Explore Shanghai with Kids: A Perfect 5-Day Family Itinerary

Welcome, adventurous families, to the dazzling metropolis of Shanghai! Known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” this city is a mesmerizing blend of traditional charm and futuristic dazzle, offering an endless array of experiences for travelers of all ages. From strolling through ancient gardens and marveling at towering skyscrapers to indulging in culinary delights and thrilling theme park rides, Shanghai promises a memorable journey for every member of the family.

So pack your bags, grab your little adventurers, and let’s embark on a journey that will take you through the heart of Shanghai, creating lasting memories and bonding experiences along the way. Get ready to discover the wonders of Shanghai, where every day is an adventure and every corner holds a new surprise. Welcome to the journey of a lifetime!

BOOK YOUR STAY IN SHANGHAI

Day 1: Exploring The Heart of Shanghai

Welcome to Shanghai, a bustling metropolis that perfectly intertwines the ancient with the ultra-modern. Today, we embark on our exciting family journey through this vibrant city’s heart, ensuring both kids and adults alike are entertained and enriched.

Morning: Yu Garden & Bazaar

Start your Shanghai adventure with a morning visit to the stunning Yu Garden. This centuries-old garden is a peaceful haven amid the city’s hustle and bustle, featuring traditional pavilions, rockeries, ponds filled with koi, and the famous Exquisite Jade Rock. It’s a cultural experience that fascinates at every turn, providing plenty of fun exploration opportunities for the kids.

Adjacent to the garden, the Yuyuan Bazaar offers a bustling atmosphere perfect for immersing in local culture. Here, you can find everything from traditional Chinese crafts to delicious street food. Don’t miss out on trying some local Shanghai snacks, such as xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) that the whole family will love.

Afternoon: Shanghai Science and Technology Museum

After a morning of cultural exploration, head to the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum for an educational yet thrilling afternoon. This state-of-the-art museum is filled with interactive exhibits that cover various topics, from space exploration to robotics, making learning fun for kids. It’s an excellent opportunity for hands-on experiences that ignite the curiosity of young minds.

Evening: Dinner at The Bund

Wrap up your first day in Shanghai with a stroll along The Bund, famous for its spectacular skyline views of Pudong’s skyscrapers across the Huangpu River. Choose from the myriad of family-friendly restaurants along the waterfront to enjoy dinner with a view. Indulging in some Shanghai-style cuisine while overlooking the city lights makes for a perfect end to the day.

Accommodation Suggestion

For a comfortable and convenient stay, consider booking a room at Parkyard Hotel Shanghai. This hotel offers family-friendly amenities and easy access to Shanghai’s top attractions, ensuring a restful night after a day full of adventures.

Day 2: Adventure and Thrills at Shanghai Disneyland

Today is all about magical moments and unforgettable adventures as you spend the day at Shanghai Disneyland. One of Shanghai’s must-visit attractions, this theme park offers a unique blend of Disney magic and Chinese culture, ensuring a fun-filled day for the whole family.

Morning: Disney Magic Begins

Start your day early to make the most of your time at Shanghai Disneyland. Begin with the iconic Mickey Avenue, where you can meet your favorite Disney characters. Don’t forget to capture these precious moments with photos! Next, head to Adventure Isle to explore its mysterious trails and feel the adrenaline rush on the Roaring Rapids ride.

Afternoon: Fantasy and Thrills

After lunch at one of the park’s many eateries, offering a range of options from quick snacks to sit-down meals, dive into the fantasy world at Fantasyland. Enjoy rides like the Voyage to the Crystal Grotto and Peter Pan’s Flight. Then, for some heart-pounding excitement, venture into Tomorrowland and experience the thrills of TRON Lightcycle Power Run and Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue.

Evening: Spectacular Shows and Fireworks

As the day winds down, make sure to catch the famous Disney Parade, where the magic of Disney storytelling comes to life before your eyes. Finally, cap off your day with the stunning evening fireworks over the Enchanted Storybook Castle, a breathtaking experience that will leave the whole family in awe.

Accommodation Suggestion

To stay close to the Disney magic, consider spending the night at Kempinski The One Suites Hotel Shanghai Downtown. Offering luxurious comfort with family-friendly amenities, it’s the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate after an exciting day at Shanghai Disneyland.

