Best 10 Places to Visit in Riyadh

Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is a vibrant cultural center where modern glass skyscrapers stand alongside historic landmarks. Once known as "The Garden" in Arabic due to its construction atop a rose field, the city has transformed into a thriving metropolis. While it was traditionally a hub for business travelers, Riyadh now boasts world-class accommodations, upscale dining, and expansive shopping centers, making it a destination for all types of visitors.

Whether you're a history buff, art enthusiast, or adventure seeker, Riyadh offers something for everyone. Explore Al Masmak Fortress, a mudbrick and clay structure that showcases Saudi Arabia’s rich history. Stroll through Boulevard City, a dynamic district filled with restaurants, shopping malls, entertainment venues, and movie theaters. And for a fun-filled family adventure, the Riyadh Zoo is the perfect spot to visit with kids.

From heritage to modern entertainment, Riyadh seamlessly blends the past and present, offering an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Here is a list of 10 of the best places to visit in Riyadh. Check it out and make your trip to the city an unforgettable one. Let’s get started!

Al Masmak Fortress, a nineteenth-century stronghold, is one of Riyadh's most well-known landmarks since it is a historic monument that highlights Saudi history via its mudbrick and clay construction and recalls the time when Imam Abdullah bin Faisal was in power. With a spear still buried deep beneath one of its gates, it depicts a pivotal episode in the Kingdom's foundation history—the recapture of Riyadh in 1902. Moreover, along the hallways, you'll also spot a lot of documents and exhibitions.

Boulevard City, formerly known as Boulevard Riyadh City, is among the most well-known Riyadh attractions. It debuted in October 2019 along with the start of Riyadh Season 2019 and because of its enormous popularity, it eventually developed into a permanent zone within the city. Almost 900,000 square meters make up Boulevard City, which has its subzones with fantastic eateries and cafes, movie theaters, as well as entertainment venues including the WWE Experience and House of Hype. Moreover, there is a lot to discover, including massive sporting events and concerts occasionally held in the area.

JAX District is Riyadh’s premier artistic hub, located in the creative heart of Diriyah. Originally an industrial zone established in 1975, it transformed in 2021 into a thriving cultural space. Today, it houses over 100 repurposed warehouses that host art exhibitions, visual displays, concerts, and lively events. Among its standout venues is Beast House, an exclusive members-only club dedicated to nurturing and showcasing Saudi talent. With its dynamic arts scene and creative energy, JAX District has become a must-visit destination for culture enthusiasts in Riyadh.

Providing breathtaking views of the busy metropolis, SkyBridge is one of the most popular Riyadh tourist places. Among Saudi Arabia's largest buildings, Kingdome Centre, also called Kingdom Tower, is home to many of the best domestic and foreign companies and Skybridge, a 65-meter walkway is situated on its 99th level. The steel structure, which is shaped like an enclosed hallway featuring windows on each side, weighs around 300 tons. At a height of three hundred meters, the bridge provides views of the breathtaking Riyadh sky.

When it comes to the best places to visit in Riyadh for free, King Abdullah Park stands out. The park is filled with lush vegetation, a man-made lake, and well-kept floral arrangements that provide a respite from the buzzing metropolis and are ideal for moments when you simply want to connect with nature. Additionally, there is a huge 110-meter laser fountain that periodically puts on amazing shows. The park frequently organizes exhibitions and events as well, so perhaps you'll be fortunate enough to see a fantastic performance.

Murabba Palace is a two-story mansion, which was built in the Najdi style, and is located about two kilometers from ancient Riyadh. This historical museum documents the city's rich past and has recordings of the speeches of King Abdul-Aziz Al Saud, Saudi Arabia's founder, as well as personal belongings and gifts from foreign nations. Additionally, you will get an opportunity to view the iconic Rolls-Royce vehicles that Winston Churchill gave him.

The National Museum of Saudi Arabia, which is referred to as Saudi Arabia's largest museum, has a wealth of ancient artifacts. As you follow the designated path, you’ll journey through the rich history of Saudi Arabia and the Arabian Peninsula. The museum is divided into several halls, each dedicated to a different historical era. From the prehistoric period and the massive meteorites that once struck the region to the life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the significance of Madinah and Makkah, the exhibits offer a comprehensive and immersive experience. With something for everyone, the museum brings history to life in a captivating and educational way.

Looking for an outdoor pastime surrounded by magnificent creatures? Then Riyadh Zoo is one of the best places to visit! With 33 primary animal enclosures featuring tigers, wolves, lions, kangaroos, bears, and several raptors, the zoo is home to more than two thousand animals and 196 kinds to watch out for.

Previously called Riyadh Front, ROSHN Front serves as a popular destination in Riyadh that is regarded as one of the best locations to eat, stroll, and buy. Numerous well-known eateries, coffee shops, and dessert locations, including Somewhere, Blanca Pizzeria, Awani, and Nine Soft Serve, can be found along the complex's indoor and outdoor pathways. Shops selling clothing, accessories, fragrances, and other items may also be found there.

Salwa Palace serves as a historical site in Turaif that is regarded as one of Riyadh's most well-known locations. The palace highlights a pivotal period in the Kingdom's history by transporting you back to the founding of the first Saudi state. Built by Imam Abdul Aziz ibn Muhammad ibn Saud, this monument serves as the kingdom's residence and the seat of government for the Al Saud princes plus imams. The area features architecture that dates back centuries and a museum filled with fascinating artifacts, making it an essential destination for anyone interested in history.