Landmark · Vila Buarque
Minhocao
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Minhocão, officially named Elevado Presidente João Goulart, is a controversial elevated highway that cuts through the heart of São Paulo. Built in the 1970s to ease traffic, it quickly became a symbol of urban blight due to noise and pollution. However, on weekends and public holidays, the road is closed to vehicles and opens to pedestrians, cyclists, and skaters. This transformation turns the concrete structure into a lively linear park, where families stroll, artists paint murals, and musicians perform. The elevated views offer a unique perspective of the city's skyline and the surrounding neighborhoods of Vila Buarque and Santa Cecília. Minhocão has become a beloved space for community events, outdoor exercise, and cultural expression, representing São Paulo's adaptive reuse of urban infrastructure.
Don't miss
- Walk or bike along the elevated roadway with panoramic city views.
- Admire the ever-changing graffiti and murals painted by local artists.
- Join a free outdoor exercise class or yoga session often held on weekends.
- Visit the nearby neighborhoods of Vila Buarque and Santa Cecília for cafes and shops.
- Experience the vibrant atmosphere during special events like art fairs or concerts.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Minhocao
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Minhocao with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inVisit São Paulo with a local guide4.8★ · 128 travelers3–4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$26 per personSee dates →
Best full daySão Paulo’s Full Day City Tour: Main City Sights – (Shared Group)4.9★ · 1,835 travelers~7 hoursFree cancellationFrom$79 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleSao Paulo Top Highlights Tour with Market visit (4h)5★ · 13 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$145 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- The road is open to vehicles on weekdays from 6:30 AM to 9 PM, so only visit on weekends/holidays.
- Bring sunscreen and water as there is little shade on the elevated road.
- Bicycles and skateboards are allowed; there are bike-sharing stations nearby.
- Graffiti is legal and encouraged, but avoid touching fresh paint.
A bit of history
Minhocão (meaning 'big earthworm' in Portuguese) was inaugurated in 1971 as the Elevado Presidente Costa e Silva. It was built to connect the west and east zones of São Paulo but faced criticism for its impact on nearby residents. In 2016, it was renamed after former president João Goulart. Weekend closures began in the 1990s and have since become a cherished tradition.
Common questions
Is Minhocão open every day?
No, it is only open to pedestrians and cyclists on weekends and public holidays. On weekdays, it functions as a regular highway.
Are there restrooms available?
There are no public restrooms on the elevated road itself, but nearby cafes and shops may have facilities.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash.
Is it safe at night?
The area is generally safe during open hours, but it's best to visit during daylight or early evening when crowds are present.
Are there food vendors?
On busy weekends, you may find food trucks and vendors selling snacks and drinks at the access points.
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