Looking for the best things to do with kids in Beijing? China’s capital is not only a treasure trove of history and culture, but also a fantastic destination for family adventures. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning a longer stay, Beijing offers a wide range of kid-friendly activities that blend education, fun, and discovery.
From hands-on science centers and outdoor nature parks to immersive cultural experiences like calligraphy and traditional crafts, there’s something here to spark every child’s imagination. In this guide, we’ll explore the best things to do with kids in Beijing—covering culture, science, nature, and more—to help you create unforgettable family memories.
1. Family Fun at Mutianyu: A Kid-Friendly Great Wall Adventure
Looking for a section of the Great Wall that’s perfect for kids? Mutianyu Great Wall is your best bet — combining history, nature, and a whole lot of fun in one unforgettable outing.
🚡 Start with a Scenic Cable Car Ride
Skip the steep climbs and hop on a cable car that takes you right up to the wall. It’s stress-free, stroller-friendly, and ideal for families with younger kids.
👣 Walk the Wall at Your Own Pace
The paths at Mutianyu are wide and well-preserved, making it easy for children to walk and explore. Climb up a few watchtowers, enjoy the views, and soak in the centuries of history.
🎢 End with a Toboggan Ride
The highlight for most kids? The toboggan slide down the mountain! It’s a safe, exciting way to end the trip — and a memory your kids will talk about long after.
Mutianyu is where Great Wall history meets family-friendly adventure!
2. Shougang Park: Explore Beijing’s Coolest Industrial Heritage Site
Beijing’s old steel mill has found new life! Welcome to Shougang Park (首钢园) — a once-thriving industrial complex turned into a vibrant cultural hub. Here, you can walk through towering blast furnaces, sip coffee under giant steel pipes, try Olympic winter sports tech, and dive deep into China’s industrial past.
If you’re looking for a unique day out — combining history, tech, sports, and great food — this is it.
🔧 Blast Furnace Guided Tour (with Former Engineers!)
Join a bilingual tour led by former Shougang engineers or industrial heritage experts. You’ll explore the iconic No. 1 and No. 3 blast furnace sites, learn about how iron was made, and discover how these massive machines were transformed.
- 🗣️ Bilingual audio guides available (Chinese & English)
- 🧠 Get insights on Shougang’s evolution from factory to cultural icon
🥽 High-Tech AR Interaction
Slip on a pair of AR glasses and watch the furnaces come back to life! You can even simulate pouring molten iron — a thrilling and surprisingly educational experience.
- 🎮 Hands-on and immersive
- 💡 Great for older kids and adults
❄️ Winter Olympics Zone: Sport Meets Technology
🥌 Curling Simulator
Step into the Winter Olympics Exhibition Hall and try your hand at digital curling. Learn the basics, then test your aim in a simulated match.
- 💰 ¥30 per game
- 🧊 Great for first-timers!
⛷️ VR Ski Training
Put on a VR headset and hit the slopes — virtually! Experience alpine downhill runs and slalom courses from the comfort of the simulator.
- 💰 ¥50 for 15 minutes
- 🕶️ Feels surprisingly real
☕ Chill with Industrial Vibes
🔩 Starbucks in a Steel Mill?
Yes, really! Enjoy a latte at the Starbucks Oxygen Plant Café, located inside a renovated steelmaking building. The decor includes giant pipes, valves, and a very cool industrial-chic vibe.
- ☕ Try the exclusive “Steel Slag Mocha”
- 📸 Instagram-worthy interior!
🥪 Silo Café (筒仓简餐吧)
Dine inside a converted cement silo with Western-style meals and craft beer.
- 💰 Avg. ¥80/person
- 🍽️ Recommended: “Steelworker Set” — German sausage + local brew
🕒 Opening Hours & Event Schedule
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| 🏭 Shougang Park | Open daily 06:00–22:00 |
| 🔧 Furnace Tours | Daily at 10:00, 14:00, 16:00 (30-person limit per tour) |
| ❄️ Winter Sports Zone | 09:30–18:00 (till 19:30 on weekends) |
🌙 Monthly Special: Night Tour + Light Show
Every first Saturday of the month, join the “Blast Furnace by Night” tour. It features lighting effects, sound installations, and an immersive performance among the giant steel towers.
