Beneath Hong Kong’s modern skyscrapers lies a surprisingly kid-friendly destination. The city holds tremendous sentimental value as our former home and my daughter’s birthplace. We return frequently because the list of things to do in Hong Kong with kids is expansive — even if you don’t factor in Hong Kong Disneyland (which is our family’s favorite Disney park in the world).
The neat thing about Hong Kong is you can experience something new every time you visit. For such a tiny destination, it really packs a punch. This list is focused on activities one can practically experience on a typical Hong Kong family vacation.
Through my affiliations, you can save on tickets, tours, and hotels. I may be compensated if you purchase through some links in this post—our editorial guidelines.
Getting Discounted Tickets for Hong Kong Attractions
It’s become much easier to buy tickets for Hong Kong attractions in advance, which you absolutely should do. I’ve noted where this is possible, and in most cases, it’s via Klook, which we also use personally, an enormous tour operator in Asia. You’ll usually save a little money and skip queues by entering with mobile or printed tickets.
The Best Things to Do in Hong Kong with Kids
The big list of family activities to look out for on your trip to my favorite city.
1. Hong Kong Disneyland
We’ve been to every Disneyland in the world, and Hong Kong Disneyland is by far our favorite. I’m a fan of experiencing Disney in other cultures because the food and other aspects are different. While there can be lines, they are typically shorter here than at any other Disney park we’ve been to.
Songs on rides like “it’s a small world” are sung in English, though instructions around the park are typically given in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin.
Of the major roller coasters, Hyperspace Mountain (more or less Space Mountain for those familiar with Disneyland in Anaheim) is the only one represented here. Do not miss the Iron Man Experience, Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars, Mystic Manor, and Ant-Man and the Wasp: Nano Battle. For Frozen fans, there’s the new World of Frozen—the world’s first and largest Frozen-themed land.
If you’re short on time, a half-day visit to Hong Kong Disneyland is still worth it. If you’re coming during the summer months and would like to skip the lines, think about booking a 3-hour Disneyland VIP Tour. The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique (there is one in the park now, too), Hong Kong Disneyland character dining, and Disney dim sum all take place at the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, which is a quick shuttle bus away from the theme park. However, know that you need to reserve these experiences in advance.
Though it’s smaller than other Disney parks, Hong Kong Disneyland is one of the best things to do in Hong Kong with kids. Check out my tips for visiting Hong Kong Disneyland in the summer.
Neighborhood: Lantau Island
How to get there: There are local and cross-boundary buses that travel to and from the park, taxis regularly drop off and pick up visitors, and you can also reach the park via MTR by boarding the Disneyland Resort Line at Sunny Bay Station.
Activity: Theme Park
For Information: Check the Disney website for hours, information regarding online reservations, and tickets.
Ages: All Ages
Definitely Buy Tickets in Advance!
To avoid the ticket booth lines, either print the tickets for scanning or use your mobile phone. Options include:
- Discounted Hong Kong Disneyland tickets on Klook (QR code mobile entry)
- Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel or other luxury hotel concierge
- The Hong Kong Disneyland app (which I recommend you download for planning purposes)
2. Ocean Park Hong Kong
Sea-themed Ocean Park Hong Kong is on the south side of Hong Kong Island. Some prefer this amusement park to Hong Kong Disneyland because it’s unique, with fewer crowds and more opportunities for animal encounters. We have participated in the Honorary Panda Keeper program twice, though they have a newer version of this tour with less panda contact, which is still great.
The park is divided into two parts — a lower level and an upper level — connected by a sky tram that provides some of the best views of this part of Hong Kong Island. Note that the sky tram is a bit hairy on windy days (I don’t mind it). A submarine-themed train barrels through the mountain to the other side, too. The lines are usually shorter if you take the train up to the upper level and the cable car down.
The Waterfront (lower area) near the entrance has the pandas, a huge aquarium, and a playground for younger kids. The Summit (upper area) has rides for older kids, the sea lions (which you can toss fish to at designated times), the main show area, and other attractions.
