by Carissa Bongalosa
Thanks to its central location, Cebu is often a launchpad to sun-drenched shores and island escapades. But linger a little longer, and you’ll uncover a city brimming with delights for families. Beneath the urban buzz, history whispers from weathered forts, museums ignite young imaginations, and marine wonders thrive just moments from the heart of it all. It’s a metropolis with more than enough to keep curious families entertained.
Moving from Manila, I quickly grew fond of Cebu’s rhythm. Over the years, I’ve discovered hidden corners that became beloved haunts for my young son. There’s an undeniable charm here—one moment, you’re sipping coffee by the sea; the next, you’re walking paths shaped by history.
We decided to put Metro Cebu to the test: 48 hours and a mission to prove that this place is more than just a transit point—it’s a destination for families who love to explore.
From ancient forts to ocean parks and mountaintop hideaways to unexpected slices of France, here’s how we saw Cebu through the eyes of a child.
Fort San Pedro
After breakfast, we grabbed a cab bound for Fort San Pedro, the country’s oldest Spanish fort. It was either a hit or a historical snooze-fest for the little one. Luckily, the fort had plenty to keep my five-year- old entertained. While the adults took in the weathered stone walls and centuries-old relics, he had his mission: inspect the cannons and turn the expansive green lawns into a race track. For my son, the real magic wasn’t in the history books — it was in the simple joy of running free in a place where time stood still.
National Museum Cebu
A short walk from Fort San Pedro, the National Museum Cebu (previously Malacañang of Cebu) became our much-needed retreat—calm, quiet, and packed with stories. Just past the entrance, Vicente S. Manansala’s Planting of the First Cross set the tone, a striking nod to Cebu’s Catholic roots.
Inside the first gallery, a life-sized whale shark and the rare Cebu Tamaraw captivated my child. We traced the island’s trading past in Gallery 2 and marveled at seafaring relics in Gallery 3. Engaging and immersive, the museum didn’t just teach art and history—it made us feel them. It was the perfect midday escape for curious minds.
Cebu Ocean Park
Hopping on a MyBus outside the National Museum of Cebu, we were soon whisked away to Cebu Ocean Park. My niece, a first-timer, loved hand-feeding lorikeets, while my son, on his third visit, enjoyed seeing her excitement.
The highlight for the kids? The Penguin Café! They were mesmerized by the penguins, giggling as they made them follow their hands along the glass.
We also explored the Creepy Critters exhibit, the Oceanarium’s underwater tunnel with sharks and rays, and the lively bird show.
Sunset at Il Corso: A Golden-Hour Escape
My son’s imagination soared as we strolled the boardwalk, CCLEX gleaming in the sunset, and his tales of seafaring adventures filled the air.
As the sun dipped, we wandered Il Corso, Cebu’s premier waterfront hub. With children, I’ve found the CCLEX bridge is best admired from the seaside mall’s scenic boardwalk. Lantaw at Il Corso offered the perfect open-air setting by the water for dinner. We feasted on Squid Adobo and Garlic Buttered Shrimp, each bite a delight. The Crispy Pata and Kare-Kare na Pata added a rich taste of tradition.
Day 2: Into the Highlands
Lakeview Le Jardin: Breakfast Among Blooms
Renting a vehicle, we took a scenic drive along Transcentral Highway toward Lakeview Le Jardin, a verdant sanctuary perched above mist-veiled Malubog Lake. My son and his cousin stood spellbound by vibrant tropical blooms and sweeping mountain views from the garden and café. After sipping rich hot chocolate and savoring crisp wood-fired pizza, we wandered through the winding gardens, where the children squealed at the sight of geese, guinea fowl, and turkeys toddling freely. Planning to stay? Their cozy cabins offer a storybook retreat for family gatherings.
Temple of Leah: A Grand Love Story in Stone
When a place has room to twirl and tumble, it’s a toddler’s paradise. That’s how my son saw the Temple of Leah—Cebu’s tribute to love, much like India’s Taj Mahal.
This grand monument was built by Teodorico Soriano Adarna to honor his late wife of 50 years, Leah Villa Albino-Adarna. The structure stands adorned with towering Roman columns, intricate statues, and a flowing fountain, each detail echoing devotion.
Tops: Dining with a View
Towering atop the town, Tops in Busay tempts with crisp mountain air, cloud- kissed skies, and open spaces where kids can scamper and squeal. With a diverse, kid-approved dining scene, even the picky eaters in our group found something to love.
From Celadon’s flavorful Thai dishes to Tongara Ramen’s comforting bowls, options abound. Beyond dining, a panoramic viewing deck, play-friendly spaces, souvenir shops, and live performances make Tops a must-visit for families seeking great food with a view.
Lavie in the Sky: A Sweet Farewell
For the perfect finale to our 48-hour tour of Metro Cebu, we stopped at La Vie in the Sky, a Parisian-inspired café near Tops. While it serves Margherita pizza and other French fare, the real stars—loved by all ages—are the gelato and macarons. They come in many flavors, from mango to pistachio to fig. As we indulged, the city sprawled below—a sea of golden lights that stretched to the horizon.