If you ask where Kennedy Park is, chances are someone will tell you it’s inside Central Park and right next to 7 de Junio Park. While this might sound like a tongue twister or a joke meant to confuse you, it’s actually the absolute truth.
Yes, it can be a little confusing, and you might feel dizzy with so many parks. But don’t worry—none of that will happen when you visit this public space filled with greenery, art, culture, and even great food. To enjoy it, you don’t need to know the exact name of this charming corner of Miraflores.
Still, to spare you the confusion: “Central Park” refers to the joined area of Kennedy Park and 7 de Junio Park. The former is named after the American president who promoted the Alliance for Progress, while the latter commemorates the Battle of Arica in 1880.
That battle, part of the War of the Pacific against Chile, saw the heroic sacrifice of Colonel Francisco Bolognesi, who famously vowed to defend the hill of Arica “until the last cartridge is fired”, and Alfonso Ugarte, the young patriot who chose to throw himself off a cliff rather than surrender the flag to the enemy.
Because of these heroic acts, 7 June is now Flag Day in Peru—a date Peruvians never forget, just as you won’t forget your strolls through Kennedy Park. Yes, that’s what the locals call it, regardless of the official name. And what will you call it? You’ll know once you’ve been here.
What is certain is that you’ll have a great time—just like the locals and travellers who relax on its benches, watch performances in the amphitheatre, or play with the cats that roam freely in this park that is both one and many at once.
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A Journey Through History
When the Spanish arrived in the Rímac Valley, the area now known as Miraflores was primarily agricultural. Its fields—nourished by irrigation canals that brought life to the desert—were used to grow maize, cotton, beans, squash, peanuts, cassava, and other crops from the Andes and coast.
During colonial times, this agricultural activity continued, although sugar cane and grapes brought by the conquistadors became the main products. The rural and peaceful character of this part of Lima began to change after the Republic of Peru was established on 28 July 1821.
A key date in its urban development was 2 January 1857, when President Ramón Castilla officially created the district of Miraflores. One of the most significant events in its history occurred during the devastating War of the Pacific (1879–1883), when Chilean forces occupied the “City of Kings”.
The capture of Lima came after the bloody Battle of Miraflores on 15 January 1881. On that heroic yet tragic day, the outnumbered Peruvian troops and brave residents were defeated by enemy forces with superior numbers and weaponry.
Since then, Miraflores has been known as a “Heroic City”, with Central Park as its urban heart and a green lung that breathes life into its streets—where history and modernity walk hand in hand.
Kennedy Park: The Reason Behind Its Name
It may seem a bit odd that the main park of Miraflores is commonly known as Kennedy Park. But there is a reason: the former U.S. president promoted the so-called Alliance for Progress in the mid-20th century to improve relations between the United States and Latin American countries.
“We offer a special pledge—to convert our good words into good deeds—in a new alliance for progress—to assist free men and free governments in casting off the chains of poverty,” declared John F. Kennedy on 20 January 1961 during the inaugural speech for this initiative.
His words and actions earned him a place of honour in the heart of Miraflores. And although today the official name of this green space is Central Park, many locals still refer to it as Kennedy Park. They do so out of habit—and perhaps with a hint of nostalgia for the past.
Many Reasons to Visit the Park
Greenery, cleanliness, and safety make Miraflores’ Central Park a place of peace and enjoyment, art and culture, tradition and flavour. Here, amid the daily bustle of one of Lima’s most dynamic districts, you’ll find plenty to do—and plenty of reasons to return.
Whether it’s whiling away the time on a bench while playing with the park’s resident cats, walking towards the Virgen Milagrosa Church and the Municipal Palace, or watching the performances at the Chabuca Granda amphitheatre and admiring the artwork on display—there’s always something to enjoy.
And that’s not all. No visit to Kennedy Park would be complete without tasting one or more of the delicious local treats available in this green refuge. The culinary offerings include hearty butifarras and turkey sandwiches, along with traditional Peruvian desserts like mazamorra and arroz con leche.
Rest well and eat well in the heart of Miraflores.
One Park, Many Activities
There’s a lot to do in Central Park. Here are several ideas to help you make the most of your time in Miraflores’ main meeting and gathering spot. Get ready to experience:
Take a Leisurely Walk Around the Park
Stroll through the entire park at your own pace. Admire the lush green areas, colourful flowers, and leafy trees. Stop to enjoy the paintings displayed by local artists or catch a live performance at the Chabuca Granda amphitheatre. You can also head towards the Virgen Milagrosa Church, the Municipal Palace, or the Miraflores roundabout.
Stay Fit with Some Exercise
Thanks to its spacious layout and calm atmosphere, jogging in Kennedy Park is a great way to stay active while on holiday. The best time is early in the morning, before the city fully wakes up. But don’t worry if you sleep in—there’s a dedicated path for those who want to exercise at any hour.
Relax on a Bench
If you’ve just visited Larcomar, the Love Park, or the Huaca Pucllana and need to return to central Miraflores, take a break on one of Central Park’s benches. It’s the perfect moment to recharge and enjoy the birdsong drifting from the trees above.
Try the Street Food
Enjoy local flavours at Miraflores’ main park, where you’ll find all sorts of tasty street food. Try the butifarra—a sandwich made with French bread and country-style ham topped with zarza criolla (lime, onions, and chilli). You can also sample churros, picarones, coffee, and hot chocolate.
