Beyond the Screen: 4 Amazing Family Outings in and Around BH

Planning the Perfect Weekend with the Kids

Finding an activity that captures children's attention, works in both sun and rain, and keeps adults entertained can feel like a challenge. Belo Horizonte and its surrounding cities hold options that go far beyond the traditional circuits.

If you want to get the little ones away from their electronics, we have gathered itineraries focused on fascinating discoveries, from astronomy to prehistoric fossils.

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1. A Journey to the Stars at the UFMG Knowledge Space

Located in the Circuito Liberdade in BH, the Espaço do Conhecimento (Knowledge Space) is a foolproof choice for sunny or rainy days.

The big highlight for the kids is the Planetarium, located on the top floor. With a hemispherical dome, the space projects immersive films about the solar system, constellations, and astrological mythologies.

What you need to know:

• Planetarium Sessions: Held throughout the day with themes suitable for different age groups.
• Astronomical Terrace: On selected nights, the public can observe the sky through professional telescopes.
• Exhibitions: The lower floors offer interactive games about human history and cultural diversity.

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2. The Magic of the Pipiripau Nativity Scene and the Natural History Museum

In the Horto neighborhood, just minutes from the city center, the UFMG Natural History Museum and Botanical Garden holds a massive green area and one of the most iconic attractions of Minas Gerais culture.

This is the Pipiripau Nativity Scene, built throughout the 20th century by Raimundo Machado. The work features 586 moving figures that narrate passages from the life of Christ and the daily life of small towns.

Tour highlights:

• Ecological Trails: Easy walks through preserved stretches of Atlantic Forest within the city.
• Paleontology Exhibition: Real fossils and replicas of prehistoric animals found on Minas Gerais soil.

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3. Underground Exploration at the Lapinha Cave Park

For those looking for a day-trip adventure less than an hour from BH, the Gruta da Lapinha (Lapinha Cave) in Sete Lagoas is a fascinating destination for curious children.

With structured walkways and scenic lighting, the cave allows you to walk safely through halls formed millions of years ago. The complex also houses the Peter Lund Museum, which displays fossils of Brazilian megafauna, such as the saber-toothed tiger and the giant sloth.

Practical tips:

• Wear closed-toe, comfortable shoes (mandatory for entering the cave).
• The park has a picnic area and a playground in the outdoor space.

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4. Knowledge Station in Brumadinho

Far beyond open-air art museums, Brumadinho offers spaces dedicated to environmental education and educational rural experiences.

Several pedagogical farms and cultural spaces in the region promote pottery workshops, organic gardening, and direct contact with farm animals, providing an unforgettable, down-to-earth experience for children from the capital.

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Extra Tip: How About Extending the Trip to the Coast?

Although Minas has no sea, locals love to hit the road with their families during long holidays or special weekends. If you want to plan your next vacation with the kids without the headache, check out these tours and bus trips departing directly from BH:

• Enjoy the crystal-clear beaches of Cabo Frio on the Praia do Forte Cabo Frio Tour.
• Enjoy a weekend in Espírito Santo with the family on the Guarapari Day Trip - ES.
• Take the kids to see the "Marvelous City" on the Copacabana Day Trip.
• Or ensure some fun at the start of the year with the Carnival Hangover in Cabo Frio.