Beijing Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Beijing
This itinerary focuses on a mix of engaging free activities and popular ticketed attractions, selected for their appeal to children aged 3-12, and optimized for budget-conscious families. It accounts for Beijing's winter off-season for pricing and operating hours. Advance reservations are highly recommended for ticketed venues and some free museums.
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, February 20Capital Museum Visit
Explore the rich history and culture of Beijing through various exhibits.
The museum showcases the city's 3,000-year history and traditions. The building itself is also distinctive, with delicate spots like sunken bamboo gardens. It features extensive collections including ancient porcelain, bronze artifacts, and jade sculptures.
Suitable for all ages, with informative English captions available. Offers a good indoor activity during the colder winter months. Children under 6 years old do not need reservations. Recommended visit duration is 3-5 hours.
Accessible via Subway Line 1 (Tiananmen West or Muxidi stations, followed by a short walk). Public transportation is recommended.
Olympic Park Stroll
Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll through the Beijing Olympic Park, the site of the 2008 Summer Olympics.
Families can explore the stunning architecture of the Bird's Nest Stadium and Water Cube, and appreciate the park's open spaces and illuminated landmarks.
Great for kids to run around in open spaces. Lights typically turn on in winter around 5:30 PM, making it a beautiful evening experience. The Water Cube offers a public water park and ice rink in winter, which may require separate booking.
Accessible via Metro Line 8 (Olympic Sports Center or Olympic Green stations). Plenty of walking paths. Parking is available but public transport is often easier.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, February 21Beijing Zoo & Pandas
Visit China's oldest zoo, home to over 500 species, including the beloved giant pandas in the Panda House.
This off-season visit offers a chance to see many animals, including snub-nosed monkeys and red-crowned cranes.
The Panda House is a must-see for children. Children under 1.2 meters tall or aged 6 and under are admitted free. Children aged 7-18 years enjoy half-price tickets. Recommended sightseeing time is 0.5-1 day.
Accessible via Metro Line 4 (Beijing Zoo Station, South Gate). Stroller-friendly paths throughout the zoo. Parking available.
Zoo Lunch Break
Take a break for lunch within the Beijing Zoo complex or at a nearby family-friendly restaurant.
There are simple eateries inside the zoo, or you can bring your own packed lunch.
Packing snacks and water bottles is a money-saving tip. There are cafes and fast food options within the zoo.
Within walking distance inside Beijing Zoo.
Underwater World Adventure
Located within the Beijing Zoo, the Beijing Aquarium is the largest and most advanced inland aquarium in China.
Explore seven halls including Rainforest Wonder, Whale and Dolphin Bay, Seabed Travel (underwater tunnel), and a touch pool. Don't miss the exciting dolphin and sea lion shows.
Perfect for children of all ages, especially 3-12. The underwater tunnel and touch pool are highlights. Dolphin and sea lion shows are available at fixed times (check schedule on arrival, typically 10:30, 13:30, 15:00 on weekends). Children under 1.2 meters tall or 6 years old are admitted free (each adult can bring up to 2). Concession tickets are available for students.
Directly accessible from Beijing Zoo. Continue walking north from the zoo entrance.
Library Exploration Time
Visit the Beijing City Library, a breathtaking blend of culture, architecture, and community spirit.
It features an enormous children's section packed with books and interactive activities, offering a cozy and engaging reading environment for children of different ages.
Divided into zones for ages 0-6 and 6-12, with multimedia reading stations. A great indoor option to relax and engage with books. Closed on Mondays.
Located in Tongzhou Urban Green Heart Forest Park. Public transport or taxi recommended. Ample parking for self-driving is mentioned for Beijing World Park, which is in Fengtai, so confirm for this specific library.
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, February 22China Science Fun
Engage in hands-on learning at the China Science and Technology Museum.
The Children's Science Paradise is specifically designed for children aged 3-8 years old, offering interactive exhibits that bring scientific concepts to life. Explore various fields like energy, transportation, and space.
Highly interactive and engaging for young children. The Children's Science Paradise requires a separate ticket and has morning/afternoon sessions. Closed on Mondays.
Accessible via Subway Line 8 (Olympic Green Station, then a short walk). Parking is available.
Museum Cafe Lunch
Enjoy a convenient and casual lunch at the China Science and Technology Museum's cafe or a nearby eatery, allowing more time for exploration and minimizing travel.
Cafes and restaurants are usually available within large museums for convenience. Saves travel time between activities.
Within the museum premises.
Beihai Park Boating
Spend a relaxing afternoon at Beihai Park, one of Beijing's oldest and best-preserved imperial gardens.
Enjoy a stroll around the lake and consider renting a fun duck-shaped electric boat for a unique family experience on the water, offering picturesque views.
Park entrance is budget-friendly. Boating is an additional cost. Duck-shaped electric boats are popular with children. Children under 1.2 meters or 6 years old enter free; students/children 6-18 have discounted rates. Boating is available from 9 AM - 6 PM.
Accessible via Subway Line 6 (Beihai North Station, Exit B, then a 400m walk to North Gate). Parking is limited, public transport recommended.
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