Parque Kennedy
About
Parque Kennedy is the vibrant heart of Miraflores, offering families a perfect blend of green space, playgrounds, and local culture in one of Lima's safest neighborhoods. Kids can run free in the open spaces, play on equipment, and watch local artists and street performers, while parents enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and easy access to surrounding cafes and shops. The park's famous resident cats and weekend artisan markets add extra charm to this must-visit Lima family destination.
Highlights
- ✓Multiple playgrounds with slides, swings, and climbing equipment
- ✓The famous Parque Kennedy cats, beloved by children and a unique Lima experience
- ✓Weekend artisan markets with live music and local crafts
- ✓Street performers, balloon artists, and local entertainment
- ✓Central location surrounded by family-friendly restaurants and ice cream shops
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on weekends to catch the outdoor artisan market (Mercado Indio) where kids can watch local craftspeople and you can pick up souvenirs.
- 2.The park cats are a highlight for kids, but remind children to observe gently and wash hands afterward, as these are semi-wild community cats.
- 3.Bring small Peruvian soles (coins) for the street performers and balloon vendors, but be prepared to politely decline multiple sales approaches.
- 4.The park is surrounded by excellent heladerias (ice cream shops). Pinkberry and local options line the nearby streets for a post-play treat.
- 5.Use the park as your base for exploring Miraflores on foot. Free public WiFi is available, making it easy to plan your next move or contact your Uber.
Best Time to Visit
Late afternoons between 4pm and 7pm are ideal when local families gather and the harsh midday sun has softened. Weekends offer more activities and entertainment, but weekday mornings (9am-11am) provide a quieter experience with plenty of shade.
What to Know
The park is completely free and located in the tourist-friendly Miraflores district with excellent safety. Bathrooms are limited, so use facilities at surrounding cafes (usually requiring a small purchase). English is commonly spoken in the surrounding businesses.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round. Lima has mild weather throughout the year, though May through November can be overcast and cooler (bring light layers). December through April offers the best sunny weather. Special events and festivals occur throughout the year, particularly around Peruvian holidays.
Nearby Eats
La Lucha Sangucheria (one block away) serves excellent Peruvian sandwiches and fresh juices that kids love. For a sit-down meal, Pardo's Chicken is a local chain with familiar rotisserie chicken and fries that appeal to picky eaters, located just steps from the park.
More Activities Near Lima
Parque Salazar
Parque Salazar is a breezy clifftop park in the trendy Miraflores district offering breathtaking Pacific Ocean views that will captivate the whole family. With playgrounds for active kids, wide walking paths perfect for strollers, and direct access to Lima's dramatic coastal scenery, it's an ideal spot for families to experience Peru's beautiful coastline without spending a sol.
Love Park
Love Park (Parque del Amor) in Lima's trendy Barranco district offers families stunning Pacific Ocean views from dramatic cliffs, along with playgrounds, wide walking paths perfect for strollers, and colorful mosaic sculptures that captivate children. This iconic park combines natural beauty with kid-friendly amenities, making it an excellent spot for families to experience Lima's coastal charm while letting little ones burn energy.
Park of the Exposition
Park of the Exposition is Lima's historic urban oasis where families can explore lush gardens, beautiful fountains, and fascinating museums all in one location. This free attraction offers plenty of open spaces for kids to run and play while parents enjoy the cultural architecture and peaceful atmosphere in the heart of Peru's capital.
Biblioteca Pública Miraflores
Biblioteca Pública Miraflores offers a welcoming cultural experience for families visiting Lima, with dedicated children's sections featuring Spanish and bilingual books, plus engaging reading activities and educational programs. This beautiful public library in the heart of Miraflores provides a calm, air-conditioned respite from sightseeing while introducing kids to Peruvian literature and learning culture.