Medellín is a fabulous place for families with kids—from bicycling in the surrounding mountains to a tremendous zoo and botanical garden, the options are endless. And family travel is easy and safe: Colombians adore children and hotels are generally family-friendly, making it easy to plan a trip and check these fun activities off your list.
Medellín, a vibrant metropolis nestled in the heart of Colombia, extends a warm welcome to visiting families with a diverse array of attractions. From its cutting-edge public transportation system, featuring a remarkable cable car, to its internationally acclaimed flower festival, Medellín offers a tapestry of experiences to captivate visitors of all ages. Thoughtful planning is essential to curate a vacation that aligns perfectly with your family’s interests and desires. To assist you in crafting an unforgettable family getaway to Medellín, we present a curated list of ten exceptional venues that hold a prominent position on our must-see-and-do itinerary. As you prepare for your Colombian adventure, we encourage you to delve deeper into the intricacies of family travel in Colombia.
## Ascend to New Heights: Riding the MetroCable to Santo Domingo
Prepare for an unparalleled urban exploration experience by venturing aboard Medellín’s comprehensive public transportation system. Among its many features, the Metrocable stands out as a truly unique and exhilarating mode of transport. This state-of-the-art gondola system gracefully ascends high above the hillside *barrios* (districts), providing breathtaking panoramic views of the city below. Encased in spacious carriages with expansive wraparound windows, you and your children will be mesmerized by the stunning 360-degree perspectives that unfold before your eyes. The most rewarding route leads to the once-forbidden Barrio Santo Domingo, a neighborhood that has undergone a remarkable transformation. Now revitalized and safe, Santo Domingo is easily accessible from the Acevedo Metro station. As you wander through its vibrant streets, you’ll discover a captivating collection of graffiti art that adorns the walls, a testament to the neighborhood’s artistic spirit. A well-maintained skateboard park provides a space for active recreation, while the hilltop Biblioteca España, a striking cubist library that dramatically cantilevers over the hillside, offers an awe-inspiring vista that will leave you speechless.
Rest assured, the Metrocable stations and trains are meticulously maintained, well-policed, and operate with Swiss-clock precision, ensuring a safe and reliable journey for all passengers. While exploring the area, it’s advisable to remain on the main streets to ensure a secure and comfortable experience.
## Tranquility and Heritage: Parque de los Pies Descalzos & Estación Antigua del Ferrocarríl
Immerse yourself in the heart of Medellín’s administrative center, La Alpujarra, where a captivating blend of architectural grandeur and tranquil green spaces awaits. While parents marvel at the striking buildings that define the cityscape, children can revel in the spacious plazas and parks that offer ample room for play and exploration. The undisputed highlight of this area is the serene Parque de los Pies Descalzos (Barefoot Park), an oasis of tranquility that invites visitors to reconnect with nature. Its inviting sandpit beckons children to build sandcastles and engage in playful digging, while the intricate bamboo labyrinth presents an exciting challenge to navigate. To fully appreciate the park’s intended purpose, remove your shoes and socks and feel the earth beneath your feet as you wander through its sensory landscape. A spacious water fountain provides a refreshing respite, inviting visitors to splash and play in its cool waters. Just a short stroll of approximately 500 yards to the east, you’ll discover the city’s early 20th-century railway station, the Estación Antigua del Ferrocarríl, a historical landmark that stands as a testament to Medellín’s rich industrial heritage. In its outdoor courtyard café, an antique steam train is proudly displayed, offering a glimpse into the city’s transportation past.
## Unveiling the Importance of Water: Museo del Agua (Museum of Water)
At first glance, a museum dedicated solely to water may not seem like the most exciting prospect. However, a visit to the Museo del Agua (Museum of Water), conveniently located on the northeast side of Parque de los Pies Descalzos, is sure to shatter your preconceived notions. This exceptional museum is dedicated to promoting water conservation through a series of interactive and engaging high-tech exhibits. From the very origins of the universe in the Big Bang to the thrill of water sports, the museum covers a vast range of topics related to water and its significance. While the museum’s exhibits are primarily in Spanish, the engaging nature of the displays transcends language barriers, offering a captivating experience for visitors of all backgrounds. The Museo del Agua also stands out as one of the most affordable museums in Medellín, making it an ideal destination for families seeking enriching experiences without breaking the bank.
