Ihis is the ultimate guide to what to do with kids in Amman and around. It will be updated continously! I combined all articles and new discoveries in this post. You are new to Amman and don’t know where to take your kids? You want to find out where to go with your kids in Amman or you want to know about the newest place for kids in Amman? Then this guide is for you. The newest additions to this post are Climbat and MishMash Space. Everything is sorted in alphabetical order, so make sure to check it all out. Newest Update June 2021. If you recently moved to Jordan, familiarize yourself first with the city and try to get am idea of where you are and how to get around in Amman and Jordan. If you look for a great international Kindergarten see my post on WABE Amman.
I am always looking to visit new places, but haven’t explored much since the pandemic. However, I would like to point out a new kids space at Swefiah Village as well as as SwimJordan, where our young ones took some swim lessons.
Is Amman kids-friendly?
Looking at kids activities in Amman is for sure not a black and white perspective. Jordan has a very young population. Most of the families have probably 4-5 kids. However, I find Jordan not especially kid-friendly in terms of infrastructure.
Sure, even strangers will at all times approach your children and adore him, hug him, kiss him, which is great. At the beginning that might be strange for you, if you are not used to Arabic customs, but I actually like it. Jordanians just purely love kids. Many times, we go shopping or visit a restaurant, somebody takes care of our sons for a while, play with them, or give them a high five. Mashallah.
Walkability of Amman
On the other hand, there is no possibility to walk easily and safely on the street. Boardwalks are blocked with cars, trees, traffic lights, trash. Sometimes, they do not even exist or have huge steps, so it is impossible to navigate with a stroller or buggy. Lazy teenagers, who won’t take the escalators or take the stairs, occupy elevators. Other people will block it with their shopping trolley instead of taking the designated elevators for that. The streets are also not really safe to play. In Amman there are not a lot of public areas, where kids can just safely play around. Also, there are not a lot of green spots in the city, and public transport in a way we are used to is missing. That’s why you have to approach kids activities in Amman in a different way.
Discover the best places for Kids in Amman
Let’s have a look at the places and options you do have, apart from the various play areas in the malls. While many of the activities for children in Jordan certainly cost money, I also want to point out some places that are less expensive or even for free. Therefore I compiled a mixed list of places and activities in Amman considering all price ranges. Additionally I present various types of activities and both indoor and outdoor activities for kids.
See the updated map for precise locations on Google maps, also at the end of this article. Please keep in mind that our kids are still little and I am sure there might be more suitable activities for older kids. That being said, this list will grow with them.
Amman Citadel – Outdoor
Even without kids, this is an attraction you can visit more than once. If you do have kids, you will enjoy the fact that they can work more freely than in the city. You can enjoy the views, nature, take some great pictures, and forget the hassle of the city with its traffic for a while. The citadel is a great family-friendly activity in Amman. Make sure to watch my Video of the Amman Citadel
What: The Amman Citadel is a historical site at the center of downtown Amman, Jordan. Known in Arabic as Jabal al-Qal’a, the L-shaped hill is one of the seven jabals that originally made up Amman.
Where: Amman Down Town up on the hill opposite of the Roman Theater
Costs: with Iqama 250 Fils, without Iqama 2 JD, Kids for free
Alia Al Assaf Academy – Outdoor
Alia Al Assaf Academy is the only Dutch-owned Horse Riding Academy in Jordan. They are located in a nice spot outside of the city called Green Land. It is a closed compound in Naur between Amman and Madaba, around 15 to 20 minutes from the capital. Bianca is married to a Jordanian, and is running the school. She brought all her experience from the Netherlands.
What can you do at Alia Al Assaf Academy with Kids
The academy offers horse riding classes for all kinds of levels starting from very young children to more advanced up to jumping etc. As of now, we have been there a couple of times. It was always very relaxed, a great atmosphere and nice to be outside of the city. Our older son currently 3.5-years old really enjoys it. He is in love with animals and he seems to do well on the horse, too. While we had no expectations whatsoever and also don’t want to push Titus into anything at that age, he seems to make some progress. He is learning how to sit on the horse, how to balance, and to move up his body. Most importantly, I noticed that he respects the animal and his teacher. That is really great considering that he won’t always listen to his parents or Kindergarten teachers.
Staff at Alia Al Assaf Academy
The staff is really friendly at Al Assaf Academy and they also seem to treat the animals well. I am not a pro on animal health but they all look clean, well, and have no injuries. I think this is an important aspect and am glad to see, they take care. The terrace and stairs outside maybe need some maintenance. However, apart from this it is just a nice place to relax and enjoy with your family and kids in a location near Amman.