- 🕖 19:00–21:00
- 🎟️ ¥128/person (extra ticket required)
- 🔥 Stunning for photography lovers
🎟️ Ticket Options & How to Book
💰 Ticket Prices
| Type | Price |
|---|---|
| 🔧 Blast Furnace Guided Tour | ¥80 adult / ¥50 student |
| ❄️ Curling + Skiing Combo | ¥168 adult / ¥98 child |
| 🌙 Night Tour | ¥128/person (extra ticket) |
| 🏞️ General Entry | Free — park is open to all |
📲 Booking Guide
✅ Official Channel (Recommended):
- WeChat: Search “北京首钢园”
- Tap “工业探秘” (Industrial Exploration)
- Fill in participant info
- Pay and get your e-ticket QR code
👥 Group Bookings (10+ People):
- Visit “汉卓团建” platform for custom routes
- Includes lunch + activity insurance
- Pricing starts at ¥200/person
🚗 Getting There
🚘 By Car:
- Navigate to “Shougang Park Xiuchi Parking Lot (首钢园秀池停车场)”
- 🚶♀️ 5-minute walk to the blast furnace
- 💰 ¥8/hour parking fee
- ⚡ EV charging stations available
🚇 By Subway & Bus:
- Subway Line 6 → Jinanqiao Station, Exit C
- Transfer to Bus Special Route 108 → Get off at Shougang Experimental Plant Station (首钢试验厂站)
Shougang Park is where Beijing’s industrial past meets the future — and it’s surprisingly fun. Whether you’re exploring blast furnaces or throwing a virtual curling stone, this site offers a one-of-a-kind, photo-worthy experience.
3. Jingtailan Bilingual Workshop Guide for Families
Looking for a hands-on cultural experience that’s creative, educational, and family-friendly? The Jingtailan Bilingual Workshop in Beijing is a fantastic opportunity to explore one of China’s most iconic traditional crafts — cloisonné enamelware (景泰蓝).
Led by nationally recognized masters, this workshop offers foreign families a chance to get up close with this intricate art form, learn its history, and create their very own piece to take home.
🧵 What You’ll Do: A Step-by-Step Cloisonné Experience
🌀 Try Two Signature Techniques:
- Wire Bending (掐丝): Shape thin metal wires into patterns using traditional tools
- Enamel Filling (点蓝): Fill the shapes with colorful enamel paste to create a vibrant design
Under expert guidance, you’ll craft a personalized cloisonné item such as a pendant, bookmark, or keychain — a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
- 🏷️ Custom Option: Have your finished piece engraved with your English name or a personal message
- 🌍 International shipping available (postage charged based on destination)
🗣️ Bilingual Support Throughout
No language barrier here! The entire workshop includes professional bilingual instructors who explain:
- The history of cloisonné
- Key techniques and tools
- Step-by-step crafting instructions in both English and Chinese
Perfect for both kids and adults, whether you’re new to Chinese culture or already a fan of traditional arts.
🕒 Schedule & Availability
🎟️ Workshop Sessions:
- Days: Tuesday to Sunday
- Times:
- Morning: 10:00–12:00
- Afternoon: 14:00–16:00
- ⏳ Each session lasts 2 hours and is limited to 15 families
- 📆 Advance booking required at least 3 days ahead
🏛️ Museum Access:
- Open daily: 09:00–16:30 (last entry at 15:30)
- 📍 Free entry included — pair your visit with the workshop!
📍 Location & How to Get There
Venue:
📍 Beijing Enamel Factory (Beijing Cloisonné Art Museum)
No. 10 Anlelin Road, Yongwai, Dongcheng District, Beijing
🚇 By Subway:
Take Line 14 to Jingtai Station, Exit B.
Walk about 8 minutes to the museum.
🚗 By Car:
Free parking is available on-site, but spots are limited — arrive early to secure a space.