Tip: Ocean Park is doable with just a half-day commitment if you’re short on time. Also, buy tickets in advance to avoid lines which have been long lately at the park. Klook has discounted Ocean Park tickets.
Neighborhood: Wong Chuk Hang
How to get there: Ocean Park is accessible by car, bus, taxi, and the MTR (it’s one stop on the South Island Line from the Admiralty station).
Activity: Theme Park and Aquarium
For Information: Visit the park’s website for tickets and their Daily Schedule which shows events by day. You can also buy discounted tickets through Klook.
Ages: All Ages
3. Ride the Star Ferry Hong Kong
Definitely take the 6-12 minute ride (length depends on the time of day) from Central to Kowloon on the historic Star Ferry when visiting Hong Kong with kids. It’s one of the first things we do on return trips.
The Star Ferry Hong Kong is a historical American-football-shaped boat that travels from Central to Kowloon or Wan Chai to Kowloon in just a few minutes. It also visits the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel once daily.
Depending on how far you have to walk to the ferry terminals, the Star Ferry Hong Kong to Kowloon can be faster than the MTR.
Try to sit on the upper deck to avoid inhaling coal fumes that trap themselves on the lower level. It costs a few extra cents, but I believe it’s worth it. There is no need to check the schedule (unless you need to ride it very early in the morning or late at night) because the ferries run frequently.
You can also book a short Star Ferry tour around Victoria Harbour during the day or at night. If you only plan to ride the ferry once, I recommend departing from the Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon side, in the evening. You’ll get a beautiful view of the Hong Kong skyline and you’ll have a great view of the ICC and Symphony of Lights evening light shows.
Neighborhood: Central / Wan Chai / Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
How to get there: To get to the Star Ferry Tsim Sha Tsui Pier, exit the MTR at the L6 exit. To get to the Central Pier, exit the MTR at the A2 exit or Exit A.
Activity: Scenic Boat Ride
For Information: Check the ferry’s timetable for hours of operation and ticket prices. It’s less than USD $1 each way and half of that for kids!
Ages: All Ages
4. Shop the Toy Streets and Other Markets
Yes, there are street markets in Hong Kong dedicated entirely to toys. Since we are always in Hong Kong near my daughter’s birthday, we visit these streets to load up on party favors.
At Fuk Wing Street in Sham Shui Po, you can buy cheap dolls, balls, gadgets, and school supplies individually or in bulk. It’s a nice stop if you’re shopping at the other markets in Sham Shui Po anyway. Take Exit B2 at Sham Shui Po Station, walk two streets, and turn right.
Another option is Tai Yuen Street in Wan Chai. This one has more variety and nostalgic toys. Take Exit A3 at Wan Chai station and walk just a few minutes. You’ll see it.
Some Hong Kong markets appeal to kids more than others. If you are in need of a costume for any reason, definitely go to Pottinger Street. This small market lines a staircase in Central with vendors selling loads of costumes, accessories, and holiday decor year-round. It’s also conveniently located next to other famous shopping streets called The Lanes (Li Yuen Street East and Li Yuen Street West) just off of Queens Road near the Mid Levels escalator. Visit both in the same outing. Take Exit C at Central Station and walk down Des Voeux Road until you see the lanes full of shops. I also take Exit D and walk down Queen’s Road.
Kids who can stay up late will enjoy the festival atmosphere of the (somewhat touristy) Temple Street Night Market with its food, trinkets, and fortune-tellers. Take Exit C at Yau Ma Tei Station or Exit A at Jordan Station. On the quieter south side of the island, past Repulse Bay, you can shop at Stanley Market.
I’ve written in detail about where to go shopping in Hong Kong, which is one of my favorite things to do anywhere in the world.
