Children’s Museum of Jordan
Khalda- Amman
Without a doubt, the best place to take your kids in Jordan.
How can I recommend places for kids and families in Amman without mentioning the Children’s Museum of Jordan? This spacious museum is inside the Al Hussein Public Park and is my favorite place to take children in the city. Every element is so well thought out and curated for children, and there are always fun and educational events and activities. This non-profit project runs year-round programs, camps, clubs, and events from Science & Arts Days to themed monthly festivals, many designed to build STEAM, literacy, and life skills. Whether your kids are into reading, art, science, or just playing, there truly is something for everyone.
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Security guards are vigilant and the employees are so helpful (especially with lost children). The place is built with children in mind, so it'
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Super clean- trash disposal places everywhere and food is contained to the cafeteria area. They even promote recycling. Some of the exhibits show slight wear and tear, but they are all in working condition.
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They do a great job of providing shade above most of the play areas.
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100% stroller-friendly and accessible. There are ramps everywhere and plenty of space to maneuver.
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Toddlers will love running around and exploring, even if they don’t quite understand the exhibits. There are also 2 specific toddler-friendly areas that are kept secured so no little ones can escape. There is even a mother’s room for nursing and changing diapers.
You would think after bringing my kids here regularly, they would get bored with the same old exhibits, but the museum does such a great job of providing a variety of activities that there is something new to do every time. You could spend all day at this museum and still not see everything it has to offer. Every time we come, we discover something new.
Specific exhibits include learning about the body, energy, music, light and lasers, history, news and radio, and nature in Jordan. There is a play supermarket, a play car mechanic, a play airplane, a library, a tinkering studio, an art studio, and 2 toddler areas. All exhibits, signs, and information are posted in both English and Arabic so everyone can understand. Your kids will also love exploring the outdoor areas, which have a small kids’ playground, climbing equipment for big kids, and lots of space to play and run. There are 2 gardens outside- one connected to the library, and a big green space in the back where they hold activities.
This museum is one of the only places I’ve been in Amman that has a quiet mothers’ room where you can nurse or change your baby’s diaper. Not only are the spaces kid-friendly, but the employees are always such a joy. There are plenty of them to help you with whatever you need and keep a helpful eye on the kids, and they do such a great job of interacting with the children.
As if I couldn’t say enough good things about the Children’s Museum, I have to mention how cost-effective it is. It’s 3 JD per ticket, which is a steal, and that gets you in all day. I highly recommend buying an annual membership (I pay 75 JD per year), which gets you free visits for your family and a certain number of guest passes. This museum is the best bang for your buck in Amman when it comes to kids’ activities.
Mamma tip: Make sure to get a picture of your little ones on the stairs of the airplane- the lighting is perfect and it makes for such a cute shot. Also, don’t forget to check the times for the climbing wall, located in the back next to the history exhibit- kids 6 and up will love climbing to the top.
Food
There is a cafeteria near the front entrance that sells a variety of small bites like pastries, salads, and sandwiches, along with ready-made meals at reasonable prices. There are also burgers and nuggets to order, but it does take a bit longer for the hot food to come out. Beware- chips and chocolate are at the kids’ eye level. You’re also welcome to bring your own food as long as you consume it in the cafeteria or outside. They are strict about not allowing food and drinks in the exhibit and play areas (including coffee!)
Bathrooms
Great bathrooms- clean with low sinks for kids to reach, wudu areas, and a changing table.
Parking
Plenty of space in a nice-sized parking lot.
Opening Hours: 9:00/10:00 a.m. - 5:00/6:00 (winter), 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. (summer) - Closed on Tuesdays. The first Saturday of every month is open day (will be super busy).
Check the website for updated schedule
Amenities:
Library
Playground
Nursing Room
Diaper Changing Station
Prayer rooms