Shanghai with Kids: Natural History Museum & Century Park
Things to do in Shanghai with kids: Natural History Museum, Century Park. Family-friendly itinerary—dinosaurs, bikes, boats. Stroller-friendly. When to go.
Shanghai works surprisingly well for families. If you’re looking for things to do in Shanghai with kids, the Natural History Museum and Century Park gave us a full day that our kids still talk about: dinosaurs, a hands-on fossil dig, bike rental, boat paddling, and open space to run. Both venues are stroller-friendly and used to families; the museum has English labels and the park is straightforward even without Chinese.
I’d aim for kids three and up to get the most out of it; younger ones still enjoy the dinosaurs and the park. Budget about ¥400–700 for a family of four including admission, activities, food, and metro. Last updated March 2026.
The only hiccup we had was showing up at the museum without a reservation. It was a weekend and we had to wait for the next slot. Now I book via the official WeChat channel one to seven days ahead. The museum cafe is pricey—we bring snacks and water.
Century Park has bike and boat rentals (separate from the ¥10 entry); the musical fountain runs on a schedule, so check when you arrive.
Morning: Natural History Museum
Shanghai Natural History Museum is on Beijing West Road in Jing’an; Line 13, Natural History Museum Station, Exit 1. Admission is ¥30 (kids under 1.3 m free). It’s closed Mondays; last entry 4:30 PM. Plan at least three hours: the dinosaur hall, the fossil dig experience (big hit with our kids), and the continental wildlife exhibits. Strollers are allowed and elevators make it manageable. Book in advance via WeChat to guarantee entry.
Shanghai with Kids: Afternoon at Century Park
Century Park is in Pudong: Line 2, Century Park Station, Exit 4. Entry ¥10 (kids under 1.3 m free). The park is large (140 hectares) with a lake, bike rental (two- and four-person bikes, ¥40–80/hour), pedal or electric boats (¥50–100), pigeon feeding, a maze garden, and a musical fountain. We did bikes, then boats, then the playground and pigeons; the fountain was a nice finish.
Bring sunscreen, snacks, water, and spare clothes if you’re boating—kids get wet. For lunch or dinner nearby, Kerry Parkside and the Super Brand Mall food court are family-friendly; McDonald’s and KFC are reliable for picky eaters.
Alternatives and More Ideas
Shanghai Ocean Aquarium (Lujiazui) has a long underwater tunnel and runs about ¥160 adults, ¥110 children. Shanghai Science & Technology Museum (¥45, kids under 1.3 m free) is very hands-on. If your family prefers theme parks, the Shanghai Disneyland day trip is a full day with characters and rides. Our metro guide helps with getting around with strollers and bags.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a stroller? Yes. Both the museum and Century Park allow strollers and have elevators where needed.
What age is this best for? Three and up get the most out of the museum and park. Even younger kids enjoy the dinosaurs and the open space.
Is there English at the museum? The Natural History Museum has English labels on the main exhibits. I didn’t see Korean audio guides; English signage was enough for us.
What are the best Shanghai attractions for families? The Natural History Museum (dinosaurs, fossil dig) and Century Park (bikes, boats, playground) top this itinerary. Shanghai Ocean Aquarium and Science & Technology Museum are strong alternatives.
A Natural History Museum and Century Park day works well for kids three and up. Book the museum in advance and go early. For more family ideas, see our Disney day trip and 3-day itinerary.
Last updated March 2026. Admission and opening hours may change.
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