Traveling with kids can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it often requires a little extra planning to ensure everyone has a great time. Major cities around the world are full of exciting activities for young explorers, whether they’re looking to learn something new, burn off energy, or simply have fun. Here’s a list of kid-friendly activities in some of the world’s most popular cities that will keep your little ones entertained and create lasting memories for the whole family.
- London, United Kingdom – The Natural History Museum
London is packed with family-friendly attractions, but one of the best places for kids is the Natural History Museum. With its interactive exhibits, giant dinosaur skeletons, and engaging activities, this museum is a hit with children of all ages. Kids can marvel at the enormous blue whale skeleton, get up close with prehistoric creatures, or even try out the hands-on discovery zones where they can learn about everything from volcanoes to outer space. Best of all, it’s free to enter, making it an affordable outing for families.
- Paris, France – Jardin d’Acclimatation
The Jardin d’Acclimatation, a charming amusement park located in Paris, offers a great combination of fun rides, games, and outdoor spaces. It’s perfect for younger children, with carousel rides, puppet shows, a small zoo, and playgrounds. The park also has a beautiful setting, making it an enjoyable place for parents to relax while the kids explore. After a fun day, head to the nearby Bois de Boulogne for a peaceful walk by the lake.
- New York City, USA – Central Park Zoo
Central Park is an oasis in the middle of the busy city, and the Central Park Zoo is one of its best kid-friendly attractions. This small, yet delightful zoo is home to a variety of animals, including snow leopards, sea lions, and penguins. Kids can learn about the different species, watch feeding times, and even interact with some of the animals in the Tisch Children’s Zoo, which features a petting zoo with friendly goats and sheep. After the zoo, you can enjoy a picnic in one of the park’s many green spaces or take a boat ride on the nearby lake.
- Tokyo, Japan – Ueno Zoo and Ueno Park
Ueno Zoo is the oldest zoo in Japan and offers a fantastic day out for families. Located within the expansive Ueno Park, the zoo is home to over 400 species of animals, including giant pandas, elephants, and tigers. The zoo’s layout is very kid-friendly, with easy paths to walk, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn about the animals. After the zoo, take some time to explore Ueno Park, which features playgrounds, tranquil ponds, and cherry blossoms in the spring. It’s the perfect place for a family picnic.
- Barcelona, Spain – Parc Güell
Barcelona is a city full of family-friendly activities, and Parc Güell is one of its most iconic attractions for kids. Designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí, this colourful park is a magical place where kids can run around, explore winding pathways, and marvel at the stunning mosaics and whimsical architecture. Kids will love the serpent-shaped bench, the lizard sculpture known as „El Drac,” and the beautiful panoramic views of the city. Parc Güell offers plenty of space for children to play and engage with the environment.
- Sydney, Australia – Taronga Zoo
Sydney’s Taronga Zoo is a must-visit for animal-loving kids. Located on the edge of Sydney Harbour, the zoo boasts over 4,000 animals from all over the world, including kangaroos, koalas, and giraffes. The zoo is interactive, with opportunities for kids to get hands-on in the Wild Ropes adventure course or to experience feeding sessions with certain animals. The zoo’s location also provides stunning views of Sydney Harbour, making it a unique experience for the whole family.
- Rome, Italy – Bioparco di Roma
Rome is known for its ancient history and cultural treasures, but it also has plenty of attractions for children. The Bioparco di Roma, located within the Villa Borghese gardens, is a fantastic place for kids to get up close with nature. The zoo is home to over 1,000 animals, including lions, bears, and monkeys. In addition to animal exhibits, the park offers playgrounds, interactive learning activities, and boat rentals for a fun, active day out in one of Rome’s most picturesque locations.
- Dubai, UAE – Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Dubai is a city full of modern attractions, and the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo offers a thrilling experience for children. Located inside The Dubai Mall, this massive aquarium houses thousands of aquatic species, including sharks, rays, and exotic fish. Kids can walk through the tunnel to experience the sensation of being submerged in the ocean, and the interactive exhibits teach about marine life. The underwater zoo also offers the chance to get closer to animals like penguins and otters in an exciting environment.
- Copenhagen, Denmark – Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli Gardens is one of the oldest amusement parks in the world and a must-see for families visiting Copenhagen. With its historic rides, beautiful gardens, and fun games, it’s a magical place for kids of all ages. From roller coasters to Ferris wheels and carousels, Tivoli Gardens offers a variety of rides that both kids and adults can enjoy. During the holiday season, the park transforms into a winter wonderland with festive lights and Christmas markets, making it a year-round destination for family fun.
- Amsterdam, Netherlands – NEMO Science Museum
If your kids love science, then the NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam is the place to be. This interactive museum is designed with children in mind, offering hands-on exhibits that make learning about science fun. From experimenting with physics to exploring the human body, kids can engage with the exhibits and discover the wonders of science in a playful, engaging way. The museum also has an outdoor terrace with fantastic views of the city, making it a great spot for a break after exploring the exhibits.
Traveling with kids doesn’t mean sacrificing fun or adventure. Major cities around the world offer countless kid-friendly activities that are both exciting and educational. Whether you’re visiting a zoo, exploring a theme park, or enjoying the beauty of nature, these activities will make your trip more enjoyable for everyone in the family. So pack your bags, gather the little ones, and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure!
