Essential Things to Do in Lima with Kids: Top Family-Friendly Activities & Spots

Traveling with kids can be a challenge, especially in a busy city like Lima. Keeping little ones entertained while experiencing new places can feel overwhelming at times. It’s not always easy to find activities the whole family will enjoy.

Lima has plenty of options for families. From parks and museums to historical spots, there’s something for kids of all ages. The Malecón in Miraflores offers breathtaking ocean views and wide paths perfect for bike rides or walks.

We’ve researched these kinds of places so you don’t have to.

This guide highlights some of the best things to do in Lima with kids. Whether it’s meeting playful cats at Parque Kennedy or exploring history at Huaca Pucllana, we’ve got fun suggestions ready for your trip! Ready to discover more? Keep reading!

Things to Do in Lima with Kids Takeaways

• Lima offers kid-friendly activities like visiting parks, museums, and beaches. Top spots include Parque Kennedy, Huaca Pucllana, and the Magic Water Circuit.
• Families can explore history at landmarks such as Plaza Mayor or learn at hands-on places like Parque de la Imaginación.
• Attractions like Choco Museo let kids create chocolate treats for $15 while parents browse local Peruvian cacao products.
• The Malecón in Miraflores is ideal for bike rides with rentals from Mirabici or family walks along its 5-mile stretch of ocean view paths.
• Tips include using Uber for safe transport, carrying cash since some vendors don’t take cards, and packing sunscreen due to Lima’s sunny weather.

Things to Do in Lima with Kids

Lima is one of South America’s most vibrant capitals, and it’s surprisingly family-friendly. Whether your kids love outdoor adventures, hands-on museums, or simply playing in beautiful parks, the city offers plenty of safe and engaging options. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, here are the top things to do in Lima with kids that will keep the whole family entertained.

Explore the Malecón in Miraflores

The Malecón in Miraflores stretches 5 miles along the coast. Its ocean views are breathtaking, and kids love the open spaces. We can stroll with a stroller or ride bikes rented from Mirabici.

The wide paths make biking smooth and fun for everyone.

Parks dot the boardwalk, giving kids plenty of spots to play. Playa Costa Verde is perfect for watching surfers tackle waves. Families relax together while enjoying Lima’s fresh sea breeze.

Locals mix with tourists here, creating a lively vibe throughout this scenic escape.

Visit Huaca Pucllana

StHuaca Pucllana takes us back in time. This ancient pyramid, made of adobe bricks, dates to 200 AD! It once served as a ceremonial and administrative center. Located in the Miraflores district, it’s easy to reach while exploring nearby spots like the Malecón.

Admission includes a guided tour lasting about an hour. Tours are offered in English or Spanish but don’t allow self-guided visits. Kids might enjoy seeing the farm animals around the site too.

If we stay until evening, its restaurant offers stunning views with dinner under glowing lights.

Next up: explore sweet fun at Choco Museo!

Indulge in Sweet Fun at the Choco Museo

Kids love chocolate, and so do we! At the Choco Museo, children can take a fun 45-minute class to create their own mini chocolate bars. It costs just $15 and is perfect for little hands.

The museum also offers workshops that teach how cacao becomes chocolate. These classes are interactive and fit for kids of any age.

We explored two locations in Lima—one in Miraflores and another near Plaza Mayor in the historic center. Both spots have a shop full of treats like cookies, hot chocolate mixes, and candy bars made from Peruvian cacao.

While the kids get creative, we browsed unique gifts to bring home! majesty. The calm water invites us to take in the scenery or enjoy quiet moments. These spots are perfect for relaxing after long hikes, and every corner holds raw beauty that feels untouched.

Discover Art at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC)

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC) is perfect for families. Its vibrant art can spark a child’s imagination. Inside, the galleries showcase colorful and fun exhibits. Outside, the sculpture garden offers space to explore and relax.

Modern art here feels playful, making it easy for kids to enjoy.

We love grabbing snacks at the crêpe café after walking around. It’s quick and tasty! Nearby Park de la Familia adds extra charm with its playground and duck pond. This spot isn’t just about looking at art; it’s about creating memories together in Lima, Peru!

