Best Things to do in Alajuela | Must-see attractions 2025

Zoo Ave

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Zoo

La Garita de Alajuela

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Zoo Ave in Alajuela, Costa Rica, is a 14-hectare rescue center focused on wildlife conservation, rehabilitation, and educational programs for visitors.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Adults: $10, Children: $5. Admission funds wildlife rescue and conservation efforts.

Teatro Municipal de Alajuela

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

Avenida 2 (Costado Norte del Parque Juan Santamaría)

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Teatro Municipal de Alajuela, a cultural hub in Alajuela, Costa Rica, hosts diverse performances and events in a historic setting.

Duration: 1-2 hours is recommended for performances.

Entry fees vary by event; check the schedule for specific pricing.

Our Lady of the Pillar Cathedral

7:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Calle Central btwn Avs Central & 1

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Our Lady of the Pillar Cathedral features a striking red dome and serves as a historical hub, located in Alajuela, Costa Rica, near Parque Central.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free.

Juan Santamaria Historical Cultural Museum

Tu-Su 10:00-17:30

Museum

Avenida 1

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Juan Santamaria Historical Cultural Museum in Alajuela, Costa Rica, showcases the country's history and culture with engaging exhibits and historical artifacts.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Juan Santamaria Park

Open 24 hours

Park

Calle 2 btwn Avs 2 & 4

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Juan Santamaria Park in Alajuela, Costa Rica honors a national hero with a statue, surrounded by cannons and vibrant nearby activities for families and visitors.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Balneario Ojo de Agua

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Amusement Park

Costa Rica

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Balneario Ojo de Agua is a family-friendly swim center in Alajuela, Costa Rica, featuring natural-water pools and abundant springs providing year-round fun.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours.

Paid. Check the official site for updated prices.

Church of the Holy Christ of Agony

7:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Alajuela Province

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Church of the Holy Christ of Agony in Alajuela, Costa Rica, serves as a significant Catholic landmark known for its architecture and cultural value.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

casino fiesta

12:00 PM–4:00 AM

Casino

Alajuela Province

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Casino Fiesta in Alajuela, Costa Rica, features a wide range of gaming options, live entertainment, and vibrant nightlife, catering to both locals and tourists.

Duration: Approximately 2-4 hours.

Free entry for gamers, but costs may apply for some events or promotions.

Iglesia Del Perpetuo Socorro

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Contiguo a Hogar Siembra

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Iglesia Del Perpetuo Socorro is a Catholic church located in Alajuela, Costa Rica, known for its unique architecture and historical significance.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are accepted for maintenance and community services.

Reserva Natural Madre Verde

7:00 AM–5:00 PM

Nature reserve

Alajuela Province

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Reserva Natural Madre Verde is a nature preserve in Alajuela, Costa Rica, featuring diverse flora and fauna, nature trails, and eco-friendly initiatives.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated to support conservation efforts.

Universidad de las Ciencias y el Arte de Costa Rica

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

University

Calle 13

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Universidad de las Ciencias y el Arte de Costa Rica, located in Alajuela, offers diverse programs emphasizing arts, sciences, and cultural studies in a vibrant campus environment.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a ticket.

Iglesia Catolica de San Cayetano

6:00 AM–7:00 PM

Church

Lotes Murillo (Villa Bonita)

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Iglesia Catolica de San Cayetano is a historic church in Alajuela, Costa Rica, known for its striking architecture and cultural significance within the community.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. All visitors can enter without charge.

Iglesia Dulce Nombre de Jesus

6:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Costa Rica

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Iglesia Dulce Nombre de Jesus in Alajuela is a historic church known for its neo-Gothic architecture and cultural significance since its foundation in 1890.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free.

Iglesia Catolica Tuetal Sur

6:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Costa Rica

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Iglesia Catolica Tuetal Sur in Alajuela, Costa Rica features beautiful architecture and rich cultural significance, serving its community since the mid-20th century.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcomed for maintenance and community programs.

Iglesia de Carrillos Alto

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Costa Rica

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Iglesia de Carrillos Alto is a historic church in Alajuela, Costa Rica, featuring beautiful architecture and a rich cultural heritage.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Comunidad Cristiana Lirio del Valle

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

Costa Rica

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Comunidad Cristiana Lirio del Valle in Alajuela, Costa Rica, offers a vibrant community atmosphere with services and events welcoming all worshippers.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are accepted to support community programs.

