La Maestranza Children's Park was set to welcome visitors again at noon this Saturday in Old Havana. Kids can enjoy free entry, while adults will be charged 200 CUP. Additional fees apply for various attractions within the park.
The reopening was announced on Facebook by the Empresa de Gestión del Patrimonio S.A., a division of the Office of the City Historian of Havana, and highlighted by the official newspaper, Tribuna de La Habana.
The entrance fee does not cover the use of individual attractions, and electronic payment options will be available. Among the offerings are inflatable equipment, animatronics, foosball, batting cages, crazy cars, mechanical bulls, and trampolines. Bike rentals will cost 150 CUP per circuit and 500 CUP for lessons.
The opening schedule includes children's shows featuring the clown Qkitin and artist Annie Garcés. Situated on Cuba Street between Peña Pobre and Avenida del Puerto, the park plans to operate from Wednesday to Sunday, from noon to 8:00 PM. The equipment was upgraded in 2025 thanks to a donation from the Mexican government.
The announcement sparked mixed reactions on social media. Some users celebrated the return of a recreational space for children, while others criticized the additional costs and questioned whether the attractions would work amidst the ongoing power crisis.
"Let's first see if there's electricity, then we'll worry about the price," wrote one user, referencing the island's electrical issues. Another was more blunt: "The inflatables and other rides need power; otherwise, the park is a waste like always—you pay to enter, and then nothing works."
Economic concerns also permeated the comments. "And bring a backpack full of money," one user joked. Another nostalgically recalled, "It used to be a poor man's outing," while a third lamented, "For the average Cuban, there's no chance for anything." A father noted that his child "hasn't slept well due to the lack of power" and wasn't eager to go out.
Cubans' skepticism is rooted in the broader context of children's recreation on the island. Jalisko Park in Vedado charges 1,000 CUP per person for entry. A full family visit there can exceed 14,700 CUP, more than twice the average monthly salary.
Los Caballitos Park in Artemisa reopened in July under private management, with ride fees ranging from 100 to 500 CUP per ride.
FAQs on La Maestranza Park Reopening
What are the operating hours of La Maestranza Park?
The park is open from Wednesday to Sunday, from noon to 8:00 PM.
Are there any free activities for children at the park?
Children can enter the park for free, but additional charges apply for specific attractions.
What additional costs should visitors expect?
Visitors should anticipate additional charges for attractions such as inflatable equipment and bike rentals, which are not included in the entrance fee.