The Brazilians are a very family-oriented nation who like to take their kids everywhere with them, such as restaurants, bars and even out dancing. As a result, you can take your family pretty much anywhere in Rio de Janeiro, although a few places stand out as being especially family-friendly. Below is a list of family activities in Rio de Janeiro, with something to satisfy both kids and their parents in each one.

Planetário da Gávea: something for everyone

Gávea's number one attraction, the Planetarium, is a fairly unique and impressive building which features a museum, a telescopes’ square and two projection domes, with the larger one projecting around 9,000 stars. Visitors can partake in the 40-minute sessions, which take place in the domes on weekends, or take a peek at the night sky through the telescopes from Tuesday to Thursday. With a combination of fictitious adventures in space, and nonfiction shows about our solar system, there’s something for both kids and their parents here. Be sure to pay a visit to the adjoining Museu do Universo, an interactive museum which illustrates the history of space exploration and travel.

[caption id="attachment_1087" align="aligncenter" width="540"]Planetarium in Gavea Rio de Janeiro's Planetarium is great for adults and kids / source[/caption]

Praia do Leblon: a safe and clean family beach

Of all Rio’s city beaches, Praia do Leblon is both the safest and the cleanest, making it the perfect place for families looking to spend some time relaxing in the sunshine. The beach is marked by posts, with Posto 12 boasting its own play area, where parents can leave their kids when they choose to go for a dip. Also located on the beach, just across from Rua Venâncio Flores is Baixo Bebê Leblon, which provides toys and activities, “baby stroller parking”, a baby changing station and big screens displaying the games being played. As for parents, you can sit back and relax with a refreshing coconut water while your little ones tire themselves out.

Jardim Botanico: the perfect family day out

With plenty of space for kids to run about, giant lily pads and a great play area, Rio de Janeiro’s Botanical Garden makes for the perfect family day out. For those looking to escape the city and enjoy nature with family, the Botanical Garden is the ideal place, for you will be surrounded by tropical species and treated to some spectacular views of the city. The lake in the centre is a particularly lovely spot to enjoy a picnic and look out for wildlife and, as entry is free for kids under seven and just R$5 for everyone else, it’s a very affordable option too!

[caption id="attachment_1089" align="aligncenter" width="540"]Jardim Botanico Giant lily pads in the Botanic Garden in Rio de Janeiro / source[/caption]

Ice-skating: a fun and festive activity

At Barra on Ice and Norte on Ice in Rio de Janeiro, visitors are treated to all sorts of games and activities organized by local DJ´s, who liven up the skating rink with music, lighting and special effects.  During the holidays, these skating rinks also offer a special program featuring performances by professional figure skaters, along with exciting giveaways.  You can partake in skating and ice hockey lessons, attend monthly events and parties or even organise your own party for your kids. Discounts are available for groups of ten or more people.

Jardim Zoológico: a guaranteed hit amongst kids

Rio de Janeiro's zoo is an excellent destination for families, with plenty to keep kids occupied for a full day. Located at Quinta da Boa Vista, the zoo has about 2,000 different species on display, most of which are Brazilian. There are numerous birds, such as toucans, macaws, and other colorful tropical species in an open aviary, enabling you to walk among them while they fly around. As well as this, there's a baby mammals enclosure where visitors can take a peek at a variety of adorable baby mammals, and plenty of cafes and vendors to keep everyone fed and entertained. The entrance fee is just R$5 for adults, making it an excellent value day trip too!

[caption id="attachment_7908" align="alignnone" width="667"] The zoo in Rio de Janeiro is particularly renowned for its exotic birds / source[/caption]

For more family activities in Rio de Janeiro, or to book tours and activities, visit our website.

By: Camilla Day – English Content Manager