Delicious, Romantic, and Kid-Friendly: 10 Summer Recommendations for Jerusalem

'Magic in the Forest' at the Botanical Garden

Riddles, thinking challenges, magic shows, workshops, and escape boxes are just part of what awaits children in this magical activity in one of the most pastoral places in Jerusalem. Upon entering the complex, children receive a personal riddle card and set out on a journey along the garden paths. A kosher food complex with shaded seating areas operates on-site, alongside two cafes, 'Kaffit' and 'Mula Botani'.

Mishkenot Sha'ananim and the Armon HaNatziv Promenade

Amidst the noisy city bustle, a walk in the Mishkenot Sha'ananim neighborhood and sitting on one of the benches overlooking the walls of the Old City are an excellent opportunity to remember that Jerusalem was granted nine measures of beauty. It is recommended to bring some snacks and a map of the sites. A similar concept can be found on the Armon HaNatziv Promenade, from which Jerusalem is seen in all its glory.

Hezekiah's Tunnel, City of David National Park

A great attraction, especially for children, is walking in Hezekiah's Tunnel: more than 500 meters carved during the days of King Hezekiah. The tunnel's purpose was to transfer the waters of the Gihon Spring to the city. The walk in the historical tunnel, carved by two groups that met in the middle (at the meeting point—the exciting Siloam Inscription), is done in the dark, and in some parts, the water reaches a height of 80 cm. It is recommended to arrive in comfortable walking shoes that can get wet and with flashlights (not from the phone!).

'Meshek Ofaim' branch at Beit Hansen (14 Gedalyahu Alon St.)

In the complex of the historical leper hospital in Talbiya (Beit Hansen) now stand the farm shop and cafe of the Ofaim brothers, who brought their produce straight from the Arava, with an emphasis on sustainable agriculture and high-quality raw materials. Everything is tasty, everything is fresh, and during a visit there, you will learn a new word—'Burakasson'.

'Pizza Chakra' | 'Hatzot' (39 Hillel St., 121 Agrippas St.)

If you have reached the area of HaChatulot Square in the city center, jump to 'Pizza Chakra'. Although the place opens only from the afternoon, the food is worth it: regular and quite special pizzas (fermented turnip greens, anyone?) from dough that undergoes 48 hours of proofing, some starters that hit the spot, and of course excellent cocktails. If you are in the Mahane Yehuda market area, order your favorite pita at 'Hatzot' and ask for lots of fried onions. True Jerusalemites take the portion and move on.

'Ice Box' at the Pais Arena complex

To try to ease the heat, you can reach the huge ice skating rink (1,300 sqm) that stands in the parking lot of the eastern stand of Teddy Stadium. The complex received an innovative design this year and remains open every day until 22:00. In the complex itself, you can also find an attractive water park, which opened in the last few days, with inflatable water slides, pools, and wet adventure facilities.

'Auto-Ochel' (Food Truck) Festival, Armon HaNatziv Promenade

The food trucks of the best chefs (Israel Aharoni, Rachel Ben Alul, Moshik Rot, Guy Gamzu, and others) wait on the promenade and offer dishes at a price of up to 45 shekels. Alongside the culinary offer, live performances take place on-site. Even without the culinary tastings, it is a fun event with a family complex, plays, and activities that can burn a few good hours in the city.

National Library (1 Kaplan St.)

This architectural pearl is a must-see. To enter the reading halls, you will need to issue a reader card at no cost. The behind-the-scenes tours are fascinating, and the collections are amazing. Outside the library, there is a spacious garden; inside, a cafe and cafeteria with excellent food and a great atmosphere.

Wine Bar (28 Gaza St.)

'Cafe Amit' coffee cart, Mesilat Zion

The bonus recommendation is located near Jerusalem. It is a coffee cart with many seating places, charming corners, and a large grass field, which constitutes a unique memorial project through doing good, giving, and love. The goal is to commemorate the late Amit David, a young man who celebrated on October 7, 2023, at the Nova festival. The cart is operated by volunteers, and all profits are donated for scholarships for boarding school students and assistance to the needy.