Things to Do in Antigua With Kids: 7 Best Playgrounds to Visit
Exploring Antigua, Guatemala with kids is a beautiful blend of history, culture, and everyday adventure. But as any parent knows, even the most magical colonial architecture and scenic volcano views can only hold a child’s attention for so long.
That’s where finding the right places to play becomes essential. After living, traveling, and parenting abroad across multiple continents, we’ve learned to seek out family-friendly spaces wherever we go, and Antigua is no exception.
If you’re wondering where to find the best playgrounds and things to do in Antigua with kids, this guide offers parent-tested favorites where your kids can run, climb, and connect with the local rhythm of daily life.
When we lived in Antigua, these 7 spaces were my two young children’s favorite places to run, play and connect with other kids.
From mountaintop swings with sweeping views to hidden play areas tucked behind organic farms and even a surprisingly charming McDonald’s courtyard, these are the places that gave our children space to play and our family a chance to slow down.
Whether you’re visiting for a few days or staying a little longer, these spots offer space for play, relaxation, and fun. We hope you’ll find a playground you and your kids love!
Playground at Cerro De La Cruz
One of the most memorable spots is Cerro de la Cruz, a viewpoint that requires a bit of a hike uphill, but rewards you with sweeping views of the entire city.
It is a short climb, maybe fifteen or twenty minutes depending on your pace with kids.
At the top, beyond the iconic cross and the view of Volcán Agua, you will find a small, but welcome playground. It is not fancy, but it is somewhat shaded, peaceful, and the perfect spot to catch your breath while the kids play. We like to bring snacks and sit for a while before heading back down.
Caoba Farms Playground
Another family favorite is Caoba Farms, a lush, organic farm just a short drive from the center of town. After wandering the gardens or ordering fresh smoothies from the café, kids can explore a fun play area toward the back of the property.
There is room to run, a trampoline, a tire climbing structure and a great play house stocked with many types of toys your young child will love.
On weekends there is often live music or a local market. It is a space where your children can connect with nature, while grown ups can relax or order some incredible food.
For more details about Caoba Farms and 4 other restaurants with great food and play spaces, check out our kid friendly Antigua restaurant guide.
Eco Farms GT Playground & Climbing Wall
Just a bit farther outside of Antigua is Eco Farms GT, which has a playground and lots of green space for free play. This space is especially fun during one of their community events, like artisan fairs or open farm days, though even on a quiet afternoon it is a peaceful place to visit.
There’s also a delicious small cafe, baby animals, and a soccer field. Honestly, my kids like to go just to look at the baby chickens and turtles.
Jocotenango Playground & Ruins
In the nearby town of Jocotenango, you will find a playground close to some old ruins at the Plazuela de Jocotenango. There is something really beautiful about your child swinging next to ruins and playing with kids from the neighborhood.
If you are looking for a chance to step outside of the tourist bubble and experience more of daily life, this is a great option. For exploring ruins with kids, these are our favorite ruins to visit in Antigua.
Teleres Playground
If you need to combine errands with kid time, the playground in Teleres Mall is incredibly convenient. It is right next to La Torre grocery store and a Starbucks, and while that might not sound magical, the combination of a safe play space and nearby coffee makes it an easy and worthwhile stop.
It has seating for parents, 3 in ground trampolines, and play spaces for toddlers and bigger kids. If your family is in need of a breather after running around town, this is a great choice.
The only downside, in my opinion, is that there is very little shade at this playground so bring hats & sunscreen if it’s a sunny day. There are also ice cream shops nearby in case you need an ice cream break!
La Finca Azotea Playground & Restaurant
If you’re looking for a playground experience that feels like a full-day family outing, La Finca La Azotea is a wonderful option just a short tuk-tuk or uber ride from central Antigua.
This peaceful finca (farm) offers more than just a place to play, it’s a spacious, green escape where kids can explore and parents can truly relax.
The main playground sits just beside a family-friendly restaurant, so you can sip coffee or enjoy a meal while your children climb, swing, and run within view. My 6 year old loves the zip line!
What makes La Azotea especially appealing for families is the variety of kid-friendly activities all in one place. In addition to the playground, there’s a mini golf course, wide open fields for running, horseback riding, and even a small museum and coffee tour if you’re feeling adventurous.
There is a small entrance fee to access the grounds (30 quetzales for adults and 10 quetzales for children) and we found it more than worth it for the calm, clean space and all it offers.
It is rarely crowded, and the pace feels slower and more relaxed than some of the more central spots in Antigua. For families looking for a weekend outing or a chance to spend a few hours outdoors without navigating crowded streets, La Finca Azotea is a perfect addition to your Antigua itinerary.
Mcdonald’s Playspace
Now, before you roll your eyes at this next one, hear me out. The McDonald’s in Antigua is genuinely lovely. Yes, it is a McDonald’s, but it is housed in a stunning colonial courtyard with fountains, gardens, and a direct view of Volcán Agua.
There is a small indoor play area that is great on rainy days, and outside there is a M-shaped seesaw and plenty of open space to wander.
Sometimes, especially when you are traveling with kids, you just need a clean bathroom, something familiar to eat, and a safe place for the kids to reset. This McDonald’s delivers all that and more.
Honorable Mention: Hobbitenango
While it’s not technically just a playground, Hobbitenango deserves an honorable mention for families looking to pair a playground with a half-day adventure.
Located high in the hills above the city, this whimsical eco-park is themed around hobbit-style houses and offers sweeping views, forest paths, and plenty of room to roam.
There’s a small playground, along with a giant swing, lookout points, and even a few carnival style games and activities for older kids. The fresh mountain air and imaginative setting make it a fun outing if your family is up for a little adventure. If you want all the details of how to visit Hobbitenango with kids, check out our guide.
Playgrounds & Things To Do In Antigua With Kids Conclusion
Antigua may not be filled with large playgrounds on every corner, but with a little curiosity, families can find so many beautiful places to play.
From mountaintop swings and farm-style jungle gyms to peaceful parks and unexpected gems tucked behind cafés and restaurants, these play spaces offer more than just a break for little legs.
They invite your family to slow down, explore the local rhythm of life, and build moments of connection that go beyond sightseeing.
As you plan your time in Antigua, you might also want to check out our guide to where to stay in Antigua with kids. We’ve also pulled together important travel tips for visiting Guatemala with children, including advice on transportation, food safety, and crime.
Sometimes, the best memories aren’t made at the big tourist sites, but at the playgrounds where your child makes a new friend despite a language barrier, climbs a little higher than before, or simply feels free to play in a new place.
