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Discover 8 experiences in Rio de Janeiro that are different from traditional tours!

 We know that Rio's iconic beaches and tourist attractions are world-renowned and everyone rushes to see Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain. However, the city offers much more than the traditional itinerary!

If you're wondering what's different to do in Rio, this guide brings you the best  experiences in Rio  for those who want to explore the city in an alternative and unforgettable way.

But if you want to know what to do in Rio on the tourist route, be sure to check out our complete guide with the best tourist attractions in the city!

river experiences: the best different river experiences
View of Sugarloaf Mountain and Guanabara Bay - Rio de Janeiro - RJ / Source: Unsplash, agustindiazg

How to get to Rio de Janeiro

Tom Jobim International Airport ,  or Galeão , is one of the main entry points for those coming from abroad.

Santos Dumont Airport usually  receives many domestic flights and is located closer to the city center.

For those who prefer  to travel by bus , Rio is served by several  bus companies  offering long-distance services, making the city accessible from many locations.

Novo Rio Bus Station ,  located in the city center, guarantees easy access to the city's main attractions and facilitates the transportation of people coming from different regions of the country.

With  BlaBlaCar , purchasing  bus tickets  is easy and simple, making your journey even more convenient and affordable.

And if you prefer  to share the journey  with other travelers, consider hitchhiking  to Rio de Janeiro .

This is an environmentally friendly and economical way to travel, as well as offering natural beauty along the way.

Discover 7 different experiences in Rio

1. Neon Brush: Paint in the Dark - Fluorescent Art in the Dark

📍16th St. John the Baptist Street - Townhouse - 2nd floor - Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro, 22270-030

For those looking for different experiences in Rio de Janeiro,  Neon Brush  (previously known as Paint in the Dark) offers a unique opportunity to explore your creativity in an environment that mixes art, music and a retro-futuristic atmosphere.

This painting workshop takes place in a dark space, lit only by black lights that make the fluorescent paints glow in a mesmerizing way.

Guided by an artist, you will have the chance to create your own work of art while enjoying a drink, be it a beer, a caipirinha or a non-alcoholic option, making the experience even more engaging and fun.

Located in Botafogo, Neon Brush is the perfect place for a different afternoon, whether with friends, on a romantic date or even for a creative happy hour on the weekend.

The experience, which has already been a hit in cities such as Paris and London, lasts around 1 hour and 30 minutes and is ideal for adults who want to have fun and unleash their inner artist.

At the end, you take your creation home, a bright and colorful souvenir of this unforgettable moment.

#BlaBlaTip Reserve your spot in advance, as sessions tend to fill up quickly.

river experiences: the best different river experiences
Neon Brush - Paint in the dark in Rio de Janeiro, RJ / Disclosure

2. Big Jump: Dive into Trampoline Fun

Aerotown Power Center

📍Ayrton Senna Ave, 2541 Aerotown Shopping Mall - Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22775-002

Via Brasil Shopping Mall

📍500 Itapera Street - Irajá - Rio de Janeiro, RJ

If you're looking for a way to burn off some energy and have fun at the same time,  Big Jump  is the ideal choice.

This trampoline park is one of the  different experiences in Rio  that appeals to both children and adults.

With several themed areas, with interconnected trampolines, climbing wall, basketball, foam pool, zip line, dodgeball and much more, Big Jump promises a dose of adrenaline and guaranteed laughter for the whole family.

#BlaBlaDica Wear comfortable clothes, long socks and get ready to work up a sweat!

3. Paragliding: See Rio from Above

For those looking for an adventurous experience,  paragliding  is one of the  experiences in Rio  that offers a unique perspective of the city.

Leaving from Pedra Bonita, you will have the chance to fly over the Tijuca Forest and the coast of Rio, enjoying spectacular views.

This is a perfect activity for those who want to feel the thrill of flying and have a privileged view of the Marvelous City.

