RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - JULY 04:  Work continues at Olympic Park in preparation for the 2016 Olympic Games on July 4, 2016 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.  (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)

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Parque Olímpico

Rio de Janeiro


This was the epicenter of the 2016 Summer Olympics and the Paralympic Games. Sadly, the facilities now sit largely abandoned and are not open to the public.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Rio de Janeiro attractions

1. Bosque da Barra

1.83 MILES

Covering 50 hectares of salt-marsh vegetation, this park is a refuge and breeding area for many small birds and animals, and you might spy capybaras,…

2. Praia da Barra da Tijuca

4.05 MILES

The best thing about Barra is the beach. It stretches for 18km, with the blue sea lapping at the shore. The first few kilometers of its eastern end are…

3. Parque Natural Municipal de Marapendi

4.53 MILES

Near Barra da Tijuca's coastal strip, this155-hectare biological reserve has photogenic views over the Marapendi lagoon dotted with mangroves, towering…

4. Parque Ecológico Chico Mendes

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5. Casa do Pontal

6.87 MILES

Owned by French designer Jacques Van de Beuque, this impressive museum containing some 4500 pieces has one of the best folk-art collections in Brazil. The…

6. Prainha

8.4 MILES

One of the most picturesque beaches near Rio, Prainha is backed by cliffs and thick forest. The sea can be rough, but it's a favorite among surfers. It…

7. Parque da Cidade

9.5 MILES

On the outer reaches of Gávea, this lush park of native Mata Atlântica rainforest and replanted secondary forest provides a refreshing escape from the…

8. Instituto Moreira Salles

9.93 MILES

This beautiful cultural center hosts impressive exhibitions, often showcasing the works of some of Brazil's best photographers and artists. The gardens,…