1. Top Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh with Family for Every Age Group
In this guide, we will explore the top things to do in Ho Chi Minh with
family, ensuring that every member of your group, regardless of age, has
a fantastic time discovering the wonders of this captivating city.
1.1 Top Places to Visit in Ho Chi Minh City with Kids: Toddlers and Preschoolers (1-5 years old)
Parks and Playgrounds: Tao Dan Park
Top Places to Visit in Ho Chi Minh City with Kids: Parks and Playgrounds
Located in the city's center, is a popular family attraction. It has
wide green spaces, shaded walking routes, and a playground with a
variety of play structures, swings, and slides. The park has a
designated area where children may practice their skateboarding or rollerblading talents. Occasionally, the park also offers cultural events and festivals, which provide a lively atmosphere for children to enjoy.
TiniWorld
Places to Visit in Ho Chi Minh City with Kids TiniWorld
TiniWorld is a popular indoor playground chain in Ho Chi Minh City
that provides a delightful experience for children of all ages.
TiniWorld has numerous locations across the city and offers colorful
play structures, slides, ball pits, and interactive activities to spark
children's imaginations and encourage active play. The
well-maintained facilities prioritize safety, and the staff members
create a safe space for children to have fun, so you don't need to worry
about your childs' safety while playing in TiniWorld.
Note
that TiniWorld playgrounds are all located in shopping malls, so you
don’t be surprised when you arrive at the destination! Here is a list of
TiniWorlds that you can check out:
Tiniworld Nowzone
- Address: 3rd Floor, 235 Nguyen Van Cu Street, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1
- Opening hours: 9:30 AM - 9:30 PM
- Price: 100,000 VND - 120,000 VND
- Address: 3rd Floor, 8-10 Nguyen Chi Tho Street, Thu Thiem Ward, Thu Duc District
- Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM; Sat-Sun: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Price: 150,000 VND - 180,000 VND
Tiniworld Aeon Binh Tan
- Address: 2nd Floor, 1 Street 17A, Binh Tri Dong B Ward, Binh Tan District
- Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM; Sat-Sun: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Price: 150,000 VND - 180,000 VND
Tiniworld The Estella HCM
- Address: 4th Floor, 88 Song Hanh Street, An Phu Ward, District 2
- Opening hours: 9:30 AM - 9:30 PM
- Price: 120,000 VND - 150,000 VND
Tiniworld Crescent Mall
- Address: B1 Floor, 101 Ton Dat Tien Street, Tan Phu Ward, District 7
- Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM; Sat-Sun: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Price: 120,000 VND - 150,000 VND
Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden
Places to Visit in Ho Chi Minh City with Kids Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden
The Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, located in District 1,
is Vietnam's oldest zoo. It contains a varied range of animal species
and provides a beautiful green place for families to explore, picnic,
and spend the day outside. It's an excellent family location, with a
good selection of fascinating activities for children to enjoy. Children
can embark on an exciting voyage through the animal exhibits, where they'll witness majestic elephants, lively monkeys, and other intriguing species from all over the world. The zoo also hosts fascinating animal shows, allowing children to experience the local species' abilities and natural habits.
Furthermore, the zoo has a separate playground with swings, slides, and other play equipment, developing their energy and imagination.
Exploring the botanical garden, with its vivid plant life and aromatic
blooms, is an excellent way for children to interact with nature and
broaden their knowledge.
Address: 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Price:
- 60,000 VND/Adult
- 40,000 VND/Children under 1.3 meters
- Free for Children under 1 meter
1.2 Top Places to Visit in Ho Chi Minh City with Kids: School-Aged Children (6-12 Years Old)
Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City with Family: Experience Suoi Tien Theme Park
Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City with Family: Experience Suoi Tien Theme Park
Suoi Tien Park is a wonderful choice for families looking for a fun
and thrilling day out. This theme park in Ho Chi Minh City, with 105
hectares of land, has a variety of activities for people of all ages to
enjoy. Suoi Tien Park offers a variety of attractions for the entire
family, from exhilarating rides to slow-moving relaxing rides. The park
boasts a distinct cultural theme, and presents Vietnamese folklore and
stories through engaging sculptures and displays. The water park provides a refreshing respite from the Saigon heat with pools, slides, and water-based activities.