What: Horse Stalls, with the possibility of horse riding and taking lessons
Where: between Amman and Madaba, Naur, in Greenland Complex. If you want to go using google maps, use this pin as it will direct you to the entrance. https://goo.gl/maps/NqBZWhE1B47EUEMe8
Costs:Â 30 Minutes Riding 10 JD, different packages for multiple lessons and other levels.
Contact: Bianca – 079 555 3000
Arabian Horse Club – Outdoor
The Arabian Horse Club, located about 15 minutes South of Amman is a great place for horse lovers. There are stalls, a horse jumping court, terraces where you can enjoy coffee and Shisha, and, most importantly, you can let your kids go for a ride on a horse. The staff is very friendly and they have horses in all kinds of sizes. For kids of all ages and levels (from zero to pro), there seems to be a horse. It took our son some time until he wanted to sit on a horse. We slowly introduced him to the animals, let him try to touch them and after some struggle, we put him on a horseback. Once he sat, he really enjoyed his time and seemed to be a proud knight.
What: Horse Stalls, with the possibility of horse riding and taking lessons
Where: Amman, just off Airport Road, next to The Dome and Jordan Speed Center
Costs: 20 Minutes Riding 10 JD, different packages for lessons
The Boulevard – Outdoor, mainly
We really like to go to the boulevard, especially because it is one of the few, if not only pedestrian-friendly streets in Amman. Unfortunately, even Wakalat street is now open to cars again. The boulevard reaches from Abdali Mall to the Rotana Hotel and spans over three levels as it elevates from one side to the other. There is plenty of cafes or restaurants that offer outside sitting. Kids can walk freely without you having to worry about cars. Throughout the year there are several events such as the Christmas market or a book market or other seasonal events.
The problem with the Boulevard
The big drawback, however, is again the bad infrastructure for strollers or buggies. There are no flat escalators and the elevators are hidden in the side of the buildings. The worst part is, every time you get to a new level through the elevator or coming from the parking, you are being checked again by security. The same applies even if you come from the Mall or just crossed the street etc.
Tipp: Enjoy some ice cream at Four Winters, see my post on Cake, Ice, and Sweets
What: Pedestrian Boulevard with shops and cafes. Lots of different events throughout the year.
Where: Abdali, next to Abdali Mall
Costs: Free, as long as there is no event and you don’t buy anything…
Books and More Library – Indoor
Books and More is a great library for the whole family. Especially for kids they have thousands of books in English, Arabic, and few in French and German. Additionally they regularly organize activities for children of all ages. For detailed info and an interview with the owners, see my article on Books and More Library Amman.
What: A library with plenty of books and activities
Where: In Al Rawabi behind Mc Donalds near Pizzaiolo
Costs: Activities are mainly for free. Reading books at the library is free. Only if you want to take books home, you pay a small membership fee depending on the duration of the commitment.
Brickshouse Amman – Indoor
Brickshouse Amman in Mecca Mall is one of my/our favorite (indoor) places for young children. Not only because I love LEGO, but because the team is just great. At first, I was a bit skeptical, to be honest. As the place was a bit tight we did not know if our son will like to play on his own. But we gave it a try, and from the first second the lovely staff took care. They pay attention, support the parents with any needs, inform when kids have to go to the toilet, teach the kids what’s wrong and right and that they have to share.
So what is the Brickshouse in Amman? Since it has expanded lately, there are three huge pools, two of them filled with regular LEGO (for kids above 4/5) and one with LEGO Duplo (kids aged 2-5). Apart from that, there some learning games on the walls, tables and chairs, whipping animals, and a soft play area with a ball pool and slides. Recently, Brickshouse added a birthday/party room, but we haven’t experienced it, yet.
Summary of the LEGO Brickhouse in Amman for Kids
The LEGO play area is really nice and there are so many LEGOs that a lot of kids can play at the same time. There are all sorts of Duplo, such as animals, cars, food items, and so on. For the normal LEGOs there are also plenty of different stones. The soft play area gives the kids a chance to move around and stay in motion. The different learning games also provide some alternatives to LEGO. However, the best part about the LEGO Playhouse for me, is, that the staff is really friendly, welcoming, nice with the kids, and always taking great care of them. Certainly one of the best places to take your kids in Amman.
What: LEGO Play Area and Ball pool with slide
Where: Inside Mecca Mall Ground Floor opposite Miles Supermarket
Costs: 6 JD/h or 10/2 hrs
The Children’s museum – Outdoor and Indoor
Probably the most well-known activity for kids of all ages in Amman, the children’s museum definitively has to be on this list. For the very little, there is a closed play area, which is OK but very small. For kids 3 years and up there is plenty to discover and interact with. Kids can experiment with their own weight, with sand and water, play at a shop, look into prison, make music, and much more. There is also a huge outside area, which is probably great in spring and summer. Unfortunately, as with many things in Jordan maintenance is not strong. Several activities are broken and need to be fixed. I really hope they would check this more regularly and do something about it. Then the Children’s museum would be certainly among the top activities for kids in Amman.
