


Lu Xun Park
About
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.
Highlights
- ✓Traditional Chinese gardens with beautiful bridges and ponds perfect for photos
- ✓Small vintage-style amusement rides including carousels and mini trains
- ✓Multiple playground areas with slides and climbing equipment
- ✓Koi fish ponds where children can observe and sometimes feed the fish
- ✓Wide walking paths ideal for scooters, bikes, or leisurely family strolls
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit early morning (7-9am) to see locals practicing tai chi and to avoid afternoon crowds, especially on weekends
- 2.Bring snacks and water as options inside the park are limited, though street vendors near the entrance sell fruits and drinks
- 3.Download a translation app beforehand as English signage is minimal throughout the park
- 4.The park is stroller-friendly with paved paths, making it easy to navigate with younger children
- 5.Bring small change in RMB for the amusement rides, which typically cost just a few yuan per ride
Best Time to Visit
Early morning weekdays (8-10am) or late afternoon (4-6pm) offer the best experience with fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) provide the most pleasant weather for outdoor exploration.
What to Know
Admission is completely free, making this an excellent budget-friendly option for families. The park has clean public restrooms and is easily accessible by metro (Hongkou Football Stadium station, Line 3 or 8), with limited street parking available nearby.
Seasonal Notes
The park is open year-round, but spring brings beautiful blooming flowers while fall offers comfortable temperatures and colorful foliage. Summer can be very hot and humid, so plan for early morning or evening visits. Winter is less crowded but requires warm clothing.
Nearby Eats
The nearby Duolun Road Cultural Street (10-minute walk) has several family-friendly cafes and noodle shops with English picture menus. For a quick bite, the shopping areas around Sichuan North Road metro station offer international chains like McDonald's alongside local dumpling restaurants that welcome families.
More Activities Near Shanghai
Luwan Park
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.
The Bund Waterfront Promenade
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.
Century Park
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.
Jing'an Sculpture Park
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.