If you’re willing to pack up your kids and take them on a flight to Costa Rica, then we know you’re up for an adventure! Sure, you can spend some of your vacation time relaxing on the beach or by the pool, but we know you’re probably crazing activities that are more exciting, educational and fun. You and your kids won’t be happy unless you get out there and make some memories while appreciating what’s special and unique about your vacation destination. Here are our top three ideas for unforgettable kid and family activities in gorgeous Costa Rica.
Visit a live volcano
Every kid loves learning about volcanoes. How about rewarding their interest in science by taking them to see a real live working volcano? At Arenal Volcano National Park in the Alajuela province, both kids and adults will delight at the intense views of red hot lava spewing out of the peak. The best views come from the overlook trail at night, so plan accordingly. It’s not always possible to see the eruptions, due to weather and conditions, so it’s best to check before you go.
A museum inside an old prison
Adventurous kids will love to learn that the more than 100-year-old castle-like structure that now houses the Costa Rica children’s museum Museo de los Ninos in San Jose, Costa Rica, was once the nation’s most feared prison. Nothing of a scary atmosphere exists anymore, however, and kids of all ages will find tons of kid-centric science, culture, historic, and sensory play exhibits. Hours are Tuesday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
A real dinosaur destination
It’s Jurassic Park without the risk, since although these life-size dinosaurs look amazingly real, they’re animatronic. So unless you’re afraid of robots coming alive, the dinos hidden among this one-of-a-kind Central American resort’s leafy jungle atmosphere won’t pose a risk. Billing itself as a top family destination in Costa Rica, the Dino Park at Blue River in Rincon de La Vieja, provides guided tours of the realistic dinosaur instalments, as well as natural hot springs and mud baths that the whole family will love.