What: The Children’s Museum Jordan is an interactive museum designed for kids in Amman, Jordan. 150 interactive indoor and outdoor exhibits, an art studio, a library, a multipurpose hall, an outdoor theater, a restaurant with an adjunct party room, and a gift shop. On standby are additional spaces with potential for development, such as the exhibit hall extension, a botanical garden annex, or the special effects auditorium.
Where: Al Hussein Public Park between Dabouq and Khalda
Costs: Individuals 3 JD, Members free, closed on Tuesdays
Climbat – Indoor
Climbat is a popular indoor climbing hall. And the space is really huge. I am not an experienced climber at all. I write these lines while looking at it as a kids-activity, but I am pretty sure that advanced and maybe professional climbers might enjoy Climbat just as much as children. You can definitely choose between several different walls and climbing routes. The minimum age for kids is 4 years. Below 5, they are only allowed to climb on small walls around 2.5 meters high. On the ground there are big soft mattresses, so nothing can happen. Some of them are tilted a bit towards the ground, so it is even easier than a wall angled at 90 degrees.
Conclusion of Climbat Amman
Honestly, my son was not very much engaging but maybe it is a bit difficult for a 4-year-old. He is actually trained quite well in motor skills but does not concentrate very well. So even when I showed him how to approach it, he would rather play and jump. However, I imagine in a few months or when he gets close to 5 years old, he might really enjoy it.
Anyway, the space is so large that if you are seriously interested in climbing, you will not get bored so quickly. They provide equipment and safety seems to be a top priority. Parking is possible in a garage and outdoors.
What: A climbing hall for kids and adults and also some small gym appliances for specific training
Where: Dead Sea Road, Na’ur
Costs: 5 JD for kids for as long as you want
The Forest Park – Outdoor
This is a relatively new adventure/entertainment area located a bit North of Amman. We haven’t been there, yet but since I really wanted to mention it and I trust familyinjordan’s opinion on this, I thought I will link to their post right here.
What: Climbing, Zip Line, Horse Riding, Playgrounds and more
Where: 30 minutes North of Amman
Costs: depends on the packages, different activities
Galina Art Class – Indoor
Galina offers private art classes for kids of all ages in Amman, starting from 4 years old. In her own little home studio she patiently teaches the kids how to use pencils and brushes. She paints all kinds of images from abstract art to well know artists with the little ones. Either in groups or alone children will learn about colors, shapes, how to paint, and be creative.
Our experience with Galina’s Art class in Amman
We took our son to a test session for free and were really impressed with Galina’s relaxed, professional, and patient way of dealing with a very young child and what he achieved. She only showed him where to put color and helped him by slowly guiding him through the process. After around 30 minutes he painted a wonderful, colorful turtle with watercolors. Titus enjoyed his time very much and it was sure we will come back.
Depending on the age, Galina offers different classes throughout the week mainly from the morning, noon to early afternoon. If you prefer private lessons you can also arrange this but it is more pricey (20 JD/h) at the time. Group lessons are around 8.5 JD/h. Galina Art Class is located in Khalda near the Zaha Cultural Center.
For more information check out Galina’s Facebook page, Instagram or contact her directly at 07 9976 6445.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BzQdDFcnnx-/
What: Painting and Art Lessons
Where: in Khalda near the Zaha Cultural Center
https://goo.gl/maps/DBPnisYyiLwiT9wu8
Costs:Â 20 JD/h for private lessons, 8.5 JD/h for group lessons
Gravity Trampoline park – Indoor
Gravity is a huge trampoline area located on the 4th floor of Mecca Mall. It features all kinds of different trampoline for kids from age 3 to teenagers and adults. Basically the whole place consists of trampolines. This will for sure release some energy of your kids and it looks like a lot of fun. You can just jump normally or on one of the nets next to a basketball basket or the ones at an angle next to the wall. The great thing is, that there is a staff member who accompanies your kids and supervises them. That way you can step back and relax or go shopping. See for yourself down in the video. Truly a fun activity for kids in Amman.
What: Trampoline Jump Park
Where: Inside Mecca Mall on 4th Floor
Costs: 8 JD for 0.5 hours, 12 for 1 hour, depending on age
Haya Cultural Center – Indoor & Outdoor
The Haya Cultural Center is a big area in the heart of Shmesani. There is a playground, a small traffic area for kids, a theater and plenty of rooms for indoor activities such as Arts, Music, Learning, etc. Have a look at what they offer. The outdoor playground is large and nice. The place and the games are maintained well and there is barely any rubbish. Usually, it is also not very crowded. Therefore I consider Haya Cultural Center as our favorite playground in Amman. It is certainly one of the best activities for kids in Amman, at low costs.
