More about SM City Marikina
Discover Fun Facts About SM City Marikina in Manila, Philippines
SM City Marikina is a shopping center located in Marikina City, Metro Manila, Philippines. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists who are looking for a one-stop-shop for all their needs. The mall is owned and operated by SM Prime Holdings, one of the largest mall operators in the country.
Fun Fact: Did you know that SM City Marikina is the first mall in the Philippines to have an Olympic-sized ice skating rink? The rink is open to the public and is a unique attraction that draws in crowds of all ages. It is also the largest ice skating rink in Southeast Asia, with a total area of 1,800 square meters.
5 Reasons Why You Should Visit SM City Marikina
1. Shopping: SM City Marikina is home to over 500 stores, ranging from high-end brands to local boutiques. Visitors can shop for clothes, shoes, accessories, electronics, and other items at affordable prices.
2. Entertainment: Aside from the ice skating rink, SM City Marikina also has a cinema that shows the latest movies. There is also a bowling alley, a billiards hall, and an arcade that offers a variety of games for all ages.
3. Food: SM City Marikina has a wide range of dining options, from fast food chains to fine dining restaurants. Visitors can choose from local Filipino cuisine, international dishes, and fusion cuisine.
4. Events: The mall hosts various events throughout the year, such as concerts, fashion shows, and food festivals. Visitors can check the mall's website or social media pages to stay updated on the latest events.
5. Accessibility: SM City Marikina is easily accessible by public transportation. Visitors can take a jeepney, a bus, or a taxi to get to the mall. There is also ample parking space for those who prefer to drive.
Top Activities to Do Near SM City Marikina
Aside from shopping and entertainment, there are other activities that visitors can do near SM City Marikina. Here are some of the top activities:
1. Visit the Marikina Shoe Museum: The museum showcases the history of the shoe industry in Marikina, which is known as the "Shoe Capital of the Philippines." Visitors can see various shoes, including those worn by former Philippine presidents and celebrities.
2. Explore the Marikina River Park: The park is a great place to relax and unwind. It has a jogging path, a playground, and a picnic area. Visitors can also rent a bike and explore the park on two wheels.
3. Go on a food tour: Marikina is known for its food scene, and visitors can go on a food tour to sample some of the best dishes in the area. Some of the must-try dishes include pancit Marikina, sapin-sapin, and kakanin.
4. Visit the Our Lady of the Abandoned Parish Church: The church is a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics. It is known for its Baroque-style architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
How to Go to SM City Marikina: Your Ultimate Guide
SM City Marikina is located along Marcos Highway in Marikina City, Metro Manila. Here are some ways to get to the mall:
1. By jeepney: Visitors can take a jeepney that is bound for Marikina Bayan or Calumpang. They can get off at the corner of Marcos Highway and Sumulong Highway, which is just a few minutes' walk from the mall.
2. By bus: Visitors can take a bus that is bound for Marikina Bayan or Antipolo. They can get off at the corner of Marcos Highway and Sumulong Highway, which is just a few minutes' walk from the mall.
3. By taxi: Visitors can take a taxi from anywhere in Metro Manila to get to the mall. The taxi fare may vary depending on the traffic and the distance.
10 Fun Things to Do Near SM City Marikina
Aside from the activities mentioned earlier, here are 10 more fun things to do near SM City Marikina:
1. Visit the Marikina Sports Center: The sports center has facilities for basketball, tennis, badminton, and other sports. Visitors can also swim in the Olympic-sized swimming pool.
2. Go on a hike: Marikina has several hiking trails, including the Mt. Balagbag and Mt. Pamitinan trails. Visitors can enjoy nature and get a good workout at the same time.
3. Visit the Marikina Public Market: The market is a great place to buy fresh produce, meat, and seafood. Visitors can also find local delicacies and souvenirs.
4. Go on a museum tour: Aside from the Marikina Shoe Museum, there are other museums in the area, such as the MINT Museum of Toys and the Philippine Science Centrum.
5. Visit the Marikina Riverbanks Center: The center has a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Visitors can also go on a river cruise or rent a bike and explore the area.
6. Go on a heritage tour: Marikina has several heritage sites, such as the Kapitan Moy ancestral house, the Marikina City Hall, and the Marikina Freedom Park.
7. Visit the Marikina Heights Art Center: The center showcases the works of local artists. Visitors can buy paintings, sculptures, and other artworks.
8. Go on a food trip: Marikina has several food destinations, such as Lilac Street, which is known for its food stalls and restaurants.
