72 Things to Do in Beijing with Kids

Experience thrilling rides, immersive themed lands like Harry Potter and Kung Fu Panda, and live shows that will captivate the whole family. It's a world-class theme park adventure right in Beijing.

Tip: Consider purchasing fast passes to minimize wait times for popular attractions.

Get up close and personal with a vast array of animals in a naturalistic setting. Kids will love the opportunity to see and even feed many of the creatures.

Tip: The park is open year-round, with slightly different hours in summer and winter.

Discover multi-story indoor playgrounds packed with games, activities, and obstacle courses that are perfect for kids to burn off energy, especially on days with challenging weather.

Tip: Many malls in Beijing feature these amazing indoor play spaces.

Spark curiosity with interactive exhibits that make learning about science and technology fun and engaging for all ages. It's a great place for hands-on discovery.

Journey through the cosmos under a stunning domed sky. This immersive experience brings the mysteries of space to life for curious young minds.

A fantastic indoor play cafe offering a variety of fun activities like a train ride, dress-up, and crafts, all within a comfortable and engaging environment.

Experience the iconic Great Wall with a family-friendly approach. The Mutianyu section offers stunning views and the thrilling option of a toboggan ride down.

Tip: Consider the toboggan for a fun descent, but check height requirements for children.

Step back in time and explore the magnificent imperial palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases China's rich history and architectural grandeur.

Tip: Book tickets online in advance to save time.

Dive into an underwater world at one of the largest inland aquariums, featuring diverse marine life and captivating dolphin and sea lion performances.

Enjoy winter fun with a variety of snow and ice activities suitable for both kids and adults, offering a refreshing break from city sightseeing.

Tip: Entrance fees are generally affordable, making it a great value for family fun.

Immerse yourselves in Chinese history and culture with vast collections of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the nation.

Wander through the stunning imperial gardens, lakes, and palaces, offering a beautiful and serene escape with plenty of space for kids to explore.

Tip: Can be a full day trip, consider visiting during warmer months for the best experience.

Explore this architectural marvel and its surrounding park, a place of historical significance and a popular spot for locals to gather and practice tai chi.

Climb to the top of the hill for panoramic views of the Forbidden City. It's a great spot to get a sense of the city's scale and history.

Tip: Often hosts local activities like music and dancing, especially in the mornings.

Experience authentic local life in this beautiful park where residents gather to sing, dance, play music, and exercise, offering a glimpse into everyday Beijing culture.

Tip: Mornings and evenings are the best times to visit to see locals in action.

A fun-filled park offering go-karts, boat rentals on the lake, and carnival rides, providing a lively atmosphere for family entertainment.

Engage in traditional Chinese cultural activities like cooking classes or calligraphy workshops, offering a hands-on learning experience for the whole family.

Tip: Book workshops in advance to secure your spot.

See iconic giant pandas and a wide variety of other animals in a classic zoo setting, a reliable choice for entertaining younger children.

Tip: A good option for younger kids or if you have limited time.

Explore this historic street known for its traditional crafts, calligraphy, and art shops, offering a glimpse into Beijing's cultural heritage.

Wander through charming alleyways (hutongs) filled with unique boutiques, cafes, and art studios, offering a more local and less touristy vibe than other areas.

Visit the world's largest city square, a significant historical and political landmark in the heart of Beijing, often visited in conjunction with the Forbidden City.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the picturesque lake, rent a boat, or simply relax amidst the beautiful scenery of this historic imperial garden.

Tip: The lake may freeze over in winter, offering a different kind of beauty.

An indoor amusement park offering a variety of fun and engaging activities for children, making it a great option for family entertainment.

A unique indoor play space designed to spark imagination and provide active fun for kids with various themed areas and activities.

Take a short trip to the nearby city of Tianjin for a change of scenery, offering a different perspective on Chinese urban life and culture.

Discover Beijing's hidden stories and local life through engaging walking tours that offer unique insights into the city's history and culture.

Visit one of Beijing's most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, known for its impressive architecture and serene atmosphere.

Explore the historic hutong alleyways around the Drum and Bell Towers, offering a glimpse into traditional Beijing life with charming architecture and local shops.

Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Shichahai lakes, offering opportunities for boat rides and leisurely walks in a vibrant area of the city.

Rent a Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) and enjoy a unique perspective of the city from the water, a fun and active way to explore.

Tip: Don't forget to bring some drinks to enjoy on the river.

Experience the charm of traditional Beijing living by staying in or visiting a beautifully preserved courtyard house, offering a taste of local hospitality.

Let the kids bounce and play to their heart's content at one of Beijing's indoor trampoline parks, offering hours of active fun.

Challenge yourselves at indoor bouldering and climbing gyms, providing a fun and physical activity for older kids and adults.

Test your agility and strength at 'ninja gyms' offering obstacle courses inspired by popular TV shows, perfect for adventurous kids.