Iglesia de Jesuscristo de los Santos de los Ultimos Dias

9:00 AM–8:00 PM

Church

1 Km O de Hotel Marriot

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Iglesia de Jesuscristo de los Santos de los Ultimos Dias in Alajuela, Costa Rica, serves as a significant place of worship and community engagement for members of the LDS Church.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free.

iglesia los angeles

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Canoas

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Iglesia Los Angeles in Alajuela is a historical church built in 1878, known for its unique architecture and religious significance. A must-see for visitors and locals alike.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Special events may have charges.

La Pequena Y Gran Jerusalem

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Desamparados de Alajuela

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La Pequena Y Gran Jerusalem in Alajuela, Costa Rica, is a cultural and artistic center featuring intricate replicas of Jerusalem's landmarks, rich in history and spirituality.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Iglesia de Rosales

8:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Costa Rica

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Iglesia de Rosales in Alajuela is a historic church established in the early 20th century, featuring unique architecture and cultural significance.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Convento Nuestra Senora de La Asuncion

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Alajuela

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Convento Nuestra Senora de La Asuncion in Alajuela, Costa Rica, features colonial architecture and serves as a key religious and cultural site, hosting various community events.

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Iglesia San Martin Alajuela

6:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Alajuela

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Iglesia San Martin Alajuela, Costa Rica, is a historic church founded in 1852, featuring neoclassical architecture and vibrant community life.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance and community programs.

Ministerio Internacional Bendiciones

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

Costa Rica

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Ministerio Internacional Bendiciones in Alajuela, Costa Rica, offers a welcoming atmosphere for worship, community events, and spiritual enrichment activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for special events and programs.

Templo Votivo al Santo Cristo de Esquipulas

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

El Cedro (100 suroeste de la cancha de fútbol)

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Templo Votivo al Santo Cristo de Esquipulas in Alajuela, Costa Rica, houses a revered crucifix, attracting thousands for its cultural significance and unique architecture.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may have additional charges.

Estaca Alajuela Iglesia de Jesucristo de los Santos de los Ultimos Dias

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Costa Rica

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Estaca Alajuela Iglesia de Jesucristo de los Santos de los Ultimos Dias serves as a significant cultural and religious center in Alajuela, Costa Rica, embodying distinctive architecture and community values.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations may be accepted for events.

Iglesia Del Roble

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

El Roble De Alajuela

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Iglesia Del Roble in Alajuela, Costa Rica, is a historic wooden church renowned for its unique architecture and cultural significance, attracting tourists and locals alike.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Special events or guided tours may incur fees.

Iglesia de La Ribera

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

La Ribera

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Iglesia de La Ribera, situated in Alajuela, Costa Rica, is a historic church known for its stunning architecture and rich cultural significance.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Iglesia de Pacto del Jocote

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

Del Bar Sol y Luna

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Iglesia de Pacto del Jocote is an active church in Alajuela, Costa Rica, known for its vibrant community and unique architectural style.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcomed for community projects.

Iglesia Rincon de Zaragoza

7:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Costa Rica

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Iglesia Rincon de Zaragoza, located in Alajuela, Costa Rica, is a historic church established in 1892, showcasing beautiful architecture and rich cultural significance.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Iglesia de Rincon de Salas

6:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Grecia

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Iglesia de Rincon de Salas in Alajuela, Costa Rica, a historical church founded in 1855, blends traditional architecture with rich cultural significance.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Special events may have entry fees.

Laguna de Fraijanes Recreational Park

6:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

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Laguna de Fraijanes Recreational Park in Alajuela, Costa Rica, offers diverse trails, rich flora and fauna, and a serene lagoon for relaxation and exploration.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. Certain activities or guided tours may incur a charge.

Plaza Miogar

8:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

Calle 7 (Avenida Juan López del Corral)

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Plaza Miogar in Alajuela, Costa Rica, offers a vibrant cultural experience with local shops, eateries, and a focus on community events.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Some special events may charge a fee.

Outlet Internacional

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

Alajuela (Radial Francisco J. Orlich)

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Outlet Internacional in Alajuela, Costa Rica features over 100 stores offering discounted brands, making it a popular shopping destination for tourists and locals alike.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. Individual store promotions may vary.

