10 Things to do in Bangkok with Kids
Whether you're travelling with young children or teenagers, Bangkok is a vibrant and exciting city that offers a plethora of things to see and do, so here's a round-up of activities not to be missed - join me!
There are few cities in the world that can match the mix of exoticism, history and fun in the capital of the Land of Smiles. And with so much to enjoy, it promises an unrivalled sensory overload for the whole family.
From exploring the Grand Palace and visiting the famous Buddha Temple, to adrenaline-pumping go-kart tracks, zip-lining, elephant watching, penguin feeding, visiting its Creative District or sampling exotic dishes, here are ten top attractions and activities for the best things to do in Bangkok with kids.
1. Experience the adventure of the Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World
If you're looking for one of the 11 Best Things To Do in Bangkok If you're looking for one of the best things to do in Bangkok with kids, the answer is simple, I invite you to buy your tickets to the Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World, where you'll have a fun-filled day with the little ones at home. This fascinating attraction showcases more than 30,000 sea creatures in various themed areas, including shark rides, an ice adventure where children can feed the penguins and a 4D cinema.
Don't miss the chance to enter a huge underwater tunnel and marvel at the fascinating colours and shapes of the exotic marine life. And if you're looking for more hands-on activities, book a behind-the-scenes tour, where you'll get up close and personal with some of the ocean's most fascinating creatures.
In addition, Sea Life Bangkok offers everything from interactive touch pool experiences, educational talks and feeding sessions, to taking in a Broadway-style Thai icon show that captures the attention of adults and children alike - there's something for everyone at this incredible aquarium.
With so many fun activities, it's no wonder Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World is a must-visit for families. So get ready for a day of unparalleled aquatic exploration at B1-B2 Floor, Siam Paragon, 991 Rama 1 Rd, Pathumwan, Bangkok, an 8-minute walk from Madame Tussauds BANGKOK.
2. Hit the go-kart tracks with your kids at EasyKart Bangkok!
Looking for an exciting and different activity to do with your kids in Bangkok? Hit the go-kart tracks at EasyKart Bangkok! This place is ideal for those looking for a high speed and adrenaline experience.
EasyKart Bangkok offers a wide variety of karts for all ages, from karts for kids, to high speed karts for adults. The facility also offers a range of circuits with different levels to explore. From short circuits for beginners, to longer and more challenging circuits for the more experienced. Check out this video to get an idea.
One of the best things about EasyKart Bangkok is that it is safe. With professional instructors and safety equipment, these tracks represent an ideal choice for motor enthusiasts and little ones.
EasyKart Bangkok also offers packages for private events such as birthday and stag/hen parties, family competitions, etc. If you are looking for an exciting activity for your next event, this is an excellent choice!
3. See the Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Temple
Thailand's capital is brimming with an eclectic mix of culture, history and modernity. It is a city that offers something for everyone, including families with children, and the Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Temple is the first stop for any traveller wishing to experience the country's cultural melting pot.
When you purchase your tickets to the Grand Palace or Wat Phra Kaew, you will have the opportunity to visit its complex of ornate buildings and temples, which was the royal residence of the King of Thailand until the early 20th century. Today it is a museum showcasing the country's colourful and rich history.
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is located within the grounds of the Grand Palace and houses a revered jade Buddha statue. It is considered one of the most important and sacred temples in Thailand, and its exquisite and intricate detailing will leave your children spellbound.
Despite being a popular tourist destination, the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha exude serenity and spirituality. It's their contrasts that catch the attention of the little ones, especially if you then look up at Wat Pho, a huge golden reclining Buddha of asymmetrical dimensions located a few blocks away from the Grand Palace.
4. Visit the Promised Land at Siam Amazing Park
This huge park sprawls over 4,000 square kilometres and is home to some of the most exciting water, theme and amusement rides for children and adults to enjoy.
From the Vortex, a 7-storey slide that plunges passengers into a swimming pool, to its massive roller coaster, to the wave pool where you can relax and splash around in the water, Siam Park City has something for the kids - and not so kids - to enjoy. Its thrill rides are not for the faint hearted, on the contrary, they will test your courage and give you an adrenaline rush in a safe environment.
In addition to the water rides, the park offers other activities to explore with the kids, such as a haunted mansion, a dinosaur museum and even an ice skating rink. Those looking for a more relaxed experience can immerse themselves in the park's other attractions such as Animal World, so when you're planning your things to do and see in Bangkok in the summer, you can make a point of stopping off at this park for an exciting day out.
5. Take a food tour in Bangkok with kids
This recommendation may come as a surprise, but when you see the vibrant colours of Thai cuisine, the exotic flavours and, above all, the dynamics of street food, you'll know why Thai food tours find their audience with the little ones.
Bangkok' s cuisine has something for everyone's palate. There are many places where you can find delicious food, from street stalls to local restaurants. Pad Thai and chicken are some of the most popular dishes. Other options are insect-based dishes in contrast to the classics such as traditional pizza.
There are also many exotic fruits to try, such as mangosteen, water coconuts and lychees. Another interesting fact is that the best food tours in Bangkok often include visits to local markets, the experience of learning how to cook Thai food, and of course, trying many different dishes. Just make a note of the expression "mai phet" (not spicy), it will come in handy.
In short, going on a food tour in the Thai capital is an exciting adventure that stimulates the palate of adults and children alike.