Neighborhoods: Sham Shui Po / Wan Chai / Central / Mongkok
How to get there: MTR Exits are listed next to each market above
Activity: Shopping
Cost: Free to enter
Hours: Varies
Ages: Kids who like to shop
5. Visit The Peak
The Peak offers the most spectacular view of Hong Kong. The viewing deck on the top of The Peak Tower on the Sky Terrace 428 (admission required) is the perfect place to take that holiday card photo. Or opt for the Lion’s Peak Pavilion to the right (if facing Victoria Harbour) of The Peak Tower. It’s a free viewing platform with more charm, but be aware that it is usually crowded.
You can go any time of the day, but I think it’s best to maximize your time up here by also dining at The Peak Lookout. There are also quick-service restaurants, some of which serve must-try Hong Kong food. Two of my all-time favorites now have outlets up here: Mak’s Noodle (the BEST won ton noodle soup) and Tai Cheong (egg tarts). Madame Tussaud’s and many souvenir shops are here, so plan to spend a while here.
Stroll around the Peak Circle Walk for more scenic shots. As the name implies, you can walk an entire circle around The Peak. There’s a little kids’ playground around the middle if you need a break. The entire walk takes around 40 minutes, so when we’re short on time, we walk it for a bit and then reverse.
We usually like to take The Peak Tram up and walk or taxi back down. If we walk, we take the scenic Morning Trail from the Peak all the way back to Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong in Central, which takes about an hour. That said, I know where I’m going… if you get lost, hail a taxi.
Likewise, many hike to Pok Fu Lam from The Peak and downhill via a few other hiking trails. If hiking or walking down from The Peak appeals to you, ask your hotel concierge for a map and make sure your mobile phone is charged.
Neighborhood: Victoria Peak
How to get there: Klook offers uphill or downhill bus options, or you can take the Peak Tram up and a taxi back down.
Activity: Sightseeing
For Information: Check their online for tickets and operating hours.
Ages: All ages
Tip: The queue for the Peak Tram on the way up has been really long lately. Get a skip-the-line ticket from Klook (you can bundle this with discounted admission to Madame Tussauds and the Sky Terrace).
6. Hong Kong Science Museum/Hong Kong Museum of History
Here’s something to do on a rainy day in Hong Kong with kids (from late spring through early fall, there are plenty of hot or rainy days). The Hong Kong Science Museum is located in Kowloon and has over 500 exhibits on display including Cathay Pacific’s first DC3 airliner suspended from the ceiling.
Most of the exhibits are hands-on, including a car simulator that you “drive” to avoid accidents. Another highlight is the 22-meter Energy Machine (the largest of its kind in the world) with audio-visual effects simulating energy. Kids will love it.
The Hong Kong Museum of History is right next door and is my favorite Hong Kong museum. It does have some colorful hands-on exhibits for kids, but you will likely enjoy it more than they will. I say hit both on the same day.
Neighborhood: Tsim Sha Tsui
How to get there: Take the West Rail Line, get off at East Tsim Sha Tsui Station Exit P2 and walk along Chatham Road south for about 10 minutes.
Activity: Museum
Cost: General admission to the Hong Kong Science Museum is HK$20. Children under 4 are free. The Hong Kong Museum of History is free for all visitors.
For Information: See the Hong Kong Science Museum online for operating hours and tickets.
Ages: Elementary school kids up to adults will appreciate the exhibits in the Hong Kong Museum of History most, but toddlers and above may like the Hong Kong Science Museum.
Tip: You can visit both on the same day as you’ll likely spend an hour or two at most at both.
7. Hong Kong Park
This park is a little oasis off of the busy street. It isn’t huge, but passing through here is a pleasant thing to do with kids, especially if you’re walking from Central to Admiralty (or vice versa) or need a break from shopping at Pacific Place (one of my favorite indoor shopping malls). Turtles and koi fish can be seen swimming in little ponds along the walkway.
The park has a playground, a Tai Chi garden, a gym, and there’s even a small teaware museum worth a short visit. When it’s hot, it’s easy to duck back into Pacific Place mall for a drink or bite to eat. Do peek into the free Flagstaff House Teaware Museum quickly to learn more about the role that tea plays in Asian culture. The Peak Tram also departs from the Lower Terminus just outside of Hong Kong Park.
