20 Best Things to Do in Hong Kong with Kids

Beneath Hong Kong’s modern skyscrapers lies a surprisingly kid-friendly destination. The city holds tremendous sentimental value as our former home and my daughter’s birthplace. We return every year because the list of things to do in Hong Kong with kids is expansive — even if you don’t factor in Hong Kong Disneyland® (which is our family’s favorite Disney® park in the world).

The neat thing about Hong Kong is that you can experience something new every time you visit. For such a tiny destination, it really packs a punch. This list is focused on activities that one can practically experience on a typical Hong Kong family vacation. If you make bookings through my links, I may be compensated.

CHECK OPENING TIMES BEFORE YOU GO

It hasn’t been your average year in Hong Kong so while these activities are evergreen, many are currently closed.

Getting Discounted Tickets for Hong Kong Attractions

It’s become much easier to buy tickets for Hong Kong attractions in advance, which you absolutely should do. I’ve noted where this is possible, and in most cases, it’s via Klook, an enormous tour operator in Asia. You’ll usually save a little money and skip queues by entering with their mobile or printed tickets.

The Best Things to Do in Hong Kong with Kids

1. Hong Kong Disneyland

We’ve been to every Disneyland in the world, and Hong Kong Disneyland is by far our favorite. I’m a fan of experiencing Disney in other cultures because the food and other aspects are different. While there can be lines, they are typically shorter here than at any other Disney park we’ve been to.

Songs on rides like “it’s a small world” are sung in English, though instructions around the park are typically given in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin.

Of the major roller coasters, Hyperspace Mountain (more or less Space Mountain for those familiar with Disneyland in Anaheim) is the only one represented here. Do not miss the Iron Man Experience, Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars, Mystic Manor, and the new Ant-Man and the Wasp: Nano Battle.

Definitely, buy your tickets in advance online and print them before you go so you can avoid the lines at the ticket booths. Options include:

• Discounted Hong Kong Disneyland tickets on Klook (QR code mobile entry)
• Hong Kong Disneyland hotel or other luxury hotel concierge
• The Hong Kong Disneyland app

If you’re short on time, a half-day visit to Hong Kong Disneyland is still worth it. If you’re coming during the summer months and would like to skip the lines, think about booking a 3-hour Disneyland VIP Tour. The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique (there is one in the park now, too), Hong Kong Disneyland character dining, and Disney dim sum all take place at the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, which is a quick shuttle bus away from the theme park. However, know that you need to reserve these experiences in advance.

Though it’s the smaller relative to other Disney parks, Hong Kong Disneyland is one of the best things to do in Hong Kong with kids. Check out my tips for visiting Hong Kong Disneyland in the summer.

Neighborhood: Lantau Island

How to get there: There are local and cross-boundary buses that travel to and from the park, taxis regularly drop off and pick up visitors, and you can also reach the park via MTR by boarding the Disneyland Resort Line at Sunny Bay Station.

Activity: Theme Park

Cost: Standard park tickets start at HK$639. There are special packages available, and you can often get discounted tickets to Hong Kong Disneyland on Klook.

Hours: 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. (verify on the day you plan to visit) — the park is temporarily closed

Ages: All Ages

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2. Ocean Park Hong Kong

Sea-themed Ocean Park Hong Kong is on the south side of Hong Kong island. Some prefer this amusement park to Hong Kong Disneyland because it’s unique with fewer crowds and more opportunities for animal encounters (check the schedule). We have participated in the Honorary Panda Keeper program twice, where you go behind the scenes with the resident giant pandas, and it’s a wonderful experience.

The park is divided into two parts — a lower level and upper level — connected by a sky tram that provides some of the best views of this part of Hong Kong Island. Note that the sky tram is a bit hairy on windy days. A submarine-themed train barrels through the mountain to the other side, too. The lines are usually shorter if you take the train up to the upper level and the cable car down.

The Waterfront (lower area) near the entrance has the pandas, a huge aquarium, and a playground for younger kids. The Summit (upper area) has rides for older kids, the sea lions (which you can toss fish to at designated times), the main show area, and other attractions.

