


Saint Barbara of Usaquén Church
About
This beautiful 17th-century colonial church anchors the charming Usaquén neighborhood, offering families a peaceful cultural experience combined with vibrant plaza atmosphere. Kids enjoy exploring the historic architecture while parents appreciate the surrounding artisan markets, street performers, and family-friendly cafes that make this a perfect stop for experiencing authentic Colombian culture.
Highlights
- ✓Beautiful colonial architecture dating back to the 1600s with whitewashed walls and traditional design
- ✓Lively plaza atmosphere with street performers, artisans, and local vendors
- ✓Peaceful interior providing a quiet moment during busy sightseeing days
- ✓Surrounded by charming cobblestone streets perfect for family photo opportunities
- ✓Opportunity to experience authentic Colombian religious traditions and culture
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on weekday mornings when the church is quieter and kids can explore without large tour groups
- 2.The plaza comes alive on Sundays with a famous flea market (though the church is closed), perfect for families to browse handicrafts and local treats
- 3.Bring small Colombian pesos for street vendors selling traditional snacks like arepas and obleas
- 4.Dress respectfully for church visits (shoulders and knees covered) and keep voices low inside the worship space
- 5.The neighborhood is very walkable, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring the cobblestone streets around the plaza
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings between 9:00 and 11:00 AM offer the calmest church experience with good lighting for photos. Sunday mornings feature the famous Usaquén flea market (though church is closed), making it ideal for families wanting the full neighborhood experience with crafts, food, and entertainment.
What to Know
Entry to the church is free. The area is pedestrian-friendly with limited parking, so consider taking a taxi or Uber from your hotel. Many street vendors accept only cash, so bring small bills in Colombian pesos.
Seasonal Notes
Bogota has mild weather year-round due to its high altitude. The dry season (December to March and July to August) offers the most comfortable walking weather. Special religious celebrations and processions occur during Holy Week and Christmas, providing unique cultural experiences but also larger crowds.
Nearby Eats
The Usaquén neighborhood is filled with family-friendly restaurants. Try Crepes & Waffles (a beloved Colombian chain with extensive kids menus) just blocks away, or explore the many casual cafes around the plaza offering traditional Colombian dishes like bandeja paisa in child-friendly portions.
More Activities Near Usaquén
Usaquen Marquet Square
This charming Sunday artisan market in historic Usaquén offers families a delightful cultural experience where kids can explore colorful handicraft stalls, sample Colombian treats, and soak up the lively street atmosphere. The pedestrian-friendly square provides a safe environment for children to wander while parents browse authentic local crafts, from handwoven textiles to traditional pottery.
Dulce Vita Ice Cream and Usaquén Cafes
Usaquén's charming cobblestone streets are dotted with delightful ice cream shops and cozy cafes perfect for families exploring this historic Bogotá neighborhood. After browsing the Sunday flea market or visiting nearby parks, treat your kids to local ice cream flavors like lulo, guanabana, or classic Colombian arequipe (dulce de leche). The relaxed outdoor seating and pedestrian-friendly plazas make it easy to enjoy treats while soaking in the colonial atmosphere.
Bogotá Museum - Casa Sámano
Casa Sámano offers families a captivating journey through colonial history in a beautifully preserved 18th-century house in the charming Usaquén neighborhood. The family-friendly guided tours bring local history to life through engaging storytelling about architecture and cultural heritage, making it an educational yet entertaining experience for curious young minds. With its affordable price point and manageable size, this museum is perfect for introducing children to Colombian history without overwhelming them.
Usaquén Servitá Public Library
This welcoming community library in the charming Usaquén neighborhood offers a peaceful retreat where children can discover Spanish-language books, participate in educational programs, and enjoy dedicated spaces designed for young readers. With its excellent rating and completely free admission, it's an enriching cultural stop that introduces international families to Colombia's commitment to literacy and community learning.