Looking for things to do in a new city with your kids? Check out this list of activities that will keep them entertained while you explore.
Exploring a new city is always an exciting adventure. It can provide the perfect opportunity for kids of all ages to learn, experience, and appreciate different cultures, customs, and foods. What’s more, it fosters lifelong memories that are sure to stay with them into adulthood. But while you’re busy scoping out the sights and attractions that go along with experiencing a completely unfamiliar environment, what do you do with your kids? Don’t worry; we have just the right list of activities that will keep everyone entertained! Grab your walking shoes as we explore some kid-friendly adventures guaranteed to make family trips away even more fun!
Visit a local park or playground
Exploring a new city can be exciting and daunting all at the same time. But if you bring your kids along, you can add an educational twist to your journey while visiting kid-friendly attractions. One of the best places to explore is a local park or playground. This will provide plenty of activities like fun slides, swings, climbing structures, and water play areas that will keep the entire family entertained without breaking the bank. Most cities have easy access to public parks, so take advantage of all these parks have to offer when you’re exploring a new area. After spending some quality time together outdoors, your kids will have wonderful memories that will last a lifetime!
Attend a family-friendly event or performance
A great way to involve the entire family is to attend a family-friendly event or performance. Many cities offer events such as festivals, carnivals, parades, and more throughout the year. These are great ways for the whole family to get involved in the culture of your destination. It can provide an opportunity for quality time and shared experiences that can be remembered fondly. From plays and musicals to outdoor festivals or theatrical productions, there’s no end to the types of events that are suitable for families of all ages. Not only do these events offer entertainment, but they also often help children learn more about culture, history, and artistic expression while having fun. Attending a family-friendly event or performance has something to offer everyone in the family, making it a wonderful and rewarding experience.
Tour the public transport system
If you have older kids who can manage it, take them on a tour of the city’s public transport system. This is a fun way to explore a new place and learn how to use buses and trains safely. Depending on where you’re visiting, the public transport system could offer a variety of interesting sights and experiences. And if your kids are old enough to understand and appreciate it, you can use this as an opportunity to teach them about budgeting and energy conservation too!
Try out some local cuisine
Trying out new cuisines is always a great way to experience a new city. It can also be fun for the kids, as they get to explore different tastes and textures. Most cities have a variety of kid-friendly restaurants that serve up delicious dishes perfect for young ones. This can also be an opportunity for them to learn about other cultures and gain some level of independence by ordering their own food.
Go to an amusement park
Another great kid-friendly activity to do in a new city is to visit an amusement park. This will provide plenty of thrills and excitement for the entire family! Amusement parks often have many rides and attractions, along with shows and performances, so you can get your daily dose of entertainment while exploring a new place. Just make sure to take safety precautions when riding any rides that are available, and be sure to follow all posted rules. With a little planning ahead, amusement parks can truly be one of the most enjoyable experiences for kids when traveling in a new city.
Enjoy the outdoors
Most cities have plenty of parks and outdoor activities available, such as biking trails, playgrounds, and more. Check out green spaces or nearby nature reserves for an educational and fun experience. In addition, many cities also have public beaches or even lakes and rivers. Swimming can be a great way to cool down and enjoy the outdoors while exploring a new place. Just make sure to stay safe when near any body of water!
Find a place to get ice cream or other treats
Exploring a new city with kids is always more fun when you have something sweet to snack on! Whether it’s ice cream, cupcakes, or some other treat, look for local spots where you can all take a break and sample the area’s signature snacks. This can be a great way to relax after an exciting day of sightseeing and exploring while still taking in all that the city has to offer.
Mikael and I took this as a challenge when we visited and spent 72hrs in Phoenix, Arizona, in the summer of 2020. It was well needed as temperatures were as high as 115°F on some days. This activity can be especially fun when picking out a flavor that you’ve never tasted before. Or, create your own made-to-order combinations with your favorite mixins and toppings. On a hot day, refresh yourself while indulging in an icy treat as you spend some quality time with the ones you love.
