Family activities on days off from school
When children are out of the classroom, many families wonder what to do to keep them active and entertained. Here are some alternatives that combine fun, learning, and connecting with nature.
Outdoor walks
Urban parks, nature reserves, and beaches are ideal places to recharge. Some must-see options:
Metropolitan Park of Santiago , with its zoo and cable car.
Río Clarillo National Reserve , perfect for family walks.
Beaches on the central coast , such as Algarrobo, El Quisco or Maitencillo, that can be enjoyed even outside of summer.
These landscapes promote physical activity and contact with nature, which are especially beneficial after weeks of studying.
Cultural and educational activities
Days off from school can also be used to visit places that encourage curiosity and learning:
Interactive museums such as the MIM (Mirador Interactive Museum) or the Natural History Museum.
Libraries and cultural centers , which often organize free workshops.
Local historical routes , ideal for learning more about Chilean identity.
Meaningful home panoramas
You don't always need to leave home to have fun. With a little creativity, days off can become memorable experiences.
Chilean family film marathon.
Traditional cooking workshops, such as empanadas or sopaipillas.
Board games or crafts with recycled materials.
Homemade science experiments to spark curiosity.
These activities strengthen family bonds and help maintain positive routines during breaks.
Holidays and long weekends in 2026 ideal for family travel
2026 will have several holidays that fall on Fridays or Mondays, creating long weekends perfect for short getaways. Some notable examples:
| Month | Date | Reason | Recommended days off from school |
|---|---|---|---|
| March | 28-30 | Easter week | 3 |
| May | 1-4 | Labor Day | 4 |
| September | 18-21 | National Holidays | 4 |
| October | 10-12 | Encounter of Two Worlds | 3 |
| December | 25-28 | Christmas | 4 |
Planning ahead allows you to take advantage of tourism promotions and organize activities without stress. You can supplement this information by reviewing our article on long weekends in Chile in 2026 .
Family getaways near Santiago and surrounding regions
Chile offers countless options for short getaways that don't require a big budget. Here are some ideas:
Metropolitan Region: Cajón del Maipo, Pirque or Curacaví, with their gastronomic routes and trails.
Valparaíso Region: Viña del Mar, Isla Negra or Los Molles, ideal for relaxing by the sea.
Araucanía Region: Pucón and Villarrica, perfect for connecting with nature and enjoying hot springs.
Coquimbo Region: Elqui Valley, with its clear skies and astronomical observatories.