What: A Cultural Center including a playground, sports ground, rooms with indoor activities, a small fairground, and a snack place.
Where: Shmesani
Costs: 2 JD per person, same for kids and adults
The Housing Bank Park/Garden – Outdoor
It seems my review on Google Maps of The Housing Bank park in Abdoun some time ago has been heard and taken seriously into consideration. Recently renovation has finished and it is much better than before. I explicitly haven’t included it previously, since I did not feel it was safe. However, with the repairs that have been done and the new sun sails for the shadow that have been installed (which I suggested in my review), it really seems this can be the place to be for families with kids.
There is a huge garden with trees, grass, and some benches to sit on. There are sea-saw, swings, slides and climbing landscapes, etc. With the new sun sails you can be sure that your kids can play in the shadow. I think this is a really great addition to the renovated playground. The location right in the heart of Abdoun next to several restaurants and cafes like Buffalo Wings, Crumbz, Fitness First and Taj Mall make it a great choice for a family destination.
What: Outdoor Playground and Garden
Where: Abdoun, next to Buffolo Wings or Crumz, 3 minutes from Taj Mall
Costs: free
Al Hussein Public Parks – Outdoor
You can walk through the park, let your kids play on or near the parking with some other kids. You might teach your kids here to ride a bicycle or play some soccer for example. It is a huge area, so there is enough place for everybody. If the weather is nice it is quite a popular spot among Jordanian families as it is for free and you can have a picnic, too.
What: Al Hussein Park is a public park in Amman, Jordan that continues to be under construction. The project attempts to create a landmark for the city by including a cultural village, sports fields, memorial …
Where: Near Dabouq, West of the main street between Khalda Circle and Medical City Circle.
Costs: Free, except for the museums
IKEA Jordan – Indoor
Of course, IKEA is mainly a furniture/accessories store but it also has the restaurant and the kids play area (Smaland). If you are an expat, you are probably familiar with the concept. However, you most likely have never seen an IKEA store that empty, no matter when you go. As opposed to the furniture, the food at IKEA Amman is priced pretty reasonable, so you can have lunch there with your family. While your kids play in the Smaland, you can browse the store and enjoy some silence. Only, the drawback is that sometimes they tell you, you can only have your kid there for 45 mins or that the place is full. Something that does not happen at IKEA in Germany.
What: Play Area with ball pool, kids playing activities and small cinema for the older children
Where: Inside IKEA Jordan, on Airport Road about 25 minutes South of Amman
Costs: Smaland kids play area is for free
Jump Park – Indoor
This is covering Jump Park at Taj Mall, they have another location in Galleria Mall. They have a variety of different play areas under one roof. There is a trampoline park, a soft play area, a soft clay/play-dough area and an area that combines all kind of different games such as a Lego ripoff, some building blocks, magnetic toys, a light board, a magnetic board to build some sort of roller coaster and so on. There is also plenty of sweets and ice cream and popcorn available.
As kids under the age of 4 cannot jump alone unlike at Gravity Amman, we entered the soft play area. The good thing is, that the place is fairly new, so it was clean and not so crowded. There are plenty of different toys to choose from and one could build houses with giant Styrofoam blocks or just slide down the slides. If you get bored you can build anything up to your imagination with LEGO-like blocks, play dough or you try yourself at the magnetic board or try to interconnect cogwheels. Kids can easily spend some time there and they won’t get bored that quickly.
What we didn’t like is the loud music, the necessity for supervision in the trampoline area, and that adults need to buy extra socks as all of this increases the payment. I hope at least that you can re-use them. In general it is priced at the upper end.
What: Gymnastics and Motor skills activities for kids between a few months to age of 6
Where: Abdoun, inside Taj Mall, next to the food court, T1
Costs: regular 8JD/h, 15JD/2h, there was an offer: 12JD/1h for 2 kids or 18JD/2h for 2 kids plus 2JD for socks.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JumpParkJO/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jumpparkjo/
Martyrs Park – Outdoor
It features a park and a playground for children of different ages with a variety of activities. Some of the toys are quite new, which is nice. The area is not the cleanest but OK. Have a look at Rachel’s video for a detailed review. Make also sure to check out Rachel’s YouTube Channel for some more insights on Jordan.
What: Big playground with lots of different activities for younger and older kids and a park, where you can stroll along.
Where: Deir Ghbar/Abdoun, near the Nigerian embassy
Costs: Free
Al Ma’wa Wildlife Sanctuary
Al Ma’wa Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the North of Jordan, just about 20 minutes from Jerash. It is only about one year old as of now and the have about 18 lions, two tigers, and four bears in their sanctuary which all have been rescued. It is important to clarify that this is not a zoo and the priority is not on showcasing animals but to give them a protected area and lots of space. I went last week with my sons and was surprised by the size of the whole complex and each fenced area. Mostly you do not even see how large it is.