If families are considering the Admiralty hotels (The Upper House, Hong Kong, Conrad, JW Marriott, and Island Shangri-La), I always point out this park as a perk of the location.
Neighborhood: Central / Admiralty
How to get there: Take MTR Tsuen Wan Line, South Island Line, or Island Line to Admiralty Station, and use Exit C1. Walk through Pacific Place Mall (following the signs), and then take the escalator directly to the park.
Activity: Park
For Information: You can find specific operating hours for different areas of the park on their website.
Cost: Free
Ages: All Ages
8. The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery via Ngong Ping 360
Named for the stunning views seen during the ride, Ngong Ping 360 eliminates the need to endure a windy bus ride to the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island. You can ride in a regular cable car, a private cable car, or even a glass-bottom cable car.
I recommend you book the glass-bottom cable car at Ngong Ping 360. Kids love it for obvious reasons, and it usually has a shorter boarding queue.
The cable car drops you at Ngong Ping Village, where there is shopping, dining, and entertainment. It’s a bit touristy, though nature walks are accessible here, and the most famous sight is the Po Lin Monastery, where you can have a decent vegetarian lunch and see the Tian Tan Buddha, otherwise known as the Big Buddha.
The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery are very popular Hong Kong attractions for a good reason. People from all over Asia make the pilgrimage to see the stately Big Buddha, which was built in 1993. If your kids are good walkers, do take a quick detour to the Wisdom Path, where a group of large wooden steles displays a prayer. It’s great for photos.
My daughter loves visiting the Big Buddha and asks to visit every time we go to Hong Kong. You can read more about our tips for visiting the Big Buddha because there is a lot to know.
Some hotel concierge desks can purchase your Ngong Ping cable car tickets in advance. Otherwise, Klook has them and a dedicated expedited line at the entrance. On some tours, you can also pair a visit here with a seafood lunch at Tai O fishing village.
Neighborhood: Lantau Island
How to get there: Take the MTR to Tung Chung station, and the cable car is just a few minutes away on foot.
Activity: Sightseeing
For Information: Check the site website for operating hours of the Big Buddha, and tickets for the cable cars.
Ages: Kids who won’t mind the walking (strollers are okay for younger kids)
9. Go Hong Kong Pink Dolphin Watching
Sadly, due to pollution, ferries, and harbour reclamation, the striking but endangered Hong Kong pink dolphins are becoming even rarer in the South China Sea. They are gorgeous and if you can swing 3 hours on a boat, try to see them before they are gone. Through Klook, you can book a Hong Kong pink dolphin watching tour. Hong Kong’s pink dolphins are active year-round and dolphin watching excursions book up quickly in peak travel season, so I recommend buying tickets in advance.
Neighborhood: Many tours depart in Tsim Sha Tsui
How to get there: Varies
Activity: Wildlife Experience
Ages: All ages, though older kids who can wait patiently for sightings will enjoy it most.
Tip: The length of the tours vary but they are usually a half-day experience.
10. Explore the Geoparks
Exploring the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark with kids is the perfect outdoor activity for the whole family.
Eight named sites at the UNESCO Global Geopark in Hong Kong highlight interesting rock formations created by the Earth’s movement. There are hexagonal volcanic columns, sea arches, a 400-year-old village, and other interesting things to see in two regions (Sai Kung and Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock Region), each with four geo-areas. Most families prefer to visit Sai Kung. Sharp Island, especially at low tide, is a good choice by sampan from Sai Kung Pier (otherwise, it’s a long hike).
Kids may also like the Volcano Discovery Centre in Sai Kung Waterfront Park which organizes tours and showcases how the rock formations were made.
For the ultimate experience, take a private helicopter Hong Kong tour of the UNESCO Geopark. You can book one via Klook. There are also boat tours and kayak tours. Your best bet is to do some research to decide which Geopark experience is most appropriate for your family, as some are rigorous to get to.
Neighborhood: Sai Kung
How to get there: From MTR Diamond Hill Station, take Exit C2 to Bus 92. You can also take Exit C2 out of Choi Hung Station and then take Minibus 1A. Keep in mind that the different areas of the park have different addresses.