Suoi Tien Park provides a great environment for families to have
memorable experiences by hosting regular events and performances, as
well as magnificent natural settings, food options, and conveniences.
It takes around 45 minutes to an hour to get from Ho Chi Minh City's central District 1 to Suoi Tien Park,
depending on your choice of transportation. The fastest and most
efficient method is by car, which will get you there in around 40
minutes. Another method is by bus; a one way ticket from the central
area to Suoi Tien Park shouldn't cost you more than 10,000 VND per
person, but it can take up to 1 hour 30 minutes to arrive.
Address: 120 Hanoi Highway, Tan Phu Ward, District 9
Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Price:
- 150,000-430,000 VND/Adult
- 80,000-200,000 VND/Children under 1.4 meters
- Free for children under 1 meter
Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City with Family: Explore Dam Sen Park & Water Park
things to do in ho chi minh city with family dam sen park
If Suoi Tien Park is too far for you, Dam Sen Park, located in Ho Chi Minh City's District 11, is a great alternative choice.
Dam Sen Park, located in Ho Chi Minh City's District 11. Though it’s
only half the size of Suoi Tien Park, it still provides a variety of
attractions and activities for people of all ages. Dam Sen Park has two separate areas: the amusement park and the water park.
The amusement park area has a wide variety of rides, including roller
coasters, carousels, Ferris wheel and bumper cars, appealing to both
adrenaline junkies and those who prefer a more relaxing experience.
There is a thrilling water park featuring water slides, wave pools, and
lazy rivers that offer hours of aquatic excitement and escape from the
heat.
Visitors may also immerse themselves in Vietnamese
culture by visiting the cultural village, which has traditional
architecture, gardens, and engaging performances. The park's floral
garden features vivid blossoms and provides a peaceful backdrop for
leisurely strolls. With a variety of dining options, including
restaurants and food stalls serving local and international cuisine, Dam
Sen Park ensures a memorable and enjoyable experience for all.
Address: 262 Lac Long Quan Street, Ward 5, District 11
Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Price:
- 80,000-300,000 VND/Adult
- 60,000-220,000 VND/Children under 1.4 meters
- Free for children under 1 meter
Museum
While some museums can be information overload for young children, the
Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts and the Ho Chi Minh City Museum are
two museums in Ho Chi Minh City that are most suitable for children
aged 6 to 12.
Museum of Fine Arts
museum of fine arts located in district 1
- Address: 97A Pho Duc Chinh Street, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Price: 30,000 VND/Adult, 15,000 VND/Student
Ho Chi Minh City Museum
ho chi minh city museum provides an engaging experience for children
Located in District 1, the Ho Chi Minh City Museum provides
an engaging experience for children. This museum offers a unique chance
for youngsters to learn about the history and culture of Ho Chi Minh
City. Young visitors can learn about the
city's history, major events, and residents' daily lives through
interactive exhibits, engaging displays, and multimedia presentations.
The museum displays relics, pictures, and models that bring history to
life and pique the interest of children. Ho Chi Minh City Museum's
child-friendly approach strives to make history more accessible and fun
for young learners.
- Address: 65 Ly Tu Trong Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Price: 30,000 VND/Adult
1.3 Teenagers (13+ years old)
Watch artistic performances at the Saigon Opera House
Watch artistic performances at the Saigon Opera House
This historical theater provides an opportunity to immerse oneself
in Vietnamese culture while witnessing captivating performances. Teens
can broaden their cultural understanding and enjoyment by exploring many art forms and music genres, including ballets, operas, and traditional Vietnamese performances.
The architectural splendor of the venue contributes to its
attractiveness, providing a visually magnificent background for the
performances. The expertise and ability displayed on stage can inspire
young viewers, sparking their own creativity and love for the arts.