When you arrive there is a small arrival center with a coffee shop, seating area inside and outside, bathrooms, and also a playground for kids. After a short waiting time we took a 3-minute bus ride uphill to get to the main entrance of the sanctuary. From there you start a compulsory guided tour (included in ticket price). A young enthusiastic guide explained to us both in Arabic and also a little bit English about the place and the animals within. He told us where they come from, how old they are, and why they are there.
Our experience at Al Ma’wa Wildlife Sanctuary
Very soon we got to see lions, a bear (who was in his shelter), and two tigers form Bangladesh. All the animals looked so relaxed, satisfied, and healthy. Something you will not experience in a zoo. It was great to see that there is a place in Jordan, where they value the life of these animals and give them space, care, and the food they deserve. Some of the lions and the tigers were really beautiful. If you have a camera with a zoom, you might be able to get some good shots.
If your kids are still very young, keep in mind that you walk quite a bit, on gravel and rough terrain, sometimes going down some slopes. The tour took about 40 minutes. In the end we were picked up with the bus and return to the parking spot/visitor area. Of course, we checked out the playground as well. It is solely made of wood and ropes, except for the slides. The kids enjoyed it very much and after some time we were ready to head back to Amman. Depending on the age of your kids and your time schedule, you can, of course, combine this trip with a visit to Jerash or Ajloun castle. All three might be a bit too much, I think.
What: Wildlife Sanctuary with Lions, Tigers and Bears
Where: North of Jordan, 20 minutes drive from Jerash
Costs: kids 2 JD, adults 5 JD
Website:Â https://www.almawajordan.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlMawaJordan/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almawa.jordan/
YouTube:Â http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGvNXKYilXrrPFpNydT4ZtA
Mijana – Indoor & Outdoor
This is a great spot for the whole family. Mijana should actually be on my list of Arabic Restaurants as they serve good food and have a really nice location. The restaurant is located right off the rainbow street but is definitively worth checking out, with or without kids. It is not one of the cheesy establishments but a really nice spot with several floors, sitting corners, and a nice hidden garden terrace where you can enjoy summer nights. They offer the typical Levant Cuisine from all kinds of Mezze, Mashawi, and of course Argila/Shisha.
So why is this place on this list? On the first floor, there is a small play area with a ball bath and some swings where your kids can enjoy playing while you enjoy your food. Of course, it is not as large as the other soft play areas in the malls but at least it is one of the few restaurants that offer something like this (apart from the obvious fast-food chains that we avoid). So if you want to have a family dinner while giving your kids a chance to play, Mijana is a good choice.
What: Arabic Restaurant with a play area for kids. Shisha available, no alcohol.
Where: Amman, off Rainbow Street
Costs: Depends on what you order. Play area for kids for free.
MishMash Space – Indoor
MishMash is a space for different kids activities, such as storytelling, playing, experimenting, and experiencing different things according to themes. It is is run by Rania Turk, who also illustrates and publishes children’s books. The cozy place hosts library/bookshop for kids books and has two rooms for playing and activities. It is located in a residential building near the first circle.
Last week I attended an event where they told a Gruffalo story and after that the kids were crafting a small shadow cinema box with wax paper. This month’s theme is light and shadow. The kids were able to play with the different fairy tale characters and their self-built cinema as well as discovering light and shadow in a small exhibition using different objects and a projector. Some snacks and juice were provided as well as coffee and tea for the parents. The atmosphere is very relaxed and friendly. It was even a bit crowded for my taste. Rania puts a lot of effort and enthusiasm into these activities and we also took home some books that we bought. All in all a nice kids event for a weekend afternoon.
What: Library, playing space, experiencing for kids and different events
Where: near 1st circle
Costs: around 12 JD per event, usually 1.5 hours, sometimes including a book
Al-Mororiyah Park – Outdoor
Al-Mororiyah Park features next to a playground and a small theater a kids traffic area, where they can drive around in small electric cars and practice “driving” and traffic rules. It looks like fun. I assume kids should be at least 4-5 years. The area is quite large so there is enough space. When the weather is good, a lot of parents seem to enjoy this place. The playground is average and not too clean, unfortunately.
What: A playground, a small outdoor theater and a traffic practicing car track
Where: In Khalda, close to the Holiday Inn
Costs: less than half JD
The Orenda Tribe
The Orenda Tribe is a really cool, young organization that supports marginalized communities and raises awareness about social issues by organizing art workshops and selling clothes and other items. They organize diverse events where art, storytelling, and community plays a major role. They have a clothing line that utilizes the main elements of their logo – Empowerment, Community and Sustainability. Through their “Art For Hope Initiative” they reach out to the less fortunate. For every T-Shirt sold, they enroll a child in one of the art workshops where they raise social awareness through art and storytelling.
