Best things to do for Families (Seniors and Children) in Shanghai 2024

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Navigating China and her big cities are not an easy feat. Make sure you are connected to the internet to find your way around cities, great food, culture and public transport.
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We highly recommend that you obtain a Wifi egg in advance, it’s not easy at all to get mobile SIM cards in China. The process is tedious due to high security and difference in languages.

Shanghai offers a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to families, children, and seniors. Here are some popular options:

The Bund: Take a leisurely stroll along the iconic waterfront promenade, known as the Bund. Enjoy the stunning views of Shanghai’s modern skyline and historic buildings. Go on a cruise along the Huangpu River and get an extraordinary view of the Bund and the surrounding areas. With a fully flexible ticket, turn up at a time that’s most convenient for you, go to the port and just present your voucher to get on board. The cruise starts from the Bund and will cruise along to view the most popular sights along the Huangpu River such as the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, the Shanghai International Convention Center, Jin Mao Tower, International Finance Center, the Shanghai Center, and more (there are way too many to mention!) You can go any time of day and get to treated to different sights of Shanghai in the morning, afternoon or evening! This tour is a great introduction to the beautiful city, perfect for families, especially children and seniors!
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Shanghai Disneyland: Located in Pudong, Shanghai Disneyland is a must-visit destination for families. The theme park offers various attractions, parades, and live performances that cater to both children and adults.
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Viewing Shanghai from the Top:
1) Visit the Oriental Pearl Tower in Pudong and take an elevator ride to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city. The tower also houses a museum and a rotating restaurant.
2) Visit the Shanghai Jin Mao Tower at the 88th floor. Enjoy your exclusive experience on the world highest skywalk platform which is 340 meters above the streets and 1.2 meters wide.
3) Visit the Shanghai Tower at the 118th floor, which is our best pick. Admire Shanghai’s sunset and night lights from the newest and highest skyscraper in the city and the second highest skycraper in the world! The highest post office in the world is located here, send out postcards from this curved, twisting structure!
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Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden: Explore the serene and expansive botanical garden located in Songjiang District, Shanghai. Spanning over 200 hectares, it offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. The garden showcases a diverse collection of plants, including rare and endangered species, across various themed gardens and landscapes.

Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden
Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden

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Visitors can explore the Bamboo Garden, the Rose Garden, the Medicinal Plant Garden, and more. The garden also features walking trails, a lake, and an impressive greenhouse complex. It serves as both an educational and recreational destination, providing a peaceful setting for nature enthusiasts and a place to learn about plant biodiversity.

Zhujiajiao Water Town: Explore this charming and ancient water town located on the outskirts of Shanghai. With a history dating back over 1,700 years, it offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese culture and architecture. Known as the “Venice of Shanghai,” Zhujiajiao is famous for its picturesque canals, stone bridges, and well-preserved buildings. Visitors can take a boat ride along the waterways, stroll through narrow cobblestone streets, and explore historic landmarks such as the Kezhi Garden and Fangsheng Bridge. The town also features quaint shops selling local crafts and delicious street food, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking a taste of old-world China.

Zhujiajiao Water Town
Zhujiajiao Water Town

It takes nearly an hour by bus alone and about 50mins by metro and bus to get to the Zhujiajiao Water Town. The best way to travel as a family is to use ride-hailing services like DiDi to travel directly from Shanghai to Zhujiajiao. It’s a convenient option if you prefer a more comfortable and direct journey.

Nanjing Road: Located in the vibrant city of Shanghai, is a bustling and iconic shopping destination that attracts both locals and tourists. Stretching over 5.5 kilometers from the Bund to Jing’an Temple, it offers a lively and dynamic atmosphere. The street is renowned for its extensive range of shops, catering to all kinds of shoppers. From luxury brands and department stores to small boutiques and local vendors, Nanjing Road offers a diverse selection of goods. Fashion enthusiasts can explore the latest trends, while antique lovers can browse through unique collectibles. The street is also a haven for food lovers, with a plethora of dining options ranging from local Chinese delicacies to international cuisines.

Nanjing Road at night
Nanjing Road at night

Nanjing Road is not only a shopping hub but also a cultural and historical landmark. Along the street, visitors can marvel at architectural gems like the historic Peace Hotel and admire the stunning skyline of the Bund. The Jing’an Temple, a famous Buddhist temple, provides a tranquil escape from the bustling shopping scene. As a pedestrian street, Nanjing Road ensures a pleasant and safe experience for visitors.

Nanjing Road Colonial Buildings
Nanjing Road Colonial Buildings

The absence of vehicular traffic allows people to stroll freely, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Street performers entertain passersby with their music, dance, and acrobatic acts, adding to the lively ambiance. Whether you are a shopaholic, a food enthusiast, or a culture aficionado, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street offers a memorable and immersive experience. It encapsulates the spirit of modern Shanghai while retaining its historical charm, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city.

People’s Square: The square offers a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling city, featuring lush green lawns, gardens, and fountains. It is surrounded by important cultural institutions, including the Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Grand Theatre, and the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center. People’s Square hosts various events and performances, making it a vibrant hub of activity. It’s a popular spot for leisurely walks, picnics, and a chance to appreciate the modern architecture and urban landscape of Shanghai.

People's Square
People’s Square

Here are a few key attractions located near People’s Square:

  1. Shanghai Museum: Located on the southern side of People’s Square, the Shanghai Museum is a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts. It houses an extensive collection of ancient Chinese artifacts, including ceramics, bronzes, calligraphy, paintings, and more.
  2. Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center: Situated on the eastern side of People’s Square, the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center showcases the city’s urban development through interactive exhibits, models, and multimedia presentations. It provides insights into Shanghai’s past, present, and future urban planning projects.
  3. Shanghai Grand Theatre: Adjacent to People’s Square, the Shanghai Grand Theatre is a stunning architectural masterpiece. It hosts a variety of performances, including ballets, operas, concerts, and theater productions, attracting both local and international artists.
  4. Nanjing Road: Just a short walk from People’s Square, Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s famous shopping street. It offers an array of retail options, from high-end boutiques and department stores to small shops and souvenir stalls. It’s an excellent place for shopping, dining, and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of Shanghai.
  5. The Bund: Located to the east of People’s Square, the Bund is a historic waterfront area along the Huangpu River. It features a collection of grand colonial-era buildings and offers stunning views of the Pudong skyline across the river. The Bund is perfect for leisurely walks, admiring architecture, and enjoying the cityscape.
  6. Jing’an Temple: Situated to the west of People’s Square, Jing’an Temple is a famous Buddhist temple known for its peaceful ambiance and beautiful architecture. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, observe Buddhist rituals, and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings.
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