Rainbow Street is one of the most popular and vibrant streets in Amman, the capital of Jordan. It is a place where history, culture, art, food, and nightlife come together to create a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you are looking for a relaxing stroll, a shopping spree, a cultural immersion, or a night out, Rainbow Street has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore the best things to do and see on Rainbow Street, as well as some tips and recommendations on when to visit, where to stay, and how to get there. Let's get started!
The Best Time to Visit Rainbow Street
Rainbow Street is a year-round destination, but there are some factors that you may want to consider before planning your trip. The weather in Amman varies depending on the season, with hot and dry summers, mild and rainy winters, and pleasant springs and autumns. The best time to visit Rainbow Street is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the temperature is moderate, the flowers are blooming, and the street is lively and colorful. However, if you don't mind the heat or the cold, you can also enjoy Rainbow Street in the summer and winter, as there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to choose from.
Another factor to consider is the crowd. Rainbow Street is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, so it can get busy and noisy at times, especially on weekends and holidays. If you prefer a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere, you may want to visit Rainbow Street on weekdays or early mornings, when the street is less crowded and more peaceful. However, if you enjoy the hustle and bustle and want to mingle with the locals, you may want to visit Rainbow Street on weekends or evenings, when the street is full of life and energy.
Finally, you may want to check the events and festivals that take place on Rainbow Street throughout the year. Rainbow Street hosts many cultural and artistic events, such as the Souk Jara market, the Amman Jazz Festival, the Rainbow Street Film Festival, and the Rainbow Street Carnival. These events are a great opportunity to experience the local culture, music, art, and cuisine, as well as to have fun and make new friends.
The Best Things to Do and See on Rainbow Street
Rainbow Street is a street that offers a variety of attractions and activities for all tastes and interests. Here are some of the best things to do and see on Rainbow Street, divided into categories:
Culture and History
Rainbow Street is a street that has a rich and diverse history, dating back to the early 20th century, when it was known as Abu Bakr al Siddiq Street. It was the home of many prominent figures, such as King Talal, King Hussein, and the Duke of Mukhaybeh, as well as the site of many historical events, such as the Arab Revolt, the Great Arab Revolt Museum, and the 1956 riots. Today, you can still see and visit some of the cultural and historical landmarks on Rainbow Street, such as:
The Roman Theatre: This is one of the most impressive and well-preserved Roman monuments in Amman, built in the 2nd century AD. It can seat up to 6,000 people and is still used for cultural events and performances. You can also visit the Jordan Folklore Museum and the Jordan Museum of Popular Traditions, which are located inside the theatre.
The National Museum of Jordan: This is the largest and most comprehensive museum in Jordan, showcasing the history and culture of the country from prehistoric times to the present day. You can see exhibits of archaeological artifacts, mosaics, coins, manuscripts, and more. You can also enjoy the beautiful gardens and the panoramic views of the city from the museum.
The Rainbow Theatre: This is a charming and cozy theatre that hosts various cultural events, such as plays, concerts, lectures, and workshops. You can also enjoy the cafe and the bookstore that are attached to the theatre.
The Duke's Diwan: This is a historic house that belonged to the Duke of Mukhaybeh, one of the most influential and respected figures in Amman. It is now a cultural center that welcomes visitors and offers them a glimpse of the old Amman lifestyle. You can see the original furniture, paintings, and photos, as well as enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with the friendly staff.
Art and Creativity
Rainbow Street is a street that has a vibrant and dynamic art scene, featuring many art galleries and exhibitions that showcase the work of local and international artists. You can admire and buy various forms of art, such as paintings, sculptures, photographs, and more. Some of the art galleries and exhibitions on Rainbow Street are:
Darat al Funun: This is a leading institution for contemporary art in Jordan, housed in six historic buildings that date back to the 1920s. It hosts exhibitions, workshops, lectures, and residencies for artists from the Arab world and beyond. You can also enjoy the library, the cafe, and the stunning views of the city from the terrace.
Nabad Art Gallery: This is a modern and elegant art gallery that promotes emerging and established artists from Jordan and the region. It displays a variety of art styles and mediums, such as abstract, figurative, mixed media, and more. You can also attend the opening receptions, the artist talks, and the special events that are held at the gallery.
Jacaranda Images: This is a unique and cozy art gallery that specializes in prints and posters of original artworks by local and international artists. You can find prints of various themes and genres, such as landscapes, portraits, animals, and more. You can also order custom-made prints and frames, as well as browse the books and cards that are available at the gallery.
Food and Drink
Rainbow Street is a street that has a diverse and delicious food scene, offering a range of cuisines and dishes for all palates and budgets. You can find traditional and modern Jordanian food, as well as international food, such as Italian, French, Indian, and more. You can also enjoy the cafes and bakeries that serve coffee, tea, pastries, and ice cream. Some of the restaurants and cafes on Rainbow Street are:
Sufra: This is one of the most popular and authentic Jordanian restaurants on Rainbow Street, serving dishes such as mansaf, maqluba, maglouba, and more. You can also enjoy the salads, soups, appetizers, and desserts that are made with fresh and local ingredients. The restaurant has a cozy and elegant atmosphere, with a terrace that overlooks the street.
