The 10 Best Things to do in Lima with Kids

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INTRODUCTION

Like many families traveling to Peru, we found ourselves with a stopover in Lima on our way to Machu Picchu. While this sprawling Latin American city is renowned for its rich history and world-class culinary scene, we wondered just how kid-friendly it would be.

Determined to make the most of our time, we explored parks, museums, ancient pyramids, and more, all of which delighted the whole family. Below, you’ll find our favorite Lima attractions for kids, along with a helpful section on where to stay in Lima with little ones.

Please use the menu below to quickly find what you need.

LIMA PERU FOR KIDS VIDEO (1 MIN.)

Here is a very quick peek at some of the Lima kids attractions featured in detail in the next section.

10 THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN LIMA

1. STROLL THE MALECÓN

Stroll or bike El Malecón de Miraflores — Lima’s cliffside boardwalk. This 5 mile (8km) pathway has a beautiful view of the ocean, and can include lots of interesting stops (parks, flower gardens, sculptures, restaurants and even the open-air luxury mall Larcomar).

Our kids were especially interested in watching the paragliders take off over Coste Verde from the whimsical Parque del Amor.

If you are looking for Lima bike rentals, there is a Mirabici bike rental kiosk right outside Larcomar Luxury Mall. They offer rentals and bike tours, and even have several kids bikes and toddler seats available.

Also not to be missed right beside the Larcomar Mall playground, is the statue of Paddington Bear. This beloved character, a spectacled bear from Peru, was created by Michael Bond and journeyed to London only to be discovered at Paddington Station.

2. HUACA PUCLLANA

Dating between 200AD and 700AD, Huaca Pucllana is a restored adobe pyramid and ceremonial center located right in the middle of the Miraflores, Lima. Admission includes a one hour guided tour in English or Spanish (there is no self-guided option), but kids may enjoy visiting the resident farm animals most (llamas, alpacas, chickens and even the bizarre looking Peruvian Hairless Dog).

If you visit on a sunny day, be sure to wear a hat as there is little shade at this site. Huaca Pucllana also has a nice restaurant which is particularly pretty at night when the pyramid is lit up. Read reviews for Huaca Pucllana

3. THE CHOCO MUSEUM

Break up the cultural crawl with a visit to the Choco Museo in Miraflores. Now really, this is more like a chocolate shop, but there is an educational component if you take time to read through the displays or sign up for a chocolate making workshop.

Popular with kids is the 45 minute “Make your own mini chocolate bar” class ($15 – register online). Although we did not attend any classes, my kids liked this store so much that we visited two different locations and came home with bags full of chocolate tea, cocoa nibs, and dark chocolate from different regions of Peru.

Learn more at: www.chocomuseo.com.

Note: Promising my kids that we would visit the chocolate museum “next”, bought us just a little extra time in places that we parents enjoyed more (such as an art museum).

4. THE MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART (MAC)

I have learned that my kids do much better in contemporary art museums than in those filled with works from the old masters. Contemporary artwork can be so wacky, that it seems to keep them quite intrigued.

Along with the indoor galleries, the boutique-sized M.A.C. has a nice little sculpture garden and a crèpe cafe on its grounds. This green area is fenced, and makes for a really nice place to take a break as your explore Lima, Peru with kids.

Also nearby is a charming little park called Parque de La Familia – Manuel Montero Bernales, featuring a small playground and a pond filled with ducks and geese. Just across from the park is a lovely café called La Bodega Verde , which offers a changing table in the bathroom and a children’s play area.

4. EXPLORE BARRANCO

If you are visiting the aforementioned MAC Museum, I definitely recommend continuing a little further south and taking a stroll around the neighborhood of Barranco. (Barranco is right beside Miraflores, where most tourists choose to stay.)

While Miraflores is modern and sleek, Barranco is Lima’s most colorful district, known for its vibrant street art, historic architecture, and relaxed coastal vibe.

A must-visit in Barranco is the Bajada de Baños, a picturesque walkway leading to the ocean, and the iconic Bridge of Sighs, a romantic spot steeped in local legends. (It is an especially fun stroll on weekends when all the families are out. You might even come across the breakdancing Spiderman, as we did.)

Also not to be missed in Barranco is the Mafalda statue that pays homage to the beloved Argentine comic strip character, known for her sharp wit and insightful social commentary. Take a stroll down the boulevard to join her on her bench overlooking the ocean for a photo opp.

See also: A Guide to Barranco, Lima.

6. PARQUE DE LA AMISTAD

If you are looking for things to do in Lima, Peru with kids that allow you to escape the hustle and bustle of the city streets, visit to Parque de la Amistad (Friendship Park), a tranquil green space perfect for families. Enjoy a leisurely picnic under the shade of trees, ride the charmingly restored steam locomotive, or rent a pedal boat to cruise around the picturesque lagoon.

