Relive nail-biting competition and moments of golden glory as you explore the sleek modern architecture and superb facilities at this sporting venue.
Beijing helped to catapult modern China back onto the world stage when it played host to the Summer Olympics in 2008. The spectacular modern architecture and state of the art sporting facilities of the custom-built Olympic Park played host to athletes, journalists and spectators from across the globe for a summer of sport and entertainment.Located in Beijing’s north-eastern Chaoyang district, the Olympic Park became an immediate international landmark. Its gleaming modern buildings and luxuriant green spaces embody the technological genius and forward-looking culture of China in the twenty-first century.The site stretches over more than a thousand hectares of land, with parks and a canal as well as the Olympic venues. Take a wander along the paved walkway for a tour of the most famous sites, where great sporting feats and moments of high drama were played out in front of enormous crowds. Be sure to visit the iconic National Stadium, whose elaborate steel structure has earned it the nickname ‘The Bird’s Nest’. Segways can be rented inside for fun rides and races around the athletics track.If you have children in tow, head straight for the National Aquatic Centre. Originally designed for swimming and diving contests, the complex has now been converted into a water park with rides and slides that are second to none. A great way to cool off and have fun, this is the perfect place to splash around for a couple of hours.In the evening, the whole park lights up in a show that provides an awe-inspiring display against the main buildings while a live orchestra plays in the background. Why not stop for dinner at one of the restaurants within the complex while watching the lights dip and weave, creating spectacular reflections against the gleaming modern buildings.Olympic Park is serviced by two subway stations and a number of bus services, making it easy to reach by public transport. Just get off at Olympic Green or Olympic Sports Center to find yourself in the middle of the action.
