It was my second week in Amman with my 2 kiddos (ages 2.5 and 5 years old) and I was on the hunt for anywhere I could drop them with our trusted nanny so I could get even just 1 hour to myself. For a few ideas, I resorted to writing on WhatsApp AI “what to do with children in Amman?” and I got a few answers, among them, The Children’s Museum in Dabouq’s large King Hussein Park (exact location). That seemed like the best option as it’s indoors, smoke-free, and educational with an outdoor area for if the weather would cool off.
Our first attempt to go was a total fail because it was a Tuesday and they just so happen to close every single Tuesday, so once Wednesday rolled around, we got in the car and headed there. First #win was there is plenty of parking so we didn’t have to roam around in circles like I have found is customary in Amman, even on a trip to the local grocery store, or pay someone to “valet” the car.
When we got inside it looked like exactly the place I had been hoping for in Jordan. Super clean, interactive (they boast over 185 activities), and not too crowded. I went to the ticket counter to pay the 3 JD per kid fee (check their current rates here) and was told “sorry, nannies aren’t allowed to bring the kids in without the parent or guardian”. After 15 minutes, we found the loophole – if I signed up for an annual family membership, then the nanny was allowed to take them in and I could get an hour to myself to run a few errands (i.e. get a manicure and pedicure at a local salon).
The annual membership costs 75 JD for the entire family, kids and 2 parents and nanny included. Since it seemed like the perfect place to go with kids, I was sure I’d get my money’s worth.
The activities inside were perfect for my kids, from fossil hunting to pretend play as an airplane pilot, there were tons of options to spark any child’s interest. They also have a library (you can’t check out the books though) and a lot of scheduled activities. Check out their Instagram for more details on their special programmes.
They don’t allow food inside, but there is a cafe on the premises. You can bring your own water bottles inside, but I didn’t find anywhere to refill them.
Stay tuned for more tips on what to do with kids in Amman to keep them active, interested, and healthy!
My Amman Life 