Things To Do With Kids in Putuo, China

Happy Valley Shanghai is one of China's premier amusement parks, featuring thrilling roller coasters, gentle family rides, colorful themed lands, and daily entertainment shows that cater to all ages. This full-day destination combines Western-style theme park attractions with uniquely Chinese cultural elements, making it an exciting adventure for international families visiting Shanghai.

The Oriental Pearl TV Tower is one of Shanghai's most recognizable landmarks, offering families a thrilling combination of sky-high observation decks with 360-degree city views, a revolving restaurant, and a surprisingly delightful aquarium at the tower's base. Kids will be mesmerized by the futuristic design and the glass-floored observation deck that lets them look straight down at the city below, making it both an educational and adventurous outing.

Shanghai Tower's observation deck on the 118th floor offers an unforgettable experience for families, whisking you up at lightning speed in one of the world's fastest elevators to breathtaking 360-degree views from 546 meters high. Kids will be amazed by the interactive exhibits showcasing Shanghai's transformation, while the glass-floored sections add an extra thrill for brave young adventurers.

Mingtown Youth Hostel Creative Park offers families a unique blend of art, culture, and outdoor fun in Shanghai's Changping district. This creative cultural space features art studios where kids can watch local artists at work, spacious outdoor play areas perfect for burning energy, and family-friendly activities set in a charming, nostalgic artistic environment that gives families a break from Shanghai's bustling urban center.

Taroko Indoor Playground is a sprawling multi-level play paradise in Shanghai that keeps kids entertained for hours regardless of weather. With dedicated zones for different age groups, from soft play areas for toddlers to challenging climbing structures and massive ball pits for older children, it offers a safe, climate-controlled environment where parents can relax while kids burn off energy.

Shanghai Children's Museum is a hands-on wonderland where kids aged 2-12 can explore interactive exhibits covering science, culture, and everyday life through play-based learning. With dedicated zones for different age groups and activities ranging from role-playing scenarios to science experiments, this museum keeps children engaged while parents enjoy seeing them learn through discovery.

Shanghai Natural History Museum captivates young minds with life-sized dinosaur skeletons, realistic animal dioramas from around the world, and hands-on interactive exhibits that make science come alive. The stunning modern architecture and IMAX theater add extra wow factor, making this one of China's premier family-friendly museums where kids can explore everything from prehistoric creatures to geological wonders.

The Shanghai Science and Technology Museum is a world-class interactive wonderland where kids can explore everything from space rockets to cutting-edge robotics through hundreds of hands-on exhibits. With entire floors dedicated to different scientific themes, light shows, and engaging experiments, this massive museum keeps children entertained and learning for hours without ever feeling like a traditional classroom.

Shanghai Zoo is one of China's premier zoological parks, home to beloved giant pandas, majestic tigers, playful elephants, and over 400 other species across beautifully landscaped grounds. The zoo offers multiple interactive feeding times and excellent viewing areas that bring kids up close to animals from six continents, making it a full-day adventure for families visiting Shanghai.

Shanghai Aquarium offers an unforgettable underwater experience with one of the world's longest aquarium tunnels, where kids can stand surrounded by sharks, stingrays, and thousands of colorful fish swimming overhead. The hands-on touch pools and daily feeding shows make marine life education interactive and exciting, while the diverse exhibits showcase creatures from the Yangtze River to the Amazon rainforest.

Jing'an Sculpture Park offers families a peaceful green oasis in the heart of bustling Shanghai, combining modern art installations with wide open lawns perfect for running and playing. Kids can explore colorful sculptures scattered throughout the park, enjoy dedicated playgrounds, and experience a slice of local life as Shanghai families practice tai chi, fly kites, and gather for picnics.

Century Park is Shanghai's largest public park and an absolute gem for families, offering vast green lawns, scenic lakes, colorful themed gardens, and dedicated playgrounds. With 140 hectares of space to run, play, and explore, it provides a peaceful escape from the city's hustle where kids can bike, feed fish, fly kites, or simply enjoy outdoor play in a safe, beautiful environment.

Luwan Park offers a delightful blend of traditional Chinese gardens and modern playground fun in the heart of Shanghai. This free urban oasis near the famous Bund provides families with peaceful walking paths, small amusement rides, and open spaces for kids to play, making it an ideal break from the city's bustling streets.

