Family Friendly Activities Ho Chi Minh City

Family Friendly Activities in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is a busy metropolis that offers a wide range of activities for families to enjoy together. Here are some suggestions:

Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels

  • Age: 6+
  • Duration: Half-day
  • Cost: VND 120,000 (~ USD 5) per adult, VND 80,000 (~ USD 3.50) per child

Explore the historic underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. Guided tours are available and provide a look into the city’s past.

Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens

  • Age: All ages
  • Duration: Full day
  • Cost: VND 100,000 (~ USD 4) per adult, VND 50,000 (~ USD 2.20) per child

Home to over 1,000 animals from around the world, the zoo offers a fun and educational experience for kids, with the botanical gardens next door for a slower-paced walk afterward.

Suoi Tien Theme Park

  • Age: All ages
  • Duration: Full day
  • Cost: VND 150,000 (~ USD 6.50) per adult, VND 100,000 (~ USD 4.40) per child

A theme park built around Vietnamese folklore and mythology, with water slides, rides, and a small aquarium on the edge of the city.

Ben Thanh Market

  • Age: All ages
  • Duration: Full day
  • Cost: Free entrance, prices vary depending on what you buy

This busy market is a good place to try local street food and shop for souvenirs. Be prepared for crowds and vendors competing for your attention.

Saigon Riverfront

  • Age: All ages
  • Duration: A few hours
  • Cost: Free

An evening walk along the riverfront gives kids room to run after a day of sightseeing, with food carts and open space near the water.

Cooking Class

  • Age: 8+
  • Duration: Half-day
  • Cost: Varies by operator

Many family cooking classes start with a market visit so kids can pick ingredients before learning to make spring rolls or pho.

Dam Sen Water Park

  • Age: All ages
  • Duration: Full day
  • Cost: Varies by season

Slides, wave pools, and a lazy river make this a reliable stop on a hot day, with a separate shallow area for younger kids.

Tips and Reminders:

  • Always wear sunscreen and hats when spending time outdoors.
  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
  • Try to learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to show respect for the culture.
  • Don’t drink tap water, stick to bottled or filtered water.

Enjoy exploring Ho Chi Minh City with your family!