Family Fun in São Paulo: Top Attractions for Kids
If you’re visiting São Paulo with your little ones, you’re in for a surprise! While the city is often seen as a bustling business and cultural hub, it also offers a wide range of kid-friendly attractions that can make your family trip both exciting and unforgettable. Whether your kids love animals, science, art, or just running around outdoors, São Paulo has something for every age and interest.
> At Shopping Malls
- Parque da Mônica: Located within the Shopping SP Market, Parque da Mônica is an indoor amusement park themed around the beloved characters of Mauricio de Sousa’s comics. Spanning over 12,000 square meters, the park features more than 20 attractions suitable for children of various ages. The park also offers opportunities to meet the characters, providing memorable experiences for the whole family.
- T-Rex Park: Located in the northern zone of São Paulo, T-Rex Park is a dinosaur-themed amusement park that offers a variety of attractions for children and families.
The park is located in the parking lot of Shopping D and operates daily with varying hours. Entry is free, but attractions require the purchase of tickets, typically costing around R$6 each. Some rides may have height restrictions for safety.
- Hello Park: A multimedia park with attractions that transform according to the visitors’ imagination, with interactive games and colorful projections.
- Kids Play Zones: It offers a variety of attractions suitable for all ages, including classic rides like carousels and bumper cars, as well as modern simulators and electronic games. Visitors can enjoy the fun by purchasing a rechargeable card, which grants access to the attractions. The park also features areas for birthday parties and events, providing a complete entertainment experience in a comfortable, climate-controlled environment.
> Museums
- Museu do Futebol (Futebol Museum): Explore the history of soccer in a unique museum dedicated to the sport. Situated in the historic Pacaembu Stadium, the Museu do Futebol offers an interactive journey through Brazil’s passion for soccer.
- Museu Catavento (Catavento Museum): A science and technology museum with interactive exhibits for all ages. The Catavento Cultural is an interactive science museum that turns learning into play. With hands-on exhibits covering biology, physics, space, and the environment, kids can explore how things work in a fun, engaging way. It’s especially great for school-age children with curious minds.
- Museu da Imaginação (Imagination Museum): Stimulate creativity with art rooms, sensory play, and music areas.
> Green Spaces:
São Paulo is a bustling city, but it also offers many green spaces where children can play, explore, and have fun safely. Here are some of the best parks for families with kids:
- Parque Ibirapuera (Ibirapuera Park): Often called São Paulo’s version of Central Park, Ibirapuera Park is perfect for a family picnic or bike ride. There’s plenty of green space, playgrounds, lakes with paddleboats, and even cultural institutions like the Museum of Modern Art (MAM) and the Planetarium, which often host activities for children.
- Parque Villa Lobos: Another beautiful park with a variety of activities. The event called Familia no Parque (Family in the Park) is one of the main attractions for children in São Paulo. The event takes place on weekends and holidays (in November, December, January and July it is extended), from 10 am to 6 pm. There are giant inflatables, zip lines, bungee trampolines, Jet Boats (inflatable boats powered by a jet of water), soap soccer, slides, among other options that are part of the event.
- Parque da Água Branca – A charming park with animals like chickens and ducks, a small aquarium, and a traditional farm atmosphere. It often hosts fairs and workshops for children and families.
- Parque do Povo – Located in a central area, this park has modern playgrounds, bike paths, and grassy areas ideal for games or relaxing under the sun.
- Burle Marx Park – A quieter park with nature trails and gardens where children can safely explore and learn about native plants and animals.
These parks combine nature, safety, and fun, making them ideal spots for families visiting São Paulo with kids.
*Tips for Visiting Parks in São Paulo with Kids:
.Be aware with the weather in Sao Paulo.
.Sunscreen and bug spray are essential, especially in more forested areas.
.Hydrate frequently.
.Wear light, breathable clothing.
.Weekdays tend to be quieter, while weekends are more lively and festive.
.Many parks offer bike, scooter, or paddleboat rentals — a fun way to keep the kids moving.
.Always carry water and snacks, as food options vary by location.
.Parks are generally safe during daylight, but stay aware of your surroundings, especially in larger urban parks.
> Animals
- São Paulo Aquarium – This isn’t just any aquarium — the Aquário de São Paulo features marine animals, penguins, and even a section with animatronic dinosaurs! It’s a unique blend of sea life and fantasy that keeps children entertained and amazed.
- São Paulo Zoo & Zoo Safari – The São Paulo Zoo is one of the largest in Latin America and home to over 3,000 animals. Kids will love seeing lions, giraffes, monkeys, and many native Brazilian species up close. Right next door, the Zoo Safari allows families to drive through an open area where animals like camels, zebras, and ostriches roam freely — a thrilling experience for young adventurers!
Beyond the City: Top Kid-Friendly Entertainment Options Near São Paulo
While São Paulo itself has plenty to offer families with kids, sometimes it’s great to take a break from the city’s fast pace and explore nearby destinations. Luckily, within just a couple of hours’ drive, there are some amazing places full of fun, nature, learning, and adventure for children of all ages.
Here are some of the best child-friendly attractions within 100 km of São Paulo — ideal for a day trip or a weekend escape with the family.
> Hopi Hari – Vinhedo (Approx. 72 km)
One of Latin America’s largest amusement parks, Hopi Hari is packed with themed attractions, roller coasters, and live shows.
Why kids love it:
- Multiple themed zones (including a mini city, jungle area, and spooky section)
- Rides for all ages — from gentle to thrilling
- Live shows, character parades, and seasonal events
Great for a full-day adventure — plan to arrive early and stay until closing!
> Wet’n Wild – Vinhedo (Approx. 72 km)
Right next to Hopi Hari is Wet’n Wild, a tropical-style water park with dozens of water attractions for both little ones and teens.
Kid highlights:
- Wave pools, lazy rivers, and splash zones
- Family-friendly slides and interactive water playgrounds
- Lounging areas for parents while kids enjoy the fun
Tip: Go on a warm day and bring extra towels and sunscreen!
> Zooparque Itatiba – Itatiba (Approx. 90 km)
Brazil’s largest private zoo, Zooparque Itatiba, is an immersive wildlife experience that teaches kids about conservation and biodiversity.
What to expect:
- Over 1,000 animals, including jaguars, giraffes, flamingos, and exotic birds
- Nature trails and a sensory garden
- A mini petting zoo for young children
Educational and fun — especially for animal lovers!
> Animália Park – Cotia (Approx. 35 km)
A newer eco-park focused on conservation and fun, Animália Park offers both animal exhibits and indoor amusement attractions.
Why it’s special:
- Massive aviary and animal enclosures
- Indoor rides and playgrounds at “Animália Diversão”
- Rustic village area with food, sweets, and souvenirs
Perfect for younger kids and families who want a mix of nature and comfort.
> Cidade das Abelhas – Embu das Artes (Approx. 35 km)
“Bee City” is a charming nature park with an environmental twist, perfect for a half-day outing.
Highlights:
- Educational exhibits about bees and pollination
- Playgrounds, mini zip lines, and nature trails
- Lush, forested setting with fresh air and bird songs
A great mix of learning and outdoor fun.