Tip: Ocean Park is doable with just a half-day commitment if you’re short on time. Also, buy tickets in advance to avoid lines which have been long lately at the park. Klook has discounted Ocean Park tickets.

Neighborhood: Wong Chuk Hang

How to get there: Ocean Park is accessible by car, bus, taxi, and the MTR (it’s one stop on the South Island Line from the Admiralty station).

Activity: Theme Park and Aquarium

Cost: Checking Klook for discounted tickets, but on the Ocean Park website, basic adult admission starts at HK$498 and admission for kids 11 and under is HK$249. You can pay for Ocean FasTrack if you want priority accesses for designated rides and attractions.

Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. — the park is temporarily closed

Ages: All Ages

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3. Ride the Star Ferry Hong Kong

Definitely take the 6-12 minute ride (length depends on the time of day) from Central to Kowloon on the historic Star Ferry when visiting Hong Kong with kids.

The Star Ferry Hong Kong is a historical American-football-shaped boat that journeys from Central to Kowloon or Wan Chai to Kowloon in just a few minutes. It also goes to the Hong Kong Disneyland hotel once per day.

Depending on how far you have to walk to the ferry terminals, it can be faster to take the Star Ferry Hong Kong to Kowloon than the MTR.

Try to sit on the upper deck to avoid inhaling coal fumes that trap themselves on the lower level. It costs a few extra cents, but I believe it’s worth it. There is no need to check the schedule (unless you need to ride it very early in the morning or late at night) because the ferries run frequently.

You can also book a short Star Ferry tour around Victoria Harbour during the day or at night. If you only plan to ride the ferry once, I recommend departing from the Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon side in the evening. You’ll get a beautiful view of the Hong Kong skyline and you’ll have a great view of the ICC and Symphony of Lights evening light shows.

Neighborhood: Central / Wan Chai / Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon

How to get there: To get to the Star Ferry Tsim Sha Tsui Pier, exit the MTR at the L6 exit. To get to the Central Pier, exit the MTR at the A2 exit or Exit A.

Activity: Scenic Boat Ride

Cost: Tickets start at HK$2.20 per adult per ride in the ferry’s lower deck or HK$2.70 to sit on the upper deck. Use an Octopus Card or purchase admission in the machines near the entrance gates.

Hours: 6:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Ages: All Ages

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4. Shop the Toy Streets and Other Markets

Yes, there are street markets in Hong Kong dedicated entirely to toys. Since we are always in Hong Kong near my daughter’s birthday, these streets are where we load up on party favors.

At Fuk Wing Street in Sham Shui Po, there are cheap dolls, balls, gadgets, and school supplies that you can buy individually or in bulk. It’s a nice stop if you’re shopping the other markets in Sham Shui Po anyway. Take Exit B2 at Sham Shui Po Station, walk two streets and turn right.

Another option is Tai Yuen Street in Wan Chai. This one has more variety and nostalgic toys. Take Exit A3 at Wan Chai station and walk just a few minutes. You’ll see it.

Some Hong Kong markets appeal to kids more than others. If in need of a costume for any reason, definitely go to Pottinger Street. This small market lines a staircase in Central with vendors selling loads of costumes, accessories, and holiday decor year-round. It’s also conveniently located next two other famous shopping streets called The Lanes (Li Yuen Street East and Li Yuen Street West) just off of Queens Road near the Mid Levels escalator. Visit both in the same outing. Take Exit C at Central Station and walk down Des Voeux road until you see the lanes full of shops. I also take Exit D and walk down Queen’s Road.

Kids who can stay up late will enjoy the festival atmosphere of the (somewhat touristy) Temple Street Night Market with its food, trinkets, and fortune-tellers. Take Exit C at Yau Ma Tei Station or Exit A at Jordan Station. On the quieter south side of the island past Repulse Bay, you can shop Stanley Market.

I’ve written in detail about where to go shopping in Hong Kong.