Shanghai Wild Animal Park offers an exciting safari adventure where families can observe lions, tigers, giraffes, and other exotic animals both from the safety of a drive-through safari bus and on walking trails. The interactive feeding experiences and animal shows make this one of Shanghai's most popular family attractions, combining education with hands-on animal encounters that kids absolutely love.

Urban Adventure Park offers an exciting outdoor playground where families can tackle obstacle courses, soar on zip-lines, and conquer climbing walls together in the heart of Shanghai. With multiple difficulty levels ranging from beginner to advanced, there's something to challenge every family member while building confidence and creating unforgettable memories.

Shanghai Children's Art Theatre is a treasure for families, offering professionally produced shows designed specifically for young audiences. With performances in both Mandarin and English, international visitors can enjoy fairy tales, musicals, and interactive performances that captivate children through visual storytelling and universal themes that transcend language barriers.

Qipu Water Park is a summer destination offering classic water park fun perfect for families visiting Shanghai with children. With attractions ranging from gentle lazy rivers and shallow play areas for toddlers to exciting water slides for adventurous kids, plus a wave pool that entertains all ages, this park provides a refreshing escape from Shanghai's hot, humid summers.

MOA Shanghai offers a refreshing introduction to contemporary art for families, with specially designed children's workshops and interactive installations that encourage hands-on exploration. Unlike traditional museums where kids must stay quiet and still, this space welcomes young visitors to engage with art in creative, tactile ways that make culture accessible and fun.

The Shanghai History Museum offers an impressive journey through Shanghai's transformation from fishing village to global metropolis, presented through engaging dioramas, interactive displays, and artifacts that bring history to life. The museum's visual storytelling approach, featuring life-size street scenes and immersive exhibits, makes it accessible even for children with limited historical knowledge and helps international visitors understand this fascinating city.

Deji Plaza Trampoline Park is a high-energy indoor playground where kids can bounce off the walls, literally! This multi-level facility features dedicated zones for dodgeball, foam pits for safe aerial stunts, and climbing walls that challenge coordination and strength. Located in the heart of Shanghai, it's a perfect rainy-day activity or energetic break from sightseeing.

Shanghai Longhua Temple and Pagoda offers families a peaceful journey into Chinese Buddhist culture with stunning traditional architecture, serene gardens, and the iconic seven-story red pagoda. Kids will be fascinated by the giant Buddha statues, colorful temple decorations, and the opportunity to watch monks in their daily rituals, making it an educational and visually captivating cultural experience.

Yu Garden is a stunning 16th-century classical Chinese garden that captivates families with its zigzag bridges, elaborate rockeries, koi-filled ponds, and ornate pavilions. Kids love spotting colorful fish, exploring the winding pathways through hidden courtyards, and discovering dragon sculptures while parents appreciate the beautiful traditional architecture and peaceful atmosphere in the heart of bustling Shanghai.

The Bund is Shanghai's iconic waterfront promenade offering families a perfect blend of sightseeing, open space for kids to run, and stunning views of both colonial architecture and futuristic skyscrapers across the Huangpu River. The wide pedestrian walkway is stroller-friendly and features playgrounds, ice cream vendors, and plenty of photo opportunities that make it an ideal introduction to Shanghai for families.

Shanghai Disney Resort offers a magical experience tailored specifically for Asian audiences with unique attractions like the Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure and the stunning Enchanted Storybook Castle, the largest Disney castle ever built. Families will find familiar Disney magic blended with Chinese cultural elements, creating a one-of-a-kind theme park adventure that delights children and parents alike.

Changning Recreation Center is a fantastic local sports facility where families can swim, play badminton, and enjoy various recreational activities together. This authentic community center offers an affordable way to experience everyday Shanghai life while keeping kids active and entertained. Perfect for parents looking to break up museum visits with some energetic fun.

Changning Sports Center is a welcoming multi-facility complex where families can enjoy swimming, gymnastics, and various athletic activities together. The center offers structured programs and open swim times, making it an ideal spot for active families looking to stay fit while exploring Shanghai's local sports culture.

