Age Group: Teen
-
Stunning modern museum with life-size dinosaurs, ancient fossils, and a living specimens garden. The spiral architecture alone is worth a visit. Book ahead online. Address: 510 Beijing West Rd, Jing’an, Shanghai 200041 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Low Cost $
-
Large marine theme park with dolphin shows, beluga whales, a polar zone, and thrill rides. Located near Shanghai Disney — great for combining into a multi-day trip. Address: 166 Shenzhouyi Rd, Pudong, Shanghai 201306 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$$
-
The #1 kid destination in all of China. See giant and red pandas up close in a lush, park-like setting. Arrive at opening (7:30am) to catch panda feeding time. Address: 1375 Panda Ave, Chenghua, Chengdu, Sichuan 610081 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$
-
Chinese-themed amusement park with rides, 4D shows, and cultural storytelling. Great full-day alternative to international parks with strong local character. Address: 6 Xinkang Rd, Longquanyi, Chengdu, Sichuan 610100 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$$
-
Lively historic street filled with street food, traditional crafts, and Sichuan opera face-changing shows. Kids go wild for the snacks and the performances. Best at dusk. Address: Jinli St, Wuhou, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Free
-
Free interactive science museum with space, physics, and life science exhibits. One of the most modern science museums in western China. Great rainy day option. Address: 8 Keyuan South Rd, Gaoxin, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Free
-
Mind-blowing ancient civilization museum with mysterious bronze masks and alien-like artifacts. About 40 min from Chengdu — totally worth the day trip for older kids and teens. Address: Sanxingdui Rd, Guanghan, Sichuan 618300 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Low Cost $
-
World-class natural history museum with a 4-story living rainforest, aquarium, and planetarium under one roof. A full day destination. Address: 55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$$
-
Iconic hands-on science museum on the waterfront with 650+ interactive exhibits. One of the best kids’ museums in the country. Address: Pier 15, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94111 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$
-
Stunning coastal trail with Golden Gate views, tide pools, and the ruins of the historic Sutro Baths. Magical for curious, adventurous kids. Address: Merrie Way, San Francisco, CA 94121 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Free