Let’s be real for a second, Bob’s Besties, living in a sprawling metropolis like Jakarta is a wild ride, no? You may love the energy, but the busy streets can get seriously stressful and overwhelming.
After a long day, that commute can feel like it’s draining the last bit of your battery. You spend hours of your life stuck in traffic, staring at a gray view of concrete buildings and endless brake lights.
After an entire week of city chaos, it’s only natural to crave a change of scenery. You need an outdoor getaway where you can soak in some greenery, breathe in (slightly) fresher air, and enjoy a vast open space!
To energize and recharge yourself this weekend, check out Bob’s curated list of 12 exciting outdoor activities in Jakarta that are perfect for solo adventurers, squads, or families!
Also Read: Indonesian Cultural Habits (a.k.a. All You Need to Know to Avoid Causing Offence)
Top 12 Outdoor Activities in Jakarta to Boost Your Mood
Experience the energy of Car Free Day (CFD)
Photo: Fadhila Nurhakim via Unsplash
- Location: Jl. Jenderal Sudirman – MH Thamrin, Jakarta
- Entrance Fee: Free!
Being one of the major thoroughfares in Jakarta, Jenderal Sudirman Street is approximately four kilometers of prime city real estate. Usually, it’s a roar of engines, but every Sunday morning (6 AM to 11 AM), Car Free Day gives the heart of the city an entirely new look. You will no longer see a street packed with cars and motorbikes; instead, the asphalt is claimed by thousands of pedestrians and cyclists!
It is one of the best activities in Jakarta if you want to see the city’s spirit. You can utilize the street to exercise—walking, jogging, or cycling with the skyscrapers as your backdrop. Once you’ve burned those calories, enjoy the legendary street food from local stalls lining the side streets. From Bubur Ayam to Lontong Sayur, it’s a breakfast paradise. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch live music performances, Zumba flash mobs, or community events!
Get wild at Ragunan Zoo
Photo: Didin Hasbullah via Unsplash
- Location: Jl. Harsono RM No. 1, Pasar Minggu, South Jakarta
- Entrance Fee: Rp4,000 (Adults), Rp3,000 (Children)
Payment usually requires a JakCard*
Are you looking for short and fun activities in Jakarta for the whole family? The Ragunan Zoo is a classic for a reason. Spanning a massive 140 hectares, Ragunan is home to over 2,200 animals, including the majestic Komodo dragon and the famous primates at the Schmutzer Primate Center.
Aside from learning about wildlife, there are plenty of shady spots for a picnic, playgrounds for the kids, and even a lake where you can take a boat ride on Sundays. It’s the ultimate budget-friendly escape to nature without leaving the city limits!
A chill picnic at Taman Kota Gelora Bung Karno (GBK)
Photo: gbk.id Official Website
- Location: Jl. Pintu Satu Senayan, Central Jakarta
- Entrance Fee: Free (Parking fees apply)
If you’re wondering what to do in Jakarta for free, this is your answer!
This four-hectare green lung located within the GBK sports complex is a breath of fresh air—literally! With its vast manicured lawns and towering trees, it’s designed to provide a gentle breeze and shade from the blazing Jakarta sun.
Pack a mat, some great snacks, and your favorite book. Pro tip: pick out a lush tree and set up your spot right underneath for the perfect nap or hangout session. The view of the Sudirman skyscrapers peeking through the trees provides a cool “Central Park” vibe right here in Jakarta!
Cultural wonders at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII)
Photo: tamanmini.com
- Location: Jl. Raya, Ceger, Cipayung, East Jakarta
- Entrance Fee: Rp25,000 for weekdays, Rp35,000 for weekends (Entrance) + additional for museums/pavilions
TMII has recently undergone a massive renovation, and trust Bob, it looks stunning!
This culture-based recreational area is basically a “synopsis” of Indonesia. You can explore traditional houses (Anjungan) from every province, showcasing the incredible diversity of our dances, clothing, and traditions.
One of the newest must-see attractions is the Kecak Dance performance held at the rejuvenated Amfiteater Panggung Budaya. Aside from the culture, the park offers beautiful lakes and fountains. Want the best view? Hop on the cable cars to see the Indonesian archipelago map shaped in the middle of the lake from high above. It’s one of the most educational yet fun activities Jakarta has to offer!
Also Read: 21 Best Date Ideas in Jakarta: A Guide to Romance and Adventure
Camping at Cibubur Camping Ground
- Location: Jl. Pakuan No. 5, Cipayung, East Jakarta
- Entrance Fee: Varies depending on camping/outbound packages
Want to level up your outdoor activities in Jakarta? Try camping!
Cibubur Camping Ground (Bumi Perkemahan Cibubur) is a 210-hectare site that feels worlds away from the city traffic. It’s been a staple for scouts and team-building events for decades.
Surrounding yourself with pine trees and the sound of cicadas is the perfect way to detach from digital stress. The air is noticeably cooler here, making it a great spot for a weekend staycation under the stars. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for team-building activities in Jakarta or just a quiet night with your best friends!
Thrills and spills at Dunia Fantasi (Dufan)
Featured photo: Syahril Fadillah via Unsplash
- Location: Ancol Dreamland, North Jakarta
- Entrance Fee: Rp250,000 – Rp 350,000 (Varies by season)
If your idea of “recharging” involves a shot of adrenaline, Dufan is the place to be!
As Jakarta’s premier amusement park, it features over 40 rides ranging from the nostalgic Turangga-Rangga (carousel) to the heart-stopping Halilintar (roller coaster) and Hysteria.
