Exploring Santo Domingo with Kids: 5 Must-See Spots in the Dominican Republic

On our recent trip to the Dominican Republic, we decided to trade the turquoise waters of Punta Cana for the historic charm of Santo Domingo. With our two boys (both under 2) in tow, we booked the Full Day Santo Domingo City Tour through TripAdvisor with Runners Adventures — and it turned into one of the most enriching and enjoyable experiences of our vacation.

If you’re planning a visit, here’s our story plus the top things to do in Santo Domingo that we discovered along the way.

1. Calle Las Damas – The Oldest Paved Street in the Americas

Our adventure took us past Calle Las Damas, a cobblestoned street lined with colonial-era buildings that once welcomed the wives of Spanish nobility — hence its name, “Street of the Ladies.” While we didn’t get to stroll down the full stretch, it was amazing to see a road that has been in use for over 500 years, still pulsing with history.

2. Palacio National & National Theater of Fine Arts 

Driving through the city gave us a glimpse of the impressive Palacio National, the presidential office building, with its grand neoclassical architecture. We also passed by the National Theater of Fine Arts, a cultural gem where world-class performances take place. These stops were brief but gave us a sense of the city’s vibrant political and artistic presence.

3. Casa del Cordón – Interactive History for All Ages

One of the highlights for our boys was Casa del Cordón, the first stone house built in the Americas. Inside, we explored interactive exhibits that brought the colonial era to life. The boys loved the hands-on elements, while we appreciated the layers of history — from its 16th-century origins to its role in Dominican trade and governance.

4. Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor – The First Cathedral in the New World

A must-see for any visitor, this cathedral is not just a religious site but a historical landmark — the first cathedral built in the Americas. Stepping inside, we were struck by the ornate Gothic and Baroque details, as well as the peaceful atmosphere. Even with toddlers, we found it easy to navigate and enjoy.

5. Zona Colonial – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The heart of our trip was exploring Zona Colonial, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with charming plazas, pastel-colored buildings, and centuries-old landmarks. This is where Santo Domingo’s history truly comes alive, and it’s perfect for walking, photography, and soaking in the culture. The boys enjoyed people-watching and chasing pigeons in the squares, while we enjoyed the mix of history and lively street life.

Bonus - Choco Punto by Mabel

As a sweet bonus, we also stopped by Choco Punto by Mabel on our way to Punta Cana, where we toured the chocolate factory, enjoyed delicious samples, and couldn’t resist picking up some gourmet treats to take home.

Why We Loved This Tour as a Family

Our day began bright and early with a 6:50 AM pickup right from our hotel in Punta Cana. The bus arrived promptly, and we were greeted with friendly smiles from our guide and driver. The journey to Santo Domingo was surprisingly comfortable — air-conditioned, smooth, and filled with interesting stories from our guide about the island’s history and culture. The boys were entertained by the sights outside the window, while we enjoyed soaking in the scenic ride.

Educational & Fun for All Ages

Even though our boys were too young to fully appreciate the centuries-old buildings, they enjoyed running around in open plazas and watching street performers. Our guide brought the city to life with fascinating tales about Christopher Columbus, colonial architecture, and the role Santo Domingo played in shaping the New World.

The boys were having such a great time on the tour that they completely skipped their nap!

Kid-Friendly Considerations

While a full-day city tour with toddlers may sound intimidating, Runners Adventures made it smooth and stress-free. Frequent stops, shaded areas, and plenty of time for breaks meant the kids could rest or explore at their own pace. Lunch was included and featured authentic Dominican flavors — a hit for us and the boys!

Whether you’re a history buff, a cultural explorer, or a parent traveling with young children, Santo Domingo has something to offer. From centuries-old streets to interactive museums, the city blends old-world charm with family-friendly experiences.

If you’re staying in Punta Cana, consider the Full Day Santo Domingo City Tour with Runners Adventures. It’s a perfect way to combine sightseeing, learning, and making memories — all in one unforgettable day.