people who passed through these gates. This is a tangible link to Quito’s aviation history.
Let’s walk towards the Museo Aeronáutico y del Espacio de la FAE. It’s Ecuador’s Air Force Museum. It makes sense that it is located here. You can see old airplanes there. It’s a cool experience for aviation enthusiasts and children.
Consider the park’s walking paths. Sendero Los Alisos is quieter. Sendero Guabos is busier. Both offer a chance to stretch your legs.
If the day is clear, look south. You might glimpse the Cotopaxi Volcano. It’s about 50km away.
Parque Bicentenario is more than just a park. It is a symbol of Quito’s evolution. It has transformed from an airport to a space for community and recreation. It also serves as a reminder of Ecuador’s history. The park embodies the spirit of the city. It’s a vibrant space where the past and present converge.