Things to Do at The Mansion

Complete Guide to The Mansion in Baguio

About The Mansion

The Mansion serves as the official summer residence of the Philippine President with beautiful gardens and rest house architecture set within manicured grounds in the cool mountain climate. External viewing is free from the gates and surrounding areas, while interior tours are not available to the public for security reasons. The neoclassical building and grounds represent the grandeur of American colonial architecture adapted to the Philippines mountain setting. Visit during daylight hours for exterior photography and combine with nearby Botanical Garden visits for a complete experience of Baguio's official landmarks.

What to See & Do

The Mansion Gates

The ornate wrought-iron gates are probably the most photographed spot - you'll see why when you arrive. They're beautifully crafted and frame the building perfectly for photos.

Manicured Gardens

The public gardens are genuinely impressive, with geometric flower beds, perfectly maintained lawns, and towering pine trees that create a cool, peaceful atmosphere even on warm days.

Georgian Architecture

The building's colonial American architecture is quite striking against the mountain backdrop - it's a fascinating piece of early 20th-century design that feels both tropical and traditionally American.

Historical Markers

Several plaques and markers around the grounds give you context about the building's history and the various presidents who've stayed here over the decades.

Pine Tree Grove

The mature pine trees throughout the property create natural shade and give the whole area that distinctive Baguio mountain feel - it's surprisingly cool and refreshing.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Grounds open daily 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (building interior is not accessible to public)

Tickets & Pricing

Free admission to gardens and grounds

Best Time to Visit

Early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon (3-5 PM) for better lighting and fewer crowds

Suggested Duration

30-45 minutes for photos and garden walk

Getting There

The Mansion sits on Leonard Wood Road, a 10-15 minute uphill walk from Session Road. Most people walk up. The climb is steep but doable, though you'll feel it in these mountains. Taxis work too. City tours often include stops here, which saves you the trek up and back down. Driving means hunting for street parking. Get there early-spots disappear fast, and you don't want to circle the block looking for space. The walk up offers good city views. Worth the effort.

Things to Do Nearby

Wright Park
Just a few minutes' walk away, this park offers horseback riding and a nice pool area - it's where many locals go to relax on weekends.

Mines View Park
About 10 minutes by vehicle, offering panoramic views of the mining towns below and souvenir shopping with local Igorot crafts.

The Manor at Camp John Hay
A short drive away, this former American military base is now a leisure complex with golf, dining, and historical sites.

Botanical Garden
Walking distance from The Mansion, featuring native plants, Igorot huts, and peaceful walking trails through well-maintained grounds.

Session Road
The main commercial strip of Baguio, about 15 minutes downhill on foot, where you'll find restaurants, shops, and the general buzz of city life.

Tips & Advice

Bring a light jacket even on sunny days - the elevation here means it can get chilly, especially in the shade of those pine trees

The best photo opportunities are actually from slightly outside the main gates where you can capture both the building and the landscaping

Security is obviously tight, so don't try to get too creative with your photography - stick to the designated public areas

Combine your visit with Wright Park and Mines View since they're all in the same general area - you can easily do all three in a morning