Saigon with Kids: Fun Activities for Families

Updated5 September 2026 · original article published 15 October 2024

Exploring Saigon with kids can be an exciting adventure. Ho Chi Minh City offers plenty of family-friendly activities to keep children entertained while allowing parents to soak in the vibrant culture. From outdoor parks to interactive museums, there’s something for every child to enjoy. In this guide, Saigon Scene will take you through some of the best things to do with kids in Saigon so you can make the most of your family vacation in this lively city.

Outdoor Activities for Kids in Saigon

Thao Cam Vien Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Thao Cam Vien Zoo and Botanical Gardens is one of the oldest zoos in the world. It was founded in 1865 and is a beloved family destination in Saigon. Located in District 1, it spans over 20 hectares, offering a mix of wildlife and lush green spaces. It houses more than 550 animals worldwide, including rare species like white tigers, Indochinese tigers, and clouded leopards. This zoo provides an exciting opportunity for kids to explore animals up close and even participate in activities like animal feeding with the guidance of zookeepers.

Beyond the wildlife, the botanical gardens feature over 1,800 species of plants, including beautiful orchids, cacti, and bonsais. Strolling through the gardens provides a peaceful retreat from the city while offering a great learning experience for children. The zoo also provides a small amusement park with fun rides and playgrounds, adding to its family-friendly appeal.

Thao Cam Vien Zoo offers children an excellent mix of education and entertainment. With its open green spaces, wildlife exhibits, and family-oriented activities, parents can relax in the gardens while the kids enjoy the sights and sounds of this lively park.

Suoi Tien Theme Park

Located about 19 km outside the city centre, Suoi Tien Theme Park is a must-visit for families exploring Saigon with kids. This vibrant park is more than just a typical amusement destination; it’s deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture, showcasing various attractions themed around folklore, legends, and historical tales. Spanning over 200 hectares, the park features both thrilling rides and educational exhibits, making it a fascinating blend of entertainment and culture for visitors of all ages.

One of the highlights for families is the Tien Dong Ngoc Nu Wave Pool, Vietnam’s first-ever man-made wave pool, surrounded by towering mountains and mythical sculptures celebrating Vietnam’s rich legends. The park also boasts several other attractions, such as the Phoenix Fairy Palace and the Safari Boat Ride, where kids can immerse themselves in magical and mythical worlds. Additionally, there’s the Unicorn Palace (also known as the Buddhist Hell Attraction), which offers a more unique and eerie adventure for those who dare to explore.

For water lovers, the Suoi Tien Water Park is an exciting addition. It features water slides, splash pads, and a lazy river, making it the perfect place to cool off on a hot day. With its mix of theme park rides, cultural experiences, and interactive water activities, Suoi Tien ensures an exciting day out for families. Suoi Tien offers a variety of fun, educational, and adventurous activities. Children can enjoy a thrilling yet educational journey through Vietnamese history and mythology, from roller coasters to cultural performances.

Dam Sen Water Park

Dam Sen Water Park is a favourite family destination in Ho Chi Minh City, especially for those seeking a fun escape from the tropical heat. Located in District 11, the park spans 50 hectares and features 30 water attractions. There’s something for everyone, from thrilling water slides like the Kamikaze and Twister to relaxing options like the Lazy River and wave pools.

The highlight for families with younger children is the dedicated kids’ area, which offers colourful slides, splash zones, and shallow pools that ensure safety and fun, for the more adventurous, attractions like the Love Storm and Boomerang slides promise excitement and adrenaline.

Aside from the water rides, the park has an artificial beach and a lazy river where families can float and unwind. With ample dining options and shaded resting areas, Dam Sen Water Park is the perfect place for a full day of entertainment and relaxation for families. The park has a wide range of attractions for all ages, from gentle splash pools for toddlers to high-speed slides for older kids, making it an ideal family-friendly spot.

Tao Dan Park

Tao Dan Park is one of the largest and most popular green spaces in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a peaceful retreat for families. Located in the heart of District 1, it spans 10 hectares and is often referred to as the “green lung” of the city. With over 1,000 trees, this park provides a refreshing atmosphere, ideal for family outings, picnics, and recreational activities.

The Children’s Playground is a major draw for families with kids. This dedicated area offers swings, slides, seesaws, and other fun equipment, making it a great spot for young children to run and play in a safe environment. The playground, which spans 300 square meters, is often bustling with local families, especially on weekends.

Tao Dan Park is also famous for its annual Spring Flower Festival during Tet (the Vietnamese Lunar New Year). Visitors can admire intricate floral displays and participate in festive activities during this festival. Additionally, the park is home to historical monuments like the Hung Kings Temple and a Cham Tower replica, which offer visitors a glimpse into Vietnam’s cultural heritage. The park’s open spaces, playground, and artistic exhibits make it a versatile spot for both play and learning. It’s an ideal place for kids to explore nature, enjoy outdoor games, and interact with the local community in a safe and scenic environment.