Take a tour or sightseeing adventure
Get creative and explore some of the local sites on an entertaining tour or sightseeing adventure. There are usually lots of options available in most cities, so you can pick something that fits your family’s interests. Taking a tour will not only give you an in-depth look at the new city but it will also provide plenty of educational experiences for your kids. Tours are available for various types of local attractions, such as historical monuments, museums, zoos and aquariums. You can even take a water taxi or river boat tour to get amazing views of the city from the waterfront! With all these options, there is sure to be something that your entire family will enjoy.
Visit a planetarium or an aquarium
If you want to get out of the sun and explore something indoors while you’re exploring a new city, then visiting a local planetarium or aquarium may be perfect for your family. There are plenty of interactive displays and shows designed just for kids so that they can learn about science, nature, and the world around them in an exciting new way. Plus, this is a great chance for your kids to get up close with some of the amazing creatures that live on our planet.
Visit a zoo
Whenever I travel with Madison, I always research if there’s a zoo in the city or nearby. Zoos are great family destinations that help teach kids about different animals in their natural habitats. Many zoos offer special shows and activities specifically designed for children. Visiting a zoo can be both educational and fun for everyone! Keep an eye out for any special experiences or events that the zoo may be hosting.
Go to a farmers market
Farmers markets can be a great place to bring the family when exploring a new city. Not only do you get to experience the local culture, but you can also purchase some fresh, delicious produce. Farmers’ markets usually have a variety of vendors selling different types of goods, from handmade crafts to farm-fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s a great way for kids to learn about where their food comes from in an entertaining and educational way.
Go on a walking tour of the city
Another great way to explore a new city with kids is by going on a walking tour. Madison and I have done this three times since we began our travels: in Australia, Norway, and Romania. Exploring a city on foot is a great way to get the full experience and really take in the culture. This will give you the chance to show your kids the different cultural and historical sites and teach them about what makes the area special.
On a walking tour, you can learn the history of the city and get close to the local attractions. You’ll see things that are off-the-beaten-path and often overlooked – and maybe even discover some hidden gems! Plus, you can step off the tourist trail whenever you want to explore something that catches your eye. A walking tour is truly an immersive experience that allows you to learn about and appreciate a city from all angles. You can look for kid-friendly walking tours that offer interesting facts, stories, and even some hands-on activities so that your kids can get involved in learning all about the place they’re visiting.
Visit a museum or art gallery
Exploring museums (especially children’s museums) and art galleries offers another fun and educational option while spending time in a new city. This will give your children the opportunity to be exposed to different cultures and understand how people lived in various times throughout history. Many museums also feature interactive exhibits designed just for kids so they can learn more about their favorite topics while having fun. Even if the museum isn’t hosting any special activities, simply walking around and exploring is sure to keep everyone entertained. And don’t forget to look for local festivals or events taking place at nearby arts centers as well – these are often filled with family-friendly activities that your kids will love!
Take advantage of free or discounted attractions
Exploring a new city can be an exciting experience, and there are plenty of kid-friendly activities to take advantage of. One of the best ways to save money while doing so is to look for free or discounted attractions. Many cities have museums, parks, and other points of interest that have free admission or offer discounted prices on certain days. Additionally, free walking tours are often available from local residents who provide cultural insight into the history and customs of the city. It is possible to save money and make memories without spending a fortune by doing some research on offerings before going exploring.
In conclusion
No matter what type of kid-friendly activities you choose while exploring a new city, make sure to take plenty of photos along the way! Photos are a wonderful way to capture all the fun family moments together and keep these memories alive forever. So be sure to bring your camera when traveling with your kids and enjoy all that a new city has to offer!
Visiting a new city is all about making lasting memories, and there are plenty of kid-friendly activities available for both adults and children alike. By taking advantage of kid-friendly attractions such as parks, and playgrounds, trying out local cuisine, and going on nature walks, these activities will provide endless hours of fun for everyone in your family. Kids will love these activities because they offer fun and adventure in equal measure – giving everyone an opportunity to learn something new and make wonderful memories together!
So next time you’re traveling with the kids, make sure to check out all the amazing things a new city has to offer so that everyone can have a memorable experience together! Happy exploring!