Enroll in parkour classes for a dynamic and exciting way to learn movement and coordination, offering a unique physical challenge.

While known for its restaurants, Ghost Street is a vibrant area that comes alive at night, offering a unique atmosphere for an evening stroll.

Explore the area around Beixinqiao subway station, which offers access to local eateries and a glimpse into daily life.

Take a quick and easy high-speed train to Tianjin for a refreshing day trip, exploring its unique blend of colonial architecture and modern development.

Tip: The high-speed train makes this a very convenient day trip.

Visit the site of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, featuring iconic structures like the Bird's Nest stadium and the Water Cube, offering a space for recreation and sightseeing.

Climb to the summit of Jingshan Hill for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Forbidden City and the surrounding Beijing cityscape.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to one of the world's most iconic landmarks. While many sections exist, Mutianyu is often recommended for families.

Tip: Consider hiring a private van for a more comfortable and efficient trip, especially with luggage.

Even in winter, the Summer Palace offers a unique beauty with its frozen lakes and snow-dusted landscapes, providing a serene and picturesque experience.

In winter, Beihai Park's frozen lake transforms into a playground for ice skating and other winter activities, offering a fun local experience.

Participate in a traditional Chinese tea ceremony to learn about the art of tea preparation and enjoy a moment of cultural immersion.

Engage in a hands-on cultural experience, potentially including demonstrations and practice with traditional elements like swordsmanship.

Learn the delightful process of making traditional mochi, a fun and tasty activity for families interested in Japanese culinary arts.

Experience the excitement of a sumo wrestling match, a unique cultural spectacle that offers a glimpse into Japanese tradition.

Many Beijing malls feature impressive indoor play spaces and arcades, providing endless entertainment options for children.

Utilize a comfortable baby carrier for easier navigation of the city, especially in crowded areas or where strollers may be difficult to use.

Tip: An ergo baby carrier can be very useful for navigating the city with a young child.

Stay informed about the daily air quality by checking the AQI, which is crucial for planning outdoor activities, especially with children.

Tip: Check the AQI daily using your phone's weather app.

Explore the traditional alleyways (hutongs) away from the main tourist crowds to experience a more authentic side of Beijing's old neighborhoods.

Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the lake at Xinglong Park, a relaxing activity for families amidst a fun park atmosphere.

Race around the track with go-karts at Xinglong Park, adding an element of excitement and friendly competition to your family outing.

Younger children can enjoy a variety of carnival rides at Xinglong Park, adding to the park's family-friendly entertainment options.

Opt for a private van service for your Great Wall excursion, providing comfort, convenience, and ample space for luggage and family.

Tip: Hiring a van can be very convenient for a Great Wall trip with kids and luggage.

Ascend to the Great Wall via a scenic chairlift, offering a comfortable and enjoyable way to reach the wall, especially with young children.

Experience the thrill of sliding down the Great Wall on a toboggan, a fun and exhilarating way to descend from this historic site.

Inspire creativity and imagination at the Children's Art Museum, offering interactive exhibits and art activities designed for young visitors.

Observe or join locals in their morning activities at Temple of Heaven Park, such as tai chi, dancing, and singing, for a cultural immersion.

Rent a boat on the picturesque Kunming Lake at the Summer Palace for a relaxing and scenic way to explore the grounds.

Tip: Seasonal activity, best enjoyed in warmer weather.

Take a guided walking tour through Beijing's historic hutongs with Beijing Postcards for insightful stories and a deeper understanding of local life.

Learn to cook authentic Chinese dishes in a hands-on class at The Hutong, a fun and delicious cultural experience for families.

Explore the vast and fascinating exhibits at the National Museum of China, offering a comprehensive journey through Chinese history and culture.

Enhance your Universal Studios experience by purchasing fast passes, allowing you to skip long queues and maximize your time on rides and attractions.

Tip: Fast passes are highly recommended to avoid long waits.

Enhance your visit to the Forbidden City by hiring an excellent guide who can bring Chinese history to life and make the extensive palace more engaging.

Tip: A good guide can make the Forbidden City visit much more worthwhile, especially with toddlers.

Take a scenic train ride through Beijing Wildlife Park for a unique perspective on the animal enclosures and a relaxing way to see the park.

Let the kids run free and play at the various outdoor playgrounds within Beijing Wildlife Park, offering a fun break between animal encounters.

Catch exciting animal performances at Beijing Wildlife Park, adding an entertaining element to your visit with shows and demonstrations.

Engage the kids with opportunities to feed the animals at Beijing Wildlife Park, creating memorable and interactive experiences.

Enjoy the wildlife park any time of year, as it remains open throughout the seasons with slightly adjusted operating hours.

Understand the ticket pricing structure for Beijing Wildlife Park, which varies between weekdays, weekends, and holidays, with concessions for students.

Check the specific ticket prices for children at Beijing Wildlife Park, ensuring affordable access for younger visitors.