💰 Pricing & Booking Info
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| 👩 Adult | ¥180/person |
| 👧 Children (5–12 years) | ¥120/person |
| 🎫 Museum Entry | Free |
💡 Prices include materials and basic tools
🛎️ How to Book:
☎️ By Phone:
Call the Beijing Enamel Factory at 010-6768 9177
Provide: Name, age, and contact info
The Jingtailan Workshop is a beautiful way to experience Chinese craftsmanship and creativity in a family-friendly setting. Whether you’re visiting Beijing or living here with kids, this bilingual workshop is a hidden gem worth discovering.
4. Forbidden City with Kids: Join the “Little Beasts Treasure Hunt” Adventure
Traveling to Beijing with kids and looking for a fun, hands-on way to explore Chinese history? The “Hidden Little Beasts” Family Tour (探秘隐藏的小怪兽) at the Forbidden City is an unforgettable experience designed especially for curious young travelers.
This interactive journey brings the ancient palace to life, blending storytelling, treasure hunting, and creativity — all in one magical 2.5-hour adventure.
🔍 Part 1: Treasure Hunt for Roof Beasts
Kids receive a multi-language audio guide (available in English, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean) and embark on a mission to spot 10 mythical creatures hidden on the rooftops — including dragons, phoenixes, lions, and more.
- 📍 Route: From Taihe Hall to Shenwumen Gate
- 📖 Learn as You Go: The guide explains the symbolism of each creature and how they relate to imperial architecture
- 🏅 Reward: Complete the mini quizzes and win a commemorative badge!
It’s more than just sightseeing — it’s a living history lesson disguised as a game.
🎨 Part 2: Make Your Own Imperial Fan
After the hunt, head to the DIY craft station in Jiàntíng Square. Kids can design their own traditional Chinese folding fan using royal motifs like dragons or peonies.
- 🖌️ Paint, decorate, and create
- 🎁 Take home a unique, handmade souvenir
- 👨👩👧 Great for parent-child bonding time!
📸 Bonus Stop: Jingshan Park Viewpoint
Once the tour ends, walk just a few minutes to Jingshan Park, located directly behind the Forbidden City. Climb to the top of Wanchun Pavilion for a 360° panoramic view of the palace rooftops — perfect for family photos!
- 🎟️ Entry to the park: Only ¥2 per person
- 🕍 Don’t miss the golden hour — the rooftops glow beautifully at sunset
🗓️ Booking Info: How to Reserve Your Spot
Booking is simple and strongly recommended in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.
✅ Official Booking Options:
- WeChat Mini Program (Recommended):
- Search “故宫博物院” on WeChat
- Tap “购票约展”
- Select your date and ticket type
- Add the “Children’s Activity Add-On”
- Enter passport info and pay
- Official Website:www.dpm.org.cn
- Best for international users
- English interface available
- Supports passport booking and electronic tickets
📌 Note: You’ll need a general Forbidden City ticket + the add-on for this activity.
💰 Pricing Overview
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🎟️ Forbidden City Ticket (Peak Season) | ¥60/adult, Free for kids under 6 |
| 🔊 Audio Guide Rental | ¥30/device |
| 🎨 DIY Fan Kit (Optional) | ¥20 per kit |
| 🏅 “Little Beasts” Add-On | Included with booking add-on |
| 🌳 Jingshan Park Entry | ¥2/person |
The “Hidden Little Beasts” Treasure Hunt is one of the best ways to make a visit to the Forbidden City exciting for kids. It’s educational, creative, and full of little magical moments that will stick with them long after the trip.
5. China Science and Technology Museum: A Fun, Hands-On Day with Kids in Beijing
Looking for an exciting, educational, and kid-approved activity in Beijing? The China Science and Technology Museum (中国科技馆) is a top choice for families. With immersive exhibits, interactive play areas, and even a 4D dome theater, it’s a perfect blend of fun and learning.
Must-Try Experiences
🎢 “Little Ball’s Big Journey” (小球旅行记)– Science Playground
Let your child become a mini engineer! Kids use real mechanical tools like gears and Archimedes screws to guide a ball through obstacle courses. It’s a fun, physical way to understand energy, motion, and teamwork.
