Saigon for Families
Theme parks, water parks, the zoo, interactive museums, and incredible food — everything you need for a memorable Saigon family holiday
Saigon is a thrilling destination for families. Beyond its buzzing streets and rich history, the city offers theme parks like the spectacular Suoi Tien with its water rides and mythical creatures, the Dam Sen Water Park for a full day of aquatic fun, the historic Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens right in the city centre, and the Cu Chi Tunnels for an unforgettable educational experience for older children. Vietnamese culture is extraordinarily welcoming to families, and the affordable prices mean your family budget stretches further than almost anywhere in the world. The food is delicious, the people are warm, and the experiences are unforgettable.
Top Kid-Friendly Attractions
Suoi Tien Theme Park
Must VisitAges 3+
A massive cultural theme park on Saigon's outskirts featuring water rides, roller coasters, a crocodile kingdom, dragon-themed attractions, and Vietnamese mythology-inspired landscaping. Children love the water slides, the wave pool, and the colourful statues of mythical creatures. The park blends entertainment with Vietnamese cultural education. Entry: 120,000-200,000 VND per person. Allow a full day. Bring swimwear and sunscreen.
Dam Sen Water Park
Must VisitAges 3+
One of Saigon's most popular family destinations, Dam Sen Water Park offers water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and splash playgrounds for younger children. The adjacent Dam Sen Cultural Park has a roller coaster, bumper cars, and a small zoo. A full day of entertainment for all ages. Entry: 150,000-250,000 VND. Weekend can be very crowded — visit on weekdays if possible.
Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens
Must VisitAll ages
Founded in 1864, this is one of the oldest zoos in the world. Located right in the city centre (District 1/3 border), it houses over 1,000 animals including elephants, tigers, hippos, and primates in a beautiful botanical garden setting with giant trees and shaded paths. Children love the animal encounters and the playground areas. Entry: 50,000-80,000 VND. Allow 2-3 hours. Bring water and snacks.
Cu Chi Tunnels
RecommendedAges 8+
A fascinating and educational experience for older children. The Cu Chi Tunnels are a vast network of underground passages used during the Vietnam War. Children can crawl through enlarged tunnel sections, learn about history through interactive exhibits, and see the ingenious traps and living quarters. Located 70 km from central Saigon (1.5-hour drive). Tours cost 200,000-500,000 VND per person. Allow half a day.
Best Parks & Playgrounds
Tao Dan Park
Top PickA beautiful green oasis in the heart of District 1 with shaded paths under ancient trees, playgrounds, a small bird garden, and open lawns. In the early morning, families can watch locals practicing tai chi and badminton. The park has a dedicated children's play area with climbing structures and swings. A peaceful respite from the city's energy. Free entry. Open daily from early morning.
September 23rd Park
Great OptionLocated near Ben Thanh Market, this city park has open green spaces, walking paths, and play areas. The park comes alive in the evening when local families gather and children play. Street food vendors line the edges of the park, making it easy to combine playtime with snacking. Free and accessible. A good spot to let children run while adults people-watch.
Gia Dinh Park
Great OptionA large neighbourhood park near the airport in Tan Binh District with a lake, walking paths, playgrounds, and fitness equipment. Less touristy than central parks, Gia Dinh Park is where local families spend their weekends. Children will enjoy the playground equipment and the open spaces for running. The surrounding area has good local restaurants. Free entry.
More Family Activities
AO Show at Saigon Opera House
A spectacular acrobatic and dance performance that tells the story of Vietnamese life through breathtaking bamboo-based acrobatics, music, and visual art. Children are mesmerized by the gravity-defying performers and the creative staging. Shows run several times per week at the stunning French colonial Opera House. Tickets: 600,000-1,500,000 VND. Duration: 60 minutes. Suitable for ages 5+.
FITO Museum (Traditional Medicine)
A unique museum dedicated to traditional Vietnamese medicine housed in a beautiful building. Children enjoy the hands-on exhibits where they can smell herbs, see ancient medical instruments, and learn about traditional remedies. The building itself is fascinating with ornate woodwork. Entry: 120,000 VND. Allow 1-1.5 hours. Best for curious children ages 6+ who enjoy learning about different cultures.
Artinus 3D Art Museum
An interactive 3D art museum where visitors become part of the artwork. Children can pose with optical illusion paintings that create the impression of swimming with dolphins, flying on carpets, or standing in famous scenes. Perfect for creative and funny family photos. Located in District 7. Entry: 150,000-200,000 VND. Allow 1.5-2 hours. Fun for all ages.
