Vienna Family Fun: Kid-Friendly Highlights Unveiled!

chasingmemoriesco
Dec 6, 2023
4 min read

Vienna, the cultural heart of Austria, isn't just for adults seeking history and art; it's a fantastic destination for families too! If you're planning a trip with your little ones, this guide to the top things to do in Vienna with kids is a must-read.

Marionette Puppet Theater at Schönbrunn Palace

One our favorite experiences was at the Marionette Puppet Theater, Schloss Schönbrunn, which is located in the grandeur of Schönbrunn Palace. As marionettes danced to whimsical tunes, our kids were captivated by the magic unfolding before their eyes. While the experience is in German (which we don’t speak) we were still completely captivated.

Children's Museum at Schönbrunn Palace

While you’re up at Schönbrunn Palace make sure it includes a visit to the Children's Museum at the Palace. This interactive space is designed to engage young minds with hands-on exhibits, fostering creativity and learning through play. Even us grown-ups loved our experience there! The staff was interactive and made the experience that much greater.

House of Music

Don’t skip on a family adventure at the House of Music, an interactive and immersive experience that will delight both young and old. From the moment you walk in you’ll find interactive exhibits on classical greats, piano stairs (you read that right…we recommend you dance your way up the piano), to a chance to conduct your own virtual orchestra, the House of Music is a symphony of educational fun. One great perk if you’re night owls is that the House of Music is one of the few places open late. We took advantage of this and stayed until the doors closed, which gave us the entire place practically to ourselves! And checked something off our to do list when other attractions were closed.

Natural History Museum

Dive into the wonders of the natural world at the Natural History Museum. Home to awe-inspiring exhibits, including dinosaur skeletons and meteorites, this museum captivates young minds with its fascinating displays. Don't forget to explore the famous Venus of Willendorf sculpture!

Jewish Holocaust Memorial

A somber but crucial stop on your Vienna journey, the Jewish Holocaust Memorial serves as a poignant reminder of history's lessons. Approach the topic with sensitivity, using age-appropriate discussions to impart the importance of remembrance and tolerance. We loved reading more about the memorial and why the artist chose to design it the way that they did.

Prater Amusement Park: Whimsical Wonders for All Ages

Nestled in the heart of Vienna, Prater Amusement Park is a playground of whimsical wonders for the entire family. From classic carousels to thrilling roller coasters, the park offers a diverse range of attractions that will leave your kids wide-eyed with excitement. Don't miss the iconic Giant Ferris Wheel, providing stunning views of the cityscape. Prater is a testament to Vienna's ability to seamlessly blend tradition with modern entertainment, creating a magical experience for kids of all ages. Be warned this is a pay per ride place (entrance to the park is free) so budget ahead of time and have a plan.

Christmas Markets: A Winter Wonderland Delight

If your visit coincides with the winter season, Vienna's enchanting Christmas markets are a must-visit. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, with festive decorations, twinkling lights, and the aroma of seasonal treats filling the air. The Christmas markets offer a myriad of delights for kids, from carousel rides to handcrafted toys and, of course, the ever-popular gingerbread cookies. Let the kids soak in the festive spirit as they explore the market stalls, and perhaps even meet Santa Claus himself!

Culinary Delights: Wiener Schnitzel and Sachertorte Adventures

No visit to Vienna is complete without indulging in its culinary treasures. Treat your little ones to the quintessential Austrian dish, Wiener Schnitzel—a crispy, breaded and fried veal cutlet that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Follow it up with a sweet adventure featuring Sachertorte, a delectable chocolate cake with layers of apricot jam. Viennese cafes, with their elegant ambiance and tempting displays of pastries, provide the perfect setting for a delightful culinary experience for the whole family.

Zoo

No family trip is complete without a visit to the Vienna Zoo. Also conveniently located at Schönbrunn Palace, this is another stop to add to your day in that area of town. Home to a diverse array of animals, the zoo offers an exciting day of exploration. From giant pandas to polar bears, the kids will be thrilled by the chance to see their favorite animals up close.

Riding Public Transit

Teaching our children how to travel is a key component of our travel journey. Turning a typical Sunday into a unique adventure, we handed the reins of navigation to our kids, letting them lead the way through Vienna's public transit system. Vienna is a perfect place for them to practice because the transit system is so easy to navigate. Embracing the freedom to make mistakes, they honed their problem-solving skills with only a few prompts from mom. It’s fun to watch them gain the confidence of travel through shared experiences.

In conclusion, our Vienna family adventure was not just a series of sightseeing stops but a personal journey of growth and shared experiences. From puppetry enchantment to wildlife wonders, educational museums, and the empowerment of navigating public transit, every moment became an opportunity for connection and learning. Join us in reliving these cherished moments, and perhaps, let Vienna inspire your family's own personalized adventure. Wherever your travel adventures take you don’t forget to never stop chasing memories.