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Weekend in Ho Chi Minh City

Oct 3 - Oct 5

This weekend itinerary for Ho Chi Minh City is designed for local families seeking a mix of free and paid, kid-friendly experiences without breaking the bank. It balances outdoor exploration with exciting indoor activities, ensuring fun regardless of the weather. We've included practical tips for transport, facilities, and budget management to help you create lasting family memories.

Ho Chi Minh City view
1

Friday Evening - Nature & Play Fun

Friday, October 3
1.1
4:30 PM
VND 180,000 for whole family

Zoo & Gardens Visit

Spend a delightful late afternoon exploring the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden, one of the oldest zoos in the world. Kids will love seeing over 1,000 animals, including elephants, tigers, and monkeys, and exploring the lush botanical gardens. There's also a small amusement park section with fun games like a ball pit and bumper cars. It's a fantastic place to connect with nature and enjoy shaded paths as the day cools down.

Perfect for all ages, especially 3-12 year olds. Wide, shaded paths are stroller-friendly. Restrooms and snack stalls are available throughout the park. Aim for an early evening visit to enjoy cooler temperatures and more active animals. The small amusement park within the zoo offers additional paid games.

Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden, 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Easily accessible by Grab car or motorbike. Limited street parking might be available nearby, but it's often more convenient to use ride-hailing services. The zoo is in the heart of District 1.

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1.2
6:30 PM
VND 400,000 - 800,000 for whole family

Play Cafe Dinner

Enjoy an early dinner at Snap Cafe, a popular kid-friendly restaurant in District 2 known for its great outdoor playground.

Parents can relax while children play in the sand and climbing area. The menu offers a diverse selection including Vietnamese, Mexican, and classic kid-friendly options.

Ideal for active kids to burn off energy before bedtime. The outdoor play area is well-maintained and provides ample space. Kid-friendly food options are available. Restrooms are accessible. It's appreciated if visitors make a purchase for food or drinks as the play area is free.

Snap Cafe, 32 Tran Ngoc Dien, Thao Dien Ward, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City

Located in District 2, easily reachable by Grab. Parking for motorbikes and limited car parking usually available. Stroller access is good within the cafe and play area.

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2

Saturday - Theme Park Thrills

Saturday, October 4
2.1
10:00 AM
VND 600,000 - 1,000,000 for whole family

Dam Sen Adventure

Dive into a day of fun at Dam Sen Cultural Park, a massive theme park offering a blend of thrilling amusement rides, a water park, beautiful botanical gardens, and cultural exhibits.

From exciting games to tranquil gardens and even an aquarium, there's something to entertain every member of the family.

Suitable for all ages, with specific areas for younger children and more thrilling rides for older ones. Plan for a full day as the park is quite large (50 hectares). Consider whether to focus on the 'dry' cultural park or include the water park for a separate fee. Restrooms and food stalls are widely available.

Dam Sen Cultural Park, 3 Hoa Binh, Ward 3, District 11, Ho Chi Minh City

Located in District 11, best reached by Grab car or taxi. The park has designated parking areas for motorbikes and cars.

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2.2
12:30 PM
VND 300,000 - 600,000 for family lunch

Park Lunch Break

Enjoy lunch within Dam Sen Cultural Park.

There are numerous food stalls and restaurants offering a variety of local and international cuisine. This allows for a convenient and quick break without needing to leave the park, maximizing play time.

Plenty of kid-friendly options available. Look for shaded seating areas. Bring water bottles to refill. Consider packing some snacks for smaller children.

Food courts and restaurants within Dam Sen Cultural Park, 3 Hoa Binh, Ward 3, District 11, Ho Chi Minh City

No additional transportation needed as this is within the park.

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2.3
2:30 PM
VND 400,000 - 700,000 for whole family

Water Park Fun

Cool off and have a splash at Dam Sen Water Park, connected to the cultural park (separate entry).

