Session Road | Baguio

Information

Landmark: Session Road
City: Baguio
Country: Philippines
Continent: Asia

Session Road, Baguio, Philippines, Asia

Session Road is the primary thoroughfare and commercial center of Baguio City. It is a 1.7-kilometer road that serves as the city's main hub for business, dining, and social gatherings.

Visual Characteristics

The road is characterized by its steep incline and a blend of mid-century and modern commercial architecture. It is lined with multi-story buildings housing banks, department stores, and independent shops. The streetscape is frequently decorated with banners and features wide, busy sidewalks. The upper portion of the road leads toward the Baguio Cathedral, while the lower portion connects to Burnham Park and the Public Market.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Session Rd, Baguio, 2600 Benguet.

Access: The road is divided into Upper Session Road and Lower Session Road.

Transport: Most jeepney routes in Baguio terminate or pass through the vicinity of Lower Session Road. It is the most accessible point in the city for taxis and walking.

Entry: Public thoroughfare.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The road derives its name from the fact that it was the site of the first session of the Second Philippine Commission in 1904. It was designed by Daniel Burnham as part of the original city plan. While it is the most urbanized part of Baguio, the surrounding hills provide views of the city's characteristic pine-lined ridges.

Key Highlights & Activities

Dining: Home to legendary local establishments like Vizco’s Restaurant and Cakes (famous for strawberry shortcake) and Star Cafe.

Shopping: Features a mix of modern malls (SM City Baguio is at the top of the hill) and traditional commercial buildings like the Maharlika Livelihood Center nearby.

Sunday Pedestrianization: On Sundays, the road is often closed to vehicular traffic, allowing for street performances, chalk art, and various community activities.

Nightlife: A high concentration of bars and restos that remain active late into the evening.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The road is equipped with numerous ATMs, pharmacies, and convenience stores. Public restrooms are available within the shopping malls and larger restaurants along the strip. 5G cellular coverage is excellent throughout the entire length of the road.

Best Time to Visit

The road is active 24 hours, but the peak commercial hours are from 09:00 to 21:00. The best time to experience its vibrant atmosphere is during the early evening when the neon signs are lit and the crowds are at their peak.

Facts & Legends

Session Road is the traditional route for the grand parades of the Panagbenga Festival. It remains the symbolic heart of the city, representing its transition from a quiet hill station to a bustling urban center.