Shanghai's top 8 family-friendly attractions

Tired of the towering skyscrapers in the financial center, fed up with the unbearable congestion on Jinsha River Road, even with only two days on the weekend, the free-spirited soul cannot stay idle. With children and parents in tow, driving for only a few hours, the eyes will see another world. Whether it's a lively and fun-filled amusement park, a romantic and leisurely Jiangnan ancient town, or a refreshing return to the green mountains and forests, it can all allow people to fully release the negative energy accumulated while living in the city.

Zhujiajiao Town

As one of the four major cultural towns in Shanghai, Zhujiajiao forms a triangular stance with the surrounding ancient towns of Zhouzhuang and Tongli. The numerous ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties and the well-preserved local customs and traditions are the highlights here. Looking out the window, the stone-paved paths stretch endlessly, resembling a picturesque scene of a Jiangnan water town with a rich historical ambiance. Besides the ancient buildings, the numerous collections within the town further highlight the cultural heritage of this century-old town. Even today, Zhujiajiao still epitomizes the phrase 'turning the red pavilion, lowering the carved window.' Ticket: 1 USD/person, Scenic spot package: 8 USD/person, Transportation: Take the Shangtai Line, Huzhu Line, or bus from Shanghai Stadium within Shanghai.
Located at the geographical intersection of Wu and Yue, Fengjing Ancient Town has a unique position among the many ancient towns in Jiangnan. As the 'Southwest Gateway' from Shanghai to the southwestern provinces, Fengjing Ancient Town is crisscrossed with a dense network of waterways, almost 100% restoring and showcasing the historical appearance of a water town. The famous Jinshan peasant paintings also originated in Fengjing, becoming a rare regional cultural feature in China and having a broad impact internationally. Ticket: Combo ticket 7 USD. Transportation: Drive on the Shanghai-Hangzhou Expressway, take the A8 section, exit at Fengjing toll station, follow the signs for 2 minutes to reach the parking lot at the entrance of the ancient town.
The phrase 'See Qibao to understand a thousand years of Shanghai' deeply reflects the long history here. The accumulation of over a thousand years can be read from every small river, every blue brick, and every small bridge. There is a so-called 'hidden attraction' in Qibao, which is particularly special compared to other ancient water towns. It is the Qibao Catholic Church located on Catholic Church Street. This Gothic church, originally built during the Tongzhi period of the Qing Dynasty, had its bell tower destroyed in 1949. The current appearance was restored by inviting designers for the Shanghai World Expo. Admission: Free. A combined ticket for attractions within the scenic area costs 30 yuan, while individual attraction tickets range from 5 to 10 yuan.
As a theme park in China, Happy Valley offers many new attractions and entertainment shows that were never seen before, including the country's first wooden roller coaster, which is completely resistant to wind, sun, and rain; a world-class floorless drop coaster that rises to 60 meters and then plunges vertically into the water; a self-rotating giant swing with a single price exceeding 100 million yuan and a swing amplitude of 240 degrees; and an international-class high-tech entertainment device like the double-tower space shuttle that shoots up instantly, allowing you to scream to your heart's content! Ticket prices: Regular ticket: 200 yuan; Annual pass: 428 yuan; Renewal pass: 298 yuan.

Shanghai Jinjiang Amusement Park

As a modern amusement park in Shanghai, Jinjiang Amusement Park not only boasts China's first giant Ferris wheel, but also features thrilling rides that attract many adventure seekers. In addition to the thrilling 'Giant Suspended Roller Coaster' and 'Motorcycle Roller Coaster', there are also many rides suitable for parents and children to enjoy together, making it a park where both adults and children can have a great time. Transportation: Direct access via Metro Line 1. Phone: 021-54204956.

Changzhou Dinosaur Park

An amusement park themed around dinosaurs, it is truly the 'Oriental Jurassic'. Multiple themed areas highlight a fun and playful atmosphere, where everyone becomes a little boy holding dinosaur toys and play-fighting. The core area of the park, China Dinosaur Park, has developed over 14 years and now has the capability to instantly transport every visitor back to the ancient and mysterious Jurassic era.
Located in the central part of Chongming Island, Dongping Forest Park is a natural oxygen bar very close to Shanghai. The towering trees in the park contrast beautifully with the blue sky, and the Dutch windmill by the lake turns with the wind, making you feel as if you are in Northern Europe. The beach in the northwest corner presents a different scene, with white sand stretching and rolling heat waves, exuding a tropical vibe. Additionally, there are popular activities such as real-life CS and outdoor barbecues. This vast plain artificial forest has become a paradise for Shanghai residents. Ticket: 6 USD/person. Transportation: You can reach Dongping Forest Park by taking the Shenchong Line from the North District Bus Station, or the Nandong Line and Nanjiang Line from the Chongming South Gate Bus Station.

Shengsi Archipelago

Living in the metropolis for too long, it seems easy to forget that there is such a beautiful island nearby. Shengsi Archipelago has beaches, sea reefs, strange caves, and steep peaks. What is precious is that the air and seafood here are indeed excellent. The air quality is top-notch for more than 95% of the year, which is hard to find in other cities in Jiangnan. Route: It is recommended to tour from far to near. After reaching Liujingtan (the easternmost end of the island), head to Dabeishan on the way back, then to Nan Changtu Beach, and finally to Jihu Beach. Accommodation can be found near Jihu Beach or Caiyuan Town.