## A Plaza of Sculptures: Plaza Botero
Prepare to be captivated by the artistic genius of Fernando Botero, Medellín’s celebrated artist, as you step into Plaza Botero, also known as Plaza de las Esculturas (Sculpture Plaza). This vibrant public space is dominated by 23 voluptuous bronze statues, each a testament to Botero’s distinctive style. Children will be particularly enchanted by the playful figures of Gato (Cat), Perro (Dog), and Hombre a Caballo (Man on Horseback), iconic sculptures that have become synonymous with Medellín’s artistic identity. The plaza also buzzes with activity thanks to a colorful market, where vendors display their wares, and roving clowns and jugglers who add to the lively atmosphere. On the plaza’s north side, you’ll find the renowned Museo de Antioquia, a cultural institution that offers adolescents the opportunity to delve deeper into Botero’s artistic contributions. The museum also features interactive educational exhibits that showcase the diverse cultures of Colombia, providing a comprehensive understanding of the nation’s rich heritage. In addition to Botero’s works, the Museo de Antioquia also houses masterpieces by internationally acclaimed artists such as Picasso, Rodin, and others, offering a diverse and enriching artistic experience.
## A World of Discovery: Parque Explora and Jardín Botánico
Prepare to be amazed by the sheer volume of attractions at Parque Explora, a science and technology museum that promises days of entertainment for families of all ages. Housed within four futuristic red buildings, Parque Explora boasts a multitude of interactive exhibits that are designed to teach visitors about biology, geography, media, physics, and technology in a fun and engaging manner. Ascend to the upper level to discover the world-class aquarium, a mesmerizing underwater realm that showcases a diverse array of aquatic creatures, including electric eels, piranhas, and massive catfish swimming gracefully in giant tanks. The vivarium offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of reptiles and amphibians, featuring creatures such as the tiny, banana-yellow *Phyllobatis terribilis*, the world’s most toxic frog, and an assortment of snakes, both harmless and venomous. Life-size replicas of ancient dinosaurs add another layer of excitement to the experience, transporting visitors back to the prehistoric era. Children, and perhaps even adults, will delight in the opportunity to crawl inside the massive jaws of a Tyrannosaurus Rex, a truly unforgettable encounter.
Just steps away to the south of Parque Explora, the Jardín Botánico beckons with its tranquil beauty and botanical wonders. Spanning 40 acres, the Jardín Botánico encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, from arid deserts to lush rainforests, providing a comprehensive overview of plant life. Children will be captivated by the carnivorous plants that feast on insects, the walk-through butterfly enclosure that teems with colorful winged creatures, and the countless other botanical treasures that await discovery.
## Pedal Through Paradise: Bicycle Parque Arví
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature at Parque Arví, a lush forest reserve that offers a refreshing respite from urban life. To reach this natural haven, transfer to Metrocable Line L in Barrio Santo Domingo, which will transport you high above the city and into the heart of the forest. Alternatively, you can drive to the village of Santa Elena, the park’s headquarters, via the Medellín-Bogotá highway. However you choose to arrive, this mountaintop nature reserve offers a welcome escape from the city’s frenetic pace. Parque Arví’s attractions include a butterfly enclosure, where you can observe these delicate creatures up close, and cultural exhibits by local artisans, showcasing the region’s artistic talent. However, the park’s principal draw lies in its miles of well-maintained trails, beckoning visitors to explore the forest on foot or by bicycle.
Embark on a guided bicycle tour to discover the park’s hidden gems, with tours departing between 11 am and 3:30 pm. Choose between a shorter 2.5-mile ride on a battery-assisted bicycle for a leisurely experience, or a slightly more challenging and longer four-mile ride on traditional mountain bikes for a more invigorating adventure. If you prefer to explore the trails on foot, you can wander alone or join an hourly guided hike to learn more about the park’s flora and fauna. Families can also participate in tree planting activities, an engaging and educational way to teach children about ecotourism and conservation.
