Discover, Dine, and Play: Cebu’s Growing Collection of Destination Attractions Captivates Travelers

CEBU, Philippines, 12th August 2026 - Cebu continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the country's most dynamic travel destinations, offering visitors a diverse mix of attractions, experiences, and activities that go beyond its renowned beaches and heritage sites. As part of its SM for Cebu commitment, the most-loved SM malls in Cebu continue to bring together shopping, dining, entertainment, recreation, and leisure experiences, giving both locals and visitors a maxed-out experience and more ways to discover, dine, play, and make the most of their time in the province.

At SM City Cebu, visitors can experience a vibrant urban destination where shopping, dining, entertainment, and recreation come together in one convenient location. From leading fashion and lifestyle brands to the latest in technology, beauty, home, and everyday essentials, SM City Cebu curates one of the city's most comprehensive retail destinations, making it a preferred shopping hub for both locals and tourists. Food lovers can also explore the Food Hall, which brings together a diverse selection of dining concepts, offering everything from local favorites to international flavors in one vibrant culinary destination, while families and groups can enjoy friendly competition at the SM Bowling Center. For moviegoers, the Directors Club Cinema offers a premium viewing experience, while the first and only IMAX Theatre in Cebu remains a premier entertainment destination, offering audiences an unparalleled cinematic experience with cutting-edge projection and sound technology for the biggest film releases. With its central location and broad range of offerings, SM City Cebu provides visitors with a convenient way to shop, dine, be entertained, and unwind while exploring the city.

In Mandaue City, SM J Mall offers a distinctly different lifestyle experience, combining Japanese-inspired design and contemporary leisure concepts with shopping, dining, wellness, and entertainment. Visitors can explore the mall's Japanese-inspired spaces and discover dining destinations such as the Izakaya Terrace and Food Hall, offering opportunities to enjoy meals and gather with family and friends. Beyond dining, SM J Mall brings together retail, beauty and wellness, technology, and active-lifestyle experiences, creating a destination suited for both relaxation and recreation. Moviegoers can also enjoy the premium Directors Club Cinema, while the mall's curated spaces and lifestyle concepts provide visitors with a more experiential way to spend their day. Together, these offerings give SM J Mall a distinctive character within Cebu's growing collection of lifestyle destinations.

At SM Seaside City Cebu, visitors can explore an expansive mix of retail, dining, entertainment, and leisure offerings, including the SM Bowling Center, Ice Skating, and Directors Club Cinema. Beyond the mall, the surrounding SM Seaside Complex brings together Cebu Ocean Park, Cebu Fun Park, and Thirsty Pickle, offering marine discovery, family recreation, and active sports experiences. The destination is further expanding its events and entertainment offering with the SM Seaside Cebu Arena, which hosts major concerts, sporting events, and other large-scale activities, while the upcoming SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu is set to further strengthen Cebu's capacity for conventions, exhibitions, meetings, and events.

Cebu's diverse dining scene adds another dimension to the visitor experience, from beloved Cebuano specialties to globally inspired cuisines. Across SM malls in Cebu, guests can discover local favorites, homegrown brands, and international restaurants, making every visit an opportunity to explore new flavors while experiencing the region's vibrant food culture. Whether enjoying the variety at the Food Hall of SM City Cebu, experiencing Japanese-inspired dining at SM J Mall, or exploring the wide range of restaurants at SM Seaside City Cebu, visitors can easily make food part of their Cebu experience.

The growing variety of attractions gives travelers more ways to spend their day, whether enjoying marine encounters and family activities, discovering new dining and lifestyle concepts, shopping, watching movies, bowling, playing pickleball, or attending concerts and major events. By bringing together diverse lifestyle, retail, dining, entertainment, and recreational experiences, these destinations contribute to Cebu's broader tourism landscape, creating more opportunities for longer visits, repeat trips, and engagement with local businesses. As Cebu's tourism landscape continues to evolve, its growing collection of attractions reinforces the province's position as one of the country's premier travel destinations, inviting visitors to discover, dine, and play while experiencing even more of what Cebu has to offer.

A Cebuano New Year Like No Other at SM Supermalls

The locals of the Queen City of the South know how to have a good time—it’s practically in their DNA. Cebuanos are known for their energetic, passionate, yet irresistibly sweet disposition, and this is never more evident than in their loud, lively, and unapologetically fun New Year celebrations—and in festivities all throughout the calendar year.

With 2026 officially here, SM Seaside City Cebu and SM City Cebu are cranking the party all the way up with not-to-be-missed experiences perfect for explosive feasts and wildly entertaining gatherings. Bring out that fiery Bisaya spirit in you, and dare to live an elevated lifestyle with these must-try, Cebufied activities. 

Must-Do #1: Go Full Kikay This 2026!