Plaza Coyol

Open 24 hours

Mall

Calle Los Llanos

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Plaza Coyol in Alajuela features green spaces, playgrounds, and local shops, offering a relaxed atmosphere for families and tourists alike in Costa Rica.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Mango Plaza

Mo-Su 10:00-00:00

Mall

Costa Rica

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Mango Plaza, located in Alajuela, Costa Rica, is a vibrant shopping center featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it a central hub for locals and tourists alike.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may have an entry fee.

Juan Santamaria International Airport

24 hours

Airport

Ruta Nacional 1 (Autopista General Cañas)

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Juan Santamaria International Airport in Alajuela, Costa Rica, serves as the main airport for international travel, offering a gateway to vibrant ecosystems and culture.

Duration: Variable, dependent on flight times.

Free entry, though some services and lounges may charge fees.

INA - Ciudad Tecnologica Mario Echandi Jimenez

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

2km Hacia El Oeste De Los Corrales De Montecillos (La Playwood)

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INA - Ciudad Tecnologica Mario Echandi Jimenez in Alajuela, Costa Rica, is a hub for technological innovation and training, offering extensive educational resources and modern facilities.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some workshops may have associated fees.

Universidad Tecnica Nacional

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

University

Villa Bonita (Villa Bonita

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Universidad Técnica Nacional (UTN) in Alajuela, Costa Rica, offers technical and higher education with a focus on innovation and practical skills.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free entry for campus visitors. Specific events may charge a fee.

INCAE Business School

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

La Garita (Del vivero Procesa #1

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INCAE Business School in Alajuela, Costa Rica, offers premier business education with a focus on Latin American markets and global leadership.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No entry fee required; programs available for enrolled students.

Universidad Adventista de Centroamerica

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

University

Costa Rica

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Universidad Adventista de Centroamerica in Alajuela, Costa Rica, offers academic programs and a serene campus environment for students and visitors alike.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Parroquia De Desamparados

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Desamparados

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Parroquia De Desamparados in Alajuela, Costa Rica, is a historic church noted for its striking architecture and cultural significance, attracting both locals and tourists alike.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcomed for maintenance and community events.

Iglesia Oasis Alajuela

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

100 sur de la Arrocera

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Iglesia Oasis Alajuela is a vibrant community church in Alajuela, Costa Rica, known for its unique architecture and community outreach programs.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a donation.

Capilla de Buenos Aires

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Palmares

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Capilla de Buenos Aires is a historic chapel located in Alajuela, Costa Rica, known for its rustic architecture and serene atmosphere, offering insight into the area's cultural heritage.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free. No entrance fee required.

Iglesia Catolica de El Llano

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Costa Rica

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Iglesia Catolica de El Llano, located in Alajuela, Costa Rica, is a notable Catholic church known for its unique architecture and rich cultural legacy.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Iglesia San Isidro Alajuela

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Costa Rica

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Iglesia San Isidro Alajuela features striking architecture and rich history, dating back to the early 20th century. A cultural gem in Alajuela, Costa Rica.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No cost for entry; special events may have fees.

Salon Comunal Calle Vargas

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Event hall

Calle Vargas

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Salon Comunal Calle Vargas is a community center in Alajuela, Costa Rica, serving local events, cultural activities, and gatherings, fostering community spirit.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Events may vary in cost depending on activities provided.

Iglesia Centro Cristiano Puertas de la Ciudad

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

Cacique Contiguo Importadora Monge

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Iglesia Centro Cristiano Puertas de la Ciudad in Alajuela, Costa Rica, is a vibrant Christian community center known for its engaging services and community outreach programs.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required for participation.

Iglesia Adventista Del Brasil

6:30 PM–8:00 PM

Church

Costa Rica

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Iglesia Adventista Del Brasil in Alajuela, Costa Rica, is a significant church known for its vibrant community and serve-oriented programs.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations for special events are appreciated.

Iglesia Catolica Pueblo Nuevo

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Event hall

Costa Rica

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Iglesia Catolica Pueblo Nuevo in Alajuela, Costa Rica, features traditional architecture, vibrant community activities, and scenic views, attracting locals and tourists alike.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcomed for community upliftment activities.

Parque infantil Calian Vargas

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Amusement Park

Frente a la parada de Buses Station Wagon Alajuela Centro

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Parque infantil Calian Vargas in Alajuela, Costa Rica, features playgrounds, green areas, and recreational facilities for families and children, promoting outdoor activities.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free entry. Some special events may have associated costs.