We joined many activities organized by the Orenda Tribe in the last years be it drawing, painting, or crafting for Halloween or Christmas. Recently they have relocated to Manara Arts & Culture in Webdeh, which is also worth checking out. They have a beautiful space where they showcase their products and organize events. This includes puppet shows, readings, or crafting, and painting. For more information on The Orenda Tribe, what they do, who they are, and what they already achieved, check their website and Social Media sites.
What: Initiative for good cause that organizes kids events on art and storytelling
Where: Manara Arts & Culture and across Amman and Jordan
Costs: usually between 10 and 15 JD per child
Website:Â https://www.theorendatribe.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theorendatribe/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theorendatribe/
YouTube:Â https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3HKPUS_vfkaF8NJh8cm1gA
Playgroundjo – Indoor
PlaygroundJo is a bit different than the other typical play areas. Firstly because it has a very open design, there are no boundaries or gates to the playing area itself. The idea of the playground is a huge climbing area while under it are hundreds of foam cubes to dive in. It really looks like fun and trains motor skills. There are slides, ropes, bridges and so on. There is another open area and also something for toddlers so everybody can enjoy it.
As the building is facing Mecca street, the sun is shining in from one side but it is a bit dark on the other side. For birthday parties they have a special room. From time to time they do have events as they had for Halloween for example. The area for parents is comfy and you can help yourself with free Nescafe and Tea. The only drawback of PlaygroundJo for me is that it is really difficult to find. There is no sign outside and the entrance is on the side of the building. PlagroundJo is on the 3rd floor. But that one is taken care of now for you.
What: Huge Soft Play Area/Indoor Playground
Where: Mecca Street, Building 256, with Bank Al Etihad and LG, Entrance on the side
Costs: 8 JD for 1-4 hours
Play Mats – Indoor
Play Mats provides different classes for kids of all ages from just 4 months up to 6 years. All classes take place in a secure area with rubber mats and protected walls. Depending on age, different activities are offered. It starts with basic motor skill exercises to more advanced movements, play, gymnastics, and even music classes. That way your kid is challenged in different ways and learns social behavior, improve their physical movements, learn something, and are exposed to problem-solving. Everything is playful and Owner Rasha Matalka and Coach Ibrahim have a wonderful approach. At all times they encourage kids as well as adults to learn and improve themselves. There are several classes throughout the week and also on Saturdays. Make sure to call before and confirm the schedule.
Our experience at Play Mats
I went a few times with our youngest (18m) and he enjoyed discovering different movements and obstacles with the other kids. Starting from singing with the parents to playing with balls, training the grip over to rolling back and forwards until bubble time, he laughed and was excited. The team from Play Mats is really friendly and welcoming. Each class lasts around 45-50 minutes.
Titus explored the Taekwondo class for 3-6 ages. It shall improve confidence and different types of body movements as well as self-control. With a little bit of help he even smashed a small piece of wood in his first class. As with kids in this age, it takes some time to get used to a new environment, so keep that in mind, when you want to try it out, however you get a free trial class for the first time.
I enjoyed the clean, safe location, small class sizes, and the friendly team. It certainly provides a more controlled and guided approach to some motor skills and each kid gets some individual attention. If you look for something away from the various play areas, then give this a try. There are changing facilities and toilets available and water, tea or coffee for parents are provided for free.
What: Gymnastics and Motor skills activities for kids between 4 months to age of 6
Where: Shmesani opposite of Housing Bank HQ
Costs: 50 JD for 4 classes, 100 JD for 10 classes (siblings), free trial class for the first time!
Contact: Rasha Matalka – 079 562 9479
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PlaymatsJO/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/playmatsjo/
Tal Alrumman Restaurant – Indoor & Outdoor
I previously posted a detailed article about the Tal Alrumman Restaurant North of Amman. I want to highlight that both without and with kids it is worth a visit. Be it for the food, the view, or be it for the kids-friendly environment with pools & playground. I can only recommend to go and give it a try. From Amman it is a 35-minute drive up north towards Jerash. They have a huge area featuring several possibilities of sitting indoors, outdoors and different terraces at the before mentioned pool.
Be aware that we have been asked to pay different prices for kids/adults sitting by the pool and the minimum age for paying guests varied depending on who we asked. In the end, it turned out to be around 12 JD per adult and kids for free below 3 years. So you can enjoy a day at the pool, eat from a vast collection of Arabic food, and spend some quality time with your family. If that all is not enough, visit the furniture/decor store or take a ride on a buggy nearby at Badia 4X4 Adventures.Â
What: Tal Alrumman is a restaurant complex with a huge area, two souvenir/furniture/decoration store, pool area and playground
Where: 40-minute drive North of Amman right in the middle of Amman and Jerash, close to King Talal Dam.
