The Ruins is more than just a historical landmark. It’s a place where history, romance, and a sense of wonder come to life. For families with kids, a visit here can be an enchanting and educational experience, transforming a simple trip into a memorable adventure. The sprawling grounds and majestic skeletal structure of the mansion offer a unique playground for imagination, where children can be a part of a real-life fairy tale.

A Family Experience with Kids

A family visit to The Ruins begins the moment you step out of the car. The sight of the magnificent mansion, with its grand columns and crumbling facade, immediately captures the attention of both adults and children. The vast, well-manicured lawn is an open invitation for them to run around, play tag, or simply explore. The sense of freedom is a welcome change from more restrictive indoor attractions.

The experience is enhanced by the narrative. As you stroll through the grounds, a local guide will share the bittersweet story of Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson, a sugar baron who built the mansion in the early 1900s as a tribute to his beloved wife, Maria Braga. Both adults and teens will be captivated by the story of a love so profound it inspired a grand mansion, and then the dramatic tale of its intentional burning during World War II to prevent its use by Japanese forces. The guide’s theatrical and engaging storytelling makes history accessible and exciting for young minds.

One of the most appealing aspects of The Ruins for families is the photographic opportunities. The beautiful scenery, from the golden light of the sunset to the intricate details of the architecture, makes every corner a perfect photo spot. Kids will enjoy posing for pictures, whether it’s by the fountain in the garden, under the archways, or in front of the grand staircase. This is a chance for parents to capture not just a photo, but a moment of shared awe and happiness.

Beyond the main structure, the experience is enriched by the smaller, more interactive elements. The on-site restaurant and café offer a place to rest and enjoy a snack or a meal. The mini-golf course provides a fun, competitive activity for the whole family, a perfect way to burn off some extra energy. The souvenir shop is also a hit, where kids can pick out a small memento to remember their trip. The entire property is designed to be a relaxing and enjoyable escape, a place where families can slow down, connect, and create lasting memories together.

Attractions Inside the Premises

The Ruins is not just a single building but a complete experience with several key attractions that contribute to its charm:

• The Mansion Itself: The centerpiece, of course, is the ruin of the ancestral mansion. Its Italianate architecture, with grand columns, symmetrical design, and a mix of concrete and egg whites for its walls, is a marvel of engineering and design. Visitors can walk through the remains, touch the weathered walls, and imagine the grandeur of its past. The structure’s resilience despite the fire is a testament to its sturdy construction.

• The Gardens: The mansion is set within beautifully landscaped gardens. The lush green lawn, vibrant flowers, and well-maintained pathways create a serene and picturesque environment. The most prominent feature is a large, circular fountain in front of the mansion, which adds a touch of European elegance to the tropical setting. These gardens are a popular spot for photos and a peaceful area for a leisurely stroll.
• The Fountain: The fountain is a central attraction, often lit up beautifully in the evening. It provides a perfect frame for the mansion and is a favorite photo spot for visitors. The sound of the water adds to the tranquil ambiance.

• Ristorante and Café: The on-site restaurant and café offer a variety of food and drinks. The menu often features local delicacies and international cuisine, providing a great opportunity to refuel after exploring. Dining with a view of The Ruins is a special experience, especially during the sunset.
• Mini-Golf Course: For a bit of family-friendly fun, The Ruins has an 18-hole mini-golf course. This is a great way for kids to engage in a playful activity and for families to enjoy some friendly competition.
• Souvenir Shop: The souvenir shop offers a range of memorabilia, from keychains and t-shirts to local products, allowing visitors to take a piece of The Ruins’ magic home with them.

Entrance Fees

As of 2025, the entrance fees for The Ruins are as follows:

• Adults: PHP 150 per person
• Senior Citizens and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs): PHP 100 per person
• Students: PHP 80 per person (with a valid school ID)
• Children (below 8 years old): Free of charge

Please note that these fees are subject to change, and it’s always a good idea to check the official website or social media pages for the most current information, especially if you plan on visiting during peak season or holidays. There may be separate fees for professional photoshoots.

How to Get There

From Cebu or Manila, book a flight to Bacolod. The Ruins is located in Talisay City, Negros Occidental, just a short drive from Bacolod City. Here’s a breakdown of how to get there:

• By Taxi or Ride-Hailing App: This is the most convenient way, especially with kids. From anywhere in Bacolod City, you can hire a taxi or use a ride-hailing app like Grab and simply tell the driver to take you to The Ruins. The ride usually takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. It is advisable to negotiate a fixed fare for a round trip with the driver, as finding a taxi for the return journey can be challenging, especially at night.
• By Jeepney and Tricycle: For a more budget-friendly and adventurous option, take a jeepney from Bacolod City with a “Bata-Libertad” route. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Pepsi Bottling Plant. From there, you can hire a tricycle (motorcycle taxi) to take you directly to the entrance of The Ruins. Be sure to agree on the fare with the tricycle driver beforehand.
• By Private Car: If you have rented a car, navigating to The Ruins is straightforward. From Bacolod City, take Lacson Street heading north towards Talisay. After the flyover and the Pepsi plant, turn right onto Don Mariano L. Lacson Highway, which will lead you directly to the property. There is ample parking available for a fee.
• By Tour Package: Many local tour operators offer private or group tours that include The Ruins as part of a larger Bacolod City or Negros Occidental tour. This is a great option for families who want a hassle-free experience with transportation and a guide included.

A visit to The Ruins is a journey back in time, a celebration of enduring love, and a chance to witness a beautiful landmark that has stood the test of time. For families, it’s an opportunity to create shared memories in a place of stunning beauty and rich history, making it a must-visit destination in Negros Occidental.