When rain threatens to spoil your Sunday fun, there’s an attraction in the Historic Center that guarantees a full day of entertainment. The Altino Arantes Building, better known as Farol Santander, functions as a “cultural city” all in one place. After all, there you’ll find exhibitions, dining options, and an observation deck with a panoramic view of São Paulo.
Located at Rua João Brícola, 24, the building—whose architecture is inspired by the Empire State Building—offers unrestricted access to all floors with the purchase of a single ticket. In other words, starting at just R$ 22.50, you can enjoy all the wonders the building has to offer!
Art, video games, and preserved history at Farol Santander
As you walk through the building, you’ll come across Instagram-worthy scenes and major temporary exhibitions. Visitors this July, for example, have the opportunity to explore “The Invention of the New World: Maps from the Santander Collection, ” which brings together illustrations and ancient maps depicting Brazil’s territory in the past.
In addition, the interactive “ ” exhibition “Player 1” traces a 50-year history of video game evolution, allowing visitors to play nostalgic games on vintage televisions. The artistic itinerary also includes the installation “Portais” by São Paulo artist Nina Pandolfo.
Another option is the permanent exhibition at Farol Santander, which traces the history of the Altino Arantes Building. The building, which once housed the former Banco do Estado de São Paulo (Banespa), dedicates an area to its banking past, featuring coins from different eras, machinery, and the original furniture that preserves the atmosphere of the old “Banespão.”
From coffee at the observation deck to a drink in the basement!
The layout of Farol Santander allows you to enjoy the attraction at different times of the day. First, it’s worth visiting the observation deck, where you can view the city through telescopes. Be sure to also enjoy a hearty breakfast there!
When you get hungry for lunch, it’s time to check out Boteco do 28. The spot, which pays homage to composer Adoniran Barbosa, serves traditional São Paulo dishes, such as scrambled rice with a fried egg.
Finally, the tour heads down to the building’s basement. Behind an imposing metal door lies the Bar do Cofre SubAstor, located in the former vault of “Banespão.” There, you can sample classic and modern cocktails that pair perfectly with the appetizers on the menu.