- Address: 7 Lam Son Square, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- Phone: +84 845 181 188
- Website: https://www.luneproduction.com/
- Price: ~1,000,000 VND
Shopping at Ben Thanh Market
Shopping at Ben Thanh Market
This iconic market sells a broad range of items, including apparel, accessories, handicrafts, souvenirs, and local street cuisine.
For fashion-conscious teenagers, Ben Thanh Market is a treasure trove
of stylish apparel and accessories at reasonable costs. Exploring the
market's crowded aisles, negotiating with merchants, and discovering
unusual things can be an enjoyable and absorbing experience.
Furthermore, the market allows visitors to connect with local merchants,
learn about Vietnamese culture, and develop negotiating skills.
Opening hours:
- Day market: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Night market: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater
The Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater in District 1 is a famous
spot for water puppet shows in Ho Chi Minh City. Water puppetry is a traditional Vietnamese art form that combines narrative, music, and puppetry, with puppets performing on a water stage.
The theater shows traditional water puppet performances depicting
events from Vietnamese mythology, daily life, and cultural customs. The
Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater is a vibrant and engaging show using
finely built puppets that act on a water stage while accompanied by
traditional music and singing.
It's a one-of-a-kind cultural
experience suitable for both teenagers and adults. It's a type of
entertainment that's both instructive and enjoyable, giving teenagers a
memorable and culturally enlightening experience during their trip to
Vietnam.
- Address: 55B Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
- Phone: +84 989 370 873
- Website: http://www.goldendragonwaterpuppet.vn/
- Price: 300,000 VND/Person
- Showtime: 6:30 PM Daily
2. Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh with Family: Fun Day Trip Ideas
Exploring things to do in Ho Chi Minh with family opens up a world of
exciting opportunities for bonding and discovery. From age-appropriate
attractions for children to engaging activities suitable for all ages,
there's no shortage of memorable experiences waiting to be had. Let's
take a stroll through some of the best ways to create lasting family
memories in this vibrant city.
2.1 Cu Chi Tunnels
Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh with Family Cu Chi Tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels in Vietnam are ideal for families seeking an educational and comprehensive experience. These ancient tunnels played
an important part during the Vietnam War and provide an exceptional
chance for parents and children to learn about the country's history
together. Exploring the tunnels gives families a hands-on
experience, demonstrating the Vietnamese people's creativity and
tenacity during the war. Guided tours, informational displays, and even
crawling under portions of the tunnels will all help children learn more
about history.
Furthermore, the site allows families to participate
in interactive activities such as firing virtual weapons, giving them a
taste of what life was like for troops at the time. Visiting the Cu
Chi Tunnels not only teaches, but also fosters respect for the
sacrifices made by the individuals involved. It provides a meaningful
and unforgettable experience for families, encouraging a stronger
connection to Vietnam's history and culture.
The Cu Chi
Tunnels offer a truly immersive experience, but they're just one piece
of Ho Chi Minh City's rich historical tapestry. If you're ready to delve
deeper into this fascinating city and its past, check out our
comprehensive "Ho Chi Minh City 3 Day Itinerary"
This carefully crafted guide will lead you through the city's most
iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and cultural treasures, ensuring you
don't miss a thing.
2.2 Mekong Delta Day Trip
things to do in ho chi minh with family mekong delta day trip
This vast and fertile region boasts a wide selection of activities
for both parents and children. Families may take magnificent boat trips
down the meandering Mekong River, traveling through lush green
landscapes and seeing local peoples' daily lives. Exploring the floating markets, where vivid fruits and vegetables are sold from boats, offers a unique cultural experience. Families can also visit historic villages to experience indigenous crafts and lifestyles.
The Mekong Delta is
recognized for its great cuisine, and families can enjoy regional
delicacies including fresh tropical fruits and traditional meals.
