Things to do in Medellín for self travelers

Dive into urban evolution on two wheels with this audio tour, tailored for those intrigued by city transformations and cultural vibrancy. Bringing the story of Medellín's rebirth to your ears, this tour is a feast for the senses for avid bikers and urban explorers alike. An immersive journey awaits, from leafy parks to contemporary urban landscapes, and from street art to culinary delights, all in the heart of one of Latin America's burgeoning cultural hotspots. Starting at the green oasis of El Poblado Park, this route carves a path through historic neighborhoods, past energetic soccer fields and into the gastronomic quarters of Manila, before culminating amidst the high-rises of Ciudad del Rio Park. Along the way, riders will be graced with innovative spaces such as the Museum of Modern Art, known locally as El MAMM, and the bustling activity of Gabriel Garcia Marquez Park. True to Medellín's spirit, the tour vividly details each turn of the pedal, making every moment count. By the end, memories will include the impressive urban skyline, the cool shade of tropical trees, and the sounds of city life blending with those of nature, all creating an enriching tapestry of experiences that capture the essence of this remarkable city.

Fast-track your way to furry-town and hang with the animals at Parque de la Conservación. From butterflies to snakes and spider monkeys, it's an educational day out which also contributes to the conservation of biodiversity in South America.

Parque Explora is a popular interactive science and technology museum. More than that, it's an architectural highlight that's symbolic of Downtown Medellin's social transformation – the beating heart of the city's innovation district. The striking building consists of four snaking, elevated red blocks – it's worth a visit just to admire the outside! Through more than 300 stimulating activities, subjects like biodiversity, neuroscience, relativity, thermodynamics, and physics all come to life. Wander the largest freshwater aquarium in South America, see majestic axolotls and vibrant orange frogs in the vivarium, and delve into prehistoric beasts at the dinosaur exhibition. There are also interactive rooms devoted to music and the mind, all managed by friendly, science-savvy staff. Can't get enough fascinating science? Opt to add Medellín Planetarium access to your ticket, and explore a universe of wonder just across the street from Parque Explora.

Get your Aeroparque Juan Pablo II tickets and make a splash in Medellin! Take the whole family for some watery fun in the sun, where the kids will love the huge wave pool – the waves reach almost three meters high! There's another pool with slides, a semi-Olympic pool for the serious swimmers, a didactic pool, a children's pool, and a circular pool. If you just want to relax in the sun, head to the spacious green area and chill. There's also a multi-purpose track suitable for walking, jogging, skating, and cycling.

The fun doesn't stop at Parque Norte Medellín. Attractions, rides, and beautiful views beneath the surrounding mountains of the Aburrá Valley. The park even features Latin America's largest urban lake, so make sure to hop on the Eagle to get the best view of it! A wrist band for Parque Norte Medellín is a ticket to an adrenaline-fuelled day. There's four unique zones to explore, including one that's tailor-made for younger kids. If you're looking for action, then choose the Extreme Passport and take on rides like Kamikaze, Maui, and Journey to the Center of the Earth. Planning on a family visit? Then try out the Fusion Passport, younger kids will be able to enjoy gentler rides that will leave them giddy.

Housed inside an impressively abstract building in El Poblado, the Medellín Museum of Modern Art is home to an important collection of art by Colombians and Antioquians, whose work represents the cultural, social, and political themes in Colombia's recent past. Inside you'll see work by the best-known Colombian artists, like the politically charged paintings of Débora Arango. You can create your own soundscapes inside the sound experimentation laboratory, and the museum also boasts a cool and quiet atmosphere, welcoming visitors to its many terraces and outdoor spaces.