Key Takeaways:
-
Campo Grande blends urban comfort with nature and indigenous culture, offering year-round experiences for all travelers.
-
From beautiful parks to museums and wildlife encounters, the city provides a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
-
This guide highlights 10 top attractions that showcase Campo Grande’s vibrant mix of nature, culture, and local life.
Located in Brazil’s Mato Grosso do Sul state, Campo Grande is often called the “Gateway to the Pantanal.” While many visitors pass through on their way to the famous wetlands, the city itself offers plenty of charm and experiences worth exploring year-round. Founded in 1899, Campo Grande has grown into a modern city surrounded by rich nature, cultural diversity, and indigenous heritage.
Travelers enjoy Campo Grande for its green spaces, cultural centers, and relaxed vibe that contrasts with Brazil’s bigger metropolises. Whether you’re exploring local markets, visiting museums, or enjoying the outdoors, Campo Grande offers a unique and authentic Brazilian experience. Here are 10 incredible things to do in Campo Grande.
Table of Contents
-
Explore Parque das Nações Indígenas
-
Visit the Dom Bosco Cultural Museum
-
Stroll Around Horto Florestal
-
Discover the Indigenous Culture at Aldeia Urbana
-
Shop and Eat at Mercado Municipal
-
Tour the Pantanal Biopark
-
Attend the Arraial de Santo Antônio Festival
-
Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art of MS (MARCO)
-
Experience the Camelódromo Market
-
Take a Day Trip to Lagoa Misteriosa
1. Explore Parque das Nações Indígenas
Parque das Nações Indígenas is Campo Grande’s most famous and beautiful urban park, covering over 100 hectares of green space. The park features walking and biking trails, lakes, open fields, and cultural spaces that attract locals and visitors alike. It’s perfect for morning walks, afternoon picnics, or evening runs under the setting sun.
Throughout the year, you’ll find cultural events, food vendors, and families enjoying the park’s natural beauty. Capybaras and exotic birds often roam freely, offering great photo opportunities. The park reflects the city’s commitment to preserving nature within the urban landscape and serves as a peaceful escape for any traveler.
2. Visit the Dom Bosco Cultural Museum
The Dom Bosco Cultural Museum, located within the Catholic University campus, showcases the rich biodiversity and cultural history of Mato Grosso do Sul. Exhibits feature indigenous artifacts, taxidermy animals, and interactive displays that teach visitors about the Pantanal ecosystem and regional tribes. The museum’s educational value makes it popular with both tourists and locals.
The well-curated exhibits offer insight into the state’s natural wonders and the lives of indigenous peoples who have inhabited the area for centuries. Open year-round, it’s an excellent stop for families and anyone interested in Brazil’s ecological and cultural heritage. Guided tours are available for a deeper learning experience.
3. Stroll Around Horto Florestal
Horto Florestal is a smaller, quieter park in the city center that offers shaded walking paths, a playground, and beautiful landscaping. Known for its tall trees and peaceful ambiance, it’s a favorite spot for yoga sessions, picnics, and casual strolls. The park also hosts small events and markets throughout the year.
It’s a great option for travelers looking for a calm space to relax while remaining close to hotels and restaurants. Families with children will find the playground and open spaces particularly welcoming. Horto Florestal remains one of Campo Grande’s year-round hidden gems.
4. Discover the Indigenous Culture at Aldeia Urbana
Campo Grande has one of the largest urban indigenous populations in Brazil, and Aldeia Urbana offers a respectful way to learn about their communities. Visitors can meet local artisans, purchase handmade crafts, and learn about indigenous traditions through cultural exchange programs. The area often hosts workshops, music performances, and storytelling sessions.
The experience offers a unique opportunity to support indigenous communities directly while gaining authentic cultural insights. Tours are available year-round, and some events align with Brazil’s indigenous awareness celebrations. This visit helps travelers better understand Mato Grosso do Sul’s rich cultural diversity.
5. Shop and Eat at Mercado Municipal
Mercado Municipal, or Mercadão, is Campo Grande’s bustling public market filled with fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, and regional specialties. Visitors can sample tereré (herbal iced tea), traditional Brazilian snacks, and Pantanal-inspired dishes like fish and exotic fruits. The market reflects the state’s multicultural food influences and agricultural wealth.
The atmosphere is lively, with vendors happy to share stories and offer free samples. Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or simply enjoying a casual lunch, Mercadão delivers an authentic taste of Campo Grande. It’s open year-round and especially lively on weekends.
