Like our grandparents always say, back in the day people in Amman used to hit the streets more often. Not only was walking a lot more common than it is now, everyone, especially women, felt safer doing it too. We at Tip n’ Tag understand how much of a struggle it is finding a public place to hang out at without being harassed. That’s why we’re here to present you with female friendly spaces and public places to stroll around and enjoy the nice weather before fall properly kicks in. Sit back, scroll through and keep your eyes on the meter!
There’s nothing more refreshing than heading downtown, walking through the shops and markets, and sitting down in the Hashemite Plaza, surrounded by the hubbub of locals and tourists going about their day. That’s probably why it’s one of the liveliest areas of Amman!
Tip: Grab some Knafeh on your way from Al Sahel Al Akhdar
Despite the name, 7Hills Skatepark is not only for skaters. Located in downtown Amman, this community-built space is open to all and regularly hosts youth empowerment and refugee engagement activities. If you don’t have a skateboard, you can simply find yourself a spot to chill with some friends among the graffiti-ed slopes.
Tip: In the spirit of reclaiming the streets, leave your car behind and take the 10-minute walk to Jabal al Lweibdeh, where you can have drinks and dinner at Rustic Bar & Eatery
All hills lead downtown, Ammani’s will always tell you. Prince Mohamed stairs, aka Zajal stairs, are the most colorful of the steep stairwells cutting through the slopes of this city. Blooming with flowerpots bolted to the walls, these are definitely the most Instagram-perfect stone steps you’ll find in Amman.
Tip: Zigzag around the groups chilling and snapping pictures and pop into Zajal for some tea and shisha on their balcony or find your self a spot on the steps after taking a stroll through downtown to sip on that slushy or Erk-Sous drink you just bought.
Nestled between shops, hotels and restaurants, the Boulevard is one of Amman’s newer urban spaces. Away from car exhaust, littered streets and city noise, you can find some peace of mind in this modern metropolitan spot. It’s especially vibrant with life at night, sometimes even with musical performances and cultural activities.
Tip: Iguana Rooftop gives you a great view of Amman, and it’s only an elevator away
Al-Kalha stairs are one of Amman’s oldest flight of steps. They take you straight from Jabal al Lweibdeh to downtown, and act as an urban safe haven between these two spots. This cultural space is filled with graffiti, book bazaars, some hole-in-the-wall coffee shops and stores, and a hotel as well!
Tip: Try some food at Ezwitti, where you can buy a meal for yourself and another for someone in need
Darat Al Funun is known for its galleries, exhibitions and talks. Being that its tucked away in greenery and hiding behind long flights of steps, it serves as a refreshing retreat away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. You can sit near the fountain or face a breathtaking view of the city as you unwind.
Tip: The space is open Saturday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., so make sure to visit during those times and explore some art while you’re at it
However not a public space, The Royal Film Commission is accessible to the public from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. during weekdays. It has a beautiful and serene outdoor space in its yard that overlooks the old city. Make sure to pass by before the weather gets cold so you can catch some of their outdoor movie nights.
Tip: For drinks or dinner, Books@Cafe is right across the street
If you didn’t know what you were looking for, you’d walk right past the Duke’s Diwan. Built in 1924 in downtown Amman, it served as the central post until the 40s, before it became a hotel for 50 years. Today, it’s a space for conversation, art and music. Every corner is this house tells a story. Its doors invite people in from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day.
Tip: Head to Hashem before you leave for some good ol’ hummus and falafel
Amman has many parks, but one of the city’s most beloved ones is the National Gallery of Fine Arts park, located in a quaint area of Jabal al Lweibdeh. From artists and musicians gathering around in public performance, to families and children playing football, this park combines culture and community together.
Tip: For the art lovers out there, the gallery itself is free-of-charge and open on all days except Friday
Built to enhance cultural diversity in Amman, the Japanese Garden is a great representation of two cultures coming together. Incredibly peaceful and far from the noise of this vibrant city, it’s the perfect spot to hit when you want to enjoy some serene meditation or get lost in the pages of a good book.
Tip: After your stroll around the park, head up to Bianca and warm yourself up with a delicious coffee
The drive up to third circle wouldn’t be the same without the aesthetics Zahran Park adds to the city. Despite being on the main road, it remains clean and untainted by the car pollution. Bring a book with you next time you’re strolling around the park, because what it lacks in size it makes up for it in greenery and serenity.
Tip: Pass by Yoshi and grab a fresh bite after your stroll
There come these days when you’re out on a budget, looking for places to kill time at without much spending. King Hussein Park is one place you can spend a lengthy amount of time at before running out of things to do. Between the sports fields, decorated gardens, The Royal Automobile Museum and the many acres of land, you’re sure to have a relaxing day full of adventure.
Tip: Pack a cold meal and have a small picnic under a tree
Reclaim the streets!
Lemur Love,
The Tip n’ Tag Team
Recent Comments