Cidade da Criança Zilda Arns

Imagine a space where learning transforms into an exciting game, and history harmoniously coexists with modern attractions. This is exactly what the Zilda Arns City of Childhood is — a unique theme park located in the city of Campos dos Goytacazes. This complex, spread across the grounds of Alzira Vargas Park, is rightfully considered the largest educational and entertainment facility in the northern region of the state of Rio de Janeiro.

Zilda Arns Children's City. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Covering an area of almost 9,000 square meters, the park offers young guests and their parents a chance to dive into the world of science, ecology, and culture. The project was named in honor of the legendary Brazilian pediatrician Zilda Arns, who dedicated her life to fighting for children's health. Here, in the sunny country of Brazil, this place has become a symbol of care for future generations and a favorite spot for family vacations.

At the heart of the park is a majestic colonial building from 1943, serving as a reminder of the region's rich historical past. Surrounding it are modern interactive zones: a science space, a museum, a mini-zoo, and even adventure trails, making the "City of Childhood" a true magnet for curious tourists.

For more information about special events or group visits, you can use the official communication channels. The park actively keeps in touch with visitors through social media.

In this park, everyone will find something to enjoy, as it is designed like a huge interactive open-air laboratory. Little explorers can head to the science space, where complex laws of physics and nature are explained through fascinating experiments. For those who love animals, there is a cozy mini-zoo, offering a closer look at the region's fauna.

Active leisure enthusiasts should definitely check out the adventure zone — here, you can test your agility on the adventure park elements. Themed kiosks and museum exhibits offer a deep dive into ecological issues, discussing the importance of environmental conservation in a playful and accessible way.

Families often choose the park for quiet walks along well-kept paths and outdoor picnics. Screenings and events are regularly held in the local auditorium, turning a visit into a full-fledged cultural event. It is the perfect place where the educational process can be combined with active games in a safe and inspiring atmosphere.

Finding the Zilda Arns City of Childhood is easy, as it is located on one of the city's main traffic arteries — Avenida Vinte e Oito de Março. The park is situated within the grounds of the Alzira Vargas Public Park, which is a well-known landmark for locals and taxi drivers.

If you are planning a trip from the city center or the local airport, it is most convenient to use a taxi or car-sharing services. The ride usually takes 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. For those who prefer public transport, several bus routes passing through the central districts stop near the park.

For travelers in their own or a rental car, parking spaces are provided near the entrance. Thanks to its central location in the northern part of the state of Rio de Janeiro, visiting the park is easy to fit into a travel itinerary around the region.

The history of this place began long before the theme park opened. In the heart of the territory stands a colonial house built in 1943. Originally, it housed the "Brazilian Legion of Assistance" (LBA) — an organization created by Alzira Vargas, daughter of President Getúlio Vargas, to support mothers and children. In 2012, the building was granted municipal heritage status, preserving the spirit of care for the younger generation.

The theme complex itself was officially opened in 2015. It was named after Zilda Arns Neumann (1934–2010), an outstanding Brazilian pediatrician and public figure. Zilda became famous as the founder of the Pastoral da Criança program, which saved thousands of lives by fighting infant mortality and malnutrition in the poorest regions.

Zilda Arns' work was so significant that she was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. She believed that combining scientific knowledge with folk wisdom could work wonders. Today, the park continues her mission, creating an environment where every child can grow, learn, and feel protected surrounded by history and nature.

To fully enjoy all areas of the park, guests are recommended to set aside about 3–4 hours for a visit. This time will be enough for children to explore the interactive exhibits, meet the inhabitants of the mini-zoo, and try out the attractions.

If you plan to have a family picnic on the grass or attend educational lectures in the auditorium, it's worth planning for half a day. The park encourages a leisurely pace, so there's no need to rush.

Zilda Arns City of Childhood is open to visitors daily, making it easy to plan a visit any day of the week. The park's schedule remains the same on both weekdays and weekends:

Monday — Sunday: from 09:00 to 17:00.

A walk around the park's surroundings will allow you to learn more about the cultural and natural life of the region. Since the complex is located in the central part of the city, many interesting locations are within walking distance or a short drive away.

Below are the most noteworthy sites worth visiting nearby: