This is in many ways the most important city park in Belo Horizonte. It is centrally located, has a…read morelong history, and is a place where people of all walks of life go to relax, get some physical activity in, or insofar this is possible, enjoy nature. The facilities are generally very good, with grassy areas, paved and unpaved paths, bathrooms, playgrounds, and workout areas. During the weekends and school holidays (and maybe evenings) there is an area with amusement rides; fun for the family but better to avoid if you hope to get a bit of tranquility. Other organized activities inside the park are limited, although on weekends there is often a music truck stationed by the main entrance on Alfonso Pena (next to the Feira Hippie). There are also many street vendors. This park is of a decent size but gets very busy - especially on weekends. If it is your only option to get away from the concrete jungle it isn't bad, but it is not "nature" obviously. There is some security at the entrances and police presence in the park, but this doesn't mean it is all fully safe; don't let your belonging linger and be a bit careful flashing phones and wallets.

Wonderful city park a few km southeast of downtown. Entrance is free and it is easily accessible by…read morebus or car (parking costs a symbolic R3.50). The park has something for everyone and hosts occasional events. Set against a backdrop of the Serra das Mangabeiras mountains and perched above the town, the views are outstanding. Near the entrance, there are some manicured grassy fields + water features; great for families. A bit further afield there are sport courts and a skatepark. The rest is mostly natural terrain with pedestrian access (there are occasional busses too) for some mildly strenuous hikes (~5km for the largest loop). There is a huge number of picnic spots scattered through the park (some easily accessible and some less so), so you might as well bring something to nibble on or to imbibe. There's a restaurant / cafeteria too.

A small park in Buritis neighborhood with lots of grass to spread out and relax (with plenty of…read moreshade), a playground for kids, an area with typical workout gear, and a football and volleyball court (concrete floor). A small creek runs through, providing more fun for kids. At the entrance there is a small 'book-exchange'; you can take a book after leaving behind one you no longer need/want. There's on street parking around the corner from the entrance on Rua Allesandra Salum Cadar.