Planetário da Cidade do Rio de Janeiro (Rio de Janeiro Planetarium) Praça Padre Leonel França 021-274-0096 Rio's only planetarium should attract anyone interested in the constellations of the Southern Hemisphere.  Classical music soundtracks accompany all shows.  Visitors can also view the night skies through a telescope!

Quinta de Boa Vista Av. Rio Branco 021-254-2024 This natural park is a city-owned complex, which features the Jardim Zoológico zoo and the Nacional Museu, as well as hundreds of acres of lush park.  Canoes can be rented for paddling around the ponds, and shows are often performed on a stage located in the  middle of a lake.

Jardim Zoológico (Zoo) Av. Rio Branco 021-254-2024 The zoo offers a close-up of Brazil's native animals.  The zoo provides a home for  alligators, monkeys, snakes, big cats, an impressive tropical bird aviary, and elephants.  Children can enjoy a ride in a little train throughout the park.

National Museum Av. Rio Branco 021-254-2024 The museum displays everything from prehistoric fish skeletons, artifacts from Pompeii, crafts by Native Americans and Amazonians, to traditional crafts.

Parque do Flamengo (Flamengo Park) Av. Infante Dom Henrique 85 021-285-7029 Flamengo Park is the largest city park in the world.  The park features an array of activities such as jogging and biking trails; basketball, soccer, tennis courts, playgrounds, and a sports arena.  Wonderful for a picnic with the family.