Costs: Restaurant is similarly priced as in Amman but without the 10%service tax. If you want to sit at the pool it is 12JD per adult, kids are free/cheaper depending on age and who you ask…
Tala Kids Club – Indoor
Tala Kids Club is a relatively new play area for toddlers and kids. So what is different here than from the other play areas. First of all, Baraka Mall is usually not so crowded, so it is not as full as in City Mall or Galleria Mall for example. There is much more light, which is really great so you don’t feel so depressed like in City Mall or Taj Mall. At last, it is newer, cleaner and also a bit quieter since there are no roller coasters around. There is more staff and they are pretty friendly.
The play area has a huge playing labyrinth, a ball pool, some trampolines and activities for infants/toddlers. Parents can sit at the tables, watch their small ones, or join them as well. There is also a snack and coffee vending machine. You might also bring some food or coffee from outside or from the cafe on the first floor. Tala Kids Club provide a party room where you can have a birthday party for your little ones. That is, however, a bit pricey. They recently changed the kids area to the first floor and there is a soft gun area on the second floor, which we haven’t visited, yet.
Tipp: Call before you go to make sure there is no birthday celebration and you and your kids will return disappointed.
What: An indoor play area for toddlers and kids
Where: First Floor, inside Baraka Mall in Swefiah
Costs: 6JD per hour, 10JD per 2 hours. There are further discounts if you pay for more hours in advance.
Umpalu Shop – Party favors, Give Aways and Birthday Decoration
Umpalu Shop is co-founded by two women from Austria and Germany. One of them being a mom of three, she dedicates her love for children’s activities and crafting to Umpalu. They offer a great choice of party supplies. These include crafting kits with pirate, sea, unicorn, princess and other child-loved themes. Apart from that they regularly organize crafting mornings every Saturday in cooperation with the Boutique Bakery inside the French Institute in Webdeh. They also sometimes team up with other play centers such as Mini Mozarts and organize joint events for children. The team is really friendly and they love taking care of the kids so that you can take a step back and enjoy a fresh coffee or croissant if you wish.
What: Crafting activities, supplier of party decoration and birthday giveaways
Where: different locations
Costs: depends on what you buy and the activities. Crafting mornings are usually around 15JD/2 hours including material that you can keep of course.
V-Yard – Indoor
V-Yard is another play center that hosts kids and toddlers play area, some machines, and a neon light bowling alley, so there is something for all ages. It is located near Khalda Circle and pretty nice. The play area for kids is quite huge and parents can sit close by. Simultaneously parents can enjoy some of the snacks such as freshly baked pizza. Staff is friendly and prices are similar to the other play areas. I personally just think it is a bit too loud and the lighting is a bit distracting. I am sure your kids will have fun there.
What: Soft play area, Arcade games, Bowling
Where: Amman, Khalda
Costs: similar prices like other centers (I really cannot remember exactly)
Wild Jordan Center – Indoor & Outdoor
Wild Jordan Center is a nice combination of cafe and all-day restaurant. It combines a Visitor Center, and a family/student-friendly place with a great view of Amman Downtown and the Amman Citadel. You can inform yourself about the activities offered by Wild Jordan, browse the Nature Shop, where they offer crafts and food created by local artists and they also have some meeting rooms. The good thing is, they have a dedicated family area. There you can sit and don’t have to worry to annoy anybody or get weird looks when disturbing students. The balcony offers a great view and for the kids, they have some books, bean bags, and toys. Also it is one of the few smoke-free places in town.
Sometimes Wild Jordan hosts events for kids. Last time we attended some crafting event organized by The Orenda Tribe where the kids could create some Halloween monsters. They often organize events for kids where they can paint, draw, do some crafting or get some face painting. The earnings are for a good cause.
What: Restaurant, Cafe, Study, Place, Meeting Rooms, Visitor Center, Nature Shop
Where: Amman, just off Rainbow Street
Costs: Depends on what you eat and drink, but price upper midrange. Activities depend on what it is.
Wild Jordan Center
World of Wonders – Indoor/Outdoor
This currently my favorite place to take kids to in Amman. It combines an indoor and outdoor playground in a beautiful setting. You can find World of Wonders in Khalda. This new play area offers several rooms with different activities and themes. One room is dedicated to play sand, another to the Carrera track or painting, another to building with Lego, bricks or magnetic toys, another one for dancing and music and a small open play area for toddlers. There is a lovely small cafe for parents from which you can access the stunning outside area.
Kids won’t miss anything here. It is equipped with two trampolines on ground level, a treehouse, a waterfall, a climbing wall, swings, slides, a playhouse and other activities and toys for movement. There are benches for parents to sit and the area looks just great. Staff is really friendly and motivated since it is still new. I hope they keep up the good vibes and continue taking care of kids in a nice way.
