SM Mall of Asia

SM Mall of Asia is one of the largest shopping and entertainment complexes in Asia, featuring KidZania Manila, an innovative indoor edutainment center where children role-play real-world careers in a miniature city. Kids can try being doctors, firefighters, pilots, chefs, and dozens of other professions while earning and spending KidZos (play currency), making learning engaging and interactive. Beyond KidZania, the mall offers an Olympic-sized ice skating rink, an IMAX theater, and endless dining options, making it a perfect all-day destination for families.

• ✓KidZania Manila with over 70 role-playing establishments and real-world career simulations
• ✓Olympic-sized ice skating rink with skate rentals and beginner-friendly sessions
• ✓IMAX theater showing family-friendly films in English
• ✓Bay Area Amusement Park with rides and attractions for young children
• ✓Stunning Manila Bay sunset views from the waterfront boardwalk

1. 1.Book KidZania tickets online in advance to skip long queues, especially on weekends and holidays when it gets extremely crowded.
2. 2.Arrive at KidZania right when it opens (usually 9 AM for first shift) to maximize activities, as popular establishments like the aviation academy and hospital fill up quickly.
3. 3.Bring a light jacket as the mall's air conditioning is very strong, and kids will be indoors for hours.
4. 4.Exchange currency before arriving at the mall for better rates, though there are ATMs and money changers throughout the complex. The Philippine peso is the local currency.
5. 5.Download the SM Supermalls app for a mall directory and to locate family restrooms, nursing stations, and kid-friendly amenities easily.

Visit on weekday mornings (Monday-Thursday, 10 AM opening) for the smallest crowds and shorter wait times at KidZania activities. Avoid weekends, Philippine holidays, and school vacation periods (March-April, June-July) when the venue is packed with local families. Late afternoon visits (after 3 PM) can also be less crowded.

KidZania Manila has separate admission from the mall (approximately $20-30 USD per child for a 4-hour session, adults enter free as companions). The mall offers ample parking (fee applies), family restrooms, nursing rooms, and hundreds of dining options from fast food to sit-down restaurants. English is widely spoken throughout Manila, making navigation easy for international visitors.

Open year-round with consistent tropical weather. The mall hosts special events during Christmas season (November-January) with elaborate decorations and holiday shows. Avoid visiting during typhoon season peak (July-September) when heavy rains can make travel difficult, though the indoor venue itself remains unaffected. Summer months (March-May) are extremely hot but draw larger crowds due to school breaks.

The mall has extensive dining options including Jollibee (Filipino fast food kid favorite), Max's Restaurant (famous fried chicken, very kid-friendly), and a large food court with international options. For a treat, try Gerry's Grill for Filipino dishes that kids enjoy like lumpia (spring rolls) and sweet spaghetti.