Wander Through the Historic Center of Lima

Let’s step into the vibrant streets of Lima’s historic center. The Plaza Mayor, or Plaza de Armas, is a must-see. It’s surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings and fountains that kids will love exploring.

Bright yellow walls of the Cathedral Basilica of Lima shine in daylight, making it perfect for family photos.

The Government Palace hosts a changing of the guard ceremony with horses every Sunday. Kids often find this display exciting! Strolling along Jirón de la Unión introduces us to local shops and flavors; grab some churros here for a sweet treat.

Local guides share fascinating stories about “La Ciudad de Los Reyes,” bringing its history alive for everyone.

Enjoy the Magic Water Circuit at Parque de la Reserva

The Magic Water Circuit is a treat for both kids and grown-ups. Located in Parque de la Reserva, it offers colorful fountains and fun evening light shows. Entry is budget-friendly at just 5 soles (about $1 USD).

Shows happen at 7:15 PM, 8:15 PM, and 9:10 PM. Kids love running through the interactive fountains, getting wet while laughing nonstop.

Weekday visits are best to avoid crowds. The park feels safe and perfect for families exploring Lima Peru. Check opening hours or special events before heading out to make the most of your trip!

Explore Barranco’s Vibrant Streets

Barranco feels like stepping into a rainbow. The colorful street art grabs our attention at every corner. Local artists display their talents on walls, telling stories with bold designs.

Kids love exploring the Bajada de Baños walkway, a scenic path that meanders toward the ocean. We often stop to admire performers juggling or playing music along the way.

El Puente de los Suspiros, or Bridge of Sighs, is perfect for family photos. They say holding your breath while crossing brings good luck! We enjoy walking past cozy cafes and fusion restaurants too; they tempt us with warm empanadas and fresh juice.

This lively district seems made for wandering hands and curious eyes! From here, let’s meet some furry friends at Parque de las Leyendas next!

Meet Animals at Parque de las Leyendas (Lima Zoo)

Parque de las Leyendas in San Miguel is perfect for families. The zoo has native Peruvian animals, like Andean condors and jaguars. Kids love the chance to see these creatures up close.

The entry fee is affordable, just 15 soles per person. It’s a great way to spend half a day exploring nature without breaking the bank.

The zoo works hard to improve its enclosures, offering better spaces for both animals and visitors. Many exhibits also have fun facts about wildlife, making it educational too! Since it’s close to Lima Airport, this spot is easy to visit even with luggage in tow.

Families can relax here while kids enjoy learning about Peru’s unique ecosystem!

Relax at Parque Kennedy

This park feels alive with energy from families and friendly cats. Kids love spotting the gentle felines lounging in the grassy spots. The space is safe, so little ones can explore freely while we stroll along smooth paths.

Food vendors line the area, tempting us with tasty Peruvian treats. We can grab a quick snack or sit down for an easy lunch on one of the benches nearby. Cultural events often pop up here too, keeping everyone entertained in this vibrant corner of Miraflores.

Let’s head to the Larco Museum next!

Experience History at the Larco Museum

The Larco Museum lets us glimpse Peru’s ancient civilizations. We explore pre-Columbian treasures like ceramics, gold, silver, and textiles. The mansion itself feels magical with its gorgeous gardens and bright flowers.

Kids love the interactive exhibits; they can learn while having fun!

After exploring, we relax at Café del Museo. They serve kid-friendly dishes on their outdoor patio. If time permits, we pair this trip with Parque de las Leyendas nearby for even more family adventure! Let’s keep moving as we head to scenic walks along the Costa Verde next.

Take a Scenic Walk Along the Costa Verde

Costa Verde offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. We can stroll along the winding paths, while feeling the cool sea breeze. The cliffs are dotted with lush greenery, making it a perfect blend of nature and ocean scenery.

There’s plenty of space for kids to run and play freely. Families can watch surfers riding waves or spot fishermen casting their lines below. Spotting paragliders soaring above adds a fun thrill too! It’s peaceful yet lively, ideal for spending quality time together near Lima City’s coastline.

Visit the Parque de la Amistad for Family Fun

Parque de la Amistad in Santiago de Surco is perfect for a day with the kids. We can enjoy a picnic in shaded areas or let them run wild on the playgrounds. The highlight has to be the 1926 steam locomotive ride.

Watching their faces light up as the train moves along is priceless!

