Craft and Art Market

About

The Mercado de Artesanías de Miraflores in Parque Kennedy offers families a vibrant introduction to Peruvian culture through colorful handicrafts, textiles, and traditional art. Kids will be mesmerized by the skilled artisans demonstrating their crafts, the kaleidoscope of woven alpaca goods, and the lively atmosphere of this beloved Lima gathering spot. It's an excellent opportunity for children to learn about Peruvian traditions while picking out unique souvenirs they've helped choose themselves.

What to Expect

Families will find dozens of vendor stalls arranged around the tree-lined Parque Kennedy, selling everything from hand-knit alpaca sweaters and colorful textiles to carved gourds, jewelry, and traditional musical instruments. The market has a relaxed, open-air atmosphere where kids can safely wander (under supervision) while browsing. Street performers, local cats that famously inhabit the park, and occasional musicians add entertainment value beyond shopping. Vendors are generally friendly and accustomed to tourists, with many speaking basic English and welcoming bargaining as part of the cultural experience.

Highlights for Kids

• Petting and photographing the famous Parque Kennedy cats that roam freely throughout the market area
• Trying on traditional Peruvian hats, ponchos, and colorful woven items from the stalls
• Watching artisans demonstrate weaving, jewelry-making, and other traditional crafts at their booths
• Selecting their own alpaca stuffed animals or colorful friendship bracelets as special souvenirs
• Hearing Andean musicians play traditional instruments like pan flutes and charangos

Pro Tips for Families

1. Bring small US dollar bills for easier transactions—many vendors accept dollars alongside soles, and having singles makes bargaining and purchasing simpler with less confusion over exchange rates
2. Let older kids practice gentle bargaining as a cultural learning experience; starting at 60-70% of the asking price is typical, and vendors expect negotiation
3. Visit the park's famous resident cats between shopping—kids love spotting and photographing the community felines that lounge throughout the park
4. Download a photo translation app to help kids understand vendor signs and practice Spanish words for colors, animals, and items they see

Best Time to Visit

Saturday or Sunday mornings between 10am-12pm offer the best experience with full vendor participation, pleasant weather, and manageable crowds. Avoid late afternoons when Lima's coastal fog (garúa) often rolls in, making it cooler and damper. Weekday visits (Thursday-Friday) are less crowded if your family prefers a calmer shopping experience, though some vendors may have reduced selections.

Food & Drinks

While the market itself focuses on crafts, Parque Kennedy is surrounded by numerous cafes, restaurants, and ice cream shops perfect for family meals. Nearby options include international chains and local eateries serving kid-friendly options like pollo a la brasa (rotisserie chicken), french fries, and fresh fruit juices. Street food vendors sometimes operate around the park perimeter selling snacks like picarones (sweet potato doughnuts) and anticuchos. The Larcomar shopping center is a 10-minute walk away with extensive food court options and ocean views.

Parking & Access

Parque Kennedy is located in the heart of Miraflores' tourist district and easily accessible by taxi or Uber from most Lima hotels (affordable and recommended over driving). If staying in Miraflores, the market is walkable from most hotels. Limited street parking exists around the park but is challenging; paid parking lots are available on nearby streets like Avenida Larco. The park itself is stroller-friendly with paved walkways, though navigating between densely packed vendor stalls may require folding the stroller at times. The area is considered one of Lima's safest neighborhoods for tourists.