Best Things to Do with Kids in Oaxaca
We had a few days exploring Oaxaca before heading to the coast.
Oaxaca is one of those rare places that works just as well for curious kids as it does for culture-loving adults. It’s colourful, walkable, packed with flavour, and full of hands-on experiences. If you’re travelling as a family, here are some of the best things to do with kids in and around Oaxaca.
1. Splash Around at Hierve el Agua
About 1.5 hours from the city, these petrified “waterfalls” and natural mineral pools are a huge hit with children. The shallow pools are perfect for a paddle, and the dramatic cliff views make it feel like a proper adventure. Go early to avoid the heat and crowds.
2. Explore the Ruins at Monte Albán
This ancient Zapotec city sits high above Oaxaca and gives kids space to roam (supervised, of course). The wide-open plazas are great for letting off steam, and it’s easy to turn it into a treasure hunt—spot the carvings, count the pyramids, and imagine life here 2,000 years ago.
3. Snack Your Way Through Mercado 20 de Noviembre
Markets in Oaxaca are a sensory overload in the best possible way. Let kids try fresh tortillas, quesillo (Oaxacan string cheese), sweet bread, or hot chocolate. The famous “pasillo de humo” (smoke corridor) is fun to walk through—just be ready for serious barbecue aromas.
4. Take a Family Cooking or Chocolate Workshop
Oaxaca is Mexico’s culinary capital, and many small cooking schools offer family-friendly classes. Kids love grinding cacao for traditional hot chocolate or pressing their own tortillas. It’s interactive, messy, and delicious.
5. Visit a Textile Village
A short trip to Teotitlán del Valle introduces children to natural dyes, spinning wool, and traditional weaving. Watching yarn turn red from cochineal insects or blue from indigo feels like real-life magic—and it’s a gentle way to learn about local culture.
6. Relax in the Zócalo
Oaxaca’s central square really comes alive in the evenings. Street performers, food vendors, live music, and families strolling make it an easy, low-effort outing. Grab a churro or ice cream and let the kids run safely in the open space while you soak up the atmosphere.
Why Oaxaca works so well with kids?
It’s compact, friendly, colourful, andcomplete with learning experiences. Whether you’re climbing ancient ruins, swimming in mineral pools, or tasting chocolate straight from the grinder, Oaxaca keeps children curious, and parents happy too.
