The timeline: from the dangerous Bronx to the creative district (2016-2026)
Ten years ago, walking along Calle 9 between Caracas and Carrera 15 could be a real risk. The old "Bronx" of Bogotá was the center of micro-trafficking and pimping, where thousands lived in inhumane conditions in tenement houses. Everything changed on May 28, 2016, when more than 2,500 police officers evicted around 4,000 people, leaving a landscape of rubble and tunnels. However, that intervention was not random: local merchants, especially owners of garment workshops, had been pushing for change. Between 2016 and 2019, the place was in limbo, but in 2020, the Mayor's Office launched the Bronx Distrito Creativo project, with an investment of $140,000 million pesos, which includes a cultural center and social housing. By August 2026, the hallways that used to smell of abandonment now smell of art and coffee, but be careful: the balance between tourism and the lives of residents is key.
Art, memory, and resistance: the murals that tell the neighborhood's story
El Bronx Distrito Creativo is a unique open-air museum. Each mural is a testament to the neighborhood's history. One of the most striking is on the corner of Calle 10 with Carrera 15a, a portrait of a woman with butterfly wings, a tribute to mothers who lost their children. To better understand the history of the place, the guided tour that leaves every Saturday at 10 am from Plaza de la Hoja (Calle 9 # 14-42) costs $25,000 COP per person and lasts two hours. It is led by former Bronx residents who are now cultural mediators, sharing their experiences and anecdotes. It's not just tourism; it's a connection with living memory.
📌 Transparency
This article contains sponsored/affiliate links. We may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Spanish Bootcamp Online
Don't miss the Museo de la Memoria, inside the district. Here, entry is free and it's open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm, although it's advisable to check hours before your visit. The permanent exhibition includes objects recovered from the rubble, such as shoes and letters, which tell life stories. If you're looking for something more interactive, the Bloque Cultural (Calle 10 # 15-38) offers screen printing and engraving workshops for $40,000 COP, including materials. Take home a souvenir made by yourself!
Where to eat and create: the most authentic art workshops, cafés, and coworking spaces
The gastronomic offering has grown, and Comedor de la Esquina (Carrera 15 # 10-42) is a perfect example. Here, neighborhood women offer a daily menu that includes bandeja, sancocho, or ajiaco for $12,000 COP, and 70% of the profits go directly to them. Make sure to arrive before 12:30 pm, because it sells out quickly.
For specialty coffee, Café de la Paz (Calle 9 # 14-58) is the ideal place. A cappuccino with almond milk costs $8,500 COP and they offer stable wifi. They're open Monday to Saturday, from 7 am to 7 pm. The owner, a former recycler turned barista, shares his inspiring story with you.
If you need a space to work, Laboratorio Urbano (Calle 10 # 15-60) has a welcoming atmosphere. The cost of a desk per day is $25,000 COP, with unlimited coffee. They also have a "scholarship" program for local entrepreneurs in the textile sector. A great place to learn more about the neighborhood's history!
Don't leave without visiting La Fábrica de Cartón (Carrera 14 # 9-30), where local artists transform recycled cardboard into furniture and sculptures. Guided tours are on Thursdays at 3 pm for $15,000 COP, and you can buy pieces from $30,000 COP. A clear example of circular economy in action.
Safety and visit codes: what to do and what to avoid in the area
El Bronx Distrito Creativo is relatively safe, but it's always better to stay alert. Here are some recommendations:
- Don't leave the district perimeter after 6 pm. Although the intervened area is monitored, two blocks outside can be dangerous.
- Don't wear chains, watches, or cameras hanging around your neck. Although it has improved, pickpockets may still be on the lookout.
- Use public transportation to the door. The TransMilenio station Avenida Jiménez (line A) is a 10-minute walk away. During rush hour, the flow of people makes the journey safer.
- Ask before photographing people. Many residents prefer not to be photographed, so it's best to ask permission.
- Don't buy drugs on the street. This funds criminal networks that have affected the community.
An interesting fact: El Bronx Distrito Creativo has a community evacuation plan. If you see locals starting to close up suddenly, follow their lead; they know the neighborhood better than any map.
