Pasay City is one of the most active destinations in Metro Manila. It is close to the international airport and is known for its huge shopping malls, beautiful bay sunsets, cultural attractions, amusement parks, concerts, and modern entertainment areas.
Many travelers pass through Pasay on their way to other parts of the Philippines. However, the city is worth exploring for at least one or two days.
Here are the best things to do and places to visit in Pasay City in 2026.
## 1. Explore the Mall of Asia
Begin your trip at **SM Mall of Asia**, often called MOA. It is one of the largest and most popular shopping centers in the Philippines.
The mall has hundreds of shops, restaurants, cafés, cinemas, and entertainment areas. You can spend several hours shopping, eating, or simply walking around.
MOA is very large, so wear comfortable shoes. It can become crowded during weekends, public holidays, and major events.
## 2. Watch the Sunset by Manila Bay
The bayfront area behind the Mall of Asia is one of the best places in Pasay to enjoy the famous Manila Bay sunset.
Walk along the seaside promenade in the late afternoon and watch the sky turn orange, pink, and red. The area has restaurants, food stalls, amusement rides, and open spaces where families and friends gather.
Some parts of the waterfront may be affected by construction or improvement projects. Check local access before visiting.
## 3. Ride the MOA Eye
For a different view of Pasay and Manila Bay, take a ride on the **MOA Eye** observation wheel.
The ride gives visitors a higher view of the mall, the entertainment area, nearby buildings, and the water. It is especially beautiful around sunset or in the evening when the area’s lights are turned on.
Operating hours can change because of weather or maintenance, so confirm availability before lining up.
## 4. Attend an Event at the Mall of Asia Arena
The **Mall of Asia Arena** hosts concerts, basketball games, family shows, competitions, and other major events.
Local and international performers often appear here. If you are visiting Pasay in 2026, check the arena’s event calendar before your trip. You may find a concert or sporting event that matches your travel dates.
Purchase tickets only from official sellers to avoid scams.
## 5. Have Fun at SM by the Bay
**SM by the Bay** is an outdoor amusement and dining area beside Manila Bay. It has rides, games, restaurants, and spaces for walking.
It is a fun place for families, couples, and groups of friends. The area becomes more colorful at night when the rides and buildings light up.
Bring water and visit later in the day to avoid the strongest heat.
## 6. Enjoy Star City
**Star City** is a well-known amusement park in Pasay. It offers rides and attractions for children, families, and thrill-seekers.
Depending on what is operating during your visit, you may find roller coasters, indoor attractions, carnival games, and family rides.
Check the park’s official schedule, ticket prices, height limits, and ride availability before going.
## 7. Discover Filipino Culture at the CCP Complex
The **Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex** is an important place for Filipino art and culture. The wider area hosts theaters, galleries, performance spaces, and outdoor events.
You may find ballet, theater, concerts, film showings, art exhibitions, and cultural festivals during your visit.
Some buildings or spaces may be under renovation or have limited access in 2026. Review the latest event and venue information before traveling there.
## 8. Visit the Philippine International Convention Center
The **Philippine International Convention Center**, or PICC, is an important venue for conferences, ceremonies, exhibitions, and special events.
Even if you are not attending an event, the surrounding area is pleasant for a short walk and architectural photography. Public access may be limited when private activities are taking place.
## 9. Explore the Philippine Air Force Aerospace Museum
Travelers interested in airplanes and military history can visit the **Philippine Air Force Aerospace Museum**.
The museum has aircraft, uniforms, weapons, photographs, models, and displays about the history of the Philippine Air Force. It is a good destination for families, students, and aviation fans.
Because the museum is inside a military area, visitors may need valid identification and must follow security rules. Confirm access requirements and opening hours before visiting.
## 10. Shop at Cartimar
For a more local experience, visit **Cartimar Shopping Center**. This long-established commercial area is known for pet supplies, bicycles, sports equipment, home products, plants, imported food, and other affordable items.
Cartimar feels very different from Pasay’s large modern malls. It gives visitors a closer look at daily shopping life in the city.
