Las Palmas Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Las Palmas
This weekend itinerary for families in Las Palmas balances exciting paid attractions with free outdoor fun, focusing on the magical atmosphere leading up to Three Kings' Day. It ensures a mix of educational experiences, active play, and cultural immersion, all while keeping budget-consciousness in mind. Look out for special holiday decorations and treats throughout the city!
Friday Evening - Holiday Magic & Playground Fun
Friday, January 2Meet Three Kings
Visit the Three Wise Men (Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthazar) at the Las Arenas Shopping Centre, where children can personally hand over their wish lists and experience this magical holiday tradition firsthand.
This is a special pre-Three Kings' Day event.
Perfect for children aged 3-12 who are excited about the upcoming Three Kings' Day. The shopping center offers accessible facilities including restrooms and stroller access. Kids will love the chance to interact directly with the Kings. Expect festive decorations and a joyful atmosphere. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Parking available at the shopping center. Easily accessible by local bus lines serving the Las Canteras area. The center is stroller-friendly.
Parque San Telmo Play
Enjoy some free playtime at the spacious children's playground in Parque San Telmo, a beautiful urban park known for its tranquil atmosphere.
The park also features a charming café if parents wish to relax.
This park is ideal for energetic kids aged 3-12 to run and play after the earlier activity. There are well-maintained playgrounds, plenty of benches, and shaded areas. Restrooms are available. The café offers light refreshments. Duration: 1-1.5 hours, allowing for an early bedtime.
Located next to the San Telmo Bus Station, making it highly accessible by public transport. Street parking may be available nearby, but a public parking garage is also an option. Stroller-friendly paths throughout the park.
Saturday - Underwater Wonders & Beach Fun
Saturday, January 3Aquarium Discovery
Dive into the fascinating underwater world at Poema del Mar Aquarium, one of Spain's best.
Explore diverse ecosystems, marvel at colorful fish, majestic sharks, and even freshwater crocodiles in this state-of-the-art facility.
A must-see for animal-loving kids (3-12 years old), offering captivating visual experiences. The aquarium is fully accessible with restrooms and stroller access. Plan for 2-3 hours to fully enjoy all exhibits, including the impressive Deep Sea zone with the world's largest curved window.
Located near the port, with public parking available. Several bus lines connect to the area. Consider a taxi for convenience with young children and strollers.
Beachfront Lunch
Enjoy a relaxed, budget-friendly lunch along the promenade of Playa de Las Canteras, one of Spain's best urban family beaches.
You can find numerous eateries offering local and international cuisine.
Many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus and high chairs. The promenade is perfect for a post-lunch stroll. Choose a spot with outdoor seating to enjoy the sea breeze. Restrooms are usually available at nearby public facilities or restaurants. Ideal for all ages. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Easily accessible by public transport or a short walk from the aquarium area. Several parking lots are available along the beach, but can be busy. The promenade is flat and stroller-friendly.
Beach Play & Snorkel
Spend the afternoon enjoying the golden sands and calm waters of Playa de Las Canteras.
Kids can build sandcastles, splash in the gentle waves, and explore the natural reef ('La Barra') for small marine life during low tide.
This beach is perfect for children aged 3-12 due to its protected, shallow waters. Lifeguard services are typically available. Bring beach toys, sunscreen, and maybe some simple snorkeling gear for older kids. Public restrooms and showers are available along the beach. Duration: 2-3 hours.
Directly accessible from the promenade. Parking can be found in nearby underground garages. Public buses run frequently along the coast. Stroller and wheelchair accessible paths are present.
Kings' Letter Drop
Return to the Las Arenas Shopping Centre for another opportunity to engage with the Three Wise Men.
This evening slot allows for any children who missed them earlier, or simply a chance to enjoy the festive atmosphere again before they finish for the day.
A final chance for kids to hand in their letters. The center will be lively with holiday cheer. Great for a quick, relaxed activity before heading home for dinner. Duration: 1 hour.
Same as earlier, parking available at the shopping center or public transport options.
Sunday - Science, Culture & Park Exploration
Sunday, January 4Science Museum Fun
Explore the interactive exhibits at the Elder Museum of Science and Technology.
With its motto 'Forbidden not touching,' this museum offers hands-on learning experiences across various scientific and technological themes, including a planetarium.
This museum is highly engaging for curious kids aged 3-12, allowing them to learn through play. Expect interactive displays, workshops, and a children's room. Planetarium shows are about 10 minutes and run every half hour. Some English translations are available. Allow 2-3 hours for a comprehensive visit. Restrooms are available.
Located near Parque Santa Catalina. Parking is available in underground garages nearby (e.g., Luis Morote street parking at approx. €1.30/hour). Well-served by urban bus lines (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 12, 20, 21, 30, 32, 42, 43 to Santa Catalina Park bus station).
Cultural Park Stroll
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon stroll and a picnic lunch at Parque Doramas, a beautiful park that also features the 'Pueblo Canario' (Canarian Village), a replica of traditional island architecture.
This park offers green spaces for kids to play and explore, and the Pueblo Canario provides a glimpse into local culture. Look for open-air theatre performances or puppet shows, which sometimes occur here. Bring a packed lunch or snacks for a budget-friendly picnic. Restrooms are usually available. Suitable for all ages. Duration: 2 hours.
Accessible by various bus lines. Limited street parking may be available, but public transport is recommended. The park has accessible paths for strollers.
Vegueta Charm
Conclude your weekend with a leisurely walk through the historic Vegueta district, the oldest part of Las Palmas. Admire the colonial architecture, cobbled streets, and perhaps grab an early, light dinner or a treat before heading home.
This is a relaxed activity, perfect for winding down the weekend. Older children might appreciate the historical buildings and narrow streets. While the main market is closed on Sundays, the charming atmosphere is still present. Many cafes and restaurants offer early dinner options. Public restrooms are available in the area. Duration: 1.5-2 hours.
Vegueta is best explored on foot. Public parking garages are available nearby (e.g., Parking Mercado de Vegueta). Many bus lines connect to Vegueta.
This weekend itinerary for Las Palmas can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.