## A Glimpse of Colombia’s Fauna: Zoológico Santa Fé
Colombia’s location at the apex of the two American continents has endowed it with an extraordinary biodiversity, making it a tropical Eden teeming with flora and fauna. Approximately 10% of all animal species on Earth can be found within Colombia’s borders, a testament to its ecological significance. The country boasts an unparalleled avian diversity, with approximately 1,885 species of birds, including 73 endemics that are found nowhere else on the planet. Zoológico Santa Fé offers a unique opportunity to observe many of these remarkable species up close. From the vibrant scarlet macaws to the toucans with their distinctive banana-like beaks, and the playful monkeys, elusive tapirs, and majestic jaguars, the undisputed king of the South American jungle, the zoo showcases the incredible diversity of Colombia’s wildlife.
## Conquer the Rock: Climb El Peñol de Guatapé
Embark on an unforgettable day trip from Medellín to the mountain resort of Guatapé, a scenic destination located approximately two hours away by car. The Embalse Peñol de Guatapé (reservoir), created in 1978 by a dam, is one of Colombia’s most breathtaking attractions. The exquisite emerald lake, dotted with numerous islands, is best viewed from the summit of El Peñol, a towering 656-foot-tall granite monolith that rises majestically above the lake, reminiscent of Rio de Janeiro’s Sugarloaf Mountain. As you ascend the long, winding staircase located within a fissure in the rock, encourage your children to count the steps (649 in total) that lead to the top.
After conquering the rock, venture to the nearby village of Guatapé, a picturesque colonial town known for its vibrant colors and charming atmosphere. Admire the cobblestone streets adorned with hanging flowers and the *zócalos* (extended walls below windows) that feature bas-relief frescos, depicting scenes from local life. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting Guatapé during the week; however, the festive atmosphere of the village is particularly lively on weekends.
## Nature’s Sanctuary: Refugio Natural El Cañon del Río Claro
The Refugio Natural El Cañon del Río Claro, a nature reserve nestled within the scenic canyon of the jade-colored “Clear River,” offers something to please every member of the family. Located just off the Bogotá-Medellín highway, this natural sanctuary is an ideal place to spot a variety of mammals, reptiles, and birds, including toucans, herons, motmots, agoutis, and howler monkeys. The geology of the area is equally fascinating, with towering limestone formations and underground tunnels that invite exploration. The reserve offers guided caving excursions, providing a safe and informative way to discover the subterranean wonders of the canyon. A highlight of the reserve is Cueva de los Guácharos, named for the endemic and nocturnal ‘oilbirds’ that nest here in their thousands.
Many *Paisa* (people of Medellín) families flock to the Refugio Natural El Cañon del Río Claro on weekends to enjoy Class 1 rafting, a gentle activity suitable for children as young as four. For children aged eight and older, a zip-line canopy tour with three short cables offers an exhilarating aerial adventure. Adolescents can burn off some energy by trying their hand at rappelling, descending the canyon walls with the assistance of ropes and harnesses.
## From Narco Estate to Theme Park: Parque Temático Hacienda Nápoles
If you have a couple of days to spare, consider combining a visit to the Refugio Natural El Cañon del Río Claro with a trip to Hacienda Nápoles, located 10 miles east of Río Claro. This former country estate of the infamous drug baron Pablo Escobar has been transformed into a theme park focusing on family entertainment. While the narco’s legacy is still evident, with his Piper aircraft (used for smuggling) perched atop the entrance gate and his now-rusted car collection on display, the park offers a variety of attractions that appeal to visitors of all ages. Escobar’s exotic wildlife collection, which includes hippopotamus, zebras, rhinos, and Bengal tigers, continues to be a highlight of the park. Children will particularly enjoy the wild river water park and Aventura Jurásica, featuring recreations of dinosaurs that bring the prehistoric era to life.
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