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11 Things to do in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil with kids: Family Friendly Activities

Rio de Janeiro is an exciting destination for family vacations, offering a wide range of family-friendly activities and attractions. Here are some of the best places to visit in Rio de Janeiro with your family, each offering unique experiences and activities for children. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway, cultural experiences, or more adventurous activities, Rio has something for every family.


Keep reading to discover some of the best places to visit and things to do with kids in Rio de Janeiro.


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1. Visiting Copacabana Beach with kids

Aerial view of the street and people on Copacabana beach

One of the most famous beaches in the world, Copacabana Beach offers families plenty of activities under the sun. Its crescent-shaped bay is surrounded by hotels, restaurants, and kiosks, making it convenient for a family day out. The beach is also a hub for cultural events, with live music, festivals, and sports tournaments happening regularly.


Things to do at Copacabana Beach with kids:

  • Take a bike ride along the beachfront bike path.

  • Play beach volleyball or football, common activities along the beach front.

  • Go swimming or paddle in the gentle waves.

  • Build sandcastles on the soft sand.

  • Enjoy ice cream or coconut water from beach vendors.


2. Visiting Sugarloaf Mountain with kids (Pão de Açúcar)

Cable car ascending up sugarloaf mountain

The iconic Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) offers stunning views and an adventure that will excite the whole family. The cable car ride to the summit is an unforgettable experience, offering a bird’s-eye view of Rio’s natural beauty. The area around the mountain is rich in wildlife, with opportunities to spot marmosets, toucans, and other native species.


Things to do at Sugarloaf Mountain with kids:

  • Ride the famous cable car to the top of the mountain.

  • Spot monkeys and birds in the surrounding forest.

  • Enjoy the breathtaking views of Guanabara Bay, the city, and the beaches.

  • Have a family picnic at the lookout points.


Tickets & Tours:

If visiting Sugarloaf Mountain independently, it is recommended to purchase your cable car tickets online ahead of time to avoid long queues and ensure your spot. For those who prefer to take a tour, tours to Sugarloaf Mountain are usually combined with a tour to Christ the Redeemer. See the tour details under Christ the Redeemer below.



3. Visiting Christ the Redeemer with kids (Cristo Redentor)

View from behind Christ the Redeemer statue over the bay of Rio de Janeiro

A visit to Rio wouldn’t be complete without seeing the world-famous Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor) statue. As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, it attracts visitors from across the globe and offers a powerful cultural and spiritual experience. The statue, located atop Corcovado Mountain, is surrounded by the Tijuca National Park, the largest urban rainforest in the world.


Things to do at Christ the Redeemer with kids:

  • Take the scenic train ride up Corcovado Mountain to reach the statue.

  • Explore the observation deck, offering panoramic views of the city and ocean.

  • Snap photos with the giant statue, a memorable experience for kids.

  • Learn about the history of the statue and its cultural significance in Brazil.

  • Hike one of the nearby nature trails through the Tijuca Forest, if your family is feeling adventurous.


Tickets & Tours:

Tickets for the train and van transfers include the entrance ticket to the monument.

  • If taking the train, you can buy the tickets online here, or at the Cosme Velho train station.

  • If taking the official van transfer, you can book the transfer online here.


For those who prefer to go on a guided tour, there are several options available to suit a range of needs and time schedules:

  • Express tour for those short on time - Fast tour to Christ the Redeemer, plus Sugarloaf Mountain - book here

  • 2-stop day tour - Early access to Christ the Redeemer, plus Sugarloaf Mountain - book here

  • 4-stop day tour - Day tour combining Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer, Selaron Stairs, and a BBQ Lunch - book here



4. Visiting the Museum of Tomorrow with kids (Museu do Amanhã)

Museu do Amanhã (Museum of Tomorrow) is an interactive science museum that offers engaging exhibits about the future of our planet, making it both educational and fun for children. Its cutting-edge design and focus on sustainability draw visitors of all ages. The museum is located in Rio's revitalized Porto Maravilha area, which features public art and green spaces ideal for family exploration.


Things to do at Museu do Amanhã with kids:

  • Explore interactive exhibits about climate change, sustainability, and technology.

  • Watch the immersive 360° presentations, which are great for curious young minds.

  • Participate in hands-on activities that let kids learn through play.

  • Enjoy the museum's futuristic architecture.

  • Visit the nearby Praça Mauá to relax and enjoy the waterfront views.


5. Visiting AquaRio with kids

AquaRio, the largest aquarium in South America, is a fantastic place for families to explore marine life. With more than 8,000 animals, including sharks, rays, and tropical fish, it offers an immersive experience in marine biology. The aquarium also includes exhibits focusing on ocean conservation and the importance of protecting marine habitats.


Things to do at AquaRio with kids:

  • Walk through the aquarium’s tunnel to see sharks, rays, and other marine animals up close.

  • Explore exhibits featuring fish from Brazil’s rivers and oceans.

  • Touch starfish and other sea creatures in the interactive touch tank.