Cycling along rural trails or participating in agricultural endeavors
gives families an opportunity to interact while enjoying the region's
natural beauty. The Mekong Delta combines adventure, cultural discovery,
and leisure, making it an ideal and intriguing place for families to
make lifelong memories together. Not to mention, Mekong Delta trips can
be a great chance to educate children about ecology, local lifestyles,
and agricultural techniques.
Can't get enough of the Mekong Delta? Good news! Our "4 Days in Ho Chi Minh City"
itinerary includes a day trip to this enchanting region, allowing you
to experience the best of both worlds. Don't miss out on this
opportunity to delve deeper into Vietnamese culture and cuisine.
3. Things to Prepare to Ensure a Smooth Trip
Planning a family vacation can be an exciting endeavor, full of
anticipation and the promise of wonderful memories. To guarantee a
successful and hassle-free trip, careful planning is required. There are
several factors that require careful consideration; from packing basics
to logistics organization. Let's look at a few key points you might
need to consider and plan for, to ensure that your family trip runs
smoothly from start to finish.
3.1 Kid-Friendly Dining Spots
Ho Chi Minh City offers a variety of kid-friendly dining spots that are
sure to satisfy both children and parents alike. From international
chains to local restaurants, here are some of our top recommendations
for dining spots that are suitable for family outings:
International Chains
Kid-Friendly Dining Spots International Chains
McDonald's Branches
- 123 Nguyen Hue Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- 2-2A Tran Hung Dao Street, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1
- 2-6Bis Dien Bien Phu Street, Da Kao Ward, District 1
- Saigon Centre, B2 Floor, 65 Le Loi Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
KFC Branches
- 78 Le Lai Street, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1
- 221 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Cau Ong Lanh Ward, District 1
- 14 Pham Ngoc Thach Street, Ward 6, District 3
- 213A Nguyen Van Cu Street, Ward 3, District 5
Pizza Hut Branches
- 38A Tran Hung Dao Street, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1
- 224 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Ward 6, District 3
- 451 Le Van Sy Street, Ward 12, District 3
- 266 Nguyen Trai Street, Ward 8, District 5
Restaurants with a kid's play area
restaurants with a kid's play area
The Snap Cafe: international foods and a large playground area
- Address: 32 Tran Ngoc Dien Street, Thao Dien Ward, District 2
- Opening hours: 7:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Ngon Restaurant: buffet with 200 choices and small kid's play area
- Address: 160 Pasteur Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 10:30 PM
Meow Meow Kidsplay Cafe
- Address: The Tresor Apt., 39-39B Ben Van Don Street, Ward 13, District 4
- Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM; Sat-Sun: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Beehive Premium Kids Cafe
- Address: 122-124-126 An Duong Vuong Street, Ward 9, District 5
- Opening hours: 9:30 AM - 9:30 PM
3.2 Tips for Kid-Friendly Transportation
Choose a reputable taxi service
Choose reputable
taxi companies with a strong presence and positive reviews, such as
Mailinh or Vinasun (the most common). Before departing, double-check the
meter and get an estimated charge from the driver. Make a note of
important details such as the license plate, driver's identification,
and taxi firm name. Maintain awareness of the general path to your
destination and utilize map applications to track it during the journey
to guarantee that the driver follows the most direct route. Carry small
amounts of local currency to avoid dealing with change.
Use a ride-hailing application to call motorcycles and taxis
Using
a ride-hailing app like Grab, Gojek, Be, or Xanh SM is a safe option
for booking a taxi. These applications show you precisely how much you
need to pay and let you choose between cash or credit card payments. It
has all the driver's information and will assist you in keeping track of
your current location and where you are headed. If you come across a
fraud or have a bad experience, it can be reported directly in the app,
where helpful customer service teams will provide assistance or
appropriate compensation.
Avoid using strollers when walking
While
it is not necessary to avoid using strollers when walking, the city's
sidewalks are typically uneven and crowded with various obstacles,
making it difficult to steer a stroller securely. Some of Saigon's older
or more congested areas may have limited stroller accessibility due to
narrow sidewalks and poor accessibility. Furthermore, navigating the
city's bustling traffic and congested streets on foot can be challenging
and will require your full attention, and the addition of a stroller
may make your journey more difficult.
