Often in the shadow of Saint-Gilles or Uccle, Forest is nevertheless one of Brussels’ most surprising and endearing districts. With its majestic parks, alternative cultural venues and hidden gourmet addresses, there’s plenty to spend a day (or more) here. Here are our favorite ideas for discovering Forest from a different angle, combining nature, culture and urban pleasures.
Getting to WIELS
Do you love art? WIELS is the place for you! This art center specializing in the avant-garde offers interesting exhibitions throughout the year. Its temporary exhibitions are often striking, and the industrial architecture alone is worth the detour. Bonus: the rooftop opens for events!
📍Address: Av. Van Volxem 354, 1190 Forest.
Stroll through the newly renovated Forest park (and climb up to the Duden)
Good news! Parc de Forest has recently been refurbished, with new landscaping, redesigned walkways and new green spaces. This large, gently sloping park is one of the most majestic in Brussels, with its open lawns, century-old trees and unobstructed views over the city. Want to extend your stroll? Climb up to the neighboring Parc Duden: perched higher up, it offers one of the finest panoramas of Brussels, especially at sunset.
📍 Addresses: Av. Reine Marie-Henriette and Chaussée de Bruxelles, 1190 Forest.
Attend a concert at Forest National, Brussels’ legendary concert hall
The Forest National is one of Brussels’ largest and most prestigious concert venues. Numerous national and international celebrities have already performed here, thrilling the stage with unforgettable performances. But the venue doesn’t stop at concerts: it also hosts sporting events, plays, festivals, musicals, as well as a variety of shows and one-man-shows. A must-see address to enjoy a rich and eclectic program in an emblematic setting.
📍Address: Av. Victor Rousseau 208, 1190 Forest.
Party and chill out at Forest Sounds Festival
Every year, this inclusive family festival takes place in Forest, in the bucolic setting of the Abbaye de Forest. With free admission and a program as eclectic as it is joyful, from Lefto to La Chiva Gantiva to ROSHANI, the festival mixes world sounds, electro and local discoveries. You’ll meet families, friends and the curious, enjoying concerts, entertainment and an associative village full of good vibes.
📍 Address: Abbaye de Forest
Play padel or tennis in a green setting at Forest Domaine
Looking for a little action? Head for Forest Domaine! It’s the perfect place to learn (or perfect) padel, with three brand-new courts recently inaugurated. The infrastructure also includes no fewer than 16 tennis courts, enough to satisfy all levels. And because comfort always comes after effort, you can enjoy a meal at the “La Table du Domaine” brasserie afterwards! You’ll love its large terrace, ideal for prolonging the moment.
📍 Address: Avenue du Domaine 150, 1190 Forest.
Discover Maison Nelissen, a jewel of geometric Art Nouveau
With its multiple storeys of white and green brick, curved ironwork balconies and, above all, its emblematic circular bay window, the Maison Nelissen is a veritable architectural gem in Forest. The work of the eponymous architect, this building combines elegance and originality, perfectly embodying the geometric Art Nouveau style. It’s a must-see! Especially for architecture enthusiasts or lovers of beautiful facades who like to stroll along the streets.
📍 Address: Av. du Mont Kemmel 5, 1190 Forest.
Get away from it all at Trame, a bookshop-gallery-grocery with a warm, committed atmosphere
Trame is a warm and welcoming hybrid of independent bookshop, art gallery and friendly grocery store. It invites you to stroll among a careful selection of novels, children’s books and works of art, while enjoying organic drinks and homemade sweets. Its charming garden adds a touch of serenity, perfect for a moment of relaxation or a get-together. More than just a shop, Trame is a cultural cocoon committed to sharing and discovery.
📍Address: Av. Van Volxem 71, 1190 Forest
Enjoy inventive, seasonal gastronomic cuisine at Le Brugmann
Located a stone’s throw from Place Brugmann, in a sumptuous hôtel de maître, Le Brugmann is a must for haute cuisine lovers in Forest. From the moment you arrive, the sublime setting seduces with its elegance and refined atmosphere, providing the perfect setting for an exceptional culinary experience. The cuisine, inventive and resolutely rooted in seasonal produce, unfolds in a menu that evolves with the chef’s inspirations, blending subtle flavors and mastered techniques. A unique gastronomic experience that leaves a lasting impression.
📍 Address: 52-54 avenue Brugmann, 1190 Forest.
Climb to Altitude 100 and discover Saint-Augustin Church
Altitude Cent is the highest point in Brussels, perched some 93 meters above sea level. This unique star-shaped crossroads, where eight avenues meet, is especially noteworthy for the imposing Église Saint-Augustin. A veritable masterpiece of Art Deco architecture, it impresses with its monumental proportions and bold inspirations, notably the Egyptian pyramids. A walk that combines architectural discovery and urban panorama, ideal for lovers of unusual places and history.
📍Address: Pl. de l’Altitude Cent, 1190 Forest.
Family fun at Stardust Park, Brussels’ largest indoor playground
For a 100% fun day out, protected from the vagaries of the weather, head for Stardust Park, Brussels’ largest indoor playground. With its 4,000 m² dedicated to children aged 18 months to 12 years, this park offers a multitude of activities: bumper cars, climbing, bungee jumping, go-karting, and even a Mayan temple filled with captivating games. Regular entertainment and shows round off this unforgettable family experience. A true paradise for little explorers and parents in search of relaxation!
📍Address: Avenue du Globe 36, 1190 Forest.
Have a drink at Bar du Matin, Forest’s friendly institution
On Chaussée d’Alsemberg, Bar du Matin is a trendy café-bar that opens its doors every day from early morning (between 8 and 9 a.m.) until late at night (1 to 3 a.m.). A veritable neighborhood institution, it boasts a vast terrace perfect for sunny days, as well as evening concerts and guest DJs on weekends. The atmosphere is warm and festive, ideal for getting together with friends or making new acquaintances in a relaxed, dynamic setting.
📍Address: Chau. d’Alsemberg 172, 1190 Forest.
Discover the Parc du Bempt, a little-known corner of nature
Parc du Bempt is a true haven of peace nestled in the heart of Forest, often overlooked by classic tours. This small green space offers a completely bucolic atmosphere! In fact, its urban vegetable gardens tended by enthusiasts and its quiet areas, perfect for a relaxing break, almost transport us to the countryside. It’s an invitation to slow down, observe nature and reconnect with a more sustainable, local way of life. It’s also an excellent spot for families or lovers of green spaces looking to get away from the urban hustle and bustle.
📍Address: Chaussée de Neerstalle, Brussels
Enjoy an intimate concert at Brass
The Brass cultural center, nestled in the former Wielemans-Ceuppens brewery, is a must for fans of alternative music and culture. Its programming combines intimate concerts, art exhibitions and original events, providing a prime stage for local talent and up-and-coming artists. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with a curious audience and spaces that encourage proximity between spectators and artists. A real nugget for discovering Brussels’ teeming creativity in a setting steeped in history.
📍Address: Av. Van Volxem 364, 1190 Forest