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.
Visit on weekday mornings (9-11am) to avoid crowds, or at sunset (around 5-6pm depending on season) for spectacular views as the city lights up. Avoid Chinese national holidays (October Golden Week, Chinese New Year) when wait times can exceed 2 hours.
Entry tickets range from 160-220 RMB (approximately $22-30 USD) depending on which observation decks you access. The tower has elevators making it accessible for strollers, though the aquarium has some stairs. Basic snacks and drinks are available, but many families prefer to eat at nearby Lujiazui district restaurants after visiting.
Open year-round. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the clearest views with less haze. Summer can be hazy with reduced visibility, while winter is clear but cold. The tower is beautifully illuminated at night year-round, creating a magical experience for evening visits.
The Super Brand Mall (Zhengda Plaza) is a 10-minute walk away and offers international food courts with Western chains like McDonald's and Pizza Hut alongside Chinese options. For a special treat, Din Tai Fung in the IFC Mall serves excellent kid-friendly dumplings with English menus.
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.
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.
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.