Gubei International Community Center serves as a welcoming hub for both expat and local families in Shanghai's diverse Changning district. This multilingual facility offers a rotating schedule of children's classes, recreational activities, and family-friendly events that make it easy for visiting families to connect with the international community while keeping kids entertained and engaged.

This bustling traditional food court in Shanghai's historic Old Town offers families an authentic culinary adventure with dozens of local vendors serving dumplings, noodles, and sweet treats. Kids can watch food being prepared right before their eyes while parents sample regional specialties in a lively, casual atmosphere that welcomes explorers of all ages. The variety ensures even picky eaters will find something appealing, from steamed buns to skewered snacks.

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is Shanghai's most famous shopping boulevard, transformed into a vibrant, car-free wonderland perfect for families. Kids will be mesmerized by the colorful neon signs, animated storefronts, street performers, and the charming tourist tram that runs the length of the street, while parents can browse everything from international brands to traditional Chinese toy stores and enjoy diverse dining options.

Step back in time at this well-preserved historic home where Chinese revolutionary leader Sun Yat-Sen lived with his family in the 1920s. The intimate scale of the house, period furnishings, and glimpse into early 20th-century Shanghai life make history tangible for school-age children, especially those studying modern Chinese history or interested in how families lived 100 years ago.

People's Park Amusement Park offers an exciting outdoor adventure experience in the heart of Shanghai, featuring obstacle courses, zip-lines, and climbing walls designed for various skill levels. It's a perfect spot for active families looking to burn energy while exploring one of Shanghai's most famous public spaces, combining physical challenges with the beauty of a historic urban park.

The Museum of Contemporary Art Shanghai offers a refreshing blend of modern art and family-friendly programming in the heart of the city. With dedicated children's workshops, interactive installations that encourage hands-on exploration, and rotating exhibitions that spark creativity, this museum makes contemporary art accessible and fun for young visitors while parents enjoy world-class cultural experiences.

Shanghai Community International School ECE Center offers a welcoming environment for expat and visiting families in the Sheshan area. This community hub provides structured art classes, music lessons, and sports programs perfect for keeping kids engaged and active while traveling abroad. The center also runs seasonal camps and workshops that give children opportunities to socialize with both local and international peers.

Shanghai Library Huangpu Branch offers a wonderful respite from busy sightseeing, with dedicated children's areas featuring Chinese and English language books, interactive learning displays, and story time programs. This modern, air-conditioned facility provides a comfortable space for kids to explore reading and cultural activities while parents can take a break from navigating the city.

Mingtown Nanjing Road Youth Hostel offers families a unique budget-friendly stay in central Shanghai with a creative cultural atmosphere. While primarily a hostel, it serves as a convenient base for exploring Shanghai's family attractions along famous Nanjing Road, with easy access to the Bund and nearby parks, making it ideal for adventurous families seeking affordable lodging in the heart of the action.

Somerset Hongkou Riverside offers a peaceful escape along Suzhou Creek where families can enjoy traffic-free walking and biking paths, well-maintained playgrounds, and engaging public art installations. The waterfront setting provides a safe, car-free environment perfect for letting kids burn energy while parents relax at one of the family-friendly cafes dotting the route.

Huangpu Sports Center is a welcoming community complex in central Shanghai where families can enjoy swimming, badminton, and various recreational programs together. It offers an authentic local experience with excellent facilities at budget-friendly prices, giving kids a chance to stay active while parents appreciate the clean, well-maintained amenities.

Hongkou Football Stadium offers active families a fantastic outdoor sports complex in the heart of Shanghai. With well-maintained soccer fields, basketball courts, and scenic jogging tracks, this green space provides a welcome break from the city's hustle while letting kids burn off energy in a safe, structured environment.

Shanghai Indoor Stadium offers families a modern recreational sports complex perfect for active kids. With dedicated family swimming sessions, multiple badminton courts, and versatile multipurpose halls hosting various youth sports programs, it's an excellent option for burning energy while experiencing local Chinese sports culture in a clean, contemporary facility.

The Bund offers families a perfect blend of culture, history, and entertainment along Shanghai's famous waterfront. Kids can run along the wide pedestrian promenade, enjoy playgrounds, watch boats cruise the Huangpu River, and marvel at the contrast between colonial-era architecture on one side and the futuristic Pudong skyline on the other. The area is stroller-friendly and packed with ice cream vendors, street performers, and photo opportunities that make it an ideal introduction to Shanghai for families.

