Following the Water to Jerusalem
One of the first sites we took our kids to explore when we began our summer in Israel was this tour. This is one of several tours offered through the City of David, so you need to book early because it’s very popular. Tours run in English and in Hebrew and they run a few times during the day. You can book your tour in person at their walk-up ticket window or on line or on the phone. I was there in the summer so I wanted the earliest tour. You can get to the City of David on bus, on foot, or by taxi. We walked to the Kotel from our apartment in Rehavia and then down a steep street outside the bus drop for the Kotel till we saw a brand new series of whimsical and colorful billboards promoting the City of David’s attractions. Just follow the golden harps and you will be transported. You can take your family or you can arrange larger group tours if you’re hosting family and friends for a simcha. Here’s an important tip I learned the hard way: Rent a locker on site before you begin your tour. It’s cheap and absolutely worth the few extra minutes. I didn’t know there were lockers and I wondered how I’d carry around a camera, water, even a change of clothes for a kid who might be uncomfortable being wet. There are so many great photo opportunities like putting yours or your kids’ faces inside life-size cut outs of children or adult tourists, or taking a picture next to large golden harps, one of the official symbols of the City of David. Even more exciting are brand new bathrooms, water fountains and a well stocked concession stand selling soft drinks, coffee and fruit smoothies, cans of soda, all kinds of ice creams and candy and chips. I remember waiting a bit before the tour began and I was so happy my kids could go to the bathroom, drink water, and have snacks before we left. There is also a movie presentation in Hebrew or English in a newly constructed theater on site before the tours begin. It’s 3-D, so your kids will enjoy putting on the special glasses. Remember to drop them in the baskets provided on the way out. So many of my friends and their children have come back from Israel sharing exciting stories of hiking and singing through these deep, dark 2,000 year-old aqueducts. Remember, water levels vary depending on the time of year you are visiting. Even in the winter, the water won’t rise above more than your knee. It’s no big deal, but make sure everyone is wearing a water shoe. Don’t forget, you can change your pants or shirts or shoes if you rent that locker!!
Hour and a half long tours in English run Sunday- Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Cost for adults 35 NIS and for kids (5-18) 25 NIS. Tickets are cheaper if purchased on the website.
http://www.cityofdavid.org.il/ArticleDetails_eng.asp?id=214
