Buenos Aires for Children

Buenos Aires may have a reputation for its nighttime activities but there are plenty of things to do during the day to keep the little ones happy.

A Trip to the Zoo

The oldest in South America, Buenos Aires zoo may not have any world-class exhibits or be famous for its exotic and unusual animals but it’s a good day out when you have kids. Situated on one corner of Plaza Italia in Palermo it’s easy to get to and will keep the most intrepid of explorers busy for a few hours – consider paying the extra to get access to the reptile house, rainforest exhibit and aquarium. On Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays they offer nocturnal visits to see the animals after dark.

Plaza Italia (Subte: Line D, Plaza Italia)
Open 10am – 6pm Closed Mondays
Entry 25 pesos / 40 pesos for all areas
http://www.zoobuenosaires.com.ar/

Explore the Parks

Not far from the zoo, you’ll find the largest green space in Buenos Aires, los Bosques de Palermo. Very popular with families at weekends, there’s plenty to keep the kids occupied from pedaloes on the lake, hiring a four-seater bike or a visit to the newly reopened planetarium. Close to all the action in Palermo, it may even be worth considering staying in the area to make the most of having all this space on your doorstep.

Best Seat in the City

One of the highlights of my daily tour, the front carriage of the old wooden trains on Line A of the Buenos Aires subway offers one of the most unusual and prized views in the city. Built when the line opened in 1913 and refurbished in the 1920s the front carriage gives a drivers-eye view of the oldest subway line in the southern hemisphere and you’ll often see delighted kids enjoying the exciting view. Get on at the start of the line in Plaza de Mayo to nab the best spot and then ride it all the way to the end of the line, turn round and make your way back! Best done on a Sunday to avoid the crowds. Update: As of 7th January 2013 the wooden trains have sadly been withdrawn from service.

Abasto and the Children’s Museum

The art deco shopping centre in Abasto was once the central market, selling all the fruit, vegetables and meat to a hungry city. Today, it attracts a different crowd who come here to shop, eat and play. Home to the wonderful Museo de los Niños, full of educational and fun exhibits, the top floor of the shopping centre also boasts a rollercoaster, big wheel and countless games and machines.

Shopping de Abasto, Avenida Corrientes 3247
Museo de los Niños open Tuesday – Friday
20 pesos Adults / 50 pesos Children
http://www.museoabasto.org.ar/