Family-Friendly Bangkok: Top Attractions and Activities

Bold, busy, and boisterous, Bangkok is famed for gleaming temples, mesmerizing markets, incendiary cuisine, and hedonistic nightlife. However, is Thailand’s biggest city really suitable for families? We say yes!

With careful planning and a focus on enjoyable experiences, Bangkok offers adventures big and small that will keep children entertained for years. For instance, traveling across the city by túk-túk or riverboat can transform even a simple commute into a fun family outing.

The golden rule for experiencing Bangkok as a family is to choose accommodation with a pool. This allows for a retreat into calmer, cooler entertainment when the tropical sun becomes overwhelming. Whether your interests lie in gilded temples, theme parks, or engaging museums, here’s a guide to the best activities in Bangkok for families.

Is Bangkok Good for Kids?

Bangkok’s historic sights are laid out in an alluring array of colors, featuring supersized statues and twinkling fairy lights that create a festive atmosphere. Kid-friendly museums and theme parks populate the cityscape, while túk-túks, river ferries, and river taxis provide fun-filled transportation options.

Additionally, the city boasts several indoor playgrounds for children to enjoy. While family discount cards are scarce, attractions like Madame Tussauds and SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World offer combined tickets that provide savings when purchased ahead of time.

In terms of convenience, Bangkok is equipped with numerous international-style supermarkets, making it easy to find diapers, formula milk, and familiar flavors from home. The city also presents a wealth of shopping opportunities should you need spare clothes or various necessities.

To escape the heat, air-conditioned malls abound—Central Chidlom on Th Phloen Chit features an entire floor dedicated to children’s activities. Mall facilities are well-maintained, offering toilet paper, soap for handwashing, and baby-changing areas.

The Best Things to Do in Bangkok with Kids

Thanks to air-conditioned malls and hotel pools, it’s easy to stay cool in Bangkok, especially when visiting one of the fantastic water parks. Consider taking a day trip to Ramayana Water Park in Pattaya, just a two-hour bus ride away, where you can also enjoy the beach.

For maximum water fun, don’t miss the Buddhist festival of Songkran, characterized by a giant city-wide water fight every April 13th—an exciting cultural experience for little ones.

See Mythical Giants at Wat Arun

Among Bangkok’s many remarkable wat (monasteries), Wat Arun stands out for families due to its scenic riverside location, statue-filled gardens, and towering spires. The shrine is conveniently accessible by river, making it an enjoyable visit for all ages.

Marvel at the Giant Reclining Buddha Inside Wat Pho

Wat Pho is Bangkok’s most renowned temple, offering a rich collection of mosaic-covered stupas and the massive reclining Buddha—one of the world’s largest. Children will enjoy making offerings and exploring this fascinating site.

Ride the Chao Phraya Express Boat

Cooling off at the river is a must; the Chao Phraya Express Boat connects several key points along the riverbank, ensuring families can enjoy views of Banglamphu, Wat Arun, and even Chinatown while riding in comfort.

Dig Up Dinos at the Children’s Discovery Museum

At this engaging museum, interactive exhibits cover diverse topics, ensuring children learn while having fun—especially in the Dino Detective Zone, where they uncover dinosaur bones.

See All of Thailand in One Spot at the Ancient City (Muang Boran)

This open-air museum, just a short taxi ride from the Kheha BTS station, recreates Thailand’s most famous monuments, allowing kids to explore and engage with the country’s history.

Catch Your Breath at Lumphini Park

Central Bangkok’s largest park features an artificial lake and well-tended lawns, making it an excellent area for family relaxation. Paddleboats and playgrounds are available for younger children to enjoy.

Maximize Fun at Dream World

Home to a variety of thrilling rides and a snow room for sledding, Dream World offers entertainment for children and adults alike. Just be prepared for a day of adventure.

Where Should I Stay in Bangkok with Kids?

For family-friendly accommodation, consider the Ratanakosin area. While Khao San Road caters largely to backpackers, nearby lanes and riverside options offer quieter, comfortable stays within walking distance of major attractions.

Choosing hotels with pools and restaurants on-site can make your stay much more pleasant, and some recommendations include Chakrabongse Villas near the Grand Palace and Lamphu Tree House in Banglamphu.

Getting Around Bangkok with Kids

Navigating Bangkok with children can be a bit tricky, especially with the uneven pavements and steps common in the city. Fortunately, all BTS and most major MRT stations offer elevators for strollers. Taxis provide relief in the form of air conditioning but can lead to long waits due to traffic—short rides are best.

Kids will surely enjoy rides in túk-túks, but it’s wise to limit these to quieter times of day. The Chao Phraya Express Boat is another enjoyable method of getting from place to place while exploring the river.

What to Eat with Kids in Bangkok

Feeding children in Bangkok can be simple, as not every dish is spicy. Delicious options to try include fried rice, Chinese bao buns, and refreshing tropical fruits sure to amaze kids. Numerous international food outlets in big shopping districts also provide a familiar dining experience for little ones.