Watch a Live Show
Poetry, dance, music, and more: free artistic events are held at the Chabuca Granda amphitheatre. Evenings are especially magical at this open-air venue. Don’t miss the chance to be part of the audience enjoying the shows that bring Kennedy Park to life.
Make the Little Ones Happy
Central Park has a dedicated children’s play area. If you’re travelling with kids, stop by! Entrance is free, and they’ll have hours of fun. End the adventure with a sweet treat at D’onofrio Park, a traditional ice cream parlour where little ones can cool off and enjoy delicious desserts.
Visit the Virgen Milagrosa Church
This is the district’s main church. Built in 1939 and designed by Polish architect Ricardo de Jaxa Malachowski, it has adorned the centre of Miraflores ever since. If you’re Catholic, feel free to join one of the Masses celebrated at Virgen Milagrosa.
Admire the Work of Local Artists
Enjoy open-air art at the Paseo de los Pintores—the section of Kennedy Park where local artists exhibit their paintings and sculptures. Most works follow a costumbrista style, portraying everyday customs and scenes. This artistic tradition began in the mid-19th century with the works of Afro-Peruvian painter Pancho Fierro.
Treat Yourself at the Gastronomic Boulevard
On San Ramón Street—popularly known as Pizza Street for the Italian restaurants that opened there in the 1970s—you’ll find a vibrant gastronomic boulevard. Located just across from Central Park, it offers a wide variety of food and drinks to satisfy every taste.
Start the FREE Lima Tour
Kennedy Park is the meeting point and starting location for the free walking tour to Lima’s Historic Centre. If you’re unsure or worried about heading to the capital’s old town on your own, join our free excursion to discover the city founded by Francisco Pizarro on 18 January 1535.
Your urban adventure will be led by a professional local guide. Together, you’ll take public transport to the Historic Centre and explore its streets on foot, uncovering the architectural gems of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Book with Us
If you want to explore old Lima on foot, as part of a group and guided by a professional — officially authorised by government institutions to showcase the Historic Centre — book our Free Tour Lima to make the most of your experience, completely free of charge, through what’s known as Pizarro’s Grid.
At the end of the tour, don’t forget to leave a voluntary tip for your guide. It’s a great way to support their work and encourage them to keep sharing the city’s rich history while recommending the best places to eat in Lima — a destination renowned for its outstanding cuisine.
Find more details and book the Free Tour Lima now. If you’re still unsure, read the glowing reviews from travellers who joined us, or browse through thousands of photos of our tours on Instagram and Facebook. The images will convince you that we’re the best option for visiting the Historic Centre from Miraflores.
Note for Peruvians: Free tours are reserved for international visitors. Local travellers are welcome to join the classic city tour of colonial and modern Lima.
Eating and Drinking Around Kennedy Parky
Your visit to Central Park won’t be complete until you’ve enjoyed the many restaurants and bars surrounding the green space or located just nearby. Keep in mind that Miraflores is one of the top culinary destinations in the Peruvian capital.
If you don’t want to venture too far, treat yourself at the gastronomic boulevard on San Ramón Street or at one of the restaurants lining the park. There’s something for every taste, from international fast food chains like KFC and McDonald’s to Peruvian favourites such as Bembos.
You could also explore restaurants run by world-renowned chefs, like Gastón Acurio — one of the pioneers of Peru’s culinary boom — Rafael Osterling, celebrated for his creative cuisine, or Mitsuharu Tsumura, who offers a refined take on Nikkei cuisine at his restaurant Maido.
If, after a delightful dinner, you’re looking for somewhere to extend the evening with drinks and laughter, consider the following recommendations:
- Barbarian Bar (craft brewery)
- El Tayta (bar with Andean reminiscences)
- La Cachina (drinks, food and good music)
- El Museo Bar (art bar)
How to Get to Kennedy Park?
The easiest, most convenient and affordable way to reach Central Park in Miraflores is by taking the Metropolitano, the public transport service that connects the northern, central and southern districts of Lima via a segregated bus lane.
If you access the system from anywhere in the city, remember this name: Ricardo Palma station. That’s where you should get off the bus and walk along the avenue of the same name until you reach the Miraflores roundabout. From there, turn right and you’ll find your destination.
From the Historic Centre, catch a bus at Jirón de la Unión, Colmena (line C) or Central (lines B or C), among others. If you’re in Barranco, board at Bulevar station (line C). The fare is 3.20 soles, and you’ll need a special card to enter the system. You can purchase it at the various stations.
Urban tip: Avoid taking the Metropolitano during rush hours (from 7:00 to 9:00 and from 18:00 to 20:00).
Another option is using independent taxis. Keep in mind that taxis in Lima don’t use taximeters, aren’t painted in a specific colour, and there are no official taxi ranks. Always agree on the fare with the driver before getting in.
As for ride-hailing apps, the most commonly used in Lima are Uber, InDrive, Cabify and Yango. The cost generally ranges between 15 and 40 soles, depending on distance and traffic. Now you know—there’s no excuse not to enjoy one of the most magical places in Peru’s capital.
The park’s keys
- Area: 22,000 m²
- Location: between Diagonal, Angamos, José Larco avenues and Schell street.
- Hours: Visit at any time of day, year-round.
- Price: Admission is free.
Galery of photos
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