Surroundings
Residential and Commercial Area: The university is in a relatively calm, suburban neighborhood with a mix of residential buildings and small businesses. You’ll find local cafés, shops, and restaurants, making it a good spot for casual outings or grabbing a quick bite.
Public Parks:
- Parque Central de Santo André: A large park close to UFABC, offering green space, walking paths, and lakes. It’s a great spot for relaxation, jogging, or enjoying the outdoors. You can also find local events like fairs and performances taking place here, especially on weekends.
Parque Central - Santo André - Parque Natural do Pedroso: Not far from UFABC, Pedroso Park is the largest natural reserve in the Greater ABC region, with a predominantly Atlantic Forest landscape, integrated into the Billings Hydrographic Basin and protected by the “Water Source Protection Law”, where there is permanent preservation of springs, rivers and forests. 6% (10.2 million liters of water) comes from the Pedroso System, which collects water from the Pedroso Park dam and treats it at the Guarará Water Treatment Plant, in the municipality of Santo André.
Parque Natural do Pedroso - Santo André Cultural Spots:
- Centro Cultural São João: Located in the city, this cultural center often hosts exhibitions, shows, and events, allowing you to explore local art and culture.
- Teatro Municipal de Santo André: If you enjoy performing arts, this theater regularly puts on plays, music performances, and dance shows.
Shopping and Dining:
- Grand Plaza Shopping: One of the main malls in the region, offering a variety of stores, cinemas, and restaurants. It’s an excellent option for those looking for a shopping spree or a place to hang out.
- Rua das Figueiras: A street near the university that’s known for local dining options, including traditional Brazilian food and international cuisines.
- Cervejaria & Pub Madalena: Cervejaria Madalena, located in Santo André, São Paulo, is a renowned brewery and pub that offers a unique blend of craft beers, live entertainment, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Established in 2012, it has become a significant presence in the Brazilian craft beer scene. The expansive 6,000-square-meter venue features visible brewing facilities, offering guided tours that provide insights into the brewing process, modern bottling installations, and large storage tanks. These tours conclude with tastings directly from the tanks.
Cervejaria & Pub Madalena Museums: The nearby Museu de Santo André showcases the city’s history and cultural heritage, often with exhibits related to the region’s industrial past.
Fun Things to Do:
Explore Local Parks: Spend time in the parks like Parque Central, where you can walk, cycle, or have a relaxed picnic. It’s also a lovely spot for nature photography or just enjoying a peaceful afternoon.
Visit Cultural Centers and Theaters: If you enjoy art and culture, catch a show or exhibition at places like the Centro Cultural São João or Teatro Municipal de Santo André. These venues often feature local artists and performers.
Shopping and Entertainment: If you’re in the mood for shopping, check out the many malls in the region. Shopping ABC, for instance, is a popular destination for both shopping and leisure activities like movies and dining.
Café Hopping: The surrounding neighborhood has several cozy cafes where you can relax and enjoy Brazilian coffee or a light snack. The vibrant café culture is great for students and visitors who want to hang out in a relaxed environment.
Attend University Events: UFABC is known for hosting various academic and cultural events, including lectures, workshops, music concerts, and exhibitions. Keep an eye out for public events on campus, where you can engage with the academic and cultural community.
Visit Paranapiacaba’s Village: Paranapiacaba is a small, historic village nestled in the Serra do Mar mountain range, about 20 km away from UFABC. Originally a railway station for the São Paulo Railway Company, the village is known for its preserved colonial architecture, scenic views, and rich history.
The area around UFABC offers a nice mix of nature, cultural experiences, and modern amenities. Whether you’re looking to relax in a park, explore cultural events, or do a bit of shopping, there’s plenty to keep you busy in this vibrant part of Greater São Paulo.