It features multiple water slides, a wave pool, and a dedicated section for small children, providing a refreshing break from the heat.

Great for energetic kids to cool down. Remember to bring swimsuits, towels, and sunscreen. Lockers are available for rent. Supervise children closely, especially in crowded areas.

Dam Sen Water Park, 3 Hoa Binh, Ward 3, District 11, Ho Chi Minh City

Accessable via a connecting gate from Dam Sen Cultural Park or a separate entrance. No additional transport needed if already at the cultural park.

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2.4
5:00 PM
VND 500,000 - 900,000 for whole family

Early Dinner Treat

After a day of excitement, enjoy an early dinner at WKND, a stylish and kid-friendly café-restaurant.

It features a kids' play space right by the entrance, allowing parents to dine comfortably while easily watching their children. They offer delicious food and desserts in a pleasant ambiance.

A perfect wind-down activity before heading home. Kids will appreciate the play area after a long day. Offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Staff can assist with strollers.

WKND, Address not specified in search results, generally located in Districts with expat communities like D2 or D7. (Assume families living in HCMC know good local options, or can easily find specific address via 'WKND Ho Chi Minh City')

Best reached by Grab car. Parking available.

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3

Sunday - Culture & Creativity

Sunday, October 5
3.1
10:30 AM
VND 0 - 200,000 for whole family

Book Street Stroll

Start your Sunday with a relaxed visit to Ho Chi Minh City Book Street (Nguyen Van Binh Book Street).

This pedestrian street is lined with numerous bookstores, charming cafes, and occasionally hosts weekend events like book launches or art exhibitions. It's a peaceful oasis in the city, perfect for browsing children's books, enjoying a coffee, and soaking in the literary atmosphere.

Great for families to browse books in a relaxed setting. Kids might enjoy finding new storybooks. There are aesthetic cafes for parents to enjoy. The street is pedestrian-friendly and near other landmarks.

Ho Chi Minh City Book Street (Nguyen Van Binh Book Street), Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Located in central District 1, adjacent to the Central Post Office. Easily accessible by foot if staying nearby, or by Grab car/motorbike. Parking usually available for motorbikes in surrounding areas.

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3.2
1:30 PM
VND 300,000 - 500,000 for whole family

Indoor Play Exploration

Head to AEON Mall Tan Phu Celadon for an afternoon of indoor fun at Fanpekka or Kidzooona, both highly-rated children's play areas.

Fanpekka is a Finnish-concept theme park emphasizing problem-solving and learning through play, with a huge ship structure, ball pools, and obstacle courses. Kidzooona offers educational play inspired by Japanese daycares, with hands-on activities. These provide a great escape from the afternoon heat or potential rain.

Ideal for children aged 3-12. Both offer safe, clean, and air-conditioned environments with various play zones. Parents can relax in designated seating areas while supervising. Restrooms and food options available within the mall.

FANPEKKA / Kidzooona (inside AEON Mall Tan Phu Celadon), 30 Bo Bao Tan Thang Street, Son Ky Ward, Tan Phu District, Ho Chi Minh City

Located in Tan Phu District, best reached by Grab car or taxi. AEON Mall has ample parking for cars and motorbikes.

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3.3
4:00 PM
VND 700,000 - 1,000,000 for whole family

Water Puppet Show

Experience a unique piece of Vietnamese culture with a traditional Water Puppet Show at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater.

This captivating 45-50 minute performance combines colorful puppetry with traditional music, depicting Vietnamese folk traditions and daily life. It's a family-friendly and visually engaging experience suitable for children.

Excellent cultural experience for all ages, particularly engaging for children with its visual storytelling and music. Performances typically have two shows in the evening, with an earlier slot at 5:30 PM often suitable for families. Restrooms available.

Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater, 55B Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Centrally located in District 1, a short Grab ride from many areas. Can be combined with a walk around nearby attractions like the Central Post Office earlier in the day if time allows.

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