Taipei for Families: Kid-Friendly Activities

Taipei for Families: Kid-Friendly Activities

Taipei, Taiwan, is a vibrant and exciting city that offers a wealth of activities for families. From interactive museums to beautiful parks and delicious street food, Taipei has something to appeal to every member of the family. This guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to Taipei with your kids.

Getting Around Taipei with Kids

Taipei has an excellent public transportation system, making it easy to get around with children. The MRT (subway) is clean, efficient, and affordable. Consider purchasing an EasyCard for convenient travel on the MRT and buses. Strollers are generally manageable on public transport, but be prepared for some stairs at certain stations. Taxis are also readily available and can be a good option for shorter distances or when traveling with multiple children.

Must-Visit Attractions

Taipei Zoo

The Taipei Zoo is a sprawling zoological garden that is home to a diverse collection of animals from around the world. Highlights include the giant panda exhibit, the Formosan animal area, and the penguin house. The zoo is easily accessible by MRT and offers plenty of space for kids to run around.

Image: A family watching giant pandas in their enclosure at the Taipei Zoo.

National Palace Museum

While a museum might not immediately seem kid-friendly, the National Palace Museum offers interactive exhibits and educational programs designed to engage children. The museum’s vast collection of Chinese art and artifacts can be fascinating for older kids, and the surrounding gardens provide a pleasant space for a break.

Children’s Amusement Park

Located near the Taipei Fine Arts Museum, the Children’s Amusement Park is a classic amusement park with rides and attractions geared towards younger children. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon letting the kids burn off some energy.

Beitou Hot Spring Area

Experience Taiwan’s famous hot springs in Beitou. While some hot springs are adults-only, many public bathhouses and hotels offer family-friendly options. The Beitou Hot Spring Museum is also worth a visit to learn about the history of the area.

Parks and Outdoor Activities

Daan Forest Park

Daan Forest Park is a large urban park in the heart of Taipei. It features playgrounds, walking paths, ponds, and plenty of green space for picnics and games. It’s a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Yangmingshan National Park

For a day trip outside the city, head to Yangmingshan National Park. This park offers stunning scenery, hiking trails, hot springs, and volcanic landscapes. The park is accessible by bus from Taipei and provides a great opportunity to experience Taiwan’s natural beauty.

Image: A family hiking on a trail in Yangmingshan National Park, surrounded by lush greenery.

Bitan Scenic Area

Located in Xindian, Bitan (Green Lake) is a scenic area with a lake, walking paths, and boat rentals. You can rent a paddleboat or rowboat and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. There are also several restaurants and cafes along the lakefront.

Kid-Friendly Food Experiences

Din Tai Fung

No trip to Taipei is complete without a visit to Din Tai Fung, famous for its soup dumplings (xiaolongbao). Kids will love watching the chefs prepare the dumplings through the glass windows. Be prepared for a wait, especially during peak hours.

Shilin Night Market

The Shilin Night Market is a food lover’s paradise. While it can be crowded, it’s a great place to sample a variety of Taiwanese street food. Kids will enjoy trying different snacks like bubble tea, stinky tofu (if they’re adventurous!), and fried chicken.

Ice Monster

Cool off with a shaved ice dessert at Ice Monster. Their signature mango shaved ice is a refreshing treat that kids (and adults) will love.

Accommodation

Taipei offers a wide range of family-friendly accommodation options, from hotels to apartments. Consider staying in the Xinyi District for easy access to shopping and dining, or in the Zhongshan District for a more central location.

Sample Itinerary: 5 Days in Taipei with Kids

Tips for Traveling to Taipei with Kids

• Pack light clothing, comfortable shoes, and rain gear.

• Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.

• Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases.

• Download translation apps on your phone.

• Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season.

• Take advantage of Taipei’s excellent public transportation system.

• Try the local street food, but be mindful of food safety.

• Most importantly, have fun!

Taipei is a fantastic destination for families. With its diverse attractions, delicious food, and convenient transportation, it’s a city that offers something for everyone. Plan your trip today and create lasting memories with your loved ones.