A biblical zoo, scavenger hunts, ancient sites and interesting wild reserves – Jerusalem has a lot to offer for all ages. Don’t leave your kids at home when you plan a vacation in Israel
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Your kids will not be bored in Jerusalem. The ancient capital provides many unique and memorable activities to provide your family with an unforgettable experience. These activities are interactive, dynamic and educational. Here are some suggestions for a truly rewarding family trip.
City of David and Hezekiah’s Tunnel
Outside the Old City walls sits the City of David, which is the site of King David’s ancient capital. The city has been excavated to give you a sense of the historical kingdom. The main attraction in the City of David is Hezekiah’s Water Tunnel, which was built by Hezekiah during the days of the Assyrian siege to bring water into the ancient city. Now children and adults can walk the 500m long tunnels, and can choose from the dry route or the wet route. The combination of history, adventure, and the benefit of beating the heat underground on a hot day makes the tunnels a must- see attraction for kids that adults will love as well.
City of David and Temple Mount’s Sifting Project
Also at the City of David, the Temple Mount’s Sifting Project allows children and adults to rummage through piles of dirt and rubbish that was excavated from the Temple Mount in search of artifacts from the Second Temple Era. This is a great opportunity for your kids to be archeologists for the day. The activity includes a guided tour and certificates.
Jerusalem Biblical Zoo
The Biblical zoo conserves species mentioned in the bible, as well as other endangered species from all over the world. It is designed to let visitors to get as close as possible to the animals and to see them in relatively natural conditions. The zoo also boasts a 3D theater, a Noah’s Ark exhibition sculpture garden with a multimedia center inside, workshops, and after dark programs in the summer.
Jerusalem Scavenger Hunts
This is an activity designed for kids of all ages and adults to have fun while learning about Jerusalem’s neighborhoods. The scavenger hunts are devised for groups of four or more. Entertain your family in this interactive game and solve the clues while acquiring many fun facts on the way.
Ein Yael “Hands-on” Museum
At the Ein Yael Active Museum located in Emek Refaim, you will be taken back to Roman times with a reconstructed Roman style street with shops, agricultural tools, gardens, actors and musicians. The site has creative workshops centered on making crafts, food, and agricultural tools that have been used since the olden days.
Liberty Bell Park
This park has lots of trees and shade, making it a lovely place to play and go for a picnic. The park has basketball courts, bicycle routes, a roller-skating rink, skate boarding area, a playground, and Ping-Pong tables. The park also has a replica of Philadelphia’s Liberty Bell, a garden and outdoor sculptures. Make sure to check out the Train Theater, which is an outdoor theater that stages puppet shows for kids of all ages.
Jerusalem Time Elevator
This is a fun and engaging way to give your kids a quick overview of the history of Jerusalem narrated by Chaim Topol (from Fiddler on the Roof). You and the kids will go back in time to biblical Jerusalem and travel back to the future in a full body immersion movie. With moving chairs, surround sound, and the occasional spurt of water, you will feel like you are flying. The movie is about 40 minutes long.
Useful Tips
- Make sure to book in advance and check the websites for special programs and exhibitions, as well as opening hours. Most attractions are closed on Shabbat
- Bring water shoes when visiting the tunnel. If you do the wet route you will be wading in water knee deep. Flashlights are also recommended
- Prepare to get dirty at the Temple Mount’s Sifting Project