Lu Xun Park offers families a peaceful escape in the heart of Shanghai, combining traditional Chinese gardens with kid-friendly amenities like small amusement rides and well-maintained playgrounds. This historic park near the Bund provides a perfect blend of cultural experience and active play, with scenic walking paths ideal for stroller-pushing parents and plenty of green space for children to run and explore.

Huangpu Park offers a peaceful riverside escape along the famous Bund waterfront, where families can enjoy scenic views of Shanghai's iconic skyline while kids run freely through playgrounds and open green spaces. This historic park combines natural beauty with cultural significance, making it an ideal spot for families to relax after exploring Shanghai's bustling streets, with plenty of room for picnics and photo opportunities.

Chen Yi Square is a spacious public plaza in Shanghai's historic Huangpu district offering families open areas for kids to run freely, cultural performances that showcase Chinese traditions, and regular community events. The relaxed atmosphere and free admission make it an excellent budget-friendly stop where children can experience local life while parents enjoy the surrounding historic architecture and waterfront views.

This fascinating 1933 Art Deco building is an architectural wonderland where kids can explore winding bridges, spiral staircases, and maze-like corridors that feel like stepping into a movie set. The historic slaughterhouse-turned-cultural hub offers unique photo opportunities, occasional family-friendly events, and quirky shops and cafes where families can rest between exploring the building's mysterious corridors and geometric designs.

Pudong Art Museum offers an engaging blend of art and history that brings Shanghai's transformation to life through interactive displays perfect for curious young minds. The hands-on exhibits make learning fun, allowing children to explore the city's cultural heritage while staying actively engaged. With its family-friendly approach and affordable admission, it's an excellent indoor activity for families visiting Shanghai.

Yu Garden is a stunning 16th-century classical Chinese garden that captivates children with its zigzagging bridges over koi-filled ponds, dragon-adorned walls, and maze-like pavilions perfect for imaginative exploration. This UNESCO-worthy attraction offers families an authentic cultural experience where kids can feed fish, discover hidden courtyards, and marvel at the intricate rock formations that look like miniature mountains.

The Shanghai History Museum brings the city's fascinating past to life through hands-on displays, detailed dioramas, and engaging artifacts that tell the story of Shanghai's transformation from fishing village to global metropolis. Interactive exhibits and visual storytelling make this museum particularly appealing for school-age children interested in history and culture, offering an educational yet entertaining way to understand the city you're visiting.

Shanghai Zoo offers families an exciting opportunity to see over 6,000 animals including China's beloved giant pandas, plus tigers, elephants, and species from across the globe. With spacious viewing areas, scheduled feeding times, and well-maintained grounds, it's one of Shanghai's top attractions for animal-loving families visiting from abroad.

Hongkou Library offers a welcoming children's section that serves as a cultural bridge for visiting families, featuring bilingual book collections and engaging storytelling sessions. The interactive reading programs provide a wonderful opportunity for kids to experience Chinese culture while still having access to English materials, making it an educational and entertaining stop during your Shanghai visit.

Longhua Temple offers families a captivating journey into ancient Chinese culture with its striking seven-story pagoda, tranquil gardens, and ornate temple halls adorned with golden Buddha statues. Kids will be fascinated by the massive incense burners, colorful decorations, and the peaceful koi ponds, while parents appreciate the authentic cultural immersion at Shanghai's oldest and largest Buddhist temple complex.

The Oriental Pearl TV Tower is one of Shanghai's most recognizable landmarks, offering kids a thrilling elevator ride to sky-high observation decks with breathtaking 360-degree views of the sprawling cityscape. The tower complex includes multiple levels to explore, a fascinating aquarium at the base, and even a revolving restaurant, making it an exciting multi-sensory experience that combines education with entertainment.

Super Brand Mall houses a vibrant indoor play center in Shanghai's modern Pudong district, offering a safe, climate-controlled space where young children can burn energy on trampolines, slides, ball pits, and climbing structures. Located in one of Shanghai's premier shopping destinations, it's the perfect activity to keep kids entertained while parents shop or need a break from sightseeing in this bustling international city.