Activity: Nature Excursion
For Information: Their website has information on recommended tours.
Ages: Kids old enough to handle the walking and climbing will have the most fun.
11. Watch the Nightly Symphony of Lights and ICC Light Shows
The Symphony of Lights show over Victoria Harbour never gets old, and my daughter has loved it since before she could talk. I highly recommend harbour view hotel rooms as most have views of it (the closer you are to the harbour, the better).
The ‘World’s Largest Permanent Light and Sound Show’ as named by Guinness World Records, starts every night at 8:00 p.m. Colored lasers, and lights shoot from the top of 40 buildings lining the Hong Kong skyline on both sides of the harbour. Listen to music (Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra recorded the musical score) and narration available via the A Symphony of Lights app. However, it is broadcast live near Avenue of the Stars in Tsim Sha Tsui and at the promenade at Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai.
The ICC Light Show has won a Guinness Book of World Record for “Largest Light and Sound Show on a Single Building” and occurs on the exterior of the International Commerce Centre (ICC) building, where The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong resides. It’s the tallest building in Hong Kong.
Remember, you can see both shows at the evening Star Ferry tour or book a Symphony of Lights tour on Aqua Luna, a (newer) traditional Hong Kong red-sailed junk (more details below).
Download the ICCLightShow app so that you can listen to music synchronized with the light show.
Neighborhood: West Kowloon / Tsim Sha Tsui / Central
How to get there: You can see both shows extremely well from a harbour view room at Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, the IFC terraces on Podium 3 and 4 as well as some harbour view restaurants. See both also from Ocean Terminal Deck at Harbour City with its 270-degree harbour view.
Activity: Light Show
Cost: Free
Hours: Symphony of Lights at 8 p.m. and ICC shows at 7:45 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Ages: All Ages
12. Ride the Mid-Levels Escalator
This activity depends on the level of patience your kids have, but the Mid-Levels Escalator is the largest outdoor covered escalator in the world at roughly half a mile long and worth checking out. There are more than a dozen entry and exit points, rest areas, and even cafes and shops. You can actually hop on and off along the route.
Starting at 6 a.m., the escalator runs downhill to take residents to work and switches directions at roughly 10:15 a.m. to run uphill until midnight, at which point it turns off until the morning.
Make it a challenge and see if you can ride it all the way to the top, though note that it doesn’t reach The Peak. You can always exit for lunch, dinner, shopping, or a snack.
There are tons of great restaurants, shops, and markets around the escalator, including the famous Wellington Street Michelin Mile, Hollywood Road, Tai Kwun, and some of Hong Kong’s last remaining dai pai dongs.
As you’ve likely taken the escalator up, it’s easy to walk back down. However, it’s mostly by staircases and not stroller-friendly unless you know how to wind your way down the various streets without encountering many steps, which is certainly possible by looking out for sidewalks leading downhill.
My daughter liked to count the steps downhill when she was younger. Or, you can simply taxi back down to Central.
Neighborhoods: Central and the Mid-Levels
How to get there: The starting point of the escalator in Central is 100 Queens Road. It’s an easy walk from the Central MTR Station (Exit D2) and Central Hong Kong hotels.
Activity: Sightseeing
Cost: Free
Hours: The escalator runs from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m., though keep in mind that the direction changes at 10 a.m.
Ages: Elementary school-age kids think it’s fun, but it’s a slow-moving escalator, so they may run out of patience before hitting the top. And, remember, one has to walk back down. Older kids will enjoy the area surrounding the escalator up to Elgin Street. Look out for Instagram-worthy street murals.
13. Bike the New Territories
Cycling is becoming one of the most popular things to do in Hong Kong with kids and is most often done in the New Territories. We took a half-day private biking tour of the Walled Villages in the New Territories with Mountain Biking Asia, which I would recommend for kids who can handle more rugged terrain. It’s pretty flat, with a few small hills and dirt roads, but they do need a little strength and endurance. My daughter was nine when we first did this, and she was fine.