Educational and Interactive Experiences for Kids

Saigon Skydeck at Bitexco Tower

The Saigon Skydeck is located on the 49th floor of the Bitexco Financial Tower, offering a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of Ho Chi Minh City from a height of 178 meters. It’s one of the best places to get an aerial perspective of the city, making it a must-visit for families exploring Saigon with kids. The observation deck provides visitors with an interactive experience, featuring telescopes and touch screens that offer educational insights into the city’s architecture and history.

Kids will enjoy exploring landmarks through binoculars, which is both fun and informative. The Saigon Skydeck also offers a mini-theatre that shows short films about Vietnam’s iconic ao dai (traditional long dress), adding a cultural element to the experience. The combination of interactive displays, telescopes, and artistic exhibits makes the Saigon Skydeck educational and entertaining for children. They will love the view, the fun atmosphere, and the chance to learn about Saigon from above.

For families, the best time to visit is during sunset, when the views of the city are even more spectacular. The observation deck is open from morning until late evening, making it convenient to fit into your itinerary. Souvenir shops on the 49th floor sell various items, including T-shirts, mugs, and fabric bags, making taking a piece of Saigon home easy.

The Museum of Vietnamese History

The Museum of Vietnamese History, located next to the Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens in District 1, offers families a deep dive into Vietnam’s cultural and historical roots. Established in 1929, the museum spans Vietnam’s history from prehistoric times to modern times. It features many artefacts, including ancient relics, statues from the Cham and Khmer cultures, and weaponry from the 14th century onward. Kids will especially enjoy the museum’s fascinating exhibits, such as the dinosaur skeleton and the traditional Vietnamese water puppetry shows.

This museum is particularly engaging for children because it combines education with visually stimulating exhibits. There’s even a mummified body display, offering a rare and intriguing look at ancient burial customs, which might spark curious questions from young visitors. The museum also features artefacts from Vietnam’s feudal dynasties and periods of Chinese domination, helping kids understand the region’s long history.

JP World

Located inside Gigamall Thu Duc, JP World is a cutting-edge entertainment space offering a range of interactive activities for both kids and families. This high-tech playground features immersive light shows, 3D mapping technology, and interactive digital exhibits that create a visually captivating experience. Kids can engage with themed zones, including projection-based games where they interact with virtual fish tanks, colourful light installations, and large touch screens that bring their drawings to life in a virtual city or jungle.

JP World’s ability to merge entertainment with creativity and education sets it apart. Children can enjoy drawing and watching their creations become part of the interactive displays, making it a fun yet educational outing. It’s an ideal place for families to explore together, with a mix of games and artistic experiences to entertain kids and adults.

Indoor Playgrounds and Kid-Friendly Entertainment

KizCiti

KizCiti in Ho Chi Minh City is a unique career-oriented amusement park for kids aged 3 to 12. Designed as a miniature city, it offers an immersive environment where children can explore a variety of professions, such as firefighter, doctor, pilot, and more. KizCiti provides a hands-on learning experience, allowing children to engage in role-playing activities that foster their creativity and understanding of different career paths.

In addition to the role-playing, KizCiti also features outdoor green spaces like the KizSafari, KizFarm, and Agricultural Garden, which offer opportunities for kids to connect with nature and learn about environmental protection. These spaces introduce children to concepts of sustainability and agriculture in an enjoyable setting.

KizCiti allows children to learn through play by participating in fun, realistic job roles. The interactive experiences help foster independence and social skills while teaching practical knowledge in a fun and engaging environment. It’s an educational experience wrapped in entertainment, making it an ideal spot for families with young children visiting Saigon.

Vincom Ice Rink

Vincom Ice Rink, located at Landmark 81, is Vietnam’s most significant indoor ice-skating rink, offering a refreshing escape from Saigon’s tropical climate. The ice rink is positioned within the Vincom Mega Mall and provides a family-friendly venue for casual skating and more competitive ice sports. With an area of 2,002 square meters, this state-of-the-art rink can host up to 205 skaters at a time, making it ideal for families looking for fun physical activity.

The rink offers aids like penguin and seal skating supports, perfect for beginners and younger kids to gain confidence on the ice. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced skater, Vincom Ice Rink provides a unique experience with modern equipment, a well-maintained ice surface, and plenty of amenities like comfortable seating areas and nearby dining options.

The chance to ice skate in a warm city like Saigon adds an element of novelty. The support tools available for children make the experience safe and enjoyable, giving them the freedom to explore the ice in a fun and secure way.