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium offers one of Asia's longest underwater tunnels where kids can walk beneath sharks, rays, and thousands of colorful fish swimming overhead. The hands-on touch pools let children interact with marine life, while daily feeding shows and educational presentations keep young minds engaged throughout the visit.

Long Hua Temple Fair Area offers families an immersive cultural adventure with colorful performances, hands-on craft activities, and delicious street food in a festive atmosphere. Kids will love watching traditional lion dances, trying their hand at calligraphy or paper cutting, and sampling sweet treats like tanghulu (candied fruit on sticks) while experiencing authentic Chinese culture alongside local families.

Lujiazui Ring Road offers families a peaceful escape from Shanghai's bustling streets with its scenic 2.6km waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River. Children can run freely in open green spaces, enjoy well-maintained playgrounds, and take in spectacular views of both the historic Bund and Pudong's futuristic skyline. The flat, paved path is perfect for families with strollers, bikes, or scooters looking to explore one of Shanghai's most iconic areas.

The Shanghai Metal Toy Museum offers a delightful journey through toy history with an impressive collection of antique dolls and metal toys that spark nostalgia in parents while captivating children's imaginations. The hands-on, interactive exhibits allow kids to touch and play with some displays, making this far more engaging than a typical look-but-don't-touch museum experience.

Shanghai Tower, the world's second-tallest building, offers an unforgettable experience for families with its mind-blowing observation deck on the 118th floor, reached by one of the world's fastest elevators. Kids will be amazed by the 360-degree panoramic views of Shanghai's futuristic skyline and interactive exhibits that teach about the city's history and architecture through engaging multimedia displays.

This modern circular park offers a refreshing green oasis amid Shanghai's futuristic Lujiazui skyline, featuring playgrounds, splash pads, and wide open lawns perfect for kids to run free. The park provides stunning photo opportunities with the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower as your backdrop while children enjoy water features and play areas designed for active family fun.

Dongchang Riverside Greenland offers families a modern, free playground experience along Shanghai's scenic Huangpu River waterfront. This well-maintained park features age-appropriate play equipment, refreshing water features perfect for hot days, and beautiful riverside views that make it a relaxing spot for both kids and parents to enjoy outdoor time together.

Shanghai Expo Park is a massive green space perfect for families seeking outdoor fun in the heart of Pudong. This former World Expo site has been transformed into a sprawling park with beautiful themed gardens, playgrounds, wide open spaces for running around, and plenty of spots for picnics. The free admission makes it an excellent budget-friendly option for families exploring Shanghai with kids.

Shanghai Children Art Theatre is a dedicated performing arts venue designed specifically for young audiences, offering a delightful mix of musicals, classic fairy tales, and interactive performances. With shows presented in both Mandarin and English, it provides international families an accessible cultural experience in one of China's most vibrant cities.

Xiaowaitan is a beautifully designed riverside park stretching along the Huangpu River, offering families wide open spaces for cycling, running, and playing. With dedicated bike paths, modern playgrounds, and plenty of green lawns for picnics, it's a refreshing urban escape where kids can burn energy while parents enjoy stunning river and city views.

Shiji Boulevard offers families a peaceful escape along the Huangpu River with plenty of space for kids to run, play, and enjoy outdoor activities. This free riverside park features dedicated playgrounds, smooth walking paths perfect for strollers or bikes, and stunning views of Shanghai's iconic skyline that will captivate both parents and children.

Minhang Museum offers a refreshing blend of contemporary art and hands-on creativity perfect for families visiting Shanghai. The interactive workshops are specifically designed to engage children's imaginations, making this a standout cultural experience where kids can create their own art rather than just observing. With its family-friendly exhibitions and budget-friendly admission, it's an excellent rainy-day activity or cultural break from Shanghai's busier tourist attractions.

Shanghai Yangpu Library offers a welcoming respite for families exploring the city, featuring a spacious children's section designed for young readers and regular storytelling sessions. The modern, well-lit facility provides comfortable reading nooks where kids can browse bilingual books while parents relax, making it an ideal free activity to balance out Shanghai's busier tourist attractions.