We have also rented bikes, including kids’ bikes, and explored scenic paved bike paths in the area ourselves. The entire route is pretty flat and there is a dedicated bike path. Discover Hong Kong has a helpful page outlining the various bike paths and rental information.
Neighborhood: Tai Wai
How to get there: You can rent bikes just outside of the MTR station in Tai Wai and Hong Kong biking tours depart from various locations.
Activity: Sightseeing
Cost: Varies, depending on the tour
Hours: Varies, though plan for a half a day
Ages: Kids old enough to ride a bike independently and have the endurance to handle a couple of hours of biking off-road.
14. Ride a Hong Kong Junk
Red-sailed junks are Hong Kong’s icon, often seen in travel ads, and a sight that lends immediate recognition to Victoria Harbour. Duk Ling is the last authentic Chinese sailing junk in Victoria Harbour. The junk has been painstakingly restored and is available for short cruises during the week or private hire. If you’re not going to ride it, keep an eye out for it in the harbour. I see it often when we stay at Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong.
Another red-sailed junk built by the Aqua Group is also visible on the harbour and available for dining and tours. It’s called Aqua Luna, but keep in mind that it is a new ship, which means the experience is a bit more posh with more comfortable seating, cocktails, and food for purchase. Those who prefer a more authentic experience should choose Duk Ling.
There are also some junks you can rent by the day (sans the red sails, usually). We’ve done it with friends (and loads of champagne), and it’s quite fun. If you ride a Hong Kong junk during the day, do bring sunscreen.
Neighborhood: Central and Tsim Sha Tsui
How to get there: You can catch it at Kowloon Public Pier 3 in or Central Pier 9. Aqua Luna departs from Tsim Sha Tsu Pier 1 and Central Pier 9.
Activity: Sightseeing
For Information: Operating hours and tickets for Duk Ling and Aqua Luna
Ages: All Ages (though anyone prone to seasickness probably won’t enjoy this)
15. Ferry to an Outer Island
Kids who love boat rides can get their fill in Hong Kong between the Star Ferry, Duk Ling, Aqua Luna, dolphin watching and taking the ferries to outlying islands where the buzz of a big city is less noticeable.
The two most popular islands for day trips (or half-day trips) are Cheung Chau (pictured above), which is famous for the annual bun festival in May (if you are in Hong Kong in May, this festival is a must), and Lamma Island, another fishing village.
Cheung Chau has a pretty beach near the ferry terminal and water-based outdoor activities like kayaking and swimming, while Lamma Island has fresh seafood and a little beach. Both are worth visiting if time and weather permit.
We used to take the 20-minute ferry ride over to Lamma from Central, walk around the island, and then eat at one of the small seaside restaurants. The islands, especially Lamma, provide a nice break from city life.
Seasickness is less likely to occur on these larger ferries, unlike a smaller junk boat.
Neighborhood: Lamma and the other small islands
How to get there: There are various ferry companies that depart from Central
Activity: Sightseeing
Cost: Varies, but ferry tickets are very inexpensive
Hours: Varies, but ferries typically run all day and depart every half hour or so
Ages: All ages, though smaller kids may tire out after lots of walking (strollers are easy to take on the ferries).
16. Ride the Hong Kong Observation Wheel
Opened in 2014 on the Central Harbourfront, the Hong Kong Observation Wheel (or Hong Kong Ferris Wheel) provides 20 minutes of fun for all ages. The wheel spins around three times per ride and provides excellent views over Victoria Harbour.
One of the best times to visit is during the Golden Hour, when sunlight hits the skyscrapers, or during the Symphony of Lights show. But really, any time is a good time to ride the Hong Kong Observation Wheel.
Neighborhood: Central
How to get there: You can walk to the Observation Wheel from any of the ferry terminals and Central hotels.
Activity: Family Fun
For Information: See the wheel’s website for tickets and operating hours. Buy tickets in advance.
