When traveling to the Holy Land, you’ll have plenty of options for family-friendly attractions in Israel. Family is at the heart of the local culture – so its no surprise that there are abundant ways to enjoy time together in this beautiful country. From Masada Fortress to Red Sea beaches – and plenty of child-friendly museums and attractions – there are many family-friendly attractions in Israel for children of all ages. Whether visiting a bustling market, a picnic in the park, or a visit to a kibbutz, there is surely something for every member of the family!
Masada
A must-see sight when traveling in Israel is the famous Masada Fortress. Situated near the Dead Sea, families can enjoy a hike up the snake path or use the cable car to ascend to the top and take in one of the most spectacular views in all of Israel. Families can join a Masada Sunrise tour or Masada, Ein Gedi and the Dead Sea tour to optimize on sites in the area.
Timna Park
Found near the southern city of Eilat, Timna Park is situated in the Negev Desert and provides a stunning look into the geological history of the region. Timna Park spans some 15,000 acres of land, in a horseshoe-shaped valley. Families can explore the expansive desert park, exploring sites like the first ever copper mine and a lake in the middle of the desert! Families can join the Timna Park and Desert Agriculture Tour from Eilat tour from Eilat for an inclusive exploration of the park, including a sand-art making experience and a chance to taste vegetables picked fresh from a desert greenhouse.
Jerusalem Biblical Zoo
The Jerusalem Biblical Zoo is one of the best family-friendly attractions in Israel spanning some 62 acres of land, located in the south of Jerusalem. Complete with an expansive man-made lake, the park is surrounded with lush green space and is filled with roaming wildlife. One of the highlights of the Biblical Zoo is a train that travels throughout the grounds and stops at various stations throughout the park for visitors to explore the entire property. Many of the animals in the park are mentioned in the Bible, with over 170 species living together. For smaller children, there is a petting zoo, play area, a playground and plenty of hands-on and interactive experiences.
Beaches
One of the biggest attractions in Tel Aviv are the beaches, with over thirteen beaches to choose from, families have their pick! Alma Beach is a dog-friendly beach, so for families with little ones that do not feel as friendly around four-legged friends, its advisable to choose another beach. Clean, accessible and fun, Tel Aviv beaches are the perfect place to spend a family-day of fun, just don’t forget the sunscreen!
Steinhardt Museum of Natural History in Tel Aviv
The newest museum in Tel Aviv, the recently opened Steinhardt Museum of Natural History in Tel Aviv is a fascinating and informative family-friendly attractions in Israel. With a multitude of exhibits and programs, the Tel Aviv museum strives to promote public awareness and understanding of nature and environmental implications. It is an important museum both for children and for adults and showcases history in an extensive, informative and fun way that is both interactive and compelling.
Ayalon Institute Museum
Once a secret ammunition factory, the Ayalon Institute Museum now stands as an interactive exhibit showcasing history. The factory was a disguised plan to fool the British in the 1940s and was used by the Jewish people to fight for their independence for the State of Israel. Situated about 30 minutes south of Tel Aviv, the Ayalon Institute is an interactive and informative museum appealing to families with children of all ages as well as adults, and most certainly worth a visit.
Tower of David Museum
A thrilling look into history, the Tower of David Museum in Jerusalem provides insight into the long history of Jerusalem dating back to the second millennium BCE to the modern day city. Conveniently located at the entrance of the Old City near the Jaffa Gate, the Tower of David Museum is an interactive and immersive glimpse into the past that is fun for all ages.
Visiting A Charity in Israel: Neve Michael Children’s Village
For families looking for a meaningful experience, a visit to Neve Michael Children’s Village is not only rewarding for visitors, but for the children living on the premises. An immersive and collaborative children’s center, Neve Michael, located in the beautiful Pardes Hanna area near Caesarea, offers a wide range of services for at-risk children and youth in Israel. Families can visit and enjoy a variety of activities including a chocolate factory, tree planting, musical classes and much more. This is a unique and special experience for the whole family and will context to children at risk in Israel in a safe and warm environment that fosters growth and development.
Camel Rides in Israel
When planning a family vacation in Israel it is hard not think about camel rides! Riding camels and learning about these unique desert mammals is an exciting and memorable experience for families. It is also one of the best ways to explore the desert. Throughout the Negev desert there a variety of options to enjoy camel rides in safe conditions and ensure that camels are treated and cared for properly. A visit to the Negev Camel Ranch is also an exciting and memorable family experience. The Negev Camel Rach is filled with hiking trails, mountain bike trails, jeep tour opportunities, and, of course, camel tours!
Naama Farm, Western Negev
For families with young children, a visit to the Naama Farm in the heart of the Western Negev is a great way to spend the day outdoors and interact with animals. The Naama Farm is one of the largest goat and sheep farms in all of Israel producing much of the goat and sheep milk used in the country. Families can enjoy a tour throughout the stables and visiting with the animals, including feeding newborn goats and milking sheep. The farm also hosts a variety of workshops that teach children how goat cheese is made as well as a variety of arts and crafts activities.
Ramat Gan Safari
The Ramat Gan Safari is by far one of the most popular family-friendly attractions in Israel! One of the biggest zoos in the Middle East, the Ramat Gan Safari is a perfect place for families looking to explore and enjoy an African Safari-like experience in Israel. Spanning 250 acres, the park houses African animals who roam throughout the park freely and visitors can enjoy a safari ride throughout the park. Additionally, the Ramat Gan Safari houses a zoo with over 1600 species. This is one of the most popular and fun family-friendly attractions in Israel.
Sandboarding
If you’re searching for more unique family-friendly attractions in Israel, head to the desert! Sandboarding in the Negev Desert is a fun and memorable family activity that is suitable for both kids and adults. Families can enjoy the beautiful desert surroundings and an exhilarating and memorable experience. Families can also check out 24 hours in the Negev Desert Adventure.
Beit Guvrin
Found in southern Israel, approximately 60 km south of Jerusalem Beit Guvrin National Park is an exciting historical site for families. The remains of Tel Maresha, an ancient city are situated inside the park including the famous caves, one of the most popular, family-friendly attractions.
Jeep Tour
Jeep tours are a great way for the entire family to get off the beaten path and explore rural Israel. The Judean Desert Jeep Tour will take you on a thrilling ride through the heart of the desert, and your family will discover the fascinating Bedouin culture and visit interesting sites along the way. Your family will have an adventure of a lifetime together and create lasting memories.
Explore the many markets
Whether in Jerusalem or Tel Aviv, Israel is filled with markets of all shapes and sizes. For a fun family experience, strolling through the markets enjoying fresh produce, delicious snacks and beautiful hand-made and artisan crafts, there is surely something for everyone. Check out the best markets in Tel Aviv and best markets in Jerusalem.
For accommodation, check out the Best Family Hotels in Tel Aviv. Families can also arrange private tours, check out sample itinerary ideas. For children that have gluten-intolerance, check out Gluten-Free in Tel Aviv.