This cozy neighborhood bookstore and cafe offers a peaceful retreat from Shanghai's bustling streets, perfect for families wanting to introduce children to Chinese books and culture in a relaxed setting. Parents can enjoy coffee and snacks while kids browse illustrated books and picture books, making it an ideal spot for a quiet afternoon or rainy day activity.

Shanghai Oriental Sports Center is a modern multi-purpose facility that's perfect for active families looking to swim, play, and stay energized during their Shanghai visit. The complex features well-maintained swimming pools with dedicated family swim times, plus badminton courts and a gymnasium, making it an ideal spot for kids to burn off energy while parents enjoy quality recreational time together.

Hongqiao World Center offers hands-on farm experiences where children can pick seasonal fruits, learn about sustainable agriculture, and enjoy fresh farm-to-table meals. This interactive destination combines educational programs with outdoor fun, giving kids a memorable taste of rural Chinese farming culture just outside Shanghai's city center.

The Shanghai Oriental Art Center is a stunning architectural landmark that offers families an exceptional introduction to performing arts in China. With dedicated children's workshops, creative classes, and family-friendly performances ranging from traditional Chinese opera to classical music concerts, it provides an enriching cultural experience in a world-class venue. The center's commitment to arts education makes it perfect for families wanting to combine entertainment with learning during their Shanghai visit.

Gucun Park offers families an authentic Chinese agricultural experience with hands-on farm activities, seasonal fruit picking, and stunning peach blossom displays in spring. Kids can connect with nature through interactive farming experiences while parents enjoy the peaceful rural atmosphere just outside Shanghai's bustling center.

The Shanghai Science and Technology Museum is a world-class interactive science wonderland where kids can explore everything from robotics and space exploration to earth sciences through hundreds of hands-on exhibits. Spread across multiple themed halls, this massive museum keeps children engaged for hours with experiments, light shows, and educational experiences that make learning feel like pure fun.

Jiangwan Stadium is a welcoming community sports complex in Shanghai's Yangpu District where families can enjoy swimming, badminton, and various fitness activities together. This affordable, local facility offers a great opportunity for kids to burn energy while experiencing authentic neighborhood life in Shanghai, away from the typical tourist spots.

Dino Beach Water Park offers a fun summer escape for families visiting Shanghai, featuring multiple water slides, wave pools, and a relaxing lazy river. The park includes dedicated shallow areas perfect for young children, making it an ideal spot to cool off during hot Shanghai summers while giving kids of various ages their own adventures.

Yangpu Park is a spacious riverside oasis in Shanghai offering families a perfect blend of natural beauty and kid-friendly amenities. With well-maintained playgrounds, scenic walking paths along the Huangpu River, and plenty of open green space for active play, it provides a refreshing break from the city's hustle while treating visitors to stunning waterfront views and a glimpse of local family life.

The Shanghai Museum of Glass transforms the science of glassmaking into a magical, hands-on adventure for kids. Children are captivated by live glassblowing demonstrations, interactive exhibits where they can touch and experiment, and stunning artistic installations including a kaleidoscope room and rainbow chapel that spark creativity and wonder.

Century Park is Shanghai's largest public park, offering a fantastic urban escape with sprawling lawns, scenic lakes, and dedicated play areas that give families plenty of room to run, cycle, and explore. With bicycle rentals, paddle boats, themed gardens, and open spaces perfect for picnics and kite flying, it's an ideal spot for families to enjoy outdoor time in the heart of Pudong.

Pudong Library offers a wonderful escape for families visiting Shanghai, featuring a dedicated children's section designed specifically for young readers. This modern library provides interactive reading spaces, engaging storytelling sessions in multiple languages, and hands-on learning activities that make it easy for international families to enjoy even with language barriers.

Huamu Park Children Amusement Park is a local community recreation center in Shanghai's Pudong district that offers a genuine glimpse into how Chinese families spend their leisure time. With art classes, swimming facilities, and organized activities, it provides an authentic cultural experience for visiting families looking to venture beyond typical tourist attractions.

The Little UrBan Center is a local community recreation hub in Shanghai's Pudong district offering art classes, swimming facilities, and organized activities tailored for children. While primarily serving local families, it provides an authentic opportunity for visiting families to experience how Shanghai kids spend their leisure time in a neighborhood setting near the popular Century Park.