Ages: All Ages
17. Explore Tai Kwun, the Former Central Police Station
Tai Kwun opened in late 2018 as a centre for heritage and arts located just off of the Mid-Levels escalator in Old Town Central. It used to be the Central Police Station compound which is made up of three parts: Central Police Station, Central Magistracy and Victoria Prison.
Now, visitors enjoy the large open square surrounded by bars and cafes. It’s a nice place to take a break when in Hong Kong with kids after sightseeing around the area. Shops featuring local artists and designers flank the square. Check the event calendar to see what’s on display in the various galleries during your visit.
Kids will enjoy walking through some of the Victoria Prison cells that are now animated to tell the story of what life was like there back in the day. They can also pick up a scavenger hunt sheet in the Visitor’s Center that they can stamp at various stations around Tai Kwun.
Neighborhood: Central
How to get there: Take the Central-Mid-Levels escalator uphill and when you get to the elevated walkway above Hollywood Road, walk straight into Tai Kwun.
Activity: Sightseeing
Cost: Free to enter
For Information: Visitor information and operating hours can be found on their website.
Ages: All Ages
18. MONOPOLY DREAMS
The world’s first MONOPOLY-themed attraction is located inside The Peak Galleria. MONOPOLY DREAMS takes guests via an elevator into the residence of Mr. Monopoly. Then they’ll explore seven themed areas (think Water Works, Jail, and some of your other favorite cards from the board game) through holograms and 4DX technology. You’ll be able to spin a fortune wheel to win a prize so that no one goes home empty-handed. But, you can even buy Monopoly-themed snacks.
Neighborhood: Victoria Peak
How to get there: Take the uphill bus or the Peak Tram at Garden Road Terminal
Activity: Museum
For Information: See their website for operating hours and ticket information.
Ages: All Ages
19. Eat Character Dim Sum
People often ask me what to eat in Hong Kong, and of course, the answer changes a little when you’re traveling in Hong Kong with kids. Character dim sum is trending in Hong Kong and elsewhere, and kids love it.
One of the most popular places for it in Hong Kong is a restaurant called Yum Cha. We often meet friends here because the kids love it and the food is good. Do make a reservation. They also offer dim sum making classes.
Another option is Social Place. In addition to their little bear buns and piggy-shaped caramel pudding, they offer contemporary Chinese dishes. You can make online reservations at any of their 4 locations.
Of course, you can also reserve Crystal Lotus inside Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel for Disney dim sum.
Neighborhood: Central and Tsim Sha Tsui
How to get there: Yum Cha locations can be found at
- Nan Fung Place, 173 Des Voeux Road, Central
- Emperor Watch & Jewellery Ctr., 8 Russell Street, Causeway Bay
- 20-22 Granville Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
- Shop 07, Level 4A, Langham Place, Mongkok
Activity: Dining
Cost: Character dim sum options range from HK$50-60 per order
Hours: They vary by location.
Ages: Toddlers and up
20. Eat a Hong Kong Waffle
Even picky kids may enjoy one of Hong Kong’s most popular street food snacks: the egg waffle (also called Hong Kong waffles, bubble waffles, or eggettes). Egg waffles have actually become pretty trendy in U.S. cities (in case you want to try them but aren’t traveling abroad any time soon), where they’re usually wrapped around ice cream. There’s nothing, nothing like the real deal, however.
In addition to enjoying the mildly sweet flavor of the original (many flavor variations exist now), it’s fun to see how the egg waffles are made and dried by a fan. We like Mammy Pancake (locations on the island and in Kowloon), which has recently earned a Michelin nod. Lee Keung Kee (North Point and Kowloon) is popular, as is Master Low Key (Shau Kei Wan) for eggettes with egg yolk and condensed milk.
Other local must-try local eats that kids may love include pineapple buns, Hong Kong toast, wonton noodle soup, and egg tarts.
Neighborhood: Throughout Hong Kong
How to get there: You can research where to go ahead of time or wait until you come across a shop selling them.