The park also features playgrounds, open spaces for kids to run around, and food vendors for a quick snack. It’s a relaxing spot to recharge and experience a quieter side of Lima.

Read reviews for Parque de la Amistad here.

7. PARQUE KENNEDY

Parque Kennedy in Miraflores is a vibrant example of an energetic community meeting place. It’s alive with art, music, dancing, and a variety of vendors selling everything from handcrafted goods to delicious street food.

Kennedy Park is also famous for its colony of friendly cats that roam freely, adding to its unique charm. These cats are relatively well taken care of by a local association (see cat houses above) and seem to enjoy the park energy as much as their human counterparts. See Parque Kennedy reviews here.

8. PARQUE DE LA RESERVA

On our first trip to Lima, we almost skipped Parque de la Reserva and its Magic Water Circuit, thinking it might be a bit cheesy. And while it is a little cheesy, it’s also a lot of fun and an incredibly affordable experience, costing just over $1 USD (5 soles) per person. Strolling through the park alongside local families truly feels like a quintessential Limeño outing.

The park is open daily from 3–10 PM, with a multimedia light show running at 7:15 PM, 8:15 PM, and 9:10 PM. There are some interactive fountains, so be prepared for kids to get a little damp. The park can get quite busy, especially during the light show times, so it’s best to avoid weekends and holidays if possible.

Learn more at circuitomagicodelagua.com or read reviews for Parque de la Reserva here.

9. THE LIMA ZOO – PARQUE DE LAS LAYENDAS

Honestly, I’m not a huge zoo fan, but many families visiting Lima seem to really enjoy Parque de las Leyendas. In recent years, the zoo has been updating its facilities and expanding enclosures to improve conditions for the animals.

The park is quite large, so plan to spend at least half a day exploring. It’s a good idea to bring cash for vendors, as well as toilet paper and hand sanitizer, since the bathrooms can sometimes run out.

Some families might also choose to visit both the zoo and the Museo Larco (next section) in the same day, as they’re just a 10-minute taxi ride apart (traffic permitting).

Read reviews for Parque de las Leyendas here.

10. LARCO MUSEUM

The Larco Museum in Lima offers a fascinating glimpse into pre-Columbian history, showcasing stunning artifacts like intricate ceramics, textiles, and gold and silver treasures. If your trip to Peru includes Machu Picchu, this museum makes a great complementary experience.

When planning what to do in Lima, Peru, with kids, museums can be a tricky choice. However, this one is more manageable thanks to its modestly sized collection and the beautiful mansion that houses it, surrounded by a lovely garden. The infamous erotic ceramics section located beneath the restaurant will undoubtedly give kids a memorable story to share with their friends back home.

Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a meal at the charming Café del Museo. Make a lunch reservation to take advantage of the patio seating and a menu that caters to kids.

Learn more at: museolarco.org.

LIMA, PERU FOR KIDS MAP

It can be challenging to navigate a new city with kids. For this reason, I thought I would plot all my favorite things to do in Lima, Peru with kids on the following map. I hope it helps. (Click on the map for the interactive version.)

LIMA FAMILY TOURS

In addition to the above list of fun things to do in Lima, Peru for kids, there are also quite a lot of organized tour options to choose from. Here are some of the top ranking tours in Lima for families.

LIMA FAMILY TOURS (< 4 HRS)

• Food Tour and Market Experience (3 hrs.)
• Magic Water Circuit and Laser Show (3 hrs.)
• Visit the Sea Lions in the Palomino Islands (2.5 hrs.)
• Lima Double Decker Bus Tour (4 hrs.)

I kept the list above to tours of 4 hours or less because I know that group activities can be challenging with kids – especially if they run long! If this sounds too stressful, you may wish to consider a private tour instead.

See: Private Lima Tours on Viator

WHERE TO STAY IN LIMA WITH KIDS

I would strongly recommend staying in either the Miraflores or Barranco districts of Lima because they are both lovely neighborhoods where you will find the top Lima attractions, great restaurants, chic boutiques, and pretty parks.

The two neighborhoods sit side-by-side so it is easy to stay in one, and still visit the other on the same trip. Here is a little bit about each, and my suggested hotel properties.

THE MIRAFLORES DISTRICT

Miraflores is a vibrant and upscale district in Lima, known for its oceanfront views, trendy restaurants, and easy access to shopping. It’s a popular choice for travelers seeking a safe and central base, with plenty of hotels ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious. Highlights include the iconic Malecón, a scenic clifftop promenade perfect for walking or cycling, as well as landmarks like Parque Kennedy and the Huaca Pucllana archaeological site.

MIRAFLORES FAMILY HOTELS

1. INNSIDE BY MELIA MIRAFLORES

INNSiDE by Meliá Lima Miraflores is a modern hotel in the heart of Miraflores, offering contemporary rooms, a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and the on-site 352 Gastrobar serving Peruvian and international cuisine. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring Lima’s vibrant attractions, shopping, and dining. Families love the loft rooms that have a double bed and a bunk beds.