Neighborhoods: Sham Shui Po / Wan Chai / Central / Mongkok

How to get there: MTR Exits listed next to each market above

Activity: Shopping

Cost: Free to enter

Hours: Varies

Ages: Kids who like to shop

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5. Visit The Peak

The Peak offers the most spectacular view of Hong Kong. The viewing deck on the top of The Peak Tower on the Sky Terrace 428 (admission required) is the perfect place to take that holiday card photo. Or opt for the Lion’s Peak Pavilion to the right (if facing Victoria Harbour) of The Peak Tower. It’s a free viewing platform with more charm but be aware that it is usually crowded.

Go any time of the day, but I think it’s best to maximize your time up here by also dining at The Peak Lookout. There are also quick-service restaurants, some of which serve must-try Hong Kong food. Madame Tussaud’s (temporarily closed) is here as are many, many souvenir shops, so plan to spend a while here.

Stroll around the Peak Circle Walk for more scenic shots. As the name implies, you can walk an entire circle around The Peak. There’s a little kids’ playground around the middle if they need a break. It takes around 40 minutes to do the entire walk, so when we’re short on time we walk it for a bit and then reverse.

We usually like to take The Peak Tram up and walk or taxi back down. If we walk, we take the scenic Morning Trail from the Peak all the way back to Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong in Central which takes about an hour. That said, I know where I’m going… if you get lost, hail a taxi.

Likewise, many hike to Pok Fu Lam from The Peak and downhill via a few other hiking trails. If hiking or walking down from The Peak appeals to you, ask your hotel concierge for a map and make sure your mobile phone is charged.

Neighborhood: Victoria Peak

How to get there: Klook offers uphill or downhill bus options, or you can take the Peak Tram up and a taxi back down.

Activity: Sightseeing

Cost: A single ride on the Peak Tram costs HK$84 for adults and HK$38 for children 11 and under and senior citizens. Admission to Sky Terrace 428 costs HK$52 for adults and HK$26 for kids and seniors.

Hours: The Peak Tram runs from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. The Peak Tower terminus opens at 8 a.m. on Sundays and holidays and at 10 a.m. on other days. It closes at 11 p.m. The Sky Terrace (i.e. the viewing deck) is open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Friday. It opens earlier, at 8 a.m., on Saturday, Sundays, and public holidays.

Ages: All ages

Tip: The queue for the Peak Tram on the way up has been really long lately. Get a skip-the-line ticket from Klook (you can bundle this with discounted admission to Madame Tussauds and the Sky Terrace) or the Hong Kong pass.

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6. Hong Kong Science Museum/Hong Kong Museum of History

Here’s something to do on a rainy day in Hong Kong with kids (from late spring through early fall, there are plenty of hot or rainy days). The Hong Kong Science Museum is located in Kowloon and has over 500 exhibits on display including Cathay Pacific’s first DC3 airliner suspended from the ceiling.

Most of the exhibits are hands-on, including a car simulator that you “drive” to avoid accidents. Another highlight is the 22-meter Energy Machine (the largest of its kind in the world) with audio-visual effects simulating energy. Kids will love it.

The Hong Kong Museum of History is right next door and is my favorite Hong Kong museum. It does have some colorful hands-on exhibits for kids, but you will likely enjoy it more than they will. I say hit both on the same day.

Neighborhood: Tsim Sha Tsui

How to get there: Take the West Rail Line, get off at East Tsim Sha Tsui Station Exit P2 and walk along Chatham Road south for about 10 minutes.

Activity: Museum

Cost: General admission to the Hong Kong Science Museum is HK$20. Children under 4 are free. The Hong Kong Museum of History is free for all visitors.

Hours: Both museums open daily at 10 a.m., but closing times vary — temporarily closed.

Ages: Elementary school kids up to adults will appreciate the exhibits in the Hong Kong Museum of History most, but toddlers and above may like the Hong Kong Science Museum.

Tip: You can visit both on the same day as you’ll likely spend an hour or two at most at both.

