Keeping the kids entertained can be a challenge in Hong Kong when faced with inclement weather. Space may be limited, but energy levels usually aren’t. So for those days when it is pouring with rain, searing with heat or the air pollution index is off the charts, it pays to have an arsenal of indoor activities. Here’s some suggestions of places where kids from toddlers to teenagers can let off some steam.
Note: Some events may be affected by current restrictions; please check individual websites for updates.
Ryze Ultimate Trampoline Park
The ever-popular Ryze Trampoline Park in the Kodak Building in Quarry Bay contains over 40 interconnected trampolines. You can Zip Line across a river of foam, dodge the arms of the spinning Wipeout, or test your skills on the Free Style Course. Want to challenge a friend? Try the Battle Beams or the Wall Running Trampolines. With more space to play, kids of all ages can have fun at Ryze.
LOST Hong Kong (and LOST Junior)
This indoor activity traditionally catered to teenagers, but they now also offer LOST Junior. Perfect for little brothers and sisters. LOST Hong Kong is a series of reality escape rooms. Players get locked inside the rooms which have a pre-set scenario. Players must then use their wits to find clues and solve puzzles to work out a way to escape. Games can be played with as little as two players. Children under 12 years must be supervised by an adult.
Tikitiki Bowling Bar
While the evenings are all about cocktails, during the daytime you can take older kids here to enjoy some ten-pin bowling in this Sai Kung venue. You can rent all the gear you need, and they serve food to keep young hungry bowlers happy.
The Rink at Elements
It’s no surprise that in a city that can swelter like Hong Kong that you can find ice skating rinks dotted about the place, usually attached to a shopping mall making getting to and from quite easy. The rink at Elements mall is a good one if you are looking for indoor activities to suit kids of varying ages and abilities as you can rent hand-held ‘penguins’ – balancing devices for those who aren’t used to ice skating. You can also pay here with your Octopus card! Note: Currently open for private lessons only.
Hong Kong Central Library
The largest of Hong Kong’s public library’s, the Central Library spans over 33,800 square metres with resources to suit kids of all ages and interests. Apart from the dedicated kids’ and teens’ collections, there are kids’ activities, kids’ and teens’ reading programmes and electronic resources for both groups. The toy library on the second floor is a must-visit for children aged eight or below.
Legoland Discovery Centre Hong Kong
Newly opened in March this year, this 30,000-square-foot space at K11 MUSEA is the ultimate indoor playground for kids – and kids at heart! The Centre features 10 Lego-themed play areas including the key attraction Miniland, the miniature replica of Hong Kong’s most loved buildings and landmarks built from over 1.5 million lego bricks.
VermCity
This clip n’ climb park offers 19 different adventures which are suitable for ages four and up. Located in Quarry Bay, they have a number of rock climbing walls, as well as the first augmented wall in Asia, a projector based rock climbing game.
Hong Kong Space Museum
Housed in an iconic egg-shaped dome right by the Star Ferry pier on TST waterfront, the space museum makes a great stop for kids of all ages. There’s a planetarium and an Omnimax theatre and plenty of interactive exhibits to keep children entertained.
Azzita Hoverland
This indoor hoverboard centre provides a good option for older, active kids when they are feeling cooped up inside. Cruise on a hoverboard for an hour, with protective gear included, and then enjoy use of the game area.
Epicland
Located in Discovery Bay, EpicLand is the largest indoor family entertainment centre in Hong Kong. The centre caters for an array of ages and interests. Their huge rainbow slides are the longest in Asia, and they also have an air trek obstacle course, rock climbing walls, laser tag, a ballistics arena, trampolines and a nine-in-one mini golf course. There is also a playground and toddler area, and they even offer toddler rock climbing. Parents aren’t forgotten, with the Epic Cafe serving drinks, coffee and snacks so you can relax while the little ones run riot.
Hong Kong Science Museum
Though it might not be as high-octane as some of the other options on this list, the Hong Kong Science Museum in Kowloon is a favourite with all curious children. There are a variety of interactive permanent exhibitions to keep the little ones occupied plus regular special exhibitions. Currently featuring is “The Science Behind Pixar” which explores the the science and technology behind some of the best-loved animated films. Kids will also have the opportunity to take their photos with human-size recreations of many of their favourite Pixar characters, including Buzz Lightyear and Dory.
Hong Kong Maritime Museum
Located at Central’s Pier 8, this museum tells the story of Hong Kong’s trade and maritime journey through the years. The ship models, interactive displays and great views of Victoria Harbour make it a good family outing. Head to kid-friendly Café 8 on the rooftoop for a relaxing lunch with a view when you’re done.
Looking for more indoor activities? Why not check out 10 of the best museums in Hong Kong or head to afternoon tea?
Do you know of a kids’ activity which should be featured here? Email editor@expatliving.hk
