Family Fun in Bangkok
Bangkok can be a rather inhospitable place for families with children, especially little ones. The heat, traffic and many other factors can make things difficult.
That doesn't mean there aren't places for families to go. There are in fact a great many places catering to families with children. Many of them are, unfortunately, on the outskirts of town, but some at least are easy to get to. Trips to many of these can be booked in advance through an online agency such as Viator. Here's a sampling:
- Crocodile Farm
- The world's largest crocodile farm, where the critters can be seen at various ages before they are processed into handbags and steaks. There are also elephants, tigers and other animals on show. The Crocodile Farm is in Samut Prakan province which borders Bangkok on the southeast. Most hotels will offer tours to the farm.
- Dreamworld
- Small theme park far north of town. Has some thrill rides and other activities for older kids but most of the attractions are aimed at the under-10 set. The park aims for a Disneyland atmosphere with costumed staff and cartoon architecture. Due to its location nearly an hour from the city center, it doesn't get many tourists.
- Dusit Zoo
- Long a favorite with families in Bangkok, the zoo is centrally located in a sprawling park between the king's Bangkok residence, Chitlada Palace and the parliament house. The zoo has been drastically upgraded in recent years and is as popular as a picnic spot as it is for the animals. The park has many food stalls with a reputation for delicious food at very low prices. Its central location makes it easy to get to. Take the Skytrain to Victory Monument station, then grab a taxi for the short trip to the zoo. The Thai for zoo is Suan Sut.
- Safari World
- A huge drive-though safari park surrounds a central theme park with animal and stunt shows on offer. Safari World is located on the northern edge of town. They have guided tours in air conditioned coaches with English speaking guides for those without cars or wanting someone else to do the talking. Reserve the whole day for this place.
- Siam Park
- Theme park on the northeastern edge of town, not far from Safari World. The main feature here is a humongous water park with slides, wave pool and a beach. Also has a large bird park and double-decker merry go round. Suan Siam, as its known in Thai, is close enough to town to get to by taxi, although you may have a problem getting a return taxi. Note that this place can be completely packed on weekends, with so many people cooling off in the water park that you can't figure out where they put the water. Best avoided on weekends and public holidays.
- Siam Ocean World
- Huge aquarium complex built into the equally huge Siam Paragon shopping mall. The display of fresh and salt water animals is supposed to be one of the largest in Southeast Asia. The admission, at 450 Baht, is a little steep for most locals.