6. Visit Khao Yai National Park
Khao Yai National Park is an authentic Thai jungle that opened in 1962 and has been Thailand's number one nature reserve ever since. It is located in the province of Nakhon Ratchasima and although it is a 2 hour drive from Bangkok, it has so much to offer that it is one of the most popular tourist destinations for families travelling with children.
For starters, you can explore Khao Yai on foot by hiking through the lush forests or joining one of the many guided tours offered throughout the day. If you're feeling adventurous, climb rocks or try your hand at zip-lining through the treetops! You can also enjoy some relaxation time during your visit by participating in one of the various yoga classes available at various locations in Khao Yai Park.
In addition to all these activities, there are also plenty of things for children to do while visiting Khao Yai National Park, including: swimming in waterfalls, getting up close to the bird observatory, going on safari, picnics, exploring caves, or seeing elephants in their natural habitat and much more!
This park promotes ecotourism and the facility is a great place to learn about wildlife conservation efforts being made throughout Southeast Asia. You can see all they have to offer on their website. Visit them at PO.9 PakChong Musi Pakchong Nakhon Ratchasima.
7. Visit the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre
The Bangkok Art and Culture Centre is a vibrant, contemporary space offering diverse exhibitions, performances and workshops for all ages that flanks the metropolis' Creative District. The Centre features a mix of international and local artists, making it a great place to learn about the city's history, culture and modern life.
Inside, exhibitions encourage interaction and immersion, with a range of multimedia installations, sculptures and paintings to explore. Children will love the opportunity to create their art in the interactive studio or attend one of the many workshops on offer.
With a packed calendar of events, including family movie nights and live performances, the Bangkok Arts and Culture Centre is a great destination for families looking to get away from the typical tourist activities. In addition, its central location extending 2 blocks from the Jim Thompson House Museum makes it easy to combine with other nearby attractions. Discover avant-garde and contemporary Thai art in one place.
8. Enjoy Lumpini Park
Visit one of **Bangkok'**s most important natural lungs: Lumpini Park. This park is an oasis of tranquillity amidst the hustle and bustle of the city's 58 hectares of green space, and is a perfect place for children to enjoy nature in the heart of the city.
The park has a variety of activities for the whole family, from cycling to outdoor yoga. There is also a lake in the centre of the park where you can rent a boat and paddle while enjoying the view of the scenery, or if you prefer, you can just jog on the running track. In addition, there are plenty of green areas for children to run and play.
One of the most popular attractions at Lumpini Park is the lizard show. These giant reptiles have an impressive presence and children can watch them up close as they move freely around the park.
If you feel like exercising, there are several free class options in the park, such as tai chi. Another popular activity in the park is the open-air concerts held on weekends. This is one of the best public parks in the world according to National Geographic, so make the most of it!
9. Have fun with your kids at Asiatique The Riverfront!
Asiatique The Riverfront is a mecca for family fun. Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, Asiatique is an open-air mall where the magical world of Disney merges with Thai culture and offers a wide range of activities and entertainment options for children and adults.
One of the most prominent attractions, Asiatique's Ferris wheel, features an imposing structure that offers breathtaking views of the Bangkok skyline. Your kids will love the thrill of riding in the glass cabin, and you'll appreciate the opportunity to take amazing photos.
There are also bumper cars, a haunted house and other carnival rides. And if you're looking for a more relaxed experience, you can take a leisurely stroll through the many shops and boutiques that line the promenade. But we have to admit that the best thing about Asiatique is the nightly entertainment. From traditional Thai dance performances, including the famous Muay Thai Live Show, to modern theatrical shows, there's always something to do on the Asiatique stage.
You and your little ones will be mesmerised by the colourful costumes, intricate choreography and talented performers. And no stroll here would be complete without sampling the delicious street food on offer. Overall, Asiatique The Riverfront is an attraction that should be on the bucket list of every family visiting Bangkok. With so many activities and entertainment options, it's impossible to get bored here.
10. Take a tour of Bangkok's museums
If you are looking for an educational and fun plan to do with your children in the Thai capital, a tour of the city's museums can be an excellent alternative. The variety is as varied as the city itself and best of all, most of them have a stop near the Bangkok tourist bus.
Here is a map with the 9 most famous museums in Bangkok. However, I highlight three of them:
Bangkok Natural History Museum
If you are looking for a museum that appeals to both children and adults, the Bangkok Museum of Natural History is the place to go. It is home to an impressive collection of fossils, dinosaur skeletons and other prehistoric remains. The highlight of this museum is undoubtedly its life-size replica of a Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton (the largest in the world).
If your kids like to learn about animals, they will love exploring all the exhibits here. There are many interactive displays where they can learn more about different species, including snakes, crocodiles and elephants!
The Farm: Snake Museum (Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute)
At the Snake Museum or Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute you can see a variety of snake species and learn about their behaviour and habitat. But the jewel of this museum is the live show where the keepers demonstrate their skills in removing venom from the snakes. How many museums can you see this in?
Siam Museum
Through multimedia exhibits and interactive games the Siam Museum invites you to learn about the past, present and possible future of Siamese culture and society almost organically.
The two-storey building houses a series of educational galleries with videos, interactive objects, Thai games, and you can even try on Thai dress. Plus, after 4pm,admission is free!