9 Kid-Friendly Spots in Hanoi, Da Nang, and Saigon – A Travel Guide for Vietnamese Families Visiting from Abroad
Every summer, I get asked the same heartfelt question from Vietnamese families living in the U.S. or Australia:
“Where can I take my kids to play when we go back to Vietnam? Is there anything fun and safe for them?”
The answer isn’t just yes — it’s a resounding yes, and then some.
Vietnam today isn’t just captivating for tourists; it’s also surprisingly kid-friendly, especially when you know where to go. Below is a curated list of 9 wonderful places across Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City where your little ones can do much more than just play — they’ll reconnect with their heritage, build memories with grandparents, and learn through every laugh.
Hanoi – Where Culture Meets Curiosity
If Hanoi is your first stop, don’t miss the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. It’s far from a dry museum — it’s an open-air adventure where kids can step into real stilt houses, try traditional Vietnamese games, and watch lively water puppet shows. For families who’ve been away from home for years, this is a beautifully tangible way to introduce children to the country’s 54 ethnic cultures.
Nearby, Kidzplay at Aeon Mall Ha Dong is perfect for days when the weather turns hot or rainy. It’s clean, well-maintained, and offers everything from soft-play zones to creative corners and slides, especially great for toddlers to early primary-age children. Every time I bring my nieces and nephews there, they never want to leave.
If your family loves learning through fun, head to VinKE and the Vinpearl Aquarium at Times City. Kids can walk through a glowing underwater tunnel, marvel at sea creatures, then hop over to a life-size mini-city where they get to "become" doctors, chefs, or firefighters. It’s a dream combo of education and entertainment — and it’s all indoors.
Da Nang – A City of Sea Breezes and Small Adventures
Da Nang isn’t just a beach destination. It’s a breezy, beautiful city that’s ideal for traveling with young kids. On a peaceful morning, take your child to the Museum of Cham Sculpture, which holds some of the oldest and most intricate artifacts in Central Vietnam. The cool, quiet space offers hands-on activities like statue painting and basic art workshops, making it surprisingly kid-friendly.
For more excitement, Asia Park – Sun World Da Nang is a lively amusement park with plenty of kid-sized rides. There’s also the iconic Sun Wheel, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city together. After sunset, the park lights up in dazzling colors that feel like magic to any child.
Need a place to beat the heat or the rain? Mikazuki Water Park 365 is a game-changer. It’s Vietnam’s first indoor Japanese-style water park, and it’s open all year round. There are splash zones, warm pools, lazy rivers, and even slides — all inside a beautifully designed space. Parents can enjoy a relaxing dip in the hot spring area while kids go wild in the water.
Saigon – Always Awake, But Full of Family Moments
If your trip ends in Ho Chi Minh City, I highly recommend visiting tiNiWorld, a popular indoor playground chain located in most major malls like Aeon, Giga Mall, and Landmark 81. These spaces are clean, vibrant, and filled with pretend-play areas, climbing zones, and crafts — perfect for kids from toddlers to tweens.
For something more cultural, the Ao Dai Museum in District 9 (Thu Duc City) offers a peaceful retreat where kids can dress in traditional Vietnamese long dresses, take photos, and learn about Vietnamese identity through clothing. The grounds are serene and shaded — a lovely break from the city noise.
And finally, there’s Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden — a beloved childhood memory for generations of locals. Despite being over a century old, the zoo is charming with its shaded paths, playful monkeys, and little train rides. It’s a classic spot that never fails to delight.
Final Thoughts
A trip back to Vietnam is more than a holiday — it’s a chance for children to rediscover their roots and form lasting memories with family. The places I’ve listed above offer not just fun but connection — to place, to people, and to the stories that make us who we are.
So as you pack your suitcases and prepare your kids for the journey home, keep this guide in your pocket. You never know — one of these stops might become a memory your child treasures for a lifetime.