Kid-Friendly Stays
When
traveling with kids, there are a few factors that adults should
consider before going on a trip, such as whether the hotel has swimming
pools, playgrounds, or spacious rooms or not. Moreover, when traveling
with young children, many hotels in Ho Chi Minh City offer babysitting
services to cater to the needs of families. These services vary from
hotel to hotel, so it's best to contact the specific hotel you're
interested in to inquire about their babysitting options. Here are a few
hotels in HCMC that are known to offer everything a kid-friendly
accommodation should have:
Caravelle Saigon
- Address: 19-23 Lam Son Square, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- Phone: +84 28 3823 4999
- Email: hotel@caravellehotel.com
- Address: 88 Dong Khoi Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- Phone: +84 28 3827 2828
- Email: sheratonsaigon@sheraton.com
Park Hyatt Saigon
- Address: 2 Lam Son Square, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- Phone: +84 28 3824 1234
- Email: saigon.park@hyatt.com
InterContinental Saigon Hotel
- Address: Corner Hai Ba Trung St. & Le Duan Boulevard, District 1
- Phone: +84 28 3520 9999
- Email: saigon@icsaigon.com
3.3 Apps to Use During Your Vietnam Vacation
- Grab: Grab is a ride-hailing app widely used in Vietnam. It allows you to easily book taxis, motorbike taxis (known as "xe om"), and car services. Grab is available in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Additionally, the Grab app can also be used to order foods and drinks delivered to your door, with a huge selection of local restaurants for you to try out without leaving your hotel.
- Google Maps: Google Maps is the most widely-used map app in Vietnam, providing directions, estimated travel times, and public transportation information. It's useful for exploring cities, finding attractions, and locating restaurants or hotels.
- XE Currency Converter: XE Currency Converter is a helpful app for quickly converting currencies. It allows you to check current exchange rates and calculate conversions, ensuring you have a good understanding of prices and expenses in Vietnamese dong (VND).
- Google Translate: It offers translation for over 100 languages, including Vietnamese and English. The app provides text translation, voice translation, and even camera translation, allowing you to point your camera at signs or menus to receive instant translations.
3.4 Basic Vietnamese phrases that are useful for family
If you're not familiar with the Vietnamese language, having a
phrasebook app can be handy. Apps like "Learn Vietnamese Phrasebook" can
help you communicate with locals by providing some common phrases that
you can use. Here are some useful Vietnamese phrases for families to use
while in Ho Chi Minh City:
Greetings and Basic Phrases:
- Xin chào: Hello
- Cảm ơn: Thank you
- Xin lỗi: Excuse me/I'm sorry
- Tạm biệt: Goodbye
- Một ly nước trái cây, xin cảm ơn: One glass of fruit juice, please.
- Có thực đơn tiếng Anh không?: Do you have an English menu?
- Cho chúng tôi xin nước uống: Please give us some water to drink.
Asking for Assistance:
- Xin vui lòng chỉ đường đến...: Please show us the way to...
- Em bị lạc/Cháu bị lạc: I'm lost (for a child).
- Chúng tôi cần giúp đỡ: We need help.
Emergency Phrases:
- Xin cứu giúp: Help, please.
- Tôi cần gọi cảnh sát: I need to call the police.
- Có bác sĩ ở đây không?: Is there a doctor here?
3.5 Things for Your Packing List When Traveling to Warm Weather Destinations
When planning a vacation to warm-weather areas, it's essential to
pack properly to ensure your comfort, ease, and enjoyment throughout
your journey. Whether you're visiting a tropical beach, touring a
bustling metropolis, or embarking on an adventure trip, the proper items
on your packing list may make all the difference. Check out the article
"What to Pack for a Vietnam Trip" where we highlight essential items
you should include in your packing list for warm weather places, from
clothing choices to necessary accessories.
