The area around the elegant Paseo del Prado boulevard is much-visited by both locals and tourists. The world-famous Prado, the Reina Sofia, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza museums form a triangle of art and culture that spans this grand and beautiful avenue. On weekdays, the Prado Museum opens its doors for free after-work hours, drawing a diverse and excited queue of art lovers that wraps around the block. Palacio de Cibeles and Círculo de Bellas Artes cultural centers are other artsy hangouts to check out, with rooftop bars that provide impressive views of the city. While the Paseo del Prado and its roundabouts form a busy throughway in Madrid, a broad green pedestrian park in the middle is a calm and gorgeous place for a relaxing stroll. Just east of the museums, the Retiro Park is always a confluence of activity as families and friends of all ages take to the pretty paths and lawns to stretch their legs or to have a picnic.