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7. Hong Kong Park

This park is a little oasis off of the busy street. It isn’t huge but passing through here is a pleasant thing to do with kids, especially if you’re walking from Central to Admiralty (or vice versa) or need a break from shopping at Pacific Place (one of my favorite indoor malls). Turtles and koi fish can be seen swimming in little ponds along the walkway.

The park has a playground, a Tai Chi garden, a gym, and there’s even a small teaware museum worth a short visit. When it’s hot, it’s easy to duck back into Pacific Place mall for a drink or bite to eat. Do peek into the free Flagstaff House Teaware Museum quickly to learn more about the role that tea plays in Asian culture. The Peak Tram also departs from the Lower Terminus just outside of Hong Kong Park.

If families are considering the Admiralty hotels (The Upper House, Hong Kong, Conrad, JW Marriott, and Island Shangri-La), I always point out this park as a perk of the location.

Neighborhood: Central / Admiralty

How to get there: Take MTR Tsuen Wan Line, South Island Line, or Island Line to Admiralty Station, and use Exit C1. Walk through Pacific Place Mall (following the signs), and then take the escalator directly to the park.

Activity: Park

Cost: Free

Hours: The park opens at 6 a.m. daily and closes at 11 p.m.

Ages: All Ages

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8. The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery via Ngong Ping 360

Named for the stunning views seen during the ride, Ngong Ping 360 eliminates the need to endure a windy bus ride to the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island. You can ride in a regular cable car, private cable car, or even a glass-bottom cable car.

I recommend you book the glass-bottom cable car at Ngong Ping 360. Kids love the glass-bottom cable car for obvious reasons and it usually has a shorter boarding queue.

The cable car drops you at Ngong Ping Village where there is shopping, dining, and entertainment. It’s a bit touristy, though nature walks are accessible here, and the most famous sight is the Po Lin Monastery, where you can have a decent vegetarian lunch and see the Tian Tan Buddha, otherwise known as the Big Buddha.

The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery are very popular Hong Kong attractions for a good reason. People from all over Asia make the pilgrimage to see the stately Big Buddha, which was built in 1993. If your kids are good walkers, do take a quick detour to the Wisdom Path where a group of large wooden steles displays a prayer. It’s great for photos.

My daughter loves visiting the Big Buddha and asks to visit every time we go to Hong Kong now. You can read more about our tips for visiting the Big Buddha because there is a lot to know.

Some hotel concierge desks can purchase your Ngong Ping cable car tickets in advance. Otherwise, Klook has them and a dedicated expedited line at the entrance. You can also pair a visit here with a seafood lunch at Tai O fishing village on some tours.

Neighborhood: Lantau Island

How to get there: Take the MTR to Tung Chung station and the cable car is just a few minutes away on foot.

Activity: Sightseeing

Cost: Varies depending on which cable car you ride, though full-price single standard tickets start at HK$160 for adults and HK$75 for children 3-11. Children ages 2 and under ride free.

Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on weekends — temporarily closed

Ages: Kids who won’t mind the walking (strollers are okay for younger kids)

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9. Go Hong Kong Pink Dolphin Watching

Sadly, due to pollution, ferries, and harbour reclamation, the striking but endangered Hong Kong pink dolphins are becoming even rarer in the South China Sea. They are gorgeous and if you can swing 3 hours on a boat, try to see them before they are gone. Through Klook, you can book a Hong Kong pink dolphin watching tour. Hong Kong’s pink dolphins are active year-round and dolphin watching excursions book up quickly in peak travel season, so I recommend buying tickets in advance.

Neighborhood: Many tours depart in Tsim Sha Tsui

How to get there: Varies

Activity: Wildlife Experience

Cost: Varies depending on which tour you take, but expect to spend about HK$470 for adult tickets

Hours: Varies, but expect to spend half a day on your tour

Ages: All ages, though older kids who can wait patiently for sightings will enjoy it most.

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10. Explore the Geoparks

Exploring the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark with kids is the perfect outdoor activity for a family vacation. 