Pedal boats are available on the park’s peaceful lagoon, which adds to the fun. It’s also a great spot for snapping photos of little ones enjoying themselves. This park feels like it was made for family memories!

Participate in a Peruvian Cooking Class

Transitioning from playful times at Parque de la Amistad, we step into the vibrant world of Peruvian food. Joining a cooking class is more than just fun; it’s an adventure for the senses! We get to work with local chefs and handle native ingredients.

Imagine learning how to make lomo saltado or ceviche, dishes so iconic they tell stories of Peru’s history. Teens especially enjoy this hands-on activity while parents savor the bonding moments in the kitchen.

The best part? Tasting our creations together! These classes bring culture alive through flavor. They’re perfect for families interested in traditions beyond sightseeing. Lima’s culinary scene embraces everyone, from beginners to seasoned cooks.

It’s not just about food—it’s about sharing laughter over meals we made ourselves!

Discover Mini Mundo’s Miniature Exhibits

After whipping up traditional dishes, it’s time for some tiny-scale fun. Mini Mundo is a magical spot filled with detailed miniature replicas. Buildings, famous landmarks, and scenes from Lima and beyond come to life here in small form.

It’s like stepping into a dollhouse version of the capital of Peru.

Kids love spotting cars zipping down little highways or trains chugging along tracks. There’s even a mini Morro Solar! The craftsmanship is jaw-dropping; every detail feels alive.

We felt like giants strolling through these pint-sized streets! This spot offers more than just fun—it teaches history too.

Stroll Through Parque El Olivar in San Isidro

Parque El Olivar in San Isidro feels like a breath of fresh air. The park is lined with olive trees, giving it a peaceful charm. We love how the wide paths work well for strollers or little feet to wander safely.

There are cozy spots perfect for picnics, so bring some snacks!

Kids can burn energy at the playgrounds while we kick back under shady trees. It’s relaxing and hassle-free with plenty of open space to enjoy the calm. Just walking through this green oasis feels soothing after busy city streets!

Attend a Show at Gran Teatro Nacional

Gran Teatro Nacional offers a mix of music, theater, and dance. It’s a great spot to enjoy high-quality performances with the kids. The venue is modern and well-designed, so every seat feels close to the action.

Shows often highlight Peru’s culture, featuring folk music or dances tied to the Language of the Incas.

Tickets are affordable compared to venues in other big cities. We once watched an orchestra there that left us speechless; even our youngest stayed entertained! The evening lights outside add charm, making it perfect for family pictures before heading back.

Afterward, we can look forward to some kid-friendly shopping at Larcomar!

Take the Kids Shopping at Larcomar

After enjoying a show, we can head to Larcomar for some family shopping. This oceanfront mall in Miraflores offers stunning views of the Pacific. It’s more than just shops though; kids can enjoy games and rides at the arcade.

We love the variety of kid-friendly restaurants here. A walk on the nearby Malecón de Miraflores is a treat too. If we stop by Parque del Amor, the little ones might even spot paragliders soaring above!

Experience Interactive Learning at Parque de la Imaginación

After sandy fun by the beach, Parque de la Imaginación offers hands-on discovery for kids aged 5 to 12. This park blends learning with play through interactive exhibits. It’s like stepping into another world filled with over 180 Amazon and ocean creatures! Kids can explore science, biology, and technology in a way that feels like pure fun.

The family-friendly setup makes it easy to enjoy every moment. From educational games to live demonstrations, there’s plenty to keep little minds busy. The park’s focus on modern teaching methods turns education into an adventure.

It’s a vibrant spot that shows us why Lima stands out as a lively city for families!

Things to do in Lima With Kids Conclusion

Lima is a city full of surprises for families, blending history, culture, and plenty of fun. From strolling along the Malecón in Miraflores to enjoying the magic of the Water Circuit, there’s always something exciting for kids to discover. Museums, parks, and interactive activities turn learning into play, while Lima’s delicious food offers experiences the whole family can share. Head over to our Lima Tours page to book some of these tours or contact us to create your own itinerary.

Traveling with kids in Lima is not only possible but unforgettable—an adventure filled with discovery, laughter, and family moments you’ll cherish long after your trip.

Things to do in Lima With Kids FAQ