The real impact on residents: conversations with community leaders and merchants
The transformation has brought benefits, but also challenges. I spoke with Doña Marta, who has been selling arepas on the corner of Calle 9 with Carrera 14 for 30 years. "I used to sell 200 arepas a day; now I sell 80, but I can sleep peacefully. My children no longer cry for us to move." Her stall has improved, but the flavor remains the same.
On the other hand, Jhon Fredy, leader of the Junta de Acción Comunal de Los Mártires, mentions: "The district brought investment, but rents have gone up. Families that had been here for 20 years are being displaced." The Mayor's Office promised 400 social housing apartments, but so far only 120 have been delivered.
To better understand these dynamics, attend the Consejo Comunitario del Bronx, which meets on the first Wednesday of each month in the auditorium of the Bloque Cultural. It's an opportunity to listen and learn about coexistence in the neighborhood. If you want to know the deep Bogotá, this is the place.
Available options
El Parqueadero
This space has become a meeting point for artists and creatives. It offers temporary exhibitions and cultural events that reflect the essence of the Bronx. Insider Tip: Visit during the first week of each month, when they usually organize design and local art fairs that are less crowded and more authentic.
La Casa de la Cultura de San Basilio
A cultural center that promotes Colombian art and music, providing a space for workshops and performances. Insider Tip: Don't miss open mic nights, where emerging artists share their work and you can enjoy a genuine experience of local talent.
El Café del Bronx
A cozy place offering high-quality Colombian coffee, as well as being a space for art exhibitions. Insider Tip: Ask about the specific origin coffee of the day; each week they highlight different regions of the country, allowing you to explore the diversity of Colombian coffee.
...
Updated costs
The Bronx has evolved notably in recent years, and with this change, the costs associated with experiencing and exploring this area have also changed. Below are some economic aspects to consider when visiting or residing in the Bronx Distrito Creativo.
Cafés and Restaurants
Prices in the new cafés and restaurants have gone up, but the quality and experience justify it. An average lunch can cost between $15,000 and $30,000 COP, depending on the place and the type of food you choose. If you're looking for an authentic experience, try the menu at Restaurante Casa de la Cultura, where typical dishes are a delight and prices are affordable.
Co-Working Spaces
Co-working spaces have proliferated in the area, with rates ranging from $200,000 to $600,000 COP per month, depending on the facilities and services offered. A standout place is La Casa de los Artistas, which not only offers a workspace but also workshops and cultural events. Sign up for their mailing list to receive special discounts on memberships.
Events and Cultural Activities
Events in the Bronx are generally free or have a symbolic cost, ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 COP. Keep an eye out for the Feria de las Flores, which often has activities in the Bronx, where entry to several activities is free. A tip is to arrive early to enjoy all the activities without rushing.
Remember that these prices can change, so it's always good to check the social media of the places you plan to visit for updated information and promotions. The transformation of the Bronx is not just about physical change, but also about a new economy that supports local entrepreneurs.
...
Estimated times
Visiting the Bronx Distrito Creativo is not only an opportunity to discover an area in transformation, but also to experience the authenticity of its streets and culture. Here are some estimated times to help you plan your route, as well as some practical insider tips that will help you make the most of your visit.
-
Walking exploration
Estimate around 2 to 3 hours to walk through the Bronx. Take this time to observe the urban art pieces and stop at the workshops of local artists.
Insider Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to interact with the artists; many of them are willing to share their stories and techniques. -
Visiting cultural spaces
Dedicate at least 1 to 2 hours to visit places like the Teatro La Candelaria or the Fundación Gilberto Alzate Avendaño. Here you can appreciate local talent and innovative cultural proposals.
Insider Tip: Check the event schedule before your visit; there are often performances, workshops, and temporary exhibitions you won't want to miss. -
Local gastronomy
If you want to enjoy the local gastronomy, consider about 1 to 2 hours to sit down at a local restaurant. The authentic flavors of Bogotá will surprise you.
Insider Tip: Try the "Ajiaco" at a restaurant that prepares it with fresh local ingredients; it's an emblematic dish that reflects the culinary tradition of the region.
...
Practical tips
Galería Santa Fé
This space has become a meeting point for emerging artists and art enthusiasts. Insiders suggest visiting the gallery on the first Friday of each month, when they hold a special tour of the exhibitions and you can chat with the artists.
La Gaitana
A restaurant that offers an authentic experience