9. Visit the Marikina City Public Library: The library has a collection of books, magazines, and newspapers. Visitors can also use the computers and the internet for free.
10. Go on a shopping spree: Aside from SM City Marikina, there are other shopping destinations in the area, such as Riverbanks Center and Sta. Lucia East Grand Mall.
Find Your Perfect Hotel Near SM City Marikina with Agoda.com
If you're planning to visit SM City Marikina, it's important to find the perfect hotel that will suit your needs and budget. Agoda.com can help you find the best deals on hotels near SM City Marikina. Here are some of the hotels that are near the mall:
1. Belmont Hotel Manila - Multiple Use Hotel: This hotel is just a few minutes' drive from SM City Marikina. It has modern rooms, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.
2. Heritage Hotel (Multiple-Use Hotel): This hotel is located in Pasay City, which is just a few kilometers away from SM City Marikina. It has spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center.
3. Dusit Thani Manila: This hotel is located in Makati City, which is a bit farther from SM City Marikina. It has luxurious rooms, a spa, and several dining options.
4. Holiday Inn Express Manila Newport City: This hotel is located near the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, which is just a few kilometers away from SM City Marikina. It has comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center.
5. Savoy Hotel Manila: This hotel is located in Pasay City, which is just a few kilometers away from SM City Marikina. It has stylish rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop pool.
Best Season to Visit SM City Marikina: A Guide for Travelers
The best season to visit SM City Marikina is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This is the time when the weather is cooler and less humid, making it more comfortable for visitors to explore the mall and the surrounding areas. The wet season, which runs from May to October, is characterized by heavy rain and occasional typhoons, which may affect travel plans.
Expert Tips for Travelers Visiting SM City Marikina
1. Wear comfortable shoes: SM City Marikina is a large mall, and visitors may need to do a lot of walking. It's important to wear comfortable shoes to avoid getting tired easily.
2. Bring an umbrella: The Philippines is known for its unpredictable weather, and it's always a good idea to bring an umbrella or a raincoat, especially during the rainy season.
3. Bring a reusable water bottle: It's important to stay hydrated, especially during hot weather. Visitors can bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at the mall's water stations.
4. Bring a power bank: Visitors can bring a power bank to ensure that their mobile devices are always charged. There are several charging stations in the mall, but they may be crowded during peak hours.
Where to Stay Near SM City Marikina: A Local Guide
Aside from the hotels mentioned earlier, there are other accommodations near SM City Marikina that visitors can consider. Here are some of the options:
1. Budget hotels: There are several budget hotels near SM City Marikina, such as Hotel Sogo and Eurotel.
2. Hostels: There are also several hostels in the area, such as Our Melting Pot Hostel and Junction Hostels.
3. Apartments: Visitors can also rent apartments or condominium units near SM City Marikina. Some of the options include SMDC Blue Residences and Grass Residences.
What to Eat Near SM City Marikina
Marikina is known for its food scene, and visitors can find a variety of dishes near SM City Marikina. Here are some of the must-try dishes:
1. Pancit Marikina: This is a local noodle dish that is made with thick noodles, vegetables, and meat. It is usually served with calamansi and soy sauce.
2. Sapin-sapin: This is a colorful dessert that is made with glutinous rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar. It is usually served during special occasions.
3. Kakanin: This is a type of rice cake that comes in different flavors, such as ube, pandan, and coconut.
4. Sisig: This is a popular Filipino dish that is made with chopped pork, onions, and chili peppers. It is usually served on a sizzling plate.
How to Travel Around SM City Marikina
SM City Marikina is a large mall, and visitors may need to travel around the area to explore other attractions. Here are some ways to travel around SM City Marikina:
1. Jeepney: Jeepneys are the most common mode of transportation in the Philippines. Visitors can take a jeepney to get to other destinations in Marikina.
2. Tricycle: Tricycles are also a common mode of transportation in the Philippines. They are ideal for short distances and can take visitors to nearby destinations.
3. Taxi: Taxis are available in the area, but they may be more expensive compared to jeepneys and tricycles.
What to Know Before Visiting SM City Marikina
1. SM City Marikina is open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM from Monday to Sunday.
2. The mall can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so visitors may want to avoid these days if they want to avoid the crowds.
3. There are several ATMs and money changers in the mall, but visitors may want to bring cash as some stores may not accept credit cards.
4. Visitors are advised to be cautious of their belongings, especially in crowded areas. It's important to keep an eye on bags and wallets to avoid theft.
5. Visitors are also advised to follow the mall's rules and regulations, such as not smoking in prohibited areas and not littering.