Family-Friendly Dining
Pizza 4P's
A wildly popular Japanese-Vietnamese pizza restaurant with in-house mozzarella making. Children love watching the cheese being prepared and the wood-fired pizzas are excellent. Multiple locations across Saigon. The menu also includes pasta and salads. 300,000-600,000 VND for a family of four. Book ahead on weekends.
Quan Bui
A family-friendly restaurant serving traditional Vietnamese dishes in a beautiful garden setting. The shared dishes format works perfectly for families — order a variety and let everyone try everything. Spring rolls, grilled meats, and noodle dishes are all child-approved. 250,000-500,000 VND for a family of four. Air-conditioned interior and outdoor garden.
Banh Mi Street Stalls
Saigon's iconic banh mi baguette sandwiches are perfect for families on the go. Children love the crispy bread filled with pate, cold cuts, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. Stalls are everywhere — Banh Mi Huynh Hoa is the most famous. At just 25,000-50,000 VND each, they are the ultimate cheap family meal. Fresh, fast, and delicious.
Pho Restaurants
Vietnam's national dish is a warm, comforting noodle soup that most children enjoy. The mild beef or chicken broth with rice noodles is not spicy (condiments are added separately). Pho Hoa and Pho Le are reliable family-friendly restaurants. A bowl costs 50,000-80,000 VND. Breakfast or lunch — pho works at any time. Filling and nutritious.
Mall Food Courts
When children want variety and air conditioning, the food courts at Vincom Center, Saigon Centre, and Takashimaya offer dozens of options from Vietnamese to Japanese, Korean, and Western fast food. Air-conditioned, clean, and with something for every taste. 100,000-300,000 VND for a family of four. Also useful for rainy day shelter.
Kem Bach Dang
Saigon's most beloved ice cream parlour has been serving coconut ice cream and tropical fruit sorbets since the 1950s. Located on the river promenade in District 1, the terrace is perfect for an afternoon treat. Children love the coconut ice cream served in a coconut shell. 20,000-50,000 VND per serving. A genuine Saigon family tradition.
Where to Stay with Family
District 1 (City Centre)
The most convenient base with walking access to the zoo, parks, museums, and restaurants. Many hotels offer family rooms and are close to the river promenade for evening walks. Hotels range from 500,000-3,000,000 VND per night. The area around Ben Thanh Market and Nguyen Hue Walking Street is particularly family-friendly with car-free zones.
District 7 (Phu My Hung)
A modern, planned neighbourhood with wide sidewalks, parks, international schools, and a more suburban feel. Perfect for families who want less chaos. The Crescent Mall and SC VivoCity have family-friendly dining and entertainment. Hotels cost 600,000-2,000,000 VND per night. Quieter and safer-feeling, though 20-30 minutes from central sights by Grab.
Safety Tips for Families
Getting Around Safely
- Always hold children's hands when crossing streets — traffic is relentless and does not stop for pedestrians
- Use Grab cars rather than walking along busy main roads with children
- Avoid motorbike taxis (xe om) with children — use Grab Car or regular taxis instead
- The metro (opening in stages) will eventually connect key areas — check current status
- Many sidewalks are blocked by parked motorbikes — pushchairs can be challenging
Health & Comfort
- Never drink tap water — always use bottled water (even for brushing teeth for young children)
- Apply sunscreen generously — the tropical sun is intense even on cloudy days
- Carry mosquito repellent, especially during rainy season and at dusk
- Plan indoor activities (malls, museums) during the hottest hours (12-3 PM)
- International hospitals (FV Hospital, Vinmec) provide excellent English-speaking care
- Pharmacies are common but bring any specific children's medications from home
Budget Tips for Families
Eat local food. A family of four can eat delicious Vietnamese food for 100,000-200,000 VND at local restaurants. Street food is even cheaper and fascinating for children to watch being prepared.
Use Grab for transport. Grab Car is affordable, air-conditioned, and door-to-door. A typical ride across the city costs 50,000-150,000 VND. Much safer and easier than navigating traffic with children.
Visit parks for free entertainment. Tao Dan Park and the river promenade are free and provide hours of entertainment. Children love running in the open spaces and watching local life.
Book family rooms or apartments. Serviced apartments with kitchens save money on meals and provide more space. Booking.com has excellent family options in District 1 and District 7 from 500,000 VND per night.
Saigon for Families - FAQs
Get Your Free Travel Guide
PDF download + weekly travel tips
Join our community and get a comprehensive travel guide with maps, budgets, and insider tips delivered to your inbox.
Unsubscribe anytime. No spam, we promise.