Take a break from Porto Alegre’s bustling streets with a visit to a small, attractive park where you can play sports, see a reminder of the city’s past and go wildlife spotting.
Go for a stroll through Moinhos de Vento Park and discover an inner-city retreat with an abundance of wildlife. Take advantage of the various sports facilities or simply relax by the man-made lake.
The park opened in 1972 and covers an area of just over 27 acres (11 hectares). Its name translates as Windmills Park, a reference to the story of Antonio Martins Barbosa. He was a miner who settled in Caracas in the 18th century and established the area’s first windmill.
Walk, jog or cycle along the park’s numerous trails. Sports enthusiasts can use the facilities on the north side of the park. Play tennis, soccer or rent a pair of roller skates to ride around the skating rink. There are also volleyball courts and a selection of fitness apparatus.
As you make your way through the park, look for the replica of one of the region’s earliest windmills and the large sculpture known as the Monument to the White Castle. This sculpture is in honor of Humberto de Alencar Castelo Branco, a military leader who served as President of Brazil during the 1960s. Relax by the lake where you may see turtles, ducks, geese and numerous fish species.
If visiting with children, don’t miss the library and ecological center, created to promote environmental awareness. On the first floor you will find a collection of more than 3,000 children’s books. Go upstairs where your children can enjoy an assortment of educational comics and games. Visit on weekends or public holidays for workshops and play activities. Local institutions put on a variety of programs that are suitable for all ages.
Moinhos de Vento Park is located in an up-market Porto Alegre neighborhood, less than 2 miles (3 kilometers) from the city center. The park is a short distance from several main bus routes and is close to a selection of shops, cafés and restaurants. Moinhos de Vento Park is free to enter and open all year-round.
