Categories > Guides and Tips

kid-enjoying-picture

The 12 Best Free Activities in Hong Kong for Children – and a Few for Mom and Dad! 

| Last Updated: September 2024

Ever found yourself wishing for a way to entertain the kids in Hong Kong without splurging on Disneyland tickets or hoping for a lucky discount at Ocean Park?

While it seems impossible to have fun without spending a dime, Hong Kong is actually brimming with activities that families can enjoy for free. From free museum tours to outdoor parks and playgrounds,  there are endless options to keep your little darlings entertained and happy!

So, if you’re ready to explore, dive in and discover a world of free fun for the whole family!

Take a stroll through Kowloon Park

Media credit: mawiahermansen

Website: https://www.lcsd.gov.hk/tc/parks/kp/outdoor/bird_lake.html 

Address: 22, Austin Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon

Contact Details: 2724 3344

Operating Hours: Monday- Sunday: 6:30 AM – 6:45 PM (March to October) | Monday – Sunday: 6:30 AM – 5:45 PM (November to February)

Kowloon Park is such a cozy spot in the middle of the city. It’s perfect for a fun, free day out with the kids. There’s plenty of space for them to run around, and they’ll love exploring all the hidden paths and playgrounds.

One of the highlights of our visit was discovering the flamingos! They’re absolutely beautiful. It felt like there were more flamingos than people when we visited, which made it even better for taking pictures.

It’s also a great place to relax and enjoy a peaceful walk. The whole park is well-maintained, and with all the greenery, it’s easy to forget you’re in the middle of busy Hong Kong.

I’d definitely recommend setting aside a bit of time to stroll through the park at your own pace. You’ll find little surprises around every corner, and the kids will leave with big smiles!

Have hands-on fun at Hong Kong Science Museum

Website: https://hk.science.museum/en/web/scm/index.html 

Address: 2 Science Museum Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Contact Details: +852 2732 3232

Operating Hours: Monday – Wednesday and Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

The Hong Kong Science Museum is a fantastic spot to spend the day with kids. There are so many hands-on exhibits that keep little ones engaged and excited about learning.

On the first floor, older kids loved exploring the dinosaur displays and interactive science activities. The third-floor play area, on the other hand, was a big hit with the younger children.  The fun construction zone was especially well-loved by the kids.

What’s great is that it’s free on Wednesdays, so it’s a perfect budget-friendly option for families. The museum isn’t too big as well, so you can easily explore everything in just a few hours without feeling rushed.

Just be prepared for a bit of a wait at some of the more popular exhibits since it can get busy. But overall, it’s a lively and educational place that’s worth checking out!

Enjoy kids’ reading adventure at Hong Kong Central Library

Website: https://www.hkpl.gov.hk/en 

Address: 66 Causeway Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong

Contact Details: 2881 5500 | [email protected] 

Operating Hours: Monday – Tuesday & Thursday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 AM | Wednesday: 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Public Holidays: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM 

Hong Kong Central Library is a wonderful place for anyone who enjoys reading or learning in a peaceful setting. Its open spaces and comfortable seating make it easy to relax and dive into a good book or magazine.

For families, the children’s section is a real treat. It’s filled with vibrant books and inviting seating. 

While the kids are having fun, you can also take time and read. Whether you’re into novels, research, or international papers, there’s something for everyone here.

If you’re after peace and quiet, try to avoid weekends when it can get quite busy. On any other day, it’s a lovely spot to spend time with family.

Discover various plants and animals at Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens 

Website: https://www.hkzbg.gov.hk/en/ 

Address: Albany Rd, Hong Kong

Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM 

The Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens is a fantastic spot where kids can have a blast exploring animal and plant life. With its spacious grounds and friendly animals, it’s a great destination for families to enjoy a fun day out.

It’s a perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a relaxed picnic since it’s never too crowded. Kids can freely roam and discover colorful plants and curious animals without feeling rushed.

The cheerful calls of gibbons add a touch of excitement for the little ones. Plus, there are water stations around to keep everyone refreshed.

Visiting in cooler weather makes it even more enjoyable, especially in autumn or winter. So, do take note if you’re planning a trip!

Uncover maritime wonders at Hong Kong Maritime Museum

Media credit: hongkongmaritimemuseum

Website: https://www.hkmaritimemuseum.org 

Address: Man Kwong St, Central, Hong Kong

Contact Details: +852 3713 2500 

Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 AM | Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM 

Hong Kong Maritime Museum is a great spot for kids to dive into the world of maritime history. It’s a unique experience with beautiful views of the water and plenty of boats and ferries to watch.

The museum has a variety of displays, though some exhibits are more suited for older kids and adults. Still, there are plenty of interactive installations that can energize even the most curious toddlers.

A standout attraction is the ship simulator on the top floor, which seemed to be the highlight for the little ones. Just keep in mind that it’s only available at specific times, so make sure to check the schedule ahead of your visit if you’re interested.