What: Play are indoor and outdoor with many different activities and cafe for parents
Where: Located in Khalda near Rawan Cake/Indoor Playground
Costs:
8 JD for 2 hours from the age of 1.5 years. Special offers and prices for activities might differ.
Yippee – Indoor
Yippee is the soft play area for kids and toddlers in Abdali Mall with a view right at the boulevard. It is a bit hidden on the food court near the golden M. The play area for kids is interesting and pretty clean, since relatively new, but also a bit small. The sitting area for parents is also pretty cramped and I wish they would have given it all a bit more space.
The prices for snacks and drinks are at the upper range with 3 JD for a juice and 1.5 JD for a banana, if I remember correctly. There is a small trampoline with transparent cover and some water beneath which is cool for small kids. Also, they seem to offer occasional entertainment events for kids. However, when we were there they didn’t pay much attention to our little one. Also, it was crowded, loud, and not so enjoyable for parents.
What: Soft Play area
Where: Abdali Mall, Food Court Level
Costs: You have to pay for 3 hours and it is 13 JD. So the price per hour is not more than elsewhere but for our kids, 3 hours is too much anyway.
Zahran Park – Outdoor
What: A very simple park, botanic garden, where you can have a picnic, a walk or try to ride a bicycle Don’t expect something fancy
Where: Between 4th and 3rd circle, right off Zahran street, close to the Austrian Embassy
Costs: Free
Zaha Cultural Center – Indoor & Outdoor
Honestly, it is not the typical expat spot but it is quite OK. There is a huge playground both on rubber mats and sand outside. If the weather is good, the inflatable huge slide will be open. There is a small snack place and next to the playgrounds there are some rides for kids, which are relatively cheap. There is also a theater and sports ground and they offer activities and courses, mentioned on their website.
What: A Cultural Center including a playground, sports ground, rooms with indoor activities, a small fairground and a snack place.
Where: Khalda
Costs: Playground for free, activities and rides are fairly cheap, less than 1 JD
What else to do with Kids in Amman?
If that all is not enough, just go out of your house and play in a quiet street, do some activities with the kids, go to festivals or hiking. A bit outside of Amman, you can go to Marj Al Hamam or Naur. There are some nice spots in the green where you can go with your kids and it is not too far from Amman.
Thanks for some of the ideas, we will definitely try them out. Our favourites include Yippee play area in Abdali Mall, Lily Gym (for toddlers) at the end of Mecca Street, and for parks we go to the Housing Bank park in Abdoun opposite Buffalo W&R, Deir Ghbar Park next to the French school and Diyar Park in Abdoun next to cozmo/coffee bean, I’m case they’re new to you!
Housing Bank park was on my mind first but then I remembered I wrote a reallz bad google review so I decided to not include it in my list. It is really dirtz, sand is missing, once a swing was broken, cables seems to be coming out of the sand etc. But hey it is Amman and we have to cope with what is there…
I would add Sports City Park, just north of Shmeisani, in which there is a large wooded area with paths. A lot of families bring their kids there to play, and it’s great for cycling.
The Alchemist Lab
It is a fun learning center in Amman, where it uses interactive activities to build on its skills.
I love it….very explicit and professional coverage….thanks
a place with difference for whole family .Friday brunch and family fun day .Kids can feed the animals while parents enjoy a meal and a cold beer .Best views in Amman overlooking Roman theater,street parking free,valet parking 2jd open every day till midnight
https://web.facebook.com/PizzaRomaCafe/
I would also add Saifi stables, next door to the Arabian Horse club, really kid-friendly with high animal welfare standards. There’s also a great park in Weibdeh by the art gallery and a skate park that’s popular on Wadi Saqra near the turning for Weibdeh. Also, in Mecca mall there’s ice skating and roller skating, both are fabulous when it’s hot, and my daughter loves Lollihop. Thanks for some great ideas for places we haven’t tried.
Hi Rachel, sure there is plenty more to discover. I will report once I visited. This is not just a random listing of things that exist, but the a review of what we actually tried out before. I have sooo many places still on my mind.
Excellent article and very very useful.. today I tried .. 7 wonders .. ur description meets the reality .. thanks from my kids as well
I was struggling to find out what my kids would be doing for a short break away from home, now we do have a lot of ideas. So glad that I have pumped into your site.Thanks for a very detailed explanations on all kids activities.
Happy you liked it. I always try to add more. There is still plenty on my list that I want to visit, so i can write about our experience.
This is extremely helpful! I’m considering a job offer and I was wondering if it’s possible for children to play field hockey in Amman?
I’m not sure to be honest. But I think there might be a place.