Books@Cafe: This is a combination of a cafe, a bookstore, and a cultural hub on Rainbow Street, offering a variety of food, drinks, books, and events. You can find dishes such as burgers, pizzas, salads, and more, as well as coffee, tea, juices, and cocktails. You can also browse the books and magazines that are available in different languages and genres, as well as attend the book signings, readings, and discussions that are held at the cafe.
Wild Jordan: This is a cafe and a shop that supports the conservation and development of Jordan's nature and wildlife. You can enjoy the organic and healthy food and drinks that are made with local and fair trade products, such as salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and more. You can also buy the handicrafts and souvenirs that are made by the local communities that live in the nature reserves. The cafe has a stunning view of the old city and the citadel.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Rainbow Street is a street that has a lively and fun nightlife scene, featuring many bars and lounges that offer music, drinks, and entertainment. You can find bars and lounges that cater to different tastes and moods, such as jazz, rock, hip hop, and more. You can also enjoy the live performances, DJs, and karaoke that are available at some of the venues. Some of the bars and lounges on Rainbow Street are:
La Calle: This is one of the most popular and trendy bars on Rainbow Street, offering a variety of music, drinks, and events. You can find music genres such as reggae, salsa, funk, and more, as well as drinks such as beers, wines, cocktails, and more. You can also enjoy the rooftop terrace that has a view of the street and the city.
The Good Pub: This is a cozy and friendly pub that offers a selection of beers, wines, spirits, and snacks. You can also enjoy the sports, games, and trivia that are available at the pub, as well as the live music and comedy nights that are held occasionally. The pub has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with a fireplace and a dartboard.
The Cube Lounge: This is a chic and sophisticated lounge that offers a range of music, drinks, and events. You can find music genres such as house, techno, lounge, and more, as well as drinks such as champagne, cocktails, mocktails, and more. You can also enjoy the VIP area, the shisha, and the special offers that are available at the lounge.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Rainbow Street is a street that has a variety of shops and markets that offer a range of products and services for all needs and preferences. You can find clothes, accessories, books, art, and more, as well as souvenirs and gifts that are unique
Rainbow Street is a street that has a variety of shops and markets that offer a range of products and services for all needs and preferences. You can find clothes, accessories, books, art, and more, as well as souvenirs and gifts that are unique and meaningful. Some of the shops and markets on Rainbow Street are:
Souk Jara: This is a seasonal market that takes place every Friday from May to October on Rainbow Street. It is a place where you can find handmade and vintage items, such as jewelry, pottery, carpets, and more. You can also enjoy the food stalls, the live music, and the street performers that are available at the market.
Turtle Green Tea Bar: This is a cozy and quirky tea bar that offers a variety of teas, coffees, smoothies, and snacks. You can also buy the tea leaves and accessories that are displayed at the bar, such as mugs, teapots, and infusers. You can also enjoy the books, games, and art that are available at the bar.
Mlabbas: This is a fun and creative shop that specializes in custom-made t-shirts, hoodies, bags, and more. You can choose from the designs that are available at the shop, or create your own design using the online tool or the in-store service. You can also find other products, such as magnets, stickers, and posters, that feature Jordanian culture and humor.
Fair Trade Shop: This is a shop that supports the fair trade movement and the local producers and artisans. You can find products that are made with natural and organic materials, such as olive oil, soap, honey, and more. You can also find products that are made with traditional and recycled materials, such as baskets, candles, and more.
The Best Hotels Near Rainbow Street
If you want to stay near Rainbow Street and enjoy its attractions and activities, you have many options to choose from, depending on your budget and preferences. You can find hotels that offer luxury and comfort, as well as hotels that offer simplicity and affordability. Some of the best hotels near Rainbow Street are:
Four Seasons: This is one of the most luxurious and prestigious hotels in Amman, located near Rainbow Street and the city center. It offers spacious and elegant rooms and suites, with amenities such as Wi-Fi, TV, minibar, and more. It also offers facilities and services such as a spa, a pool, a gym, a restaurant, a bar, and more.
Amman Rotana: This is a modern and stylish hotel that offers a panoramic view of the city, located near Rainbow Street and the Abdali Boulevard. It offers comfortable and contemporary rooms and suites, with amenities such as Wi-Fi, TV, minibar, and more. It also offers facilities and services such as a spa, a pool, a gym, a restaurant, a bar, and more.
Le Royal: This is a grand and majestic hotel that offers a royal experience, located near Rainbow Street and the city center. It offers luxurious and spacious rooms and suites, with amenities such as Wi-Fi, TV, minibar, and more. It also offers facilities and services such as a spa, a pool, a gym, a restaurant, a bar, and more.
Art Hotel: This is a cozy and charming hotel that offers a artistic vibe, located on Rainbow Street and the city center. It offers simple and colorful rooms and suites, with amenities such as Wi-Fi, TV, minibar, and more. It also offers facilities and services such as a cafe, a gallery, a library, and more.
Conclusion
Rainbow Street is a street that has something for everyone, whether you are looking for culture, history, art, food, nightlife, or shopping. It is a street that reflects the diversity and beauty of Amman, as well as the hospitality and friendliness of its people. It is a street that you should not miss when you visit Jordan, as it will give you a memorable and enjoyable experience. If you liked this article, please share it with your friends and family, and let us know what you think in the comments below. Thank you for reading! š