Sip N Play

For families and gaming enthusiasts alike, Sip N Play offers a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience in the heart of Thao Dien. This gaming lounge is perfect for those who want to unwind, enjoy good company, and dive into video games, board games, and nostalgic classics. It’s a playground for kids and adults, providing endless entertainment options.

Offering over 200 board games, Sip N Play ensures that families can enjoy quality time together away from screens. These board games range from simple, kid-friendly options to more complex strategy games, providing children of all ages with something to enjoy.

With various local food vendors offering child-friendly meals and snacks, Sip N Play makes it easy for families to spend hours enjoying the space without needing to leave for refreshments. The diverse drinks menu, including sodas and ice blends, caters perfectly to kids’ preferences.

As a proud partner of Saigon Scene, Sip N Play offers members an exclusive 10% discount, making it an affordable and value-packed destination for families looking for fun-filled, budget-friendly outings.

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Best Places to Eat with Kids in Saigon

Churros Club

Churros Club offers a slice of classic American charm right in the heart of Thao Dien, bringing together delectable desserts and a vibrant, casual atmosphere. This family-friendly spot is best known for its signature churros, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, served with rich, velvety chocolate sauce. The red-themed, American-inspired decor adds to the diner-like charm, making it an inviting space for kids and adults. Along with churros, the club also serves classic American milkshakes, completing the nostalgic feel.

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Snap Cafe

Snap Cafe is a well-loved, family-friendly dining spot in the Thao Dien District 2, Ho Chi Minh City. It’s perfect for parents looking for a relaxed atmosphere while their children have fun. The cafe’s main attraction is its spacious outdoor playground, which allows kids to explore and play in a safe, open environment. Snap Cafe’s menu features a range of kid-friendly dishes, making it a convenient spot for families looking to enjoy a meal together while letting children burn off energy. The cafe attracts expat families due to its welcoming vibe and large play area​.

Eddie’s New York Deli & Diner

Eddie’s New York Deli & Diner is a retro-themed dining spot that transports families to the 1950s. With its checkerboard floors, vintage Coca-Cola decor, and classic American music, the diner creates a nostalgic atmosphere perfect for family outings. Their menu boasts hearty American comfort food, from juicy burgers to milkshakes, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Eddie’s is a hit for kids, with generous portions and a laid-back environment that welcomes all ages.

Fun Day Trips with Kids from Saigon

Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels offer a fascinating educational experience for families visiting Ho Chi Minh City. This underground network, built during the Vietnam War, spans over 250 kilometres and provides insight into the ingenuity of Vietnamese soldiers who used these tunnels for hiding, transporting supplies, and launching surprise attacks. For kids, crawling through these narrow tunnels offers a unique, hands-on history lesson that makes the past come alive in an interactive way.

One of the highlights for younger visitors is the opportunity to explore parts of the tunnel network and view life-size models depicting life underground, complete with hidden traps and kitchens. This interactive journey sparks curiosity and helps kids understand the difficulties faced by soldiers during the war. Additionally, visitors can try local snacks like boiled tapioca, which the tunnel dwellers used to survive. The educational value of this tour, combined with the immersive experience, makes it an excellent destination for family learning.

For a family-friendly experience, consider visiting the Ben Dinh section of the tunnels, as it’s closer to Ho Chi Minh City and more accessible. Be prepared for hot and humid conditions, and pack accordingly with insect repellent and water to ensure comfort during the tour.

Saigon River Boat Tour with Saigon Boat

Exploring the city by boat offers a unique perspective of Saigon’s vibrant life along the riverbanks. Saigon Boat provides an ideal family-friendly tour that combines education, adventure, and relaxation. As one of Saigon Scene’s partners, Saigon Boat offers exclusive experiences on the Saigon River, catering to locals and tourists who want to explore the city from a different angle.

The boat tours include luxury speedboat rides along the river, passing through iconic landmarks and serene spots, providing a refreshing escape from the busy streets. Families can enjoy a peaceful cruise while learning about the city’s rich history and the daily lives of those living along the riverbanks. You’ll also witness beautiful views of the city’s skyline and lush greenery.

Many tours also head towards the Mekong Delta, where families can experience traditional activities such as rowing small boats through canals, visiting local villages, and sampling local delicacies like honey tea and coconut candies. It’s a beautiful opportunity for children to learn about Vietnamese culture and nature hands-on.

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Making the Most of Saigon with Kids

Ho Chi Minh City offers exciting and diverse activities that are perfect for families. From outdoor adventures and theme parks to cultural experiences and kid-friendly dining, there’s no shortage of things to do with kids in Saigon. Whether you’re looking to entertain energetic toddlers or curious young minds, Saigon has something for every age group. And don’t forget, with a Saigon Scene Membership, families can enjoy exclusive discounts at participating businesses nationwide, making your adventure in Saigon even more affordable!

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