Eight named sites at the UNESCO Global Geopark in Hong Kong highlight interesting rock formations created by the Earth’s movement. There are hexagonal volcanic columns, sea arches, a 400-year-old village, and other interesting things to see in two regions (Sai Kung and Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock Region), each with four geo-areas. Most families prefer to visit Sai Kung. Sharp Island, especially at low tide, is a good choice by sampan from Sai Kung Pier (otherwise, it’s a long hike).

Kids may also like the Volcano Discovery Centre in Sai Kung Waterfront Park which organizes tours and showcases how the rock formations were made.

If you happen to be staying at The Peninsula Hong Kong, they now offer a private helicopter Hong Kong tour of the UNESCO Geopark as part of their Peninsula Academy bespoke programs, or you can book one via Klook. There are also boat tours and kayak tours. Your best bet is to do some research to decide which Geopark experience is most appropriate for your family as some are rigorous to get to. 

Neighborhood: Sai Kung

How to get there: From MTR Diamond Hill Station, take Exit C2 to Bus 92. You can also take Exit C2 out of Choi Hung Station and then take Minibus 1A. Keep in mind that the different areas of the park have different addresses.

Activity: Nature Excursion

Cost: This will depend on what type of tour you take. There are helicopter tours, walking tours, boat tours, and more.

Hours: Open 24 hours

Ages: Kids old enough to handle the walking and climbing will have the most fun.

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11. Watch the Nightly Symphony of Lights and ICC Light Shows

The Symphony of Lights show over Victoria Harbour never gets old, and my daughter has loved it since before she could talk. I highly recommend harbour view hotel rooms as most have views of it (the closer you are to the harbour, the better).

The ‘World’s Largest Permanent Light and Sound Show’ as named by Guinness World Records starts every night at 8:00 p.m. Colored lasers and lights shoot from the top of 40 buildings lining the Hong Kong skyline on both sides of the harbour. Listen to music (Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra recorded the new musical score) and narration available via the A Symphony of Lights app though it is broadcast live near Avenue of the Stars in Tsim Sha Tsui and at the promenade at Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai. 

The ICC Light Show has won a Guinness Book of World Record for “Largest Light and Sound Show on a Single Building” occurs on the exterior of the International Commerce Centre (ICC) building, where The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong resides. It’s the tallest building in Hong Kong. 

Remember, you can see both shows at the evening Star Ferry tour or book a Symphony of Lights tour on Aqua Luna, a (newer) traditional Hong Kong red-sailed junks (more details below).

Download the ICCLightShow app so that you can listen to music synchronized with the light show. 

Neighborhood: West Kowloon / Tsim Sha Tsui / Central

How to get there: You can see both shows extremely well from a harbour view room at Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, the IFC terraces on Podium 3 and 4 as well as some harbour view restaurants. See both also from Ocean Terminal Deck at Harbour City with its 270-degree harbour view.

Activity: Light Show

Cost: Free

Hours: Symphony of Lights at 8 p.m. and ICC shows at 7:45 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Ages: All Ages

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12. Ride the Mid-Levels Escalator

This activity depends on the level of patience your kids have, but the Mid-Levels Escalator is the largest outdoor covered escalator in the world at roughly half a mile long and worth checking out. There are more than a dozen entry and exit points, rest areas, and even cafes and shops. You can actually hop on and off along the route.

Starting at 6 a.m., the escalator runs downhill to take residents to work and switches directions at roughly 10:15 a.m. to run uphill until midnight, at which point it turns off until the morning.

Make it a challenge and see if you can ride it all the way to the top, though note that it doesn’t reach The Peak. You can always exit for lunch, dinner, shopping, or a snack.

There are tons of great restaurants, shops, and markets around the escalator including the famous Wellington Street Michelin mile, Hollywood Road, Tai Kwun and some of Hong Kong last remaining dai pai dongs.

As you’ve likely taken the escalator up, it’s easy to walk back down though it’s mostly by staircases and not stroller-friendly, unless you know how to wind your way down the various streets, which is certainly possible by looking out for sidewalks leading downhill. My daughter liked to count the steps down when she was younger. Or, you can simply taxi back down to Central.

