6 things to do with you kids in Israel

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Book your vacation through Family Travel Concierge info@familytc.com or 860-830-40091. The Night Spectacular Show at the Tower of David

Recurring multiple times throughout the week, the Night Spectacular is a 45-minute light-and-sound display using the walls beneath the Tower of David as a backdrop, but a simple written description doesn't really do the concept justice. It's hard to fully conceive of what a titanic expanse of age-old monolithic city wall looks like when used as backdrop for the movies until you've seen it done. The moving images, sent from 20 projectors and two projection rooms, tell a wordless, politically neutral pictorial tale of the history of Jerusalem from the time of the Israelite kings down almost to the present day, treating viewers to dramatically larger-than-life reenactments of the deeds of David, the Romans, the monks, Muhammad, the Crusaders, Suleiman the Magnificent and the rest of the historical family.

2. Masada

At the beginning of the first century Romans destroyed Jerusalem and Jews fled the city. About 1,000 made their way to this fortress. Part of the fortress ruins are the enormous storage houses built by the Roman-appointed King Herod, so perhaps the people came in search of food. Almost all the 1,000 committed suicide rather than subject themselves to the thousands of Romans laying siege to the mountain.  You can still see 2,000 year old fresco art on the mountain, remnants of the splendor of King Herod’s castle, his Roman baths with its raised floor, and ruins of the synagogue the Jews erected here in this stronghold.                               
But this is a place of current importance, not just history: Israel's Armored Corps recruits come here to swear their oath of allegiance: "Masada Shall Not Fall Again."                             
The Way Up – To reach Masada, choose the cable car, the Roman ramp or, for the more athletic, "the Snake Path." At the top, while the Roman storage silos are empty, the snack bars and restaurant provide for quick snacks or a lingering lunch while you take in the grand views.    

3. Admire exotic birds

The Hula Nature Reserve is a swamp reserve ideal for bird watchers since it’s a stop for many migrating species. It is located near the village of Yesud Hama’ala, the valley that sits between Lebanon and Syria. Equip your kids with binoculars, bird calls, and cameras, or even sketch books and colored pencils to make them feel like true naturalists.  The waterslides at the Hurshat Tal National Park are among the highest in the country. Plus, the park is a wonderful place to fish, camp, and swim, too.   

4. Ein Yael

Ein Yael is situated the Emek Refaim valley in the heart of nature on the outskirts of Jerusalem. The site includes ancient terraces, a spring, gardens and agricultural areas, and a reconstructed Roman street with shops and workshops. Ein Yael is also home to various archaeological remains such as a Roman villa and bathhouses, as well as impressive mosaics. Each of these areas come to life through a variety of workshops and activities that focus on ancient crafts and agricultural practices.  Activities at Ein Yael include weaving, pottery, paper production, mosaic making, fresco painting, scented oil production, construction, paper and ink production , basket making , musical instruments, and more. During specific times of the year and depending on the agricultural season, Ein Yael operates an olive press to make oil, a wine press to make grape juice, and a granary to thresh wheat. Workshops enable participants to experience the process of creating tools, objects and food that have been used since ancient times.  The Ein Yael Active Museum is a remarkable location, offering a unique combination of nature and encounters with ancient lifestyles in Israel. The site seeks to give children an experience that is not available in today’s modern world; one that connects them to nature through hands-on sensory experiences.

5. Ein Gedi

Ein Gedi is an oasis in the desert and a green Garden of Eden in the wilderness. It is situated on the shore of the Dead Sea – the lowest place on Earth - at the feet of majestic mountains and cliffs.  One of the most exciting places in Israel, Ein Gedi combines a wild, natural setting with a primeval panorama, history and archaeology, tourist attractions, and spas. Its unique climate and atmosphere make it a place for a unique desert adventure.   Ein Gedi contains the historical and archaeological remains of its first inhabitants, who discovered the magic of the place more than 5,000 years ago it has also served as a landmark in the history of the Jewish people throughout history. David took refuge in Ein Gedi when he was pursued by King Saul, and rebels fled there from Jerusalem. Valuable persimmon oil and rare perfumes were produced there, and temples and synagogues were established here to strengthen the Jewish stronghold in the area.
recommended activities in the area include jeep excursions and safaris through the desert, tours of Massada, and the Qumran caves.

6. Jordan River rafting

Kayaking or rafting on the upper Jordan River? Okay, it’s not the Snake or the Colorado. Its rating is probably a one-double-minus as whitewater goes; but it’s still a raft-full of fun, as you coast in and out of shady spots on a hot summer day.
Jordan River Rafting is a tourist complex where anyone can take part in water sports and tourism. All events take place along the 12 miles of the Jordan River with turbulent water and falls. The rafting complex is located near the Golan Heights, right by Kibbutz Gadot. Jordan River Rafting offers an assortment of recreational events for families and tourists including kayaking, extreme rafting, jeep trips along the side of the river, omega, and there is even an area for paintball along the river. While on the river, visitors will notice fig and eucalyptus trees, as well as picturesque sites, such as a Crusader fortress, canyon cliffs, and beautiful flora and fauna. It is the perfect rafting experience for anyone visiting Israel.