Guides & Tips

Ho Chi Minh City Family Activities: Best Things to Do with Kids

Dan Vy
3 min. to read

When planning a family vacation, consider the wide range of Ho Chi Minh City family activities available in this bustling metropolis in southern Vietnam. Also known as Saigon, it offers something for everyone, from exploring historical landmarks to enjoying outdoor adventures, making it an excellent choice for a family getaway. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best Ho Chi Minh City family activities to ensure your trip is filled with unforgettable memories.

1. Exploring the Cultural Side of Saigon with Kids

Visit the War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City is an eye-opening experience that offers an educational perspective on Vietnam’s history, making it one of the key Saigon with kids family activities. While some exhibits might be intense for younger children, older kids and teens will find it a valuable learning experience.

The museum features various artifacts, photographs, and military equipment that depict the realities of the Vietnam War. It’s a sobering but important part of the city’s history that can spark meaningful conversations with your kids about the impact of war.

🔥 Learn more about the history of Saigon with a visit to A Guide to Ho Chi Minh City’s War Remnants Museumᯓ★

Discover the Cu Chi Tunnels

Another must-see historical site for Ho Chi Minh City family activities is the Cu Chi Tunnels. Used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, these underground tunnels provide a fascinating glimpse into the ingenuity and resilience of the Vietnamese people.

Widened to accommodate tourists, the tunnels offer the opportunity for kids to crawl through and experience the soldiers’ way of life during the war. Interactive exhibits and guided tours make this a captivating and educational outing for the entire family visiting Saigon with kids.

Wander around Ben Thanh Market

No trip to Ho Chi Minh City is complete without a visit to Ben Thanh Market. This bustling market is a treasure trove of goods, from souvenirs and handicrafts to local delicacies.

Kids will love the vibrant atmosphere, and it’s a great opportunity to introduce them to the art of bargaining. The market is also a fantastic place to try out some local street food, with plenty of kid-friendly options available.

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2. Outdoor Adventures for the Whole Family

⟡ Spend a Day at Suoi Tien Theme Park

Head to Suoi Tien Theme Park in Ho Chi Minh City for a blend of cultural themes and modern attractions, including roller coasters, water slides, a wave pool, and a crocodile farm. The park also features Buddhist-inspired architecture with statues and structures depicting Vietnamese legends and folklore. This makes it one of the top Ho Chi Minh City family activities. It’s a great option for families visiting Saigon with kids.

Explore the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens

The Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, established in 1865, is one of the oldest zoos in the world. It houses a wide range of animals and boasts stunning botanical gardens, offering a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about wildlife and conservation. The lush gardens provide a serene escape from the city, making it a popular family destination in Ho Chi Minh City.

Visit Dam Sen Water Park

Beat the heat with a visit to Dam Sen Water Park, a popular attraction for families in Ho Chi Minh City. The park features a wide range of water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, providing endless entertainment for kids.

There are also areas designed specifically for younger children, ensuring that everyone in the family can have a splashing good time. The park is well-maintained and has various food stalls offering snacks and refreshments.

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3. Immersive Cultural Experiences

Watch a Water Puppet Show

When visiting Ho Chi Minh City with kids, be sure to experience the traditional Vietnamese art form of water puppetry, which dates back over a thousand years. The performances take place on a water stage and feature wooden puppets controlled by hidden puppeteers.

Depicting scenes from rural Vietnamese life and accompanied by traditional music, it’s a captivating experience for both children and adults. This makes it one of the top Ho Chi Minh City family activities and a must-do activity when exploring Saigon with kids.

Capture Memories in Traditional Costumes at the Ao Dai Museum

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam at the Ao Dai Museum in Ho Chi Minh City. Try on a traditional Ao Dai, take stunning photographs, and capture the elegance and beauty of this timeless attire.

The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and artistry behind the Ao Dai while creating lasting memories in a picturesque setting. It’s a must-visit for families looking for Ho Chi Minh City family activities, especially those interested in Saigon with kids.

Take a Cyclo Ride through the City

For a unique family adventure, consider a cyclo ride through Ho Chi Minh City. A cyclo is a traditional Vietnamese rickshaw. As you leisurely pedal through the city streets, you’ll enjoy the sights and sounds.

Children will love this new experience. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in local culture and visit famous landmarks. This is one of the many enjoyable family activities in Ho Chi Minh City.

