Shanghai has plenty of indoor activities for rainy days and you’ve probably visited every mall with an indoor playground during cold, rainy or polluted days. Now spring finally appears to be here and the sweaty days of the Shanghai summer are just around the corner, so take advantage of the comfortable temperatures and take your kids outdoors.
It is important for children to spend some time outside and even if your family is not the hiking type and you don’t have the opportunity to travel outside the city, there are lots of fun and spontaneous things to do that does not take place inside a mall. Here are a few tips for how to kill a few hours while taking advantage of the lovely spring weather.
Go to a park
This might seem like an obvious choice for outdoor family activities, but it should not be underestimated. There are lots of beautiful, fun and entertaining parks in the city such as Xujiahui Park and Century Park. Kite flying, mini golf and go kart are some of the activities the city's parks have to offer, or you can always just sit back engage in some people watching while your children run around. Perhaps the most interesting one is Shanghai Sculpture Park with its wide open spaces, lakes, beaches, kids’ activities and of course; artistic sculptures.
Go to an amusement park
Places such as Jinjiang Amusement Park are always fun for family outings. Check out the city from above in the 108 m Ferris wheel and enjoy other rides such as roller coasters and water rides just a short ride from downtown Shanghai. If you are looking for something even more thrilling, go to Happy Valley which is newer with more advanced rides, although a bit further outside the city.
Go to the Zoo
Kids love animals, and whether you have a pet or not, most children will enjoy checking in with the residents of Shanghai Zoo or Shanghai Wild Animal Park once in a while. You’ve probably already been there, but your kids will have fun revisiting pandas, elephants and monkeys any time.
Go for a bike ride
Although one of the best ways to explore Shanghai is by bike, we recommend you to avoid the heavily trafficked areas if you’re bringing your kids. Century Park is a good starting point (where you can also rent bicycles) and from there you can make your way to Laoshan Lu and Zhaojiabang Canal. Scenic views of the waterway and great picnic spots are offered, and it is a great route for kids as there are no hills and no traffic.