- 📍 Location: 2nd Floor, “Explore & Discover” Zone
- 💰 Cost: Free with entry
- 👨👩👧👦 Best for: Ages 5–10, great for parent-child interaction
🎬 4D Dome Theater – The Birth of Earth (地球的诞生)
Watch the universe come to life on Asia’s largest dome screen. You’ll lie back and immerse yourself in the story of Earth’s formation—complete with motion, vibration, and wind effects.
- Length: 25 minutes
- Showtimes: Daily at 10:00, 14:00, and 16:00 (Morning shows are less crowded)
- Cost: ¥30–50/person (ask for English audio when booking)
🎟️ Tickets & Booking Tips
💡 What to Book:
- Kids’ Science Playground: ¥30/person (includes child); Space Castle add-on requires separate booking and is hard to get
- 4D Dome Theater: ¥30–50/person
- Main Hall: Free, but you must reserve in advance
📲 How to Book:
- WeChat (recommended for locals): Search “中国科学技术馆服务号” → tap “快速订票”
- International visitors: Use the official website for an English interface
- Choose your ticket type and date
- Input passport info
- Pay (Visa/Mastercard accepted)
- Get your QR code for entry
🕒 Opening Hours & Schedule
- Open: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30–17:00 (Closed Mondays)
- Kids’ Science Playground Sessions:
- Morning: 9:30–12:30 (cleared at 12:50)
- Afternoon: 13:40–17:00
- You can get a stamp to exit and return
🧭 Suggested Itinerary:
- 10:00 → Watch The Birth of Earth in the dome theater
- 11:00 → Explore “Little Ball’s Big Journey” in the main hall
- 13:30 → Play in the Kids’ Science Playground (water play or pretend jobs!)
- 16:00+ → Walk to Olympic Park for a night view
The “Little Ball’s Journey” and 4D Theater are the stars of this museum. Pair them with the hands-on exhibits and a scenic walk to the Olympic Park, and you’ve got a full day of science and skyline magic.
Just remember—book tickets 7 days in advance, and plan by time slots to avoid crowds!
6. Interstellar Adventure at Beijing Planetarium: A Family Guide to Exploring the Cosmos
If your child is obsessed with space, stars, and the mysteries of the universe, Beijing Planetarium’s “Interstellar Adventure” (星际冒险”) is a must. From 360° dome films to telescope stargazing and hands-on science, this experience is both educational and mind-blowing — for kids and grown-ups alike.
🎥 Dome Theater: The Big Bang
Strap in for a visual journey through over 10 billion years of cosmic history. This 22-minute film dives into the birth of the universe—from the Big Bang to galaxy formation. Expect dramatic visuals, surround sound, and even moving seats that simulate stellar collisions and the expansion of space.
- 🎧 Languages: Chinese and English (choose your slot!)
- 🪐 Highlights: 360° dome screen, motion seats, immersive sound
- ⏱️ Duration: ~25 minutes including intro and seating
🔭 Stargazing with High-Powered Telescopes
Ever wanted to see the moon’s craters up close or spot Jupiter’s cloud bands? Now’s your chance. Kids and parents use professional telescopes to observe real celestial bodies under expert guidance.
- 🌙 What you’ll see: Moon craters, Jupiter’s cloud belts, and more
- 🗣️ Guides: Bilingual (Chinese/English) astronomy explainers
- 📅 When: Fridays to Sundays, 19:30–21:30 (weather permitting)
👾 “Search for Aliens” Science Workshop
This hands-on workshop lets kids explore how scientists search for extraterrestrial life. Using simulated radio signals, they’ll analyze alien “data,” assess exoplanet habitability, and learn about real-life tools used in the hunt for alien civilizations.
- 🔬 Includes: Experiments, signal simulations, and interactive demos
- 👨👩👧👦 Best for ages: 8–15
- 🕒 When: Weekends at 10:30–11:30 and 15:00–16:00
- 🎟️ Limited to: 30 families per session — book early!