🔥 Planning a trip to Saigon? Don’t miss out: Exploring Ho Chi Minh City’s Religious Sites: Temples, Pagodas, and Churches ᯓ★

Participate in Art and Craft Workshops

For a hands-on experience, consider signing your kids up for an art or craft workshop. Many cultural centers and studios in Ho Chi Minh City offer workshops where children can learn traditional Vietnamese crafts, such as pottery, painting, and lantern-making.

These activities are not only fun but also provide a creative outlet for kids and a unique souvenir to take home. The process of making something with their own hands can be incredibly rewarding and memorable for children.

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4. Delicious Food Adventures in Ho Chi Minh City

Enjoy Local Street Food

Ho Chi Minh City family activities include exploring the city’s vibrant street food scene. There are many kid-friendly options available. Popular dishes like pho, banh mi, and spring rolls are sure to please. Moreover, many street vendors are happy to customize dishes for younger palates. This makes it a great way to introduce your kids to new flavors and dishes.

Dine at Family-Friendly Restaurants

If you’re looking for a more comfortable dining experience, Ho Chi Minh City has plenty of family-friendly restaurants that offer a wide range of cuisines. From Western favorites like pizza and burgers to Asian dishes such as fried rice and noodles, there’s something to satisfy every member of the family.

Many restaurants also provide high chairs and kid-friendly menus, making dining out with children a breeze. Popular spots like Pizza 4P’s and The Deck Saigon are well-known for their welcoming atmosphere and delicious food.

Visit the Ice Cream and Dessert Shops

No family vacation is complete without indulging in some sweet treats, and the city has an abundance of ice cream and dessert shops. In fact, exploring Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant ice cream and dessert scene is a must-do activity for families.

Whether your kids prefer traditional flavors or something more adventurous, there’s a shop to satisfy their sweet tooth. Places like Fanny Ice Cream offer a wide variety of flavors, while dessert cafes such as Snowee and Morico serve up creative treats like matcha parfaits and bubble waffles. It’s the perfect way to cool down and enjoy a treat after a day of exploring.

🔥 You won’t believe what you can find in Ho Chi Minh City through: Top 5 Unique Vietnamese Coffee Experiences in Ho Chi Minh City ᯓ★

5. Tips for Traveling in Saigon with Kids

Best Time to Visit

When planning your family activities in Ho Chi Minh City with kids, it’s important to consider the weather. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April, when temperatures are more moderate and there’s less chance of rain.

However, even during the rainy season, short, heavy downpours are usually followed by sunshine, so your plans won’t be too disrupted. Just be sure to pack light, breathable clothing and plenty of sunscreen.

Accommodations and Activities in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City offers a variety of family-friendly accommodations and activities. For a comfortable stay, consider places like the Sherwood Residence or Somerset Ho Chi Minh City. These hotels provide spacious rooms and facilities tailored to families.

When planning your trip, be sure to include child-friendly activities like visiting the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, exploring the War Remnants Museum, or enjoying a boat ride on the Saigon River. These experiences will create lasting memories for your family.

6. FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit Ho Chi Minh City with kids?

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather is more pleasant and there’s less rain.

Are there any family-friendly hotels in Ho Chi Minh City?

Yes, there are many family-friendly accommodations in the city, including Sherwood Residence and Somerset Ho Chi Minh City, which offer amenities like swimming pools and spacious rooms.

Is Ho Chi Minh City safe for family activities?

Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe for families, but it’s important to be cautious of the busy traffic and take standard safety precautions, especially when traveling with young children.

What are the must-try foods for kids in Saigon?

Kid-friendly foods include pho (noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches), and various types of spring rolls. Street food vendors are usually accommodating to children’s tastes.

How can I keep my children entertained during a trip to Ho Chi Minh City?

There are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained with family, including visiting theme parks, exploring museums, taking a cyclo ride, and enjoying Ho Chi Minh City’s many parks and outdoor spaces.

7. Conclusion

Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant and dynamic destination that offers a wealth of family-friendly activities. From exploring historical sites and cultural experiences to enjoying outdoor adventures and delicious food, there’s something for everyone in this bustling city. Whether you’re wandering through a market, riding a cyclo, or watching a water puppet show, the memories you create in Saigon will be cherished for years to come.

So, pack your bags and get ready to discover all the family activities Ho Chi Minh City has to offer with Sun Getaways Travel now!

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