6. Tour the Pantanal Biopark
The Pantanal Biopark is a conservation center dedicated to preserving and educating visitors about the unique ecosystems of the Pantanal, Cerrado, and Amazon regions. The facility houses rescued animals such as jaguars, anteaters, and various bird species, offering close-up encounters in a safe and ethical environment. Educational programs and guided tours help visitors learn about local conservation efforts.
The Biopark offers a great introduction to the wildlife visitors may encounter in the Pantanal, making it a perfect pre-trip stop before heading deeper into the wetlands. It operates year-round, with shaded paths and exhibits accessible in any season. The combination of education and wildlife viewing makes it a standout attraction for both children and adults.
7. Attend the Arraial de Santo Antônio Festival
One of Campo Grande’s most beloved events, the Arraial de Santo Antônio Festival celebrates Brazil’s traditional June Festas Juninas. The festival features live music, folk dancing, colorful costumes, bonfires, and delicious street food such as pamonha, corn cakes, and barbecue. The entire city comes alive with vibrant decorations and joyful celebration.
The event typically takes place in June, drawing both locals and visitors to public squares and parks. It’s an ideal time to experience Campo Grande’s community spirit and festive atmosphere. If your visit coincides with this period, the festival offers unforgettable cultural immersion.
8. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art of MS (MARCO)
MARCO is the leading contemporary art museum in Campo Grande, featuring rotating exhibitions by both Brazilian and international artists. The museum covers painting, sculpture, photography, and multimedia installations, showcasing the region’s growing art scene. The building itself is modern and welcoming, with outdoor spaces that complement the exhibitions inside.
Visitors can often attend workshops, artist talks, and cultural events hosted by MARCO throughout the year. Admission is usually free or very affordable, making it accessible for all travelers. For art lovers, MARCO adds a creative and modern edge to Campo Grande’s cultural offerings.
9. Experience the Camelódromo Market
The Camelódromo is an open-air shopping complex that serves as one of Campo Grande’s most popular informal markets. Shoppers will find everything from electronics and clothing to handmade crafts and souvenirs. The market is a vibrant maze of small stalls where bargaining is common and encouraged.
Beyond shopping, visitors can enjoy casual eateries and street vendors offering snacks like coxinhas and pastel. The Camelódromo remains open year-round, offering both locals and tourists an energetic glimpse into everyday commerce in Campo Grande. It’s perfect for picking up affordable gifts while experiencing the local vibe.
10. Take a Day Trip to Lagoa Misteriosa
Located about two hours from Campo Grande, Lagoa Misteriosa (Mysterious Lagoon) is a crystal-clear sinkhole perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. The lagoon’s incredible visibility and deep, mysterious waters attract divers from around the world. For non-divers, guided floating tours offer a peaceful way to enjoy the stunning underwater views.
Open during the dry season, typically from April to October, the lagoon remains one of the most magical natural experiences near Campo Grande. The day trip combines nature, adventure, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re diving or simply floating, Lagoa Misteriosa lives up to its name.
What to do if you have kids?
Campo Grande is very family-friendly, with plenty of open parks, wildlife centers, and cultural sites suitable for children. Kids will enjoy seeing animals up close at Pantanal Biopark, playing in Parque das Nações Indígenas, or exploring the Mercado Municipal. The many green spaces throughout the city make it easy for families to relax and explore safely.
During festivals, children can enjoy games, music, and plenty of treats. Many museums also have interactive exhibits or short guided tours designed for young visitors. Overall, Campo Grande’s calm vibe and variety of kid-friendly attractions make it a great destination for families year-round.
Where can I find free events in Campo Grande Brazil taking place this weekend?
To discover free events happening in Campo Grande this weekend, visit https://planmyweekend.ai. The platform curates a wide range of local festivals, park concerts, cultural performances, and public markets updated weekly. You can filter by date, location, and type of event to easily build your weekend itinerary.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor music, free art exhibitions, or cultural celebrations, Plan My Weekend helps you explore Campo Grande like a local. The site keeps you connected to the city’s vibrant and accessible event scene year-round.
Final Thoughts on Planning a Trip to Campo Grande
Campo Grande offers visitors a perfect balance of nature, culture, and relaxed Brazilian hospitality. Its parks, museums, indigenous culture, and nearby natural wonders create a diverse and enjoyable experience for all travelers. The city’s slower pace, friendly locals, and variety of attractions make it easy to explore at your leisure.
Whether you’re passing through on your way to the Pantanal or staying for several days, Campo Grande rewards visitors with authentic experiences and memorable moments. It’s a destination that quietly surprises and leaves you eager to return.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
