Spring Attractions for kids in Jerusalem

Spring doesn’t just change the weather; it changes Jerusalem. After months of clouds and rain, the sun is stronger, the flowers are blooming and the days are longer. This time of year is a great time for both local and visiting families to enjoy the city. Many of the attractions for kids in Jerusalem come alive in spring, offering unique and enjoyable ways to explore the city.

Water attractions for kids in Jerusalem

Warmer weather means that some of the city’s most exciting attractions for kids in Jerusalem, including water activities, open for the season. One of the best ways to enjoy a warm afternoon in the city is to visit Teddy Park, where there is a splash pad with water fountains where kids (and adults) can play. The park consists of large grassy areas, many shade trees and sits just below the Old City Walls,  a short walk from the Inbal Hotel. The fountains run for 30 minutes every couple of hours throughout the afternoon and are accompanied by music. Even if it’s still too cold to get wet, visitors can enjoy the music and dancing water. There is also an evening show, accompanied by lights. Park entrance and the shows are free of charge.

The Jerusalem Botanical Garden also offers water activities for children. Located near the Givat Ram campus of The Hebrew University, the Botanical Garden is open year round. But some exhibits, including a creek and water tables, are best enjoyed in warmer weather. Children can experiment with the flow of water in nature in the creek, using a series of pumps and other built-in toys. Younger children can play at nearby water tables, also learning about how water flows and drains in nature. In general, the garden is a great family destination during the spring months. Many of the plants and trees are flowering, and the lily pad are starting to bloom on the pond, which is also filled with ducks and fish. There is an admission fee, with discounts for children.

Exploring Jerusalem with Kids

There are a number of sites  that allow the whole family to explore different aspects of the city together, making these places among the best attractions for kids in Jerusalem. One that should not be missed, particularly for older children, is the Ramparts Walk, a series of paths atop the Old City’s ancient walls. The routes, starting near the Tower of David Museum by the Jaffa Gate, allow visitors to experience the city from a different perspective, looking down on the rhythms of daily life in the markets and alleyways, as well as admiring the skyline of steeples and towers. 

The nearby Tower of David Museum is also an excellent choice for families, offering a variety of exhibitions, tours and special events. The recently-revamped museum is located in an ancient fortress, which provides plenty of rocks and towers for children to climb and explore. The museum also features sound and light shows after dark, best for those over the age of 3. 

Back in the new part of the city, First Station, a restored antique train station, offers carnival rides, as well as bicycle rentals. Families can cycle or walk for miles along the path above an old railroad track, meandering through different neighborhoods and passing a number of parks.

Nature in the City

The warmer weather also makes spring a good time to visit the city’s Gazelle Valley, a large urban green space filled with walking trails, ponds and dozens of native gazelles. The free park offers educational exhibits about gazelles and other animals, and plenty of spaces to relax under the shade of olive trees. There is a large playground nearby as well as picnic areas.

Of course the Biblical Zoo should also not be missed for those looking for attractions for kids in Jerusalem. Featuring animals mentioned in the Bible as well as other native species and animals from further afield, like elephants and pandas, the zoo can occupy at least half of a day. There is a train as well as numerous grassy areas for picnics, along with a playground and areas to interact with animals, including goats and birds. Nearby, the Israel Aquarium features exhibits about the animals and habitats around the Red Sea, Mediterranean Sea, Dead Sea and Sea of Galilee. 

Whether families seek our attractions for kids in Jerusalem or simply wander the city, enjoying the warmer weather and blooming flowers, spring is a great time to visit.