Activity: Dining
Cost: About HK$15 for a traditional waffle
Ages: Toddlers and up
21. M+ MUSEUM
Intended to rival the Tate Modern and New York’s Museum of Modern Art, Hong Kong’s M+ Museum focuses on 20th and 21st century art and visual culture. In addition to art, it features diverse collections of architecture, film, video games and animation.
Family Days are offered on select Sundays and feature activities designed to bring families together in a creative space. The activities change, but previous ones have included printmaking on fabric, drawing workshops, and performance art.
Neighborhood: West Kowloon Cultural District
How to get there: Take the MTR to Kowloon Station, inside ELEMENTS Mall. Exit C1 or D1: Take the escalator to 1/F and follow the signs through ELEMENTS to the Artist Square Bridge on 2/F, Metal Zone to reach the West Kowloon Cultural District (10-15 minutes’ walk). If you don’t want to walk through the mall, take Exit E4 or E5: Walk along Nga Cheung Road to Museum Drive (10-15 minutes’ walk).
Activity: Museum
For Information: See the museum’s website for ticket and special exhibition details.
Ages: Kids interested in art and video games
22. BRowse a SASA Cosmetics Store
I’m finding that tweens and teens like going to Sasa, a cosmetics-focused store (where you can also buy any face or body essentials that you forgot to pack). It’s fun to see products that you can’t buy at home. But even when I lived in Hong Kong, I loved browsing to see what kind of cheap nail polish, small perfume samples, face masks, and other fun or funky things I could buy to try.
My daughter also loves browsing a Sasa when we land in Hong Kong now. You’ll see the big pink signs all over Hong Kong there are so many locations.
Neighborhood: Everywhere
Activity: Shopping
For Information: Visit Sasa online for store locations.
Ages: Kids interested in beauty — mostly tweens and teens
Good Things to Know When in Hong Kong With Kids
Eating in Hong Kong with kids isn’t challenging. There is plenty of Western food available, but kid-friendly Asian favorites like steamed rice, fried rice, egg rolls, and other simple Chinese food can be ordered, too.
Do not panic if you forget to pack something. Many Western brands of jarred baby food, formula, diapers, and other items for infants and toddlers are available at chemists (pharmacies) and grocery stores.
Car seats aren’t required in taxis. Uneven pavement makes using a stroller difficult in some areas and finding a lift in an MTR station can be difficult, though not impossible. Exploring Hong Kong with kids who are babies and small toddlers can be easier done via babywearing.
Hong Kongers love kids, and I’ve received plenty of help with my own strollers and bags from strangers over the years. If you need help, do not ever be afraid to ask.
If time permits, Hong Kong is a fantastic city for a vacation photographer. We used Flytographer for a 30-minute session and were quite pleased. Book through my link.
When you’re booking a hotel, keep in mind that the maximum occupancy in Hong Kong hotels is three people, including kids, with a few exceptions. Even families of four will usually need connecting rooms. I know these hotels very well so can give you advice on family hotels in Hong Kong and how to fit into them.
Look into meet and greet service at Hong Kong Airport if you’re worried about how tired kids will handle long walks and clearing customs after long haul flights (it’s a big airport). They’ll pick you up at the jetway in a buggy if your gate is further away than gate 25. Learn more about how to get from Hong Kong airport to your hotel.
I have had nothing but good experiences with babysitters at both the Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong and Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong. These are my top two Hong Kong family hotel picks and where we stay every year.
If you are considering a luxury Hong Kong hotel, I have access to VIP amenities and perks (that may include complimentary breakfast for two, room upgrades, food and beverage credits, and more) at five-star hotels in town through my role as an independent affiliate at Cadence Travel. You can book online with benefits. Most people save money on moderate and budget hotels with Agoda.
See also: The Best List of Family Hotels in Hong Kong
What are your favorite things to do in Hong Kong with kids?
Photo credits: Star Ferry, Peak Tram, Symphony of Lights, Cheung Chau are courtesy of the Hong Kong Tourism Board. The rest are mine.
This post was originally published on 3rd party site mentioned in the title of this site
