Madrid: Kid-Friendly Hangouts

If you must do tourist places, the following squares are particularly great to take the kids:

Plaza Mayor: Sure the square is dotted with cheesy restaurants serving overpriced tapas but the wide open space in the center is the best place for kids to run off a little post-flight steam. In the evening the square comes alive with performers and even Mickey made it out (presumably from EuroDisney) when we were visiting and for one euro we got a photo and a balloon off him. While you are there, check out the cool artwork on the Casa de la Panadería.

Plaza Santa Ana: Slightly less touristy than the Plaza Mayor and apparently a party hot-spot at night, Plaza Santa Ana is a pretty square in one of the older districts in Madrid. Restaurants line the square offering the usual fare but the real highlight is two little play areas for the bubs. Note: the metal structures are probably best used in the morning or in the evening to avoid getting scalded.