Neighborhoods: Central and the Mid-Levels

How to get there: The starting point of the escalator in Central is 100 Queens Road. It’s an easy walk from the Central MTR Station (Exit D2) and Central Hong Kong hotels.

Activity: Sightseeing

Cost: Free

Hours: The escalator runs from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m., though keep in mind that the direction changes at 10 a.m.

Ages: Elementary school age kids think it’s fun but it’s a slow-moving escalator so may run out of patience before hitting the top. And, remember one has to walk back down. Older kids will enjoy the area surrounding the escalator up to Elgin Street. Look out for Instagram-worthy street murals.

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13. Bike the New Territories

Cycling is becoming one of the most popular things to do in Hong Kong with kids and is most often done in the New Territories. We took a half-day private biking tour of the Walled Villages in the New Territories with Mountain Biking Asia, that I would recommend for kids that can handle more rugged terrain. It’s pretty flat, with a few small hills and dirt roads, but they do need a little strength and endurance. My daughter was nine when we first did this and fine.

We have also rented bikes, including kids’ bikes, and explored scenic paved bike paths in the area ourselves. The entire route is pretty flat and there is a dedicated bike path. Discover Hong Kong has a helpful page outlining the various bike paths and rental information

Neighborhood: Tai Wai

How to get there: You can rent bikes just outside of the MTR station in Tai Wai and Hong Kong biking tours depart from various locations.

Activity: Sightseeing

Cost: Varies, depending on the tour

Hours: Varies, though plan for a half a day

Ages: Kids old enough to ride a bike independently and have the endurance to handle a couple of hours of biking off-road.

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14. Ride a Hong Kong Junk

Red-sailed junks are Hong Kong’s icon, often seen in travel ads, and a sight that lends immediate recognition to Victoria Harbour. Duk Ling is the last authentic Chinese sailing junk in Victoria Harbour. The junk has been painstakingly restored and is available for short cruises during the week or private hire. If you’re not going to ride it, keep an eye out for it in the harbour. I see it often when we stay at Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong.

Another red-sailed junk built by the Aqua Group is also visible on the harbour and available for dining and tours. It’s called Aqua Luna but keep in mind that it is a new ship which means the experience is a bit more posh with more comfortable seating, cocktails, and food for purchase. Those who prefer a more authentic experience should choose Duk Ling.

There are also some junks you can rent by the day (sans the red sails, usually). We’ve done it with friends (and loads of champagne), and it’s quite fun. If you ride a Hong Kong junk during the day, do bring sunscreen.

Neighborhood: Central and Tsim Sha Tsui

How to get there: You can catch it at Kowloon Public Pier 3 in or Central Pier 9. Aqua Luna departs from Tsim Sha Tsu Pier 1 and Central Pier 9.

Activity: Sightseeing

Cost: Tickets on Duk Ling cost HK$320 for adults and HK$220 for kids 3–11 years old and seniors. The cost of Aqua Luna tours varies depending on the tour.

Hours: Duk Ling picks up passengers hourly from 2:30 p.m. through 8:45 p.m. (right now, only on weekends). Aqua Luna runs on a hop-on, hop-off basis between noon and 5:00 p.m. Private tours are available by request.

Ages: All Ages (though anyone prone to seasickness probably won’t enjoy this)

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15. Ferry to an Outer Island

Kids who love boat rides can get their fill in Hong Kong between the Star Ferry, Duk Ling, Aqua Luna, dolphin watching, and taking the ferries to outlying islands where the buzz of a big city is less noticeable.

The two most popular islands for day trips (or half-day trips) are Cheung Chau (pictured above), which is famous for the annual bun festival in May (if you are in Hong Kong in May, this festival is a must), and Lamma Island, another fishing village.

Cheung Chau is home to a pretty beach near the ferry terminal and water-based outdoor activities like kayaking and swimming, while Lamma Island is home to fresh seafood and a little beach. Both are worth visiting if time and weather permits.