Day 3: Exploring Shanghai’s Museums and Parks

Take a day to slow down and soak in Shanghai’s rich history and natural beauty. Today, we’re exploring some of the city’s most iconic museums and peaceful parks, offering both educational and relaxing experiences for the family.

Morning: Shanghai Natural History Museum

Begin your day at the Shanghai Natural History Museum. This world-class facility will take you on a journey through the earth’s history with its vast collection of specimens. The dinosaur exhibits are a hit among kids, offering an exciting glimpse into the past. Interactive displays and educational workshops make learning fun and engaging for all ages.

Lunch: Jing’an Sculpture Park

Adjacent to the museum, find a spot for a family picnic at Jing’an Sculpture Park. This park not only offers green spaces perfect for a relaxing break but also features intriguing modern sculptures scattered throughout, turning your lunch into a visually stimulating experience.

Afternoon & Evening: Zhongshan Park

Wrap up the day with a leisurely stroll in Zhongshan Park. With its beautiful lotus ponds, traditional Chinese gardens, and spacious playgrounds, it’s a lovely spot for the family to unwind. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and maybe even indulge in some local street food from nearby vendors.

Accommodation Suggestion

For comfortable accommodation that keeps you centrally located to all of today’s activities, consider staying at W Shanghai – The Bund. It offers luxury alongside family-friendly services, ensuring a restorative end to a day full of exploration.

Day 4: Cultural Immersion and Evening Entertainment

Today’s itinerary is all about diving deeper into the rich cultural tapestry of Shanghai and enjoying some evening entertainment that the whole family will love.

Morning: The Shanghai Museum

Begin your cultural day at the Shanghai Museum, located in People’s Square. This museum is a treasure trove of Chinese art, featuring ancient bronze, ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy. The interactive kids’ zone offers a hands-on approach to learning about China’s vast history, making it an enlightening experience for young minds.

Lunch: Nanjing Road

For lunch, take a stroll down Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s premier shopping street. Here, you’ll find a variety of dining options alongside the bustling atmosphere of the city’s most famous commercial area. Enjoy some local Shanghainese cuisine or opt for international fare that suits every palate.

Afternoon: Old French Concession

After lunch, wander through the leafy streets of the Old French Concession. This area is known for its charming European-style architecture, quaint boutiques, and cozy cafes. It’s a wonderful place for the family to explore on foot, offering a relaxed pace and plenty of photo opportunities amid the historic buildings.

Evening: ERA Intersection of Time Acrobatic Show

No visit to Shanghai is complete without experiencing the breathtaking ERA Intersection of Time, a world-class acrobatic show that combines traditional Chinese arts with modern technologies. It’s a mesmerizing performance that captivates audiences of all ages, making for an unforgettable evening out.

Accommodation Suggestion

To ensure you’re well-rested and ready for your final day in Shanghai, consider staying at the Le Méridien Shanghai, Minhang. Offering luxurious comfort and convenient access to Shanghai’s attractions, it’s the perfect home away from home for families.

Day 5: Relaxation and Memorable Goodbyes

On the final day of your Shanghai journey, enjoy a more relaxed pace, focusing on memorable experiences that will leave you with cherished family memories of this vibrant city.

Morning: Binjiang Avenue

Start your day with a leisurely stroll down Binjiang Avenue in the Pudong District. This riverside promenade offers stunning views of the Shanghai skyline, including the Oriental Pearl Tower. It’s a serene place to enjoy the morning breeze and take some family photos against the backdrop of the city’s iconic architecture.

Lunch: Century Park

Pack a picnic lunch and head over to Century Park, Shanghai’s largest park. With expansive green lawns, beautiful water bodies, and playful areas for kids, it’s the perfect spot for a family picnic. After lunch, enjoy a leisurely paddle boat ride on the lake or explore the park’s scenic walking paths.

Afternoon: Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

Conclude your adventure with a visit to the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, one of the largest ocean aquariums in the world. With a vast array of marine life from global waters, including rare and exotic species, it’s an educational and mesmerizing experience for all ages. The underwater tunnel offers an immersive experience, walking through a marine world surrounded by sea creatures.

Evening: Farewell Dinner on The Bund

For your final evening in Shanghai, enjoy a special family dinner at one of the many restaurants on The Bund. Reflect on the memories made and the experiences shared over delicious cuisine with the mesmerizing night view of Shanghai as your backdrop. It’s a fitting farewell to this magnificent city.