Saudi Arabia Attractions

This gym has state-of-the-art fitness facilities, from the Stair Master to weights, as well as upper and lower arm toning machines. When you are ready to cool off, take a swim in the large, clean, oval-shaped pool.

The modern locality of Al Batha is home to this modest hotel, which offers basic comforts without fuss and feathers. Comfortable and clean, it is the ideal place if you don't want to shell out a packet for your stay. Single rooms start from SAR83 a night.

The word musmak means strong, thick and fortified. An important part of this city's history, the castle was constructed during Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Rasheed's reign and came under King Abdulaziz's rule, when Riyadh was conquered. Today, it's open to the public, as the ArRiyadh Development Authority has converted it into a museum. Explore the Sitting Room, visit the Mosque, study the Castle Gate, and have a look at the well. Don't miss the Watch Towers that are placed on all the four corners of the castle. It's also exciting to see the rifles placed around the tower. Please note that families can visit only on Thursdays; boys' schools on Saturday, Monday and Wednesday, while girls schools can do so on Sunday and Tuesday.

The significant religious movement, known as the Ad'Diriyah Convention, which was about going back from heresay to the Prophet's preachings, took place in this city. This former capital was thus, a key factor in the Jihad movement and the resulting rise of Saudi Arabia. Today, this place has turned into a picnic spot for those who wish to bask in the glory of the historic past. The city is divided into three quarters - all of which house places of interest and importance - the Turaif Quarter, the Ghusaiba Quarter and the Bujairy Quarter.

Located in the heart of the city, Salam Park is much more than just a park. This 30-hectare (75-acre) park was once the site of a residential palace, buildings and a 70-year old mosque. With an artificial lake, a palm grove (which supplies yummy dates), lots of lawn area as well as a wildlife conservation zone, it offers entertainment for the entire family today. Go boating on the lake, have a long and leisurely lunch, jog around the park or simply lie in the shades of the palm trees while your kids entertain themselves on the playground. There are four prayer buildings and several restaurants for snacks as well. This USD16 million project is sure worth a visit! Open on all days.

Once you're done exploring the Olaya Quarter, head to the Al Maktaba Park for some true RnR. Sprawled over 22 hectares (54 acres), it is a real getaway from the bustling city. Its wide pathways are ideal for a jog; otherwise, simply stroll along and take in the peace and beauty of the park. There's loads of entertainment for kids as well. An artificial pool, waterfall and fountains enhance the park's beauty and its Clock Tower has become a landmark today. As it lies close to the King Fahad library, several stop by to find a shady corner to read in.

If you wish to say hello to your animal friends, head straight towards the Riyadh National Zoo. Spread over 22 hectares (55 acres), the zoo is Saudi Arabia's largest. Tapirs, seals, kangaroos, llamas, the rare griffon vultures along with Arabian leopards, lions, hyenas and more are found here. Take a stroll at the Riyadh Zoological Gardens, which are on the zoo premises. Note that children can be accompanied by only one parent; whole families cannot visit the zoo. Women can see the animals on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays while, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays are reserved for men. Open Sundays to Fridays, call for hours.

The National Museum occupies a vast area on the premises of the King Abdul Aziz Historical Centre. The museum has an interesting display of manuscripts, documents, antiques and much more. All the eight halls have the display arranged in a chronological order - from the creation of the earth and universe to present day Riyadh, it's all there! Check the website for the visiting hours as it varies for families, men and schools.

This museum is in association with the Ministry of Defense and Aviation. The museum follows the development of the Saudi Forces. It displays everything from weapons to military uniforms designed especially for college students. You need to be an official visitor, affiliated to the Administration of the Military College, to get a peek into this museum.

This is a different kind of a museum - it does have original manuscripts and books, but there are other special displays too. It has a great coin collection; manuscript tombstones make for a unique kind of curiosity, and then there are micro-filmed photographs of the said manuscripts too. Also, do have a look at the Kufi Holy book that has been written on a different medium like leather.

The Security College Museum is as good as a documentary center, with arms, equipments, and samples of plans, photographs and other military mechanisms. It also holds important documents of the Ad'Diriyah convention that brought in a significant religious movement. Please note that you need to request the museum authorities to arrange a visit, before you go here.

The museum, as the name suggests, has an interesting display of antiquities and folklore. Costumes, weapons, swords and gold daggers, mail stamps and ceramic utensils: you get a good peek into the lifestyle of Arab culture and civilization. What captures the attention of visitors is a tent - a replica of the Musmak Castle and engravings of verses from the Quran.

This is a heritage museum, but a private one at that. It has on display men's costumes, weapons and other war equipment, utensils and kitchenware. What may interest you is that, it also has a variety of old cars lined up for your viewing pleasure. Go ahead and have a look - but do remember to co-ordinate with the owner and arrange a visit.

This Palace was constructed by King Abdulaziz outside the precincts of Riyadh. It is now a part of the King Abdul Aziz Darat. The ground floor makes up the guards' room - you will find stores for food, coffee, wood and other materials needed for cooking. The upper story opens up to salons and waiting rooms for visitors. There is also a private reception hall along with a communications office, telegram office and other political department bureaus.

Head to this park at the end of a long and tiring day of work. Sprawled over 40,000 square meters (430,600 square feet), the Prince Fahad Al-Faisal Park is a green retreat in the heart of the city. Relax in the shade of the numerous date trees, get your exercise for the day or bring a picnic basket along and spend the day on the lush green lawns. A sandbox and other games will keep your children entertained. One of the oldest parks in the city, there is a cafe on site as well. Its ideal location keeps it more crowded than other parks in the city.