Riyadh is a city where the past and present come together beautifully, making it a great spot for families. Whether you're exploring ancient history or enjoying modern attractions, there's something here to spark curiosity and create lasting memories. In addition to excellent recreational opportunities, this vibrant city provides a range of attractions, highlighting its cultural legacy.

From Riyadh Zoo, home to a large number of animals and family-friendly activities, to The Kingdom Tower’s Sky Bridge providing panoramic views of the city and also other entertainment options including shopping, dining, and more, Riyadh has a lot to offer families for a perfect day out.

So, here we’ve enlisted the best things to do in Riyadh with family so that you don’t have to do that tiring research drill. Let’s dive in!

Opened in the late 1980s, Riyadh National Zoo is a renowned family attraction locally referred to as Malaz Zoo. The zoo features over 1500 animals and 80 bird species from various geographic origins. These creatures roam freely in their man-made habitats, and the administration has made every effort to protect the natural wildlife environment.

The main attraction of the zoo is its train ride. The kids can tour the zoo and take a 20-minute train ride on one of the two miniature kids' trains. Panthers, lions, tigers, gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, crocodiles, zebras, giraffes, flamingos, and many other creatures may be seen throughout the zoo. The renowned Bengal tigers, which are indigenous to the Indian subcontinent, are also at the zoo, and apart from that, you will also witness African houbara, a bird that is virtually extinct in Saudi Arabia.

You can also enjoy a scoop of ice cream or a strong cup of coffee from one of the many cafés and restaurants in the area. Facilities like prayer spaces and guest restrooms are available for convenience.

This destination also offers a fantastic educational experience for children, where they can learn about animals and observe them in their natural habitats. Before the zoo closes, don’t miss the harbor seal demonstration—two seals skillfully retrieve food from their trainer, showcasing their abilities in an engaging and memorable display.

Combine a viewing deck experience with a dose of adrenaline by taking your family to the Sky Bridge, a must-see site that provides panoramic views over Riyadh. Set atop the 300-meter-tall Kingdom Center, Sky Bridge is a 65-meter-long walkway that allows you to walk over the top of the tower. To get to the top, you'll ride two elevators, the first of which takes fifty seconds to reach a height of 180 meters, and the second one carries you to the remaining area.

The Kingdom Center itself covers a total area of 100,000 square meters and offers a ton of dining, entertainment, and retail options. It is home to The Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh and the Al-Mamlaka shopping center, featuring some of the world's most exclusive shopping brands like Chanel, Gucci, Versace, Louis Vuitton, and more. On the 77th floor lies The King Abdullah Mosque, renowned for being the tallest mosque in the world.

Hunger strikes? No worries! Just get to the basement and you will find a food court with a variety of local and foreign options, such as KFC, Burger King, Popeyes, McDonald's, and Baskin-Robbins.

If you and your family are looking for the best fun things to do in Riyadh and want to have an active day out, Bounce is a perfect place. As soon as you walk into Bounce, you'll be met by a massive network of interlinked trampolines that reach as far as the eye can see. Moreover, Bounce is more than just bouncing up and down; it's a full world of fun waiting to be discovered. Play interactive games like dodgeball and slam dunk, and if you're feeling adventurous, try The Wall, which is essentially a trampoline-based skate park.

Additionally, if you want to get as airborne as possible, go to the Big Bag and jump as high as you want, knowing that you will land safely. Furthermore, Bounce also offers cushioned climbing walls that will challenge your strength and agility, as well as launch pads that will send you skyward and provide you with an additional rush of adrenaline. A daredevil? Bounce's adrenaline-pumping experiences have you covered. Swing, climb, and jump your way through a series of challenges that will test even the most daring adventurers.

And who could ever forget the National Museum when listing the best places to go in Riyadh with family? Opened in 1999 in Riyadh's al-Murabba area, this museum is a part of the King Abdul-Aziz Historical Centre. Its structure, created by architect Raymond Moriyama, highlights Mecca and mimics the shape of sand dunes.

It is well-known for its beautiful construction and eight "Exhibition Halls," each of which has a different topic related to the history of the area. These include the Prophet's Mission, Saudi heritage, and Islamic culture in Arabia. You can stroll through the exhibitions with their well-lit, educational, and interactive displays by following the yellow-dotted trail through the museum hallway. Additionally, the National Museum provides children with an excellent learning atmosphere. Children can actively learn Islamic history, Arabian mythology, and ancient life through interactive exhibitions, 3D models, and storytelling zones.

There is more to a trip to the National Museum than just the exhibits. The neighboring King Abdul-Aziz Historical Centre houses covered gardens, walking trails, and fountains perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Originally known as Al-Malaz Square, King Abdullah Park is a 31.8-hectare municipal park located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The park's landscape is breathtaking, with well-manicured gardens, colorful flower beds, and tall palm trees. As you walk through the park's twisting pathways, you'll be impressed by the pleasant aroma of blooming flowers and the relaxing sound of shooting fountains. The park's lovely lake, where guests may rent paddleboats and have a leisurely ride while admiring the tranquil surroundings, is one of its features. This park features various playgrounds with the newest play equipment for families, guaranteeing hours of laughing and enjoyment. Families can get together for a delectable alfresco meal in the designated picnic spaces.

King Abdullah Park also serves as a center for cultural and leisure activities. The park hosts a number of events, performances, and exhibits all year long, highlighting Saudi Arabia's rich cultural legacy and artistic abilities.