Top Family Vacation Spots in Santiago, Región Metropolitana, Chile
1. Parque Arauco
A massive shopping center offering a wide variety of stores, cinema, and food court. Perfect for a day of shopping and entertainment.
- Variety: Offers over 300 stores, ensuring there's something for everyone.
- Entertainment: Includes a cinema complex showing the latest movies.
- Family-friendly: Features a dedicated children's play area within the shopping center.
2. Cerro San Cristobal
A large hill offering panoramic views of Santiago and its surroundings. The hill is home to a variety of attractions including a chapel and an enormous statue of the Virgin Mary.
- Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking views of Santiago, making it perfect for photography.
- Historical Landmarks: Includes the Chapel of the Holy Heart, a beautiful chapel built in 1904.
- Recreational Activities: Features a funicular railway and walking trails for exploring the hill.
3. Costanera Center
A modern skyscraper housing shopping, dining, entertainment, and an observation deck. The tallest building in South America.
- Height Experience: Boasts the highest viewing platform in South America at its Sky Costanera observation deck.
- Shopping and Dining: Offers a wide variety of stores, restaurants, and cafes.
- Architectural Wonder: An iconic architectural landmark in Santiago.
4. Zoological Garden of Santiago
A spacious zoo housing a variety of animals, including giants pandas. Perfect for educating children about wildlife.
- Animal Variety: Houses over 150 species of animals, including the rare giant pandas.
- Educational: Offers educational programs and workshops about conservation and animal welfare.
- Spacious Enclosures: Provides large, spacious enclosures for the animals to roam in.
5. La Chimba Park
A popular park known for its picnic areas and barbecue facilities. Perfect for a family day out enjoying nature and food.
- Picnic Areas: Features numerous designated picnic spots throughout the park.
- Barbecue Facilities: Offers barbecue grills for preparing meals outdoors.
- Nature Trails: Features walking trails for exploring the surrounding landscape.
6. Festival de la Uva
A grape and wine festival celebrating Chilean viticulture. Offers tastings, music, and traditional food.
- Cultural Experience: Provides insights into Chile's rich winemaking history.
- Tastings: Offers tastings of various wines, including some rare and exclusive varieties.
- Entertainment: Features live music performances and traditional dances.
7. Museum of Memory and Human Rights
A museum dedicated to the human rights violations under the Pinochet regime. Offers a powerful educational experience.
- Historical Insight: Provides insights into Chile's recent history and the struggle for democracy.
- Educational Programs: Offers workshops, lectures, and guided tours about human rights issues.
- Artifacts and Exhibits: Displays a collection of artifacts, photographs, and testimonials from victims and survivors.
8. Parque O'Higgins
A large urban park offering sports facilities, picnic areas, and a children's playground.
- Sports Facilities: Features tennis courts, basketball courts, and a skate park.
- Picnic Areas: Offers numerous designated picnic spots throughout the park.
- Children's Playground: Features a large, well-equipped play area for children.
9. Cerro Santa Lucia
A hill offering panoramic views of downtown Santiago and various historical sites. Perfect for a relaxed walk or picnic.
- Historical Sites: Includes the Museum of Santa Lucia, offering insights into Chilean history.
- Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking views of Santiago's skyline.
- Relaxed Environment: Features tranquil walking paths and picnic areas.
10. CasaColor
An interactive art museum offering various exhibits, workshops, and activities for families.
- Artistic Experience: Offers a unique, hands-on experience with contemporary art.
- Workshops and Activities: Provides workshops and activities for children to engage with the art.
- Exhibit Variety: Features a rotating selection of exhibits by Chilean and international artists.
11. Las Salinas de Tocopilla
A coastal town known for its salt flats and scenic beauty. Perfect for a day trip exploring nature.
- Natural Wonders: Features stunning salt flat landscapes and crystal-clear waters.
- Relaxing Environment: Offers a peaceful, serene atmosphere for enjoying nature.
- Photography Opportunities: Provides numerous opportunities for capturing stunning landscape photos.
12. Valparaíso
A coastal city known for its vibrant culture, colorful houses, and steep funiculars. Perfect for exploring the unique architecture and atmosphere.
- Architectural Wonder: Features a unique blend of historical and contemporary architecture.
- Vibrant Culture: Offers a lively, artistic atmosphere with street art, music, and food.
- Steep Funiculars: Features several funiculars for navigating the hilly terrain.
13. Valle Nevado
A ski resort located in the Andes Mountains. Perfect for winter sports enthusiasts.
- Winter Sports: Offers skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
- Scenic Beauty: Features breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains.
- Ski Lessons: Provides ski and snowboard lessons for all levels.
14. Isla de Maipo
An island offering a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and horseback riding.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers numerous opportunities for hiking, camping, and horseback riding.
- Scenic Beauty: Features stunning landscapes and clear, tranquil waters.
- Nature Reserve: Is a protected nature reserve, ensuring the preservation of its unique ecosystems.
15. Parque Metropolitano de Santiago
A large urban park offering hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the city.
- Hiking Trails: Features numerous hiking trails for all skill levels.
- Picnic Areas: Offers designated picnic spots throughout the park.
- Stunning Views: Provides panoramic views of Santiago's skyline.