República de los Niños

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The park's scale model of the Government House was allegedly an inspiration for Walt Disney's Disneyland design after he visited Argentina.

2. 2

   It includes a functional train system that traverses the park's perimeter.

3. 3

   The park contains a museum dedicated to the life and history of Eva Perón.

4. 4

   The buildings were constructed using distinct architectural styles to serve as an educational tool for children to learn about democratic institutions.

5. 5

   It is the first theme park of its kind built in Latin America.

Overview

República de los Niños is a 53-hectare educational theme park designed to scale for children, featuring miniature replicas of government and civic buildings. Opened in 1951, the park is laid out with its own parliament, courthouse, bank, and church to simulate urban life. The architecture incorporates various styles, including medieval, Islamic, and European influences. It serves as a public space managed by the Municipality of La Plata and acts as a cultural center. The grounds include large green spaces, a small lake, and recreational areas for sports and art workshops. Unlike standard commercial amusement parks, it emphasizes civic learning and historical architecture. The site has been declared a National Historic Asset of Argentina.

Insider tips

• Bring a bicycle or skates as the park spans a significant area with paved paths.

• Pack a picnic lunch, as the interior dining options can get crowded during peak weekends.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as navigating the miniature city requires extensive movement.