Sao Paulo

Museu de Arte de São Paulo (São Paulo Museum of Art)
This museum houses one of the finest art collections in Brazil. Its impressive exhibitions include works by the foremost Brazilian artists and European masters. The building itself is a unique elevated rectangle supported by two bright red panels split through the middle, and is often cited for architectural achievement.

Fundação Maria Luiza and Oscar Americano
(Maria Luiza and OscarAmericano Foundation)
This museum is located in the former home of the industrialist Oscar Americano and shows just how the elite of Brazil have spent their riches. Important works of the famous Brazilian painters Di Calvacanti and Portinari are displayed, as well as fine furnishings and memorabilia of the Brazilian royal family.

Memorial da AméricaLatina
(Latin America Memorial)
Designed to commemorate the solidarity of South America, this quirky memorial resembles three scoops of chocolate ice-cream with a splash of whipped cream on top.

Museu da Imagem e do Som
This small museum hosts ongoing photo exhibitions. The public can rent items from the archive of Brazilian film, video, and music.

Parque Ibirapuera
(Ibirapuera Park)
The grounds include four lakes, a plant nursery, and a Japanese pavilion with a replica of the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The Museum of Contemporary Art is also located in the park, as is the Museum of Modern Art, the Aeronáutica Museum, and the Folklore Museum.

Simba Safari
Wild lions, camels, zebras, and monkeys do roam this large park, at peace in their natural habitats. Visitors are admitted for safari-like tours.

Jardim Zoológico
Ranking among the 10 largest and best-equipped zoos in the world, this facility has 2,500 animals and 130 species, including lions, tigers, monkeys, waterfowl, and a nest of leaf-cutting ants in their natural environs. The gardens are well cultivated, and numerous snack bars dot the grounds.