🎫 Tickets & How to Book
💰 Ticket Prices
| Experience | Price |
|---|---|
| 🎥 Dome Theater | ¥50/adult, ¥30/child (under 1.2m) |
| 🔭 Telescope Observation | ¥80 per pair (1 adult + 1 child) |
| 👾 Science Workshop | Free! But requires booking |
🌍 International Visitors:
- Book via the official website
- Switch to English interface
- Enter passport details
- Pay with Visa/Mastercard
- Get a QR code for ticket pickup
🎟️ On-site Ticket Pickup:
- Go to the West Side Ticket Hall
- Show your QR code to exchange for a paper ticket
- ⏰ Tip: Arrive at least 30 minutes early
7. Beijing Wildlife Park: Up-Close Animal Encounters for the Whole Family
Looking for a wild adventure just outside of central Beijing? The Beijing Wildlife Park (北京野生动物园) offers something truly special — zero-distance animal interaction （零距离互动）. From riding through predator zones in a cage car to hand-feeding giraffes and watching flamingos take flight, it’s an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike.
🐯 Predator Zone Cage Car Safari
Hop into a secure, iron-barred cage car and ride through open areas where lions, tigers, and bears roam freely. The ride lasts about 50 minutes, and you can purchase meat for feeding (¥50 per tray). Pro tip: Start at the brown bear zone — the animals are most active there!
- 🔐 Safety First:
Double-layer protective mesh keeps everyone safe. Don’t stick hands out. Use long tongs to feed animals. - 📍 Included with basic ticket
- 🍖 Feeding: Optional meat tray for ¥50
🦒 Herbivore Encounters
🥬 Giraffe Plaza
Feed towering giraffes with tree branches (¥20 per stick) and get a close look at their fascinating long tongues. This area is in the pedestrian zone.
🐐 Alpaca Pasture
Pick up a vegetable bundle (¥40) to feed gentle alpacas, goats, and deer. Avoid visiting right after lunch — the animals are often full and less interactive.
🕊️ Bird Shows & Flamingo Flyover
🦜 Parrot Acrobatics Show
Catch clever parrots riding bicycles and doing coin tricks! Shows run daily at 11:00 and 14:30 in the tropical bird zone.
🦩 Flamingo Flight Display
At 15:00, head to the lake area to witness dozens of flamingos soar low over the water — a dreamy pink scene perfect for photography.
🎟️ Tickets & How to Book
💰 Ticket Types
| Ticket | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| 🎫 Basic Admission | ¥150/adult, Free for kids under 1m | Cage car ride + train tour |
| 🚗 Self-Drive | ¥200 per car (up to 5 seats) | Follow same route as cage car with freedom to stop |
| ➕ Add-Ons | Electric car rental: ¥400/day (2-seater) Vegetable pack: ¥40 Meat pack: ¥50 |
📲 How to Book
✅ Official Channel (Recommended):
- On WeChat, search “北京野生动物园”
- Tap “在线购票”
- Enter passport or ID info
- Pay and receive a QR code (Book at least 1 day in advance)
- No need to rush on weekdays — no ticket rush unless it’s a holiday
💡 Third-Party Discounts:
- Apps like Ctrip/Trip.com offer ¥5 off if booked 1 day early
- Booking must be completed at least 2 hours before entry
🗓️ Hours & Route Tips
- Opening Hours: Daily 08:30–17:30 (last entry 16:00)
- Cage Car Ride: 09:00–15:30
- Train Tour: 09:00–16:00 (1 hour, shares route with self-drive cars)
🚶 Suggested Family Route
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 08:30 | Arrive early to beat crowds |
| 09:00 | Head straight to Cage Car Safari (best feeding time!) |
| 10:30 | Hop on the Train Tour for a scenic ride |
| 12:00 | Feed giraffes at Giraffe Plaza |
| 14:30 | Watch the Parrot Show |
| 15:00 | Catch the Flamingo Flight Show |
| 16:00 | Wrap up your visit and exit the park |
📏 Note: You’ll walk roughly 18,000 steps during the visit. If that’s too much, rent an electric cart (¥400/day + ¥500 deposit).
