Exploring Medellín with your family offers a wealth of experiences that cater to younger travelers’ curiosity and excitement. But going from one children’s activity to another can be a drain on adults. Instead, this collection of things to do in Medellín caters to the whole family while keeping kids front and center.
Medellín is a vibrant Colombian city that presents an array of activities, from educational to purely fun, that can fill your itinerary with both learning and laughter. Whether you’re interested in science, nature or cultural experiences, Medellín has something to capture the imaginations of children and adults alike.
At Parque Explora, for example, you’ll find an interactive museum with a huge aquarium and a 3D cinema perfect for a family day out. Nature-loving families can enjoy the greenery and fresh air at Medellín’s Botanical Gardens, which is completely free except for special exhibits. From learning about Colombia’s biodiversity to engaging with hands-on displays, your time in Medellín promises to be as enriching as it is entertaining.
Exploring parks and outdoor spaces
In Medellín, the abundant green spaces offer a refreshing escape for families. The following parks are not only scenic but packed with engaging activities for children.
Botanical garden
The Jardín Botánico de Medellín presents a lush array of local flora. You’ll find thematic gardens and a butterfly house that captivate the curiosity of all ages, as well as free-roaming turtles and iguanas.
Arvi park
Accessible by a scenic cable car ride that in itself is an activity not to be missed, Arvi Park is your gateway to nature trails. This eco-park offers an immersion into the region’s natural beauty. It also features an amazing farmers’ market upon entry, where one can stock up on all the tastiest Colombian foods and sweets, like the famous Colombian fruit salad.
“Our family loved the exotic fruit tour we took through one of Medellin’s largest fresh produce markets. It was fun learning about and tasting the many fruits we’d never heard of in the United States.”
— Sage Scott, Everyday Wanderer
Parque explora
Guests can engage with over 300 interactive exhibits at Parque Explora. This science museum also boasts South America’s largest freshwater aquarium, making it one of the best things to do in Medellín for curious minds.
Interactive museums and educational attractions
Medellín offers an array of interactive museums and educational attractions explicitly designed for children’s learning and enjoyment. While adults can wander the halls and soak in some art and culture, their kids can enjoy interactive exhibits and entertaining displays.
Modern art museum
The Museum of Modern Art of Medellín captures young imaginations with vibrant art installations. Here, you can expose your children to contemporary artistic expressions in a dynamic environment.
Medellín planetarium
At the Medellín planetarium, you and your kids will discover a universe of knowledge. Stars and celestial objects come to life through engaging exhibits and shows tailored explicitly for younger audiences.
Water museum
The EPM Water Museum in Medellín is a family-friendly destination that offers an interactive exploration of water’s vital role in our world. With engaging exhibits suitable for all ages, it educates on conservation and the science of water in an entertaining way. Affordable and conveniently timed visits make it an ideal learning experience for families.
Adventure and amusement
Medellín offers a variety of exciting activities that are perfect for families seeking both adventure and amusement. Discover vibrant parks, engage with exotic flora and fauna, and walk through pedestrian-friendly spaces that capture the city’s essence.
North Park
North Park is your go-to destination for a thrilling day. Here, you can enjoy many attractions ranging from classic bumper cars to roller coasters and a refreshing aqua park to keep cool in the warm weather.
Santa Fe Zoo
At the Santa Fe Zoo, you can encounter Colombia’s diverse fauna up close. This is an ideal educational yet fun experience where you can learn about each species, their habitat and the conservation efforts to protect them.
Plaza Botero
Plaza Botero, located in the cultural heart of Medellín, is an open-air venue that pays homage to the artistic legacy of Fernando Botero, a celebrated Colombian artist known for his signature style of voluminous figures. The plaza is home to 23 of his larger-than-life bronze sculptures, which are free for the public to view and touch, encouraging a tactile interaction with art. The plaza’s accessibility and the whimsical nature of Botero’s work make this a great stop for visitors of all ages, offering a glimpse into Colombia’s rich cultural heritage. Just be wary of pick-pockets and persistent peddlers.
Cultural experiences
Exploring Medellín with your kids offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences that are both educational and engaging. From small towns to various special activities, Medellín has no shortage of culture.
Pueblito Paisa
Get a taste of traditional Antioquian life at Pueblito Paisa, a charming replica of a typical Paisa village. Perched atop Nutibara Hill, you can enjoy panoramic city views while the kids savor traditional sweets and crafts.
Traditional Festivals and Events
Medellín’s calendar is dotted with vibrant festivals and events. Embrace the lively atmosphere at the Feria de las Flores, where the whole family can enjoy colorful parades, live music, and signature flower displays that embody the spirit of the city.
Guatapé
Joining a group tour to Guatapé with children can be a memorable adventure combining natural beauty and a whimsy touch. You’ll get to see Pablo Escobar’s summer home from a picturesque boat ride, and some tours stop at a petting zoo that allows kids to discover one of Colombia’s strangest animals, the trotting horse breed called fine step, or “paso fino.” While the iconic Piedra del Peñol often features a carnival-like atmosphere with vibrant stalls and lively vendors that kids may find thrilling, some families might prefer a more personalized experience. Opting for a private tour allows you to bypass the commercial bustle and tailor the day to your family’s preferences, ensuring a pace and focus that keep the little ones engaged.
Wrapping up
There is an exceptional array of things to do in Medellín that promise fun to both children and adults. From the interactive wonders at Parque Explora to the cultural richness of Plaza Botero, the city caters to youthful exuberance and adult curiosity alike. Medellín’s blend of fun, learning and cultural appreciation makes it an ideal destination for families looking to explore together without ever encountering a dull moment.
Ksenia Prints is a food writer, blogger, photographer and recipe developer from Montreal, Canada. She blogs over At the Immigrant’s Table, a food blog showcasing healthy, beautiful international recipes for adventurous home cooks. She loves to highlight ethnic cuisines and immigrant cultures by working with chefs from relevant countries and adapting those recipes to gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, sugar-free and other dietary restrictions.