Learn Hong Kong’s history at the Hong Kong Museum of History

Media credit: whyblog

Website: https://hk.history.museum/zh_TW/web/mh/index.html 

Address: 100 Chatham Rd S, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong

Contact Details: +852 2724 9042

Operating Hours: Monday & Wednesday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 AM | Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM 

The Hong Kong Museum of History is a real treat for families looking to dive into the city’s past. It’s a great place for kids to explore and learn about the different eras of Hong Kong through engaging exhibits—and it’s just as enjoyable for adults!

The museum is packed with fascinating displays, from ancient artifacts to modern history. Kids will enjoy the interactive exhibits, which make learning about Hong Kong’s heritage both fun and educational.

While the museum isn’t huge, it offers a solid educational experience at no cost. Plus, it usually isn’t packed, so you can safely walk around with no stress. 

Try birdwatching at Edward Youde Aviary

Media credit: serendella

Website: https://www.lcsd.gov.hk/tc/parks/hkp/ 

Address: 7 Kennedy Rd, Central, Hong Kong

Contact Details: +852 2521 5057

Operating Hours: Monday & Wednesday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 AM | Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM 

The Edward Youde Aviary is a delightful place to explore, especially if your kids love birds. The lush surroundings and large aviary make it a pleasant experience for both kids and adults.

You’ll see a wide variety of birds up close. Plus, the whole setup is very well maintained, making it a perfect spot for kids to stroll around.

The surrounding park and pond area also add to the charm, offering a pleasant place to unwind before or after visiting the aviary. If ever you get tired of the same old kids’ museums in the city, this is a nice place to start! 

Visit Tai Po Waterfront Park

Media credit: alicejj818

Website: https://www.lcsd.gov.hk

Address: Dai Fat St, Hong Kong

Contact Details: +852 2664 2107

Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 24 Hrs

Tai Po Waterfront Park is a fantastic spot to start your day if you’re staying near Park Lane Hotel. It’s big enough that you can do various activities, from simple people-watching to jogging around for a quick sweat. 

The Spiral Lookout Tower is a highlight, though it’s sometimes closed during bad weather. You’ll love the variety of garden styles throughout the park though, as they’re just perfect for that IG shot of your little one. 

There’s a cafe under the Lookout Tower and plenty of kiosks nearby, so you can easily grab a bite or a drink during your visit. Just be sure to wear comfy shoes and bring some water, especially if you plan on exploring all the paths!

Take a trip to Snoopy World 

Media credit: issachau

Website: https://www.newtownplaza.com.hk/  

Address: 3/F, New Town Plaza, 18 Sha Tin Centre Street, Sha Tin

Contact Details: +852 2697 9898

Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:00 AM -7:00 PM

If you’re looking for something fun and free to do with kids in Hong Kong, Snoopy World is a must! It’s right inside New Town Plaza in Sha Tin, and super easy to find once you leave the station.

The park is like stepping into a Peanuts comic strip, with adorable themed areas and playful spots for kids to explore. They’ll love the little boat ride and all the photo ops with Snoopy and friends!

The best part? It’s totally free! Just remember to get there after 11:00 AM when it opens.

Have some sunset fun at West Kowloon Nursery Park

Media credit: anna887763

Address: West Kowloon Cultural District, Hong Kong

Contact Details: +85222000778

Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM

West Kowloon Nursery Park offers plenty of open space for families. It’s perfect for a fun day out, with clean restrooms and a large area where kids can run, bike, and play.

You can bring tents and set up picnics for a relaxing afternoon. There are also shaded spots with chairs, making it comfortable for parents to unwind while the kids enjoy themselves.

One of the highlights has to be the sunset – it’s absolutely stunning! If you’re visiting, don’t forget to bring your camera to capture that beautiful view.

Play around East Coast Park 

Media credit: harbourfront.popup.hk

Website: https://www.hfc.org.hk/tc/hss/eastcoastpark.html 

Address: Watson Rd, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong

Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 24 hours

East Coast Park is an ideal spot for kids to run around and have fun, with plenty of open space for them to explore. While it’s not a traditional playground, there’s enough room for children to play freely and enjoy the fresh air.

Although there’s a designated dog area, the focus remains on creating a kid-friendly environment (and yes, you can bring your furry friend along too!). The park is clean and spacious so it’s safe for your kids to burn some energy. 

Spend time at Mount Austin Playground

Website: http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/tc/facilities/facilitieslist/facilities.php?ftid=55&did=1 

Address: 3-5 Mount Austin Rd, The Peak, Hong Kong

Contact Details: +85228532605

Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 4:30 PM – 1:45 PM

Mount Austin Playground is a great place for families looking to spend quality time outdoors. The kids will love the play area, and there’s plenty of space for everyone to enjoy a picnic in a peaceful setting.

The playground is clean and well-maintained, so you don’t have to worry about them getting all muddied up. The restrooms are spotless too, which is always a plus when you’re out with little ones.

The playground might not be huge, but it has just the right amount of equipment to keep kids entertained. Plus, the peaceful atmosphere adds to the charm of this little escape from the city.

Related topics