We used to take the 20-minute ferry ride over to Lamma from Central, walk around the island and then eat at one of the small seaside restaurants. The islands, especially Lamma, provide a nice break from city life.

Seasickness is less likely to occur on these larger ferries, unlike a smaller junk boat.

Neighborhood: Lamma and the other small islands

How to get there: There are various ferry companies that depart from Central

Activity: Sightseeing

Cost: Varies, but ferry tickets are very inexpensive

Hours: Varies, but ferries typically run all day and depart every half hour or so

Ages: All ages, though smaller kids may tire out after lots of walking (strollers are easy to take on the ferries).

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16. Ride the Hong Kong Observation Wheel

Recently opened on the Central Harbourfront, the Hong Kong Observation Wheel (or Hong Kong Ferris Wheel) provides 20 minutes of fun for all ages. The wheel spins around three times per ride and provides excellent views over Victoria Harbour.

One of the best times to visit is during the Golden Hour when the sunlight hits the skyscrapers or during the Symphony of Lights show. But really, any time is a good time to ride the Hong Kong Observation Wheel.

Neighborhood: Central

How to get there: You can walk to the Observation Wheel from any of the ferry terminals and Central hotels

Activity: Family Fun

Cost: Tickets are HK$20 for adults, HK$10 for children 3-11, and free for kids under three years old. You can also reserve a private gondola for HK$160. Buy tickets in advance.

Hours: The Ferris wheel runs from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily — temporarily closed.

Ages: All Ages

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17. Explore Tai Kwun, the Former Central Police Station

Tai Kwun opened in late 2018 as a centre for heritage and arts located just off of the Mid-Levels escalator in Old Town Central. It’s used to be the Central Police Station compound which is made up of three parts: Central Police Station, Central Magistracy and Victoria Prison. 

Now, visitors enjoy the large open square surrounded by bars and cafes. It’s a nice place to take a break when in Hong Kong with kids after sightseeing around the area. Shops featuring local artists and designers flank the square. Check the event calendar to see what’s on display in the various galleries during your visit.

Kids will enjoy the walking through some of the Victoria Prison cells that are now animated to tell the story of what life was like in there back in the day. They can also pick up a scavenger hunt sheet in the Visitor’s Center that they can stamp at various stations around Tai Kwun.

Neighborhood: Central

How to get there: Take the Central-Mid-Levels escalator uphill and when you get to the elevated walkway above Hollywood Road, walk straight into Tai Kwun.

Activity: Sightseeing

Cost: Free to enter

Hours: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily (can vary during holidays) — check store and restaurant hours as they are currently more limited.

Ages: All Ages

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18. MONOPOLY DREAMS

The world’s first MONOPOLY-themed attraction opened inside The Peak Galleria. MONOPOLY DREAMS takes guests via an elevator into the residence of Mr. Monopoly. Then they’ll explore seven themed areas (think Water Works, Jail, and some of your other favorite cards from the board game) through holograms and 4DX technology. You’ll be able to spin a fortune wheel to win a prize so that no one goes home empty-handed. But, you can even buy Monopoly-themed snacks.

Neighborhood: Victoria Peak

How to get there: Take the uphill bus or the Peak Tram at Garden Road Terminal

Activity: Museum

Cost: Various packages are available but it is HK$260 for adult admission and HK$220 for children ages 3 through 11 and seniors.

Hours: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Monday – Sunday (last entry at 7 p.m.)

Ages: All Ages

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19. Eat Character Dim Sum

People often ask me what to eat in Hong Kong, and of course, the answer changes a little when you’re traveling in Hong Kong with kids. Character dim sum is trending in Hong Kong and elsewhere, and kids love it.

One of the most popular places for it in Hong Kong is a restaurant called Yum Cha, which has locations in Central, Tsim Sha Tsui, Mongkok, and Causeway Bay. We often meet friends here because the kids love it and the food is good. Do make a reservation. They also offer dim sum making classes.

Dim Sum Icon, now only in Kowloon, is another restaurant where the themed character dim sum changes every so often to keep people coming in. To be honest, I did not recognize the character series featured when we were there, but they’ve featured Gudetama, Sailor Moon, and other favorite characters in the past. In my opinion, the food is better at Yum Cha.