Don’t miss the water rides like Niagara-Gara if you want to cool off! Beyond the rides, Dufan is great for a full day of activities in Jakarta, featuring colorful parades, live character shows, and a vibrant atmosphere that makes you feel like a kid again!
Make a splash at Pondok Indah Waterpark
Photo: Pondok Indah Waterpark
- Location: Pondok Indah Mall, South Jakarta
- Entrance Fee: Rp100,000 (weekdays) – Rp125,000 (weekends)
Beat the Jakarta heat by diving into the refreshing pools at Pondok Indah Waterpark. This spot is a hit for those seeking activities to do in Jakarta that involve getting wet and wild.
The star of the show is the Flow Rider, where you can practice surfing on a simulated wave! There’s also an Olympic-sized pool and a lazy river for those who just want to float their worries away. Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and ensure you get to try every slide!
Also Read: 7 Historical Places in Indonesia to Satisfy Your Inner Geek
A walk through history at Kota Tua
Photo: Elvan Putra via Unsplash
- Location: Old Batavia, West Jakarta
- Entrance Fee: Free (Museum entry usually Rp5,000)
Stepping into Fatahillah Square feels like traveling back in time. Walking around the cobblestone square surrounded by Dutch colonial architecture is one of the most iconic outdoor activities in Jakarta.
Rent a colorful “onthel” bicycle (complete with a matching sun hat!) and pedal around the square for some Instagram-worthy photos. You can visit the Jakarta History Museum or simply sit on the ground and enjoy the street performances. It’s a great spot to soak in the heritage of the city while enjoying the open air!
Sunset chasing at Ancol Beach
Photo: Rizky Ramadhan via Unsplash
- Location: Ancol, North Jakarta
- Entrance Fee: Rp25,000 for motorcycles, Rp35,000 for cars (Ancol Gate)
Who says you have to leave the city to find a beach? Ancol Beach City offers a stretch of coastline where you can stroll along the promenade or sit on the sand. The best time to visit is around 5 PM because the golden hour here is magical as the sun sets over the Jakarta Bay!
Walking along the “Beach Boulevard” or having dinner at one of the seaside restaurants is a fantastic way to end a long week. It’s proof that there are plenty of fun activities in Jakarta that allow you to connect with the ocean!
Island hopping: A day trip to Pari Island
Photo: Arian R via Unsplash
- Location: Kepulauan Seribu (Thousand Islands)
- Entrance Fee: Boat transfers start from Rp75,000 (Muara Angke) or Rp150,000+ (Marina Ancol).
If you have a bit more time—say, if you’re looking for what to do in Jakarta for 6 hours or more—head to the docks and catch a boat to Pari Island. Part of the Thousand Islands regency, Pari Island is famous for its “Pantai Pasir Perawan” (Virgin Sand Beach).
You can spend the day snorkeling in crystal-clear water, riding a bike around the island, or canoeing through the mangroves. It’s the ultimate “reset” button for your brain, offering white sands and turquoise waters just a boat ride away from the skyscrapers!
Also Read: 8 Best Affordable Steaks in Jakarta That Will Satisfy Your Cravings on a Budget!
Modern Greenery at Tebet Eco Park
- Location: Tebet, South Jakarta
- Entrance Fee: Free (Booking via the JakLingko app is required)
Tebet Eco Park is the “it” spot for outdoor activities in Jakarta right now. This award-winning park connects two previously separated park areas with a stunning orange “Infinity Bridge.”
The park features a lush community garden, a children’s playground with unique wooden equipment, and a fitness area. It’s an ideal spot for a morning jog or a casual picnic. The way the park integrates the river into its design is truly beautiful, making it a peaceful sanctuary amidst the busy South Jakarta traffic!
Food hunting and vibe-checking in Blok M
Photo: Syahril Fadillah via Unsplash
- Location: Blok M, South Jakarta
- Entrance Fee: Bring enough budget for your culinary adventure here!
Blok M has had a massive glow-up lately! It’s the perfect blend of outdoor walking and culinary exploration. Start your afternoon at M Bloc Space, a creative hub converted from old housing units, where you can find local brand shops and live music.
For foodies, Blok M is truly a dream! If you’re into legendary eats, try Gulai Tikungan (Gultik) for a cheap and tasty outdoor street food experience. Looking for something trendy? Head over to Little Tokyo for some authentic ramen or visit Busy Cheese Cafe or OO Donut for some viral treats.
Walking through the bustling alleys of Blok M provides a unique urban outdoor experience you won’t find anywhere else!
Traveling to Jakarta? Stay at Bobopod!
Photo: Bobobox Internal Asset
After a full day of exploring the best outdoor activities in Jakarta, your legs might be tired, but your heart will definitely be full. But why let the “city stress” creep back in by rushing home through traffic? Extend your rejuvenation by staying at one of our many Bobopod branches in Jakarta!
Whether you’re exploring the history of the North or the trendy cafes of the South, there’s always a “pod” waiting for you. Experience the comfort of our high-tech pods at Bobopod Pancoran, Bobopod Kebayoran Baru, Bobopod Kota Tua, Bobopod Tanah Abang, Bobopod Juanda, Bobopod ITC Kuningan, or Bobopod Thamrin. Each location is strategically placed so you can stay close to the action while enjoying a quiet, futuristic sleep experience.
Ready for your next Jakarta adventure? Download the Bobobox app today to book your pod and start planning your perfect city getaway!
Writer: Ratna Asih
Featured Photo: Hartono Subagio via Unsplash