Check rates for INNside by Meliá on Booking.com or Expedia.

2. HOLIDAY INN MIRAFLORES

Holiday Inn Lima Miraflores is a stylish and welcoming hotel located near Kennedy Park in the heart of Miraflores. The hotel combines modern comfort with local design, inspired by the geometric and minimalist aesthetics of ancient Lima culture. With a rooftop pool, gym, and a cozy bar and lounge, it’s a great base for exploring the vibrant neighborhood.

This property offers double-queen bed rooms that can be perfect for a family.

Check rates for the Holiday Inn Miraflores on Booking.com or Expedia.

3. HILTON LIMA MIRAFLORES

Hilton Lima Miraflores is a sophisticated hotel located in the heart of Miraflores, just a short walk from attractions like Larcomar Shopping Center and Kennedy Park. The hotel blends traditional 18th-century Peruvian architectural elements with contemporary design, offering guests a unique and elegant atmosphere. Amenities include a rooftop pool with stunning city views, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and an on-site restaurant serving a fusion of Peruvian and international cuisine.

The Hilton Miraflores offers double-queen rooms that are suitable for families.

Check rates for the Hilton Lima Miraflores on Booking.com or Expedia.

THE BARRANCO DISTRICT

Barranco is Lima’s bohemian district, celebrated for its colorful street art, historic charm, and laid-back coastal vibe. It’s a great choice for travelers looking to stay in a creative, artsy neighborhood filled with trendy cafes, boutique hotels, and vibrant nightlife. Highlights include the iconic Bridge of Sighs, the Bajada de Baños walkway to the ocean, and a thriving arts scene with galleries and live music venues.

Note: Although I have stayed in Barranco with my family on 3 occasions, it can be a little tricky to find family-sized rooms.

BARRANCO FAMILY HOTELS

Barranco does not have any large-scale hotels. It is the perfect neighborhood for boutique hotel fans. (The other good option in this area for families is to book a vacation rental.)

1. VILLA BARRANCO (BY ANANAY)

Villa Barranco by Ananay Hotels is a charming boutique hotel nestled in Lima’s bohemian Barranco district. Set in a meticulously restored 1916 republican house, the hotel retains its original architecture and art, offering guests an authentic and intimate experience. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s serene garden, rooftop terrace, and complimentary bicycles to explore the vibrant neighborhood.

The property has some spacious rooms that can accommodate a family of 3, with the child either in a cot or an extra bed. (Free for 6 and under – a nightly surcharge for 7 years and up.) With older kids or teens, I would personally be fine having my kids in a separate room at this property, as it is more like a family home – but I realize this is not for everyone.

Check rates for Villa Barranco on Booking.com or Expedia.

2. HOTEL B

Hotel B is a restored Belle Époque mansion in Lima’s bohemian Barranco district. As the city’s only Relais & Châteaux hotel, it combines historic charm with contemporary comfort, offering elegant suites adorned with original artworks. Guests can savor fusion cuisine at the on-site restaurant, unwind in the serene courtyard, or enjoy ocean views from the rooftop terrace.

For families, cribs can be added to suite and junior suite rooms at no charge, and an extra single bed is available for a nightly surcharge. Another option is to book two adjoining rooms with a separate lock-off door, creating a spacious suite (e.g., rooms 228 and 229). Contact the property directly to arrange this option.

Check rates for Hotel B on Booking.com or Expedia.

SAFETY IN LIMA

I don’t want to sugarcoat this: Lima does have crime issues that can affect tourists, including pickpocketing and, in very rare cases, armed robbery. Traveling with kids can add a layer of vulnerability, as distractions are inevitable.

During our three visits to Lima as a family, we’ve generally felt safe walking around Miraflores and Barranco, but we’ve always taken sensible precautions. For instance, we’ve consistently left our valuables, including passports, in the hotel safe. We’ve been mindful of our surroundings when using our smartphones (for calls or photos) and cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs, choosing safe locations during daylight hours.

We’ve typically explored on foot during the day and relied on Ubers at night or for longer distances. I prefer Uber over taxis in Lima because of the tracking features and the ability to check driver reviews. Additionally, we’ve always opted for a private car service from the Lima Airport to our hotel, ensuring a safe and stress-free arrival. (Arriving in Lima after a red-eye flight, this splurge is well worth it to me.)

See: Private Lima Airport Transfer Services

I highly recommend that you check your country’s travel advice for Peru when planning your trip. Here is the link for US Department of State and for the Government of Canada. The alerts section for the US Embassy in Peru also has some very helpful and specific information.

LEARN MORE

Do you have specific questions about things to do with kids in Lima, Peru? Please feel free to reach out to me via direct message on Instagram, Facebook or by email.

Want to see more unique adventures? I would love for you to follow along with The Better Beyond on Instagram!

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