#BlaBlaDica Don't forget to take a camera or cell phone to record every moment of the flight.


river experiences: the best different river experiences
Paragliding in Rio de Janeiro, RJ / Depositphotos

4. Helicopter Flight: Explore the City from a New Angle

Another amazing way to see Rio from above is with a  helicopter flight !

Unlike paragliding, this experience allows you to travel a greater distance and see iconic monuments up close, such as Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain and the beaches of the South Zone.

This is one of the  alternative experiences in Rio  that guarantees memories for a lifetime.

#BlaBlaTip Schedule your flight early in the morning or late in the afternoon to capture the best city lights.

5. Play City: Fun for All Ages

New America Shopping Mall

📍Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., 126 - Del Castilho, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20765-630

Play  City  is an excellent option for those looking for a fun-filled day with the family.

This amusement park has a variety of rides, from the most extreme to the classics for children.

It's a perfect place to spend a few hours relaxing and have a good laugh.

Play City: Guaranteed fun for the whole family
Play City / Play City Website

6. Rio Yup Star Ferris Wheel: Panoramic City Views

📍Porto Maravilha - 20220-360

The  Rio Star Ferris Wheel , at 88 meters high, is one of the largest Ferris wheels in the country and certainly one of the experiences in Rio that offers a stunning panoramic view of the city.

Yup Star offers a tour of approximately 20 minutes, during which you can admire the beauty of the city from a unique and unforgettable angle.

Each of the 54 air-conditioned cabins accommodates up to 8 people, ensuring comfort and an enjoyable experience whatever the weather.

If you are looking for a moment of contemplation or want to create special memories with friends and family, the Rio Ferris Wheel is the ideal place to let your imagination flow and enjoy the view of happiness that only Rio can offer.

Tickets cost from R$39.90 to R$79.90 full price without discounts.

#BlaBlaDica Schedule your visit for sunset for an even more magical experience.

7. The Squirrels Restaurant

📍Cascade Road - Alto da Boa Vista, Rio de Janeiro - RJ

Os Esquilos Restaurant is   one of the most iconic and historic establishments in Rio de Janeiro, located in the heart of the Tijuca Forest.

Founded in 1945 by Italian Hugo Busca, the restaurant has a rich history that dates back to the time when the Tijuca Forest was replanted, transforming it into one of the largest urban natural refuges in the world.

The restaurant occupies a century-old mansion that was originally the home of the administrators of the Tijuca Forest.

During the colder months, the restaurant offers the option of dining by the fireplace, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The space is decorated in a rustic and elegant style, reflecting the tradition and history of the place.

river experiences: the best different river experiences
The Squirrels Restaurant - Rio de Janeiro, RJ / Tijuca Forest, Disclosure

The menu is a combination of international and national dishes, with the chef's suggestions including Medallions in Roquefort sauce, Steak in Poivre and Salmon in passion fruit sauce. On weekends, the traditional Feijoada is one of the stars of the menu.

From May to October, Fondue served by the fireplace stands out as one of the most special gastronomic experiences.

8. Salt Stone and Prainha's Breath

📍Rt.

Located in the Saúde neighborhood, Pedra do Sal is one of the most historic and cultural points in Rio de Janeiro.

Known as one of the birthplaces of Rio's samba, this place offers a unique experience for visitors, with open-air samba circles that take place regularly and attract both locals and tourists.

Pedra do Sal is also a landmark of the city's African heritage, being part of Little Africa, a region that preserves and celebrates Afro-Brazilian culture.

In addition to the music, the relaxed atmosphere, the view of the port and the historical setting make Pedra do Sal an unmissable experience in Rio.

A River Experience at Pedra do Sal: Exploring Carioca History and Culture
Graffiti in Pedra do Sal - RJ / Source: Flickr, ingridt

This guide shows how Rio de Janeiro goes beyond conventional tours, offering a variety of  different and alternative experiences  that promise to transform your trip into an unforgettable adventure.

If you're looking for something new, these activities are sure to surprise you!

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