Of course, you can also reserve Crystal Lotus inside Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel for Disney dim sum.

Neighborhood: Central and Tsim Sha Tsui

How to get there: Yum Cha locations can be found at

• Nan Fung Place, 173 Des Voeux Road, Central 
• Emperor Watch & Jewellery Ctr., 8 Russell Street, Causeway Bay
• 20-22 Granville Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
• Shop 07, Level 4A, Langham Place, Mongkok

Activity: Dining

Cost: Character dim sum options range from HK$50-60 per order

Hours: They vary by location.

Ages: Toddlers and up

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20. Eat a Hong Kong Waffle

Even picky kids may enjoy one of Hong Kong’s most popular street food snacks: the egg waffle (also called Hong Kong waffles, bubble waffles, or eggette). Egg waffles have actually become pretty trendy in U.S. cities (in case you want to try them but aren’t traveling abroad any time soon) where they’re usually wrapped around ice cream. There’s nothing, nothing like the real deal, however.

In addition to enjoying the mildly-sweet flavor of the original (many flavor variations exist now), it’s fun to see how the waffles are made and dried by a fan. We like Mammy Pancake (locations on the island and in Kowloon) which has recently earned a Michelin nod. Lee Keung Kee (North Point and Kowloon) is popular, as is Oddie’s (Central and Wan Chai) if you’d like an eggette wrapped around soft-serve gelato.

Other local must-trys that kids may love include pineapple buns, Hong Kong toast, wonton noodle soup, and egg tarts.

Neighborhood: Throughout Hong Kong

How to get there: You can research where to go ahead of time or wait until you come across a shop selling them.

Activity: Dining

Cost: About HK$15 for a traditional waffle

Ages: Toddlers and up

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Good Things to Know When in Hong Kong With Kids

Eating in Hong Kong with kids isn’t challenging. There is plenty of Western food available, but kid-friendly Asian favorites like steamed rice, fried rice, egg rolls, and other simple Chinese food can be ordered, too.

Do not panic if you forget to pack something. Many Western brands of jarred baby food, formula, diapers, and other items for infants and toddlers are available at chemists (pharmacies) and grocery stores.

Car seats aren’t required in taxis. Uneven pavement makes using a stroller difficult in some areas and finding a lift in an MTR station can be difficult, though not impossible. Exploring Hong Kong with kids who are babies and small toddlers can be easier done via babywearing.

Hong Kongers love kids, and I’ve received plenty of help with my own strollers and bags from strangers over the years. If you need help, do not ever be afraid to ask.

If time permits, Hong Kong is a fantastic city for a vacation photographer. We used Flytographer for a 30-minute session and were quite pleased. Book through my link.

When you’re booking a hotel, keep in mind that the maximum occupancy in Hong Kong hotels is three people, including kids, with a few exceptions. Even families of four will usually need connecting rooms. I know these hotels very well so can give you advice on family hotels in Hong Kong and how to fit into them.

Look into meet and greet service at Hong Kong Airport if you’re worried about how tired kids will handle long walks and clearing customs after long haul flights (it’s a big airport). They’ll pick you up at the jetway in a buggy if your gate is further away than gate 25. Learn more about how to get from Hong Kong airport to your hotel.

I have had nothing but good experiences with babysitters at both the Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong and Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong. These are my top two Hong Kong family hotel picks and where we stay every year.

If you are considering a luxury Hong Kong hotel, I have access to VIP amenities and perks (that may include complimentary breakfast for two, room upgrades, food, and beverage credits and more) at five-star hotels in town through my role as an independent affiliate at Cadence Travel. You can book online with benefits. For moderate and budget hotels, most people save with Agoda.

See also: The Best List of Family Hotels in Hong Kong

What are your favorite things to do in Hong Kong with kids?

Photo credits: Star Ferry, Peak Tram, Symphony of Lights, Cheung Chau are courtesy of the Hong Kong Tourism Board.