Choose from 76 Fun Things to Do in Rio De Janeiro
Mirante Dona Marta
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Paco Imperial
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Post Office Cultural Center (Centro Cultural Correios)
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National Fine Arts Museum
Opened in 1937, the museum includes a collection of Brazilian folk art with a heavy focus on northeastern Brazil, and a collection of traditional West African art, such as textiles, wood carvings, and masks. Paintings featuring religious scenes and iconography, such as Giovanni Battista Tieppolo’s reverent Saint Cajetan and 16th century humanist Francisco de Holanda’s The Lord’s Supper make up some of the signature pieces of the museum’s international holdings.
Pedra Bonita
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Rio de Janeiro Cathedral
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Plataforma
It might not be Carnaval time in Rio but it is always Carnaval time at Plataforma. This lively Brazilian restaurant is where to get your fix of razzle and dazzle all year round.
The colorful show tells the story of Brazil's history (with Portuguese, Indian and African influences) through song and dance (including samba), with a highlight being the Brazilian drums. The finale involves a sparkling parade of outfits reflecting the yellow, blue, green and white of the Brazilian flag.
The show is family friendly although it does end sometime between 11:30pm and 12:30am, so not for the 'early to bed' crowd.
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Due to the late finishing time it is a good idea to have transport home from the show pre-arranged or to go with a tour who will take you back to your hotel.
To get there you can catch the 415 bus or a taxi, Ipanema is the closest metro but it isn't in walking distance.
Moreira Salles Institute (Instituto Moreira Salles)
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Rio Scenarium
Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach
Less busy and crowded than the South Zone beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana, Recreio embodies Rio’s laidback, active, surfer lifestyle. Locals love the area for the wealth of outdoor and water activities, from waterfront running paths and beach volleyball to paddle-boarding and surfing. Recreio Beach is one of few places on Rio’s massive beachfront where the waves are consistently small and gentle, perfect for beginner surfers.
To get a great view of the long stretch of sand from Barra da Tijuca to Recreio das Bandeirantes, it is possible to climb Pontal Rock. At low tide, visitors can walk right up to the rock and reach the top in about 10 minutes. There’s a short but steep portion where a cord is installed to help hikers ascend.
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Museum of Modern Art (Museu de Arte Moderna)
- The MAM is a must-see for art and culture lovers.
- Teachers and students receive half-price admission to the museum.
- Laguiole is the MAM's on-site restaurant and is considered one of the best in Rio; reservations are highly recommended.
Prainha Beach
- Prainha Beach is a must-see for nature lovers, surfers, and travelers wishing to escape the bustle of downtown Rio.
- On the beach, kiosks serve sandwiches, juices, and acai bowls.
- The neighboring Abrico Beach is Rio de Janeiro's only nudist beach.
Niteroi Contemporary Art Museum (MAC)
- Tickets to the MAC are half-price for students, teachers, and seniors.
- The museum is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- The MAC hosts a restaurant with top-notch Brazilian food and even better views.
Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden (Jardim Botanico)
- Rio’s Jardim Botânico is a must for nature and wildlife lovers.
- Entrance fees are payable in cash only. Guided tours of the garden typically include these fees.
- The Children’s Park offers a sandbox and play structure for kids 10 years old and under, as well as picnic tables and a café with kid-friendly food.
- The Jarbô Café and Garden Café offer breakfast, lunch, dinner, and beverages.
Praca Quinze
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Niteroi
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Parque Lage
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Praia Vermelha
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Rio Niteroi Bridge
Officially named for former Brazilian president Lucio Costa e Silva, the bridge rises to 236 feet at its highest point and was the world’s second-longest span when it opened in 1974, trumped at the time only by Louisiana’s Lake Pontchartrain causeway. While not as picturesque an experience as the ferry link across the bay, the views from the bridge heading west into Rio are still stunning, with downtown Rio, Sugar Loaf, and Corcovado all striking a picture postcard pose. Scores of low-flying jets landing at nearby Santos-Dumont airport every few minutes also add to the spectacle.