The area can be busy, so keep your belongings secure and bring cash for smaller stores.
## 11. Visit Newport City
**Newport City** is a modern entertainment and lifestyle area close to the airport. It has hotels, restaurants, shops, cinemas, casinos, and performance venues.
It is a convenient place for travelers staying near Ninoy Aquino International Airport. You can have dinner, watch a live show, shop, or relax before a flight.
Casino areas have age and identification requirements. Families can still enjoy the restaurants, shops, cinemas, and public entertainment spaces.
## 12. Walk Across Runway Manila
**Runway Manila** is an elevated, air-conditioned pedestrian bridge connecting Newport City with Terminal 3 of Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
It is useful for travelers who want to walk between the airport and nearby hotels, restaurants, and entertainment areas without crossing busy roads.
Operating access and security arrangements can change, so check the latest information before using it.
## 13. Visit Dessert Museum
The **Dessert Museum** is a colorful attraction designed for fun photographs. It has themed rooms inspired by sweets and desserts.
It is popular with families, couples, friends, and social-media creators. The experience is more focused on playful displays and photographs than traditional museum exhibits.
Book in advance during busy periods and confirm its current location and opening schedule.
## 14. Eat Your Way Around Pasay
Pasay offers many dining choices, from simple local meals to international restaurants and hotel buffets.
Popular food areas include:
* Mall of Asia
* SM by the Bay
* Newport City
* Entertainment City
* Cartimar
* The CCP Complex area
* Local neighborhoods near Libertad
Try classic Filipino dishes such as adobo, sinigang, kare-kare, sisig, pancit, and grilled seafood. You can also find Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Italian, and other international food around the city.
## 15. Enjoy Pasay at Night
Pasay remains lively after sunset. You can watch the city lights beside Manila Bay, attend a concert, ride the observation wheel, visit an amusement park, or enjoy dinner at Newport City.
Hotels and entertainment centers also offer live music, lounges, and evening shows. Check dress codes, age restrictions, ticket prices, and schedules before visiting.
## Suggested Two-Day Pasay Itinerary
### Day 1: Shopping and the Bay
Start your morning at the Mall of Asia. Explore the shops, enjoy lunch, and visit nearby indoor attractions.
In the late afternoon, walk around SM by the Bay and ride the MOA Eye. Stay for the Manila Bay sunset, then have dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants.
If there is an event, finish your evening with a concert or basketball game at the Mall of Asia Arena.
### Day 2: Culture and Entertainment
Begin at the Philippine Air Force Aerospace Museum or Cartimar. Continue to the CCP Complex and check for art exhibitions, cultural performances, or public events.
Spend the late afternoon at Star City. You can also travel to Newport City for dinner, shopping, or an evening show.
## Practical Pasay Travel Tips for 2026
* **Best time to visit:** December to February usually has cooler and drier weather.
* **Getting around:** Use trains, buses, jeepneys, taxis, or trusted ride-hailing services.
* **Traffic:** Roads near the airport, Mall of Asia, and major event venues can become very busy.
* **Airport travel:** Leave early for your flight and check which airport terminal you need.
* **Walking:** Wear comfortable shoes because malls and entertainment areas are large.
* **Weather:** Carry water, sunscreen, and a small umbrella.
* **Payments:** Cards and digital payments are common, but cash is helpful in markets and small shops.
* **Safety:** Protect your phone, wallet, and bags in crowded places.
* **Events:** Book concert, show, and attraction tickets through official sellers.
* **Planning:** Confirm current opening hours, ticket prices, waterfront access, and event schedules before visiting.
## Is Pasay City Worth Visiting in 2026?
Yes. Pasay is a convenient and exciting destination for shopping, entertainment, culture, family activities, and beautiful sunsets.
You can spend the morning exploring a museum, shop in one of the country’s largest malls, enjoy amusement rides in the afternoon, and end your day beside Manila Bay.
Whether you are staying near the airport or exploring Metro Manila, Pasay City offers plenty of enjoyable experiences in 2026.