Angeles City is a launchpad for outdoor adventures — volcanoes to climb, reefs to dive, and open skies for those who want to see it all from above. The Clark Freeport Zone adds museums and cultural parks to the mix, giving you plenty of reasons to stay a few extra days.
Hiking
Nearby volcanoes offer invigorating retreats into the wild. Visit Mt. Arayat National Park and its three swimming pools before heading off on the three-hour hike to the top of dormant Mt. Arayat. Or you can visit Mt. Pinatubo, which last erupted in 1991. Steam still escapes from crevices as you make the all-day hike. There is also a spa town at the volcano's foot, where you can book yourself a mud bath or massage. The magma caves are fun to explore as well.
Flying
If the thought of spending an entire day climbing a volcano seems too strenuous, don't miss the opportunity to see the crater lake at the top of Mt. Pinatubo from the air. You can leave from Clark Field in a small plane for a solo flight or with a group in a larger one. The best times are sunrise or sunset, and the trip takes about an hour. Look into hot air balloon rides or skydiving for air adventure with a bigger rush.
Scuba Diving
Subic Bay is a short trip from Angeles City and offers some incredible diving opportunities. While the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo severely damaged the coral and depleted the sea life, they are making remarkable comebacks. You can dive with sharks, fish, and turtles not too far from shore. The biggest draw, though, is the wreck diving — there are plenty of World War II wrecks to explore in this small bay.
Golfing
There are several golf courses in and around Angeles City, including the Royal Garden Golf & Country Club. A few more courses and country clubs sit northwest of the city. The facilities are well-maintained, as golfing is popular with visiting businessmen.
Nayong Pilipino
This sprawling cultural park has been newly restored and allows visitors to wander through exhibits in a park-like setting. Cultural traditions are carefully preserved, from a replica of the Barasoain Church (which still holds mass every Sunday) to a self-contained Ifugao Village. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Clark Museum
Located within the Clark Freeport Zone, the Clark Museum offers exhibits and archival material covering the area's history from pre-colonial times through the American air base era. Highlights include artifacts salvaged from the volcanic ash of Mount Pinatubo. It is easily reached but popular — making a reservation is a good idea.
Bale Matua
The Bale Matua mansion and museum features sweeping Spanish colonial architecture. Designed by city founder Don Angel Pantaleon de Miranda in 1824, it stands as a reminder of the town's early influences. Open seven days a week, though tickets can sell out — book ahead.