Upgrading your outfit is sure to be a doozy with these kikay-cute finds from these fabulous stores. With a stunning collection of accessories and trend-driven bags, you’ll feel absolutely gwapa from the very start of the year all the way to the end!

Bagel Girl 

Step into the New Year with Cebuano flair at Bagel Girl, on the 2nd Level of the Seaview Wing at SM Seaside City Cebu. Pile on the sparkle, play with the shine, and finish every look with jewelry and hair accessories made for celebrating loud, proud, and in style. From street parties to family gatherings, bring that unmistakable Cebuano energy wherever the night takes you.

House of Little Bunny Pop-up Store 

Start 2026 the Cebuano way by looking effortless, put-together, and ready for anything by hopping on to the House of Little Bunny Pop-up Store in SM City Cebu’s North Wing. Whether you’re out for celebrations or on the go all year long, these are pieces made to carry you through 2026 in style.

Must-Do #2: Trimmed For Tiny Perfection 

Cebuanos like to start things light, easy, and with plenty of smiles. That’s exactly what your little one gets at Cuts 4 Tots on the 2nd Level, City Wing of SM Seaside City Cebu—the first in VisMin. This kid-friendly salon guarantees a stress-free haircut that can keep your kids comfy, confident, and camera-ready all year long.

Must Do #3: Family Fun Awaits 

Once your tot has had the perfect little snip, it’s time for some much-needed family bonding. Nothing says ‘fun!’ quite like a fun-filled day at Fantasy World, at SM Seaside City Cebu, located at the Lower Ground Level, Cube Wing. The biggest one yet to open in VisMin, it features a wide array of attractions—from unique games to interactive activities like Simulated Golf and Double Fun Arcade.

Must-Do #4: Upgrade Every Feast and Festivity

Craving for something besides the usual Talisay lechon? Head over to these awesome restaurants instead to shake things up. Serving some of the most mouthwatering meals this side of Cebu, you and your family will be screaming kalami all the way home!

Herbs & Cellar 

Cebuanos like their food bold, familiar, and worth coming back for. Ease into the year with a flavor-packed meal at Herbs & Cellar in the North Wing of SM City Cebu. With a fusion-forward menu that gives comfort favorites like sisig and fish and chips a clever twist, it’s the kind of place that keeps things exciting while still feeling just right for local tastes.

Samgyupsalamat 

The best way to welcome what’s next is around a table full of food. Say daghang salamat to satisfying, savory favorites at Samgyupsalamat in the North Wing of SM City Cebu. With Korean-style grilling, Filipino flavors, and unlimited marinated meats and sides, it’s the kind of feast made for sharing, celebrating, and lingering a little longer

Tavolàta

In Cebu, starting strong means sitting down and enjoying great food. That’s why Tavolàta in SM City Cebu’s North Wing offers a feast that shouldn’t be missed. From handmade pastas to hearth-baked pizzas, its warm, inviting Italian fare sets just the right tone for a year meant to be enjoyed.

Super Bowl of China

When the celebration slows down but appetites are still big, Super Bowl of China is the perfect pick. Enjoy comforting Chinese favorites paired with warm, personal service—something that truly resonates with Filipinos who love gathering, dining, and celebrating with friends and family. Find the first VisMin branch at SM City Cebu, North Wing.

Must-Do #5: End on a Sweet Note with Bisaya Brews And Bites

Once the entrée is done, it’s time to treat yourself to dessert and refreshments. A typical Cebuano celebration isn’t complete without a premium brew and a sugary delight that hits just the right spot. For an high-end coffee-and-confectionery experience that’s as sweet as your palangga, make your way to these stellar cafés and pastry shops.

Good Habits Coffee 

When the celebrations wind down but the night isn’t over, there’s always time for one more cup. Drop by Good Habits Coffee at the North Wing of SM City Cebu and settle in. With a cozy, homey space and freshly brewed coffee, it’s an easy place to stay up a little longer—whether you’re catching up, getting work done, or just enjoying the quiet before the year fully kicks in.

Beard Papa’s 

After all that celebration, there’s always room for something sweet. Swing by Beard Papa’s at the North Wing of SM City Cebu and treat yourself to their famous cream puffs—filled with rich chocolate, ube, honey butter, and other seasonal flavors. They’re light, indulgent, and tempting enough to make even puto and tikoy wait their turn.

Family, food, and fun—that’s what Cebuanos do best! And this rings especially true during the advent of the year. Throttle in at SM Supermalls fully and elevate your lifestyle with our carefully curated lineup of explosive finds to lead you into a whole new era this 2026. 

Let the craziness, color, and chaos of Cebu dazzle and wow the start of the year—and let’s keep the party going right till the very end. Malipayong Bag-ong Tuig!