What Are the Best Family-Friendly Activities in Chiang Mai?

A much sought-after destination in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is visited by travellers of every calibre, from solo travellers and couples to business travellers and families with kids. Why? Well, because Chiang Mai offers a diverse set of attractions catering to all. If you’re a family visiting, you have so much to look forward to. These are the best family-friendly activities in Chiang Mai.

The Night Safari 

This is a hit with families visiting Chiang Mai. The Night Safari is more than just a zoo; it’s an adventure wonderland filled with wildlife. Lions, zebras, and giraffes roam freely—don’t worry, visitors are completely safe. The best part about the Night Safari is that you get to see wild animals in the dark. The walking trail allows you to see the zoo inhabitants up close and even feed them. What’s more, the laser light show is a highlight. The Night Safari has different sections, with each section dedicated to a different category of animals. The Savanna Safari Zone, for example, is where African animals reside. The Predator Prowl Zone, on the other hand, is where you find the big cats. The zoo also hosts night shows regularly, which are both exciting and educational.

Art at Art in Paradise

Perfect for a chock-full of family fun, Art in Paradise is a 3D museum. The museum houses a wide array of interactive art. Take the time to capture memorable pictures with quirky poses. Here, kids are encouraged to be creative and let their imagination run wild. The museum is one of the most popular indoor attractions. If you’re here during the rainy season, the museum should be part of your itinerary. The artworks here are designed to trick your eyes—they’re never what they seem at first glance. Art in Paradise is a popular attraction, so you’ll find several hotels in Chiang Mai within close distance of the museum. Looking to splurge a little? Five-star hotels such as Anantara Chiang Mai Resort are right up your alley!

Elephant Nature Park

A rescue and rehabilitation centre, Elephant Nature Park is a safe haven for elephants. You can spend an entire day here, and your kids will surely love the opportunity to learn about these majestic creatures. The park offers a hands-on experience, which is bound to leave a lasting impression. A visit to this park is a valuable opportunity to learn about conservation too. It’s home to many rescued elephants, each with a rather sombre story that the guides will share with you. Elephants aren’t the only residents of the park; there are also dogs, cats, and buffaloes. Elephant Nature Park is truly an animal lover’s paradise. You’ll have the chance to help out, which is a great way to teach your kids the importance of showing compassion to all living beings.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Home to Thailand’s highest peak, Doi Inthanon National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder. The cool climate is certainly appealing to tourists looking for a respite from the characteristic heat of Chiang Mai. The park is interwoven with several hiking trails, each leading to something extraordinary. You’ll discover several waterfalls here, and the scenic views are simply out of this world. Make sure you have enough time to visit the twin pagodas; they offer stunning views of the area. There are many more attractions to enjoy at the park. The botanical gardens are bound to pique the curiosity of nature lovers, and the numerous bird-watching spots allow you to glimpse endemic and migratory birds.

Temples 

Chiang Mai is a hub of culture, dotted with several must-visit temples. Sitting atop a hill, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is the most popular, known for its ancient architecture and tranquil surroundings. Wat Chedi Luang is another must-visit; this temple is home to a large pagoda, and the friendly monks are always up for a chat!