Is it better to stay in the city center or near the gate?

Always stay near the gate (Wadi Musa Tourism Street). The city center is a long, steep walk away, and taxis can be unpredictable.

Do I need a car for a family trip to Petra?

If you are flying into Amman, rent a car. It makes the 3-hour drive to Petra much easier with kids than relying on the JETT bus schedule.

Booking a Family-Friendly Hotel Near Petra

Focus your search on the Wadi Musa area specifically in the 'Tourism Street' district to stay within walking distance of the Petra Visitor Center. Book hotels that explicitly state they offer family suites or connecting rooms, as many boutique hotels in the area only feature smaller double rooms.

Filter by location in Wadi Musa. Use Google Maps to verify the distance from the hotel to the 'Petra Visitor Center.' Anything further than a 15-minute walk will require a taxi or shuttle, which is a hassle with children. Aim for hotels within the 500-meter radius of the main gate.
Check for family room configurations. Many hotels in Wadi Musa are converted houses with limited floor space. When searching booking platforms, filter specifically for 'Family Rooms' or 'Triple/Quad Rooms.' If the site shows only doubles, email the hotel directly to ask if they have rooms with extra cot capacity.
Verify breakfast inclusion. Opt for a rate that includes breakfast. Petra requires early starts to beat the heat and the crowds; having a buffet breakfast on-site saves at least 45 minutes of finding a restaurant at 7:00 AM with hungry kids.
Confirm shuttle services. Even if a hotel is 'near' the site, the walk back is uphill. Check if the hotel offers a complimentary shuttle back from the Visitor Center in the afternoon.

Is it better to stay in the city center or near the gate?: Always stay near the gate (Wadi Musa Tourism Street). The city center is a long, steep walk away, and taxis can be unpredictable.
Do I need a car for a family trip to Petra?: If you are flying into Amman, rent a car. It makes the 3-hour drive to Petra much easier with kids than relying on the JETT bus schedule.