  • Watch feeding sessions for sharks and other marine animals.

  • Learn about ocean conservation through educational exhibits and programs.


Get more information and tickets for AquaRio here.


6. Exploring the Barra de Tijuca Mangroves with kids

The Barra de Tijuca Mangroves offer a serene and educational boat trip experience for families wanting to explore Rio’s natural wildlife. This important ecological area is home to a wide variety of species, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. The mangroves are part of the largest lagoon system in Rio, helping to protect the region’s biodiversity and prevent coastal erosion.


Things to do at Barra de Tijuca Mangroves with kids:

  • Take a boat tour through the mangrove swamps to observe native wildlife.

  • Spot capybaras, caimans, and various species of birds in their natural habitat.

  • Learn about the importance of mangroves in preserving Rio's delicate ecosystems from your guide.

  • Encourage kids to engage in birdwatching, with opportunities to see species like herons and kingfishers.


7. Visiting Maracana Stadium with kids

Inside the Maracana Stadium during the day time

A visit to Maracanã Stadium is a must for sports fans. Opened in 1950, this iconic stadium has hosted two FIFA World Cup finals and remains a symbol of Brazil's deep love for football. The stadium also hosts large concerts and events, making it a dynamic cultural venue in addition to a sports landmark.


Things to do at Maracanã Stadium with kids:

  • Take a guided tour of the stadium, including locker rooms and the pitch.

  • Learn about the history of Brazilian football and famous players like Pelé.

  • Visit the museum showcasing iconic moments from past World Cups.

  • Enjoy the excitement of attending a live football match if one is happening during your visit.


8. Visiting Jardim Botânico & Parque Lage with kids

For nature-loving families, a visit to Rio's Jardim Botânico and nearby Parque Lage offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Founded in 1808, the botanical garden houses over 6,500 species of plants. Parque Lage, with its scenic views and historic mansion, is a popular location for photography and picnics.


Things to do at Jardim Botânico & Parque Lage with kids:

  • Wander through the botanical gardens, filled with tropical plants and trees.

  • Visit the sensory garden, where kids can touch and smell a variety of plants.

  • Watch for monkeys, birds, and butterflies in the gardens.

  • Explore the playgrounds and wide open spaces at Parque Lage.

  • Enjoy a picnic by the small lakes or fountains, surrounded by nature.


9. Visiting Quinta da Boa Vista with kids

Red Macaw bites a blue and yellow Macaw in a tree

Quinta da Boa Vista is a historical park with beautiful gardens and cultural attractions, perfect for a day out with kids. Once the grounds of a royal palace, it now serves as a peaceful urban park with plenty of family activities. The park also hosts concerts, festivals, and other events throughout the year, offering a lively atmosphere.


Things to do at Quinta da Boa Vista with kids:

  • Visit the Rio Zoo, where children can see animals like lions, giraffes, and jaguars.

  • Explore the park’s expansive gardens, perfect for running around and playing.

  • Rent a pedal boat to enjoy the lake with your family.

  • Have fun on the playgrounds scattered throughout the park.


Get more information and tickets for the Rio Zoo here.


10. Visiting Barra da Tijuca with kids

Aerial view of the beach and ocean at Barra de Tijuca in Rio de Janeiro

Barra da Tijuca, known for its long sandy beaches and modern infrastructure, offers families a mix of outdoor activities and shopping experiences. This up-and-coming neighborhood is also home to Rio's largest shopping malls and entertainment centers. In addition to its urban attractions, Barra da Tijuca is surrounded by nature, with nearby lagoons and parks perfect for outdoor adventures.


Things to do in Barra da Tijuca with kids:

  • Spend the day at Barra Beach, ideal for swimming and water sports like surfing.

  • Visit one of the area's many shopping malls, such as BarraShopping, which has play areas and cinemas.

  • Go bowling or visit the arcades for indoor fun on rainy days.

  • Explore the nearby Bosque da Barra, a large park with walking trails and picnic areas.

  • Take the family to a beachfront restaurant to enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset.


11. Visit the Planetarium at Gávea (Planetário da Gávea)

A perfect escape from the rain for science enthusiasts and families alike, the Planetarium at Gávea offers an immersive exploration of the cosmos. With interactive exhibits, educational films, and fascinating planetarium shows, you can journey through space without leaving Rio. The facility also features a museum with displays on astronomy and space exploration, making it both an entertaining and educational experience.


Things to do at the Planetarium with kids:

  • Watch engaging planetarium shows that explore the stars, planets, and galaxies.

  • Explore interactive exhibits in the astronomy museum.

  • Participate in workshops or educational sessions about space and science.

  • Get more info and tickets for the Planetarium here. The Planetarium is free on Tuesdays.


Each of these destinations in Rio de Janeiro offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and family-friendly activities, ensuring your trip to Rio will be both memorable and enjoyable for everyone.


Ready to plan your family vacation?


Have you travelled to Rio with kids? What were your kid's favorite activities? Tell me in the comments below!


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