Matadero is a very nice public space. It has many attractions within its place, some are paid and…read moresome are free. They have a little bar/restaurant a theater and movies inside. Somehow though, I always feel like I need something more. The art exhibit sometimes aren't on and the time they are open isn't quite clear.
If you're in the west side/ south west of the city, you must walk along Madrid rio and then go into the Matadero. You might want to go into a movie, have a bite to eat around, visit the free exhibit or if it's winter maybe even ice skate.
Like I said, Matadero is really a nice place for the family and to spend some time walking around, but it always leaves me with a feeling that I want more from it, as if there is too much space and it's not being quite utilize or something of the sort. I do suggest you try it and enjoy it because it has many things to do and perhaps it's more enjoyable for a whole family than for a couple.