I went to Israel almost every two years growing up. I fell in love with country from an early age – the camel rides, the soldiers, the falafel, and of course, all the military history. Some of the places on this list I would beg my parents to take me every time we visited – like Latrun and Mini Israel.
If you’re looking for things to do with kids while in Israel, here are my favorites, inspired by my own visits as a kid, and my own time spent babysitting.
Top 10 Things To Do For Kids In Israel
1. Masada: History and Adventure for All Ages
Masada is the site of the Jewish fortress that withstood the Roman siege for over a year. The site features a cable car or hike up to the top, and an extensive series of ruins on top of an enormous mesa. I remember being absolutely enthralled by this place as a kid. Make sure to bring lots of food and water though, as it gets very hot here. You can also combine it with a visit to the Dead Sea.
- Cable Car Ride: Kids will love the ride up, offering stunning views of the desert.
- Hiking the Snake Path: For older kids, hiking up at sunrise adds an element of challenge and excitement. You can also make the climb up the Roman Ramp in the back.
- Exploring Ancient Ruins: You can explore defensive walls, homes, cisterns, and the site of the rebels’ final stand.
Cost:
- Entrance with cable car (round trip): Adult: 77 NIS – Child: 45 NIS.
2. Latrun Tank Museum: Hands-On Military History
The Yad La-Shiryon Museum at Latrun is both the site of critical battles during the 1948 War of Independence and one of the largest military equipment museums in the world. Some are tanks captured by Israel during her wars and some are retired Israeli tanks.
This was an absolute favorite for us as kids, especially since you can climb on the tanks and even go inside some of them. I was also fascinated by all the bullet holes in the walls of the concrete fortress that houses the in-door museum.
- Climb on tanks and explore their interiors.
- Learn about Israel’s military history through interactive exhibits.
- Enjoy a picnic on the grounds.
Cost:
- Adult: 30 NIS
- Child (5-15): 20 NIS
3. Mini Israel: A Country in Miniature
Located near Latrun, Mini Israel is a miniature park of Israel, showing over 350 detailed models of Israel’s most famous landmarks. I used to love this as a kid. You get to walk around and see all of Israel as a tiny model. This is also right next to the Tank Museum at Latrun, so you can combine them for a great day trip.
- Check out the tiny replicas of the Old City of Jerusalem, Tel Aviv’s skyline, and Masada.
- You can even see little people and cars
Cost:
- Adult & Kids (ages 2+): 86 NIS
4. The Beaches of Tel Aviv: Sand, Surf, and Fun
This is just a classic. Any of the central beaches will do, but Gordon and Frishman are my favorites.
- Gordon Beach: Offers calm waters, a playground, and plenty of nearby cafes.
- Frishman Beach: A great spot for sandcastle building and shallow swimming.
- Like it or not, life guards are present (I hated lifeguards as a kid)
Cost:
- Free access
5. Gravity Park: Trampoline and Climbing Fun
Gravity Park is an indoor trampoline and adventure park with multiple locations in Israel. I’ve only been to the one in Jerusalem. It wasn’t around when I was a kid, but I’ve loved taking kids there for a few hours.
- Trampoline zones for jumping and flipping.
- A ninja course for climbing and obstacle challenges.
- Foam pits and climbing walls.
Cost:
- Kids (up to age 12): 52 NIS + one accompanying adult for free
6. The Biblical Zoo: Animals From The Bible
Why it’s great for kids:
The Biblical Zoo in Jerusalem was also a favorite for me and my sister growing up. They have lions, giraffes, cheetahs, rhinos, and many others. They also have lots of activities and events. I remember feeding a giraffe when I was there as a kid.
- Interactive Experiences: Enjoy petting zoos, feeding stations, and hands-on exhibits designed especially for kids.
- Beautiful Grounds: The zoo is built around a scenic lake with walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas, offering plenty of space for families to relax and explore.
- Conservation Efforts: The zoo emphasizes animal conservation and education, giving kids a chance to learn about wildlife preservation.
Cost:
- Adults: 71 NIS
- Kids (3-18): 54 NIS
7. The Dead Sea: Float and Explore
Why it’s great for kids:
The Dead Sea is an incredible spot to take kids. I highly recommend that, if you go, you go to Ein Bokek beach, which is free and also has lots of kid-friendly amenities.
- Ein Bokek Beach: A fun and safe beach with showers, restrooms, umbrellas, and food.
- Ein Gedi Nature Reserve: Family-friendly trails like Nahal David lead to waterfalls and shaded pools.
- Masada: Combine with a visit to the Dead Sea.
Cost:
- Some beaches cost money, but Ein Bokek does not
8. Israeli Playgrounds: Fun and Adventure Outdoors
Why it’s great for kids:
You simply aren’t legally allowed to build playgrounds in America like do in Israel (lawsuits?). There are some absolutely epic playground across the country. Some of the best include:
- Gan Sacher (Jerusalem): Features a sprawling, modern playground with climbing structures, slides, and shaded areas for picnics.
- Park Hayarkon (Tel Aviv): Offers multiple play zones, boating, and bike paths.
- Rabinovich Park (Netanya): Known for its giant slides and interactive installations.
Cost:
- Free!
9. Eretz Bereshit (Genesis Land): A Biblical Experience
Why it’s great for kids:
Eretz Bereshit, or Genesis Land, offers an immersive, hands-on experience that brings biblical stories to life. I remember riding camels, baking pita, and making mosaics when we visited as a kid. The site is also a popular spot for weddings and celebrations and has a very nice bed and breakfast on site.
- Dress in biblical-style robes and enjoy camel rides through the desert landscape.
- Participate in activities like pita bread baking, pottery, and storytelling under a Bedouin-style tent.
- Kids can experience ancient hospitality customs and learn about life in biblical times.
Cost:
- Prices vary according to activity. You need to contact them directly.
10. The Old City of Jerusalem: A Step Back in Time
I absolutely loved exploring the Old City of Jerusalem as a kid. Hit the Arab markets to purchase colorful pottery, chess sets, and trinkets (teach your kids to bargain!). Stop for hummus or falafel along the way. Visit the Western Wall or the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. I also highly recommend that you take them up the ramparts.
- Western Wall: Let your kids write a note with their wishes and place it in the cracks of this sacred site.
- Ramparts Walk: A thrilling adventure for kids to walk along the ancient city walls and enjoy panoramic views of the Old City.
- The Shuk (Market): Stroll through the bustling alleys of the Old City market and let kids taste local treats like halva, fresh pomegranate juice, or handmade pastries.
Cost:
- Ramparts Walk: 25 NIS for adults, 12 NIS for children.
- General entry to the Old City is free, but specific attractions or guided tours may have costs.
Recap: My Inner Kid-Approved
I remember enjoying all of these spots as a kid and loving them. Many I have gone back to as an adult and still had lots of fun. From climbing ancient fortresses at Masada and Latrun’s Tank Museum to splashing in the Dead Sea and playing in world-class playgrounds, Israel has so much for kids. If you have any specific questions about other options, feel free to reach out directly or leave a comment below. I’d love to hear how your trip goes!