8. Universal Beijing Resort: A Magical Journey for Families (with English Guided Tour!)
Planning a family day at Universal Beijing Resort? Want more than just rides and roller coasters? Then don’t miss the “Magical Journey” (魔法之旅)— a bilingual, interactive experience that brings your favorite movie worlds to life, with exclusive perks for English-speaking visitors.
From casting spells at Hogwarts to drifting through Kung Fu Panda’s valley, this is your chance to experience the magic, stories, and fun — with fewer lines and more meaning.
🎧 What’s Included: English Guided Tour + Interactive Fun
🧙♂️ Explore Two Iconic Lands with a Bilingual Guide
Join a professional English-speaking tour guide who will lead you through:
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™: Includes Forbidden Journey, Flight of the Hippogriff, Ollivanders, and Hogsmeade
- Kung Fu Panda Land of Awesomeness™: Includes Kung Fu Panda Journey of the Dragon Warrior and other themed zones
Your guide will explain each land’s storyline, ride features, and cultural details — in fluent English, with optional Chinese support.
- ✅ Skip the long lines! The tour group gets priority access to Journey of the Dragon Warrior, cutting wait times to under 15 minutes
✨ Magical Add-Ons & Interactive Fun
🪄 Wizarding World Extras:
- Rent a robe (¥80–¥100/day) and join the fun in full costume
- Use an interactive wand at 10 spell-casting spots around Hogsmeade
- Take part in the Wand Selection Ceremony
- End the day with the dazzling Hogwarts Castle Light Show at 19:30
🐼 Kung Fu Panda Missions:
- Complete AR challenges under the Wisdom Peach Tree
- Collect stamps and redeem limited-edition souvenirs at themed gift shops
🕒 Schedule & Showtimes
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| 🏰 Park Hours | 10:00–21:00 (summer peak starts at 9:00) |
| 👣 English Tours | Daily at 10:30 & 14:00 (20 people max per tour — meet 1 hour early) |
| ✨ Hogwarts Light Show | Nightly at 19:30 (15 min) — may be cancelled in rain |
🛍️ CityWalk stays open until 23:00 — perfect for post-park dining or shopping
🚗 How to Get There
🚇 By Subway:
- Take Line 1 or Line 7 to Universal Resort Station, Exit B
- Walk straight into the park entrance
🚘 By Car:
- Set GPS to Universal Beijing Resort Parking Lot
- 💰 Regular parking: ¥150/day
- 💎 Premium parking: ¥200/day (closer to the entrance)
🎟️ Tickets & Pricing
| Ticket Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| 🎫 Single-Day Ticket | ¥570–¥710 (adult), ¥420–¥520 (child, ages 3–11) |
| 📆 1.5-Day Ticket | ¥980 (includes entry after 14:00 on Day 1 + full Day 2 access) |
| 🎧 English Guided Tour | ¥300/person (includes priority ride access) |
| ⚡ Express Pass | ¥400–¥900 depending on number of rides (3/5/all) |
📲 How to Book
✅ Official Channels:
- WeChat Mini Program: Search “北京环球度假区官方”
- Bind your ticket
- Reserve your English tour (at least 3 days in advance)
- Website or App:
- Purchase ticket + express pass combos (10% discount)
The “Magical Journey” at Universal Beijing is so much more than just a theme park day — it’s an immersive cultural experience that brings beloved worlds to life through story, design, and interaction. The English-guided tour adds depth and ease for international visitors, while the interactive features and fast-lane perks make it smooth, exciting, and stress-free.
As you’ve seen, the best things to do with kids in Beijing go far beyond just sightseeing. This vibrant city is a playground of cultural wonders, hands-on experiences, and unforgettable adventures — perfect for curious young travelers and their families.
So whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for more, keep this list handy to make the most of your trip. The best things to do with kids in Beijing aren’t just activities — they’re memory-makers.
Ready to explore, learn, and laugh your way through Beijing? Your family adventure starts here.
