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Weekend in Manila

Nov 21 - Nov 23

This weekend itinerary for families in Manila blends exciting paid attractions with free, engaging activities perfect for children aged 3-12. While specific event schedules for November 2025 are still subject to announcement, this plan focuses on reliably open and popular family destinations. It emphasizes interactive fun, opportunities for play, and delicious, affordable dining options. Remember to verify operating hours and booking details closer to the dates, especially for ticketed attractions and any potential special events or holiday light shows that typically begin in November.

Manila view
1

Friday Evening - Family Fun Night

Friday, November 21
1.1
4:30 PM
PHP 0 for whole family

Park Play & Picnic

Enjoy a relaxed afternoon at Rizal Park (Luneta), one of Manila's most iconic parks.

Kids can run around the spacious grounds, play on the playgrounds, and enjoy the open air. Bring a frisbee or a ball for some active fun. The park also features various themed gardens and monuments to explore.

Perfect for energetic kids to burn off steam after the school week. There are several playgrounds suitable for different age groups. The park is vast and offers plenty of space for walking and playing. Restrooms are available throughout the park. Stroller-friendly paths make it easy to navigate. Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours.

Rizal Park (Luneta), Roxas Blvd, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila

Ample paid parking is available around the perimeter of Rizal Park. It's also accessible via LRT-1 (UN Avenue Station or Central Terminal Station) with a short walk, which can be manageable with a stroller during off-peak hours.

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1.2
6:30 PM
PHP 500-800 for whole family

Sunset Snack & Lights

After playing at Rizal Park, grab an early dinner or some affordable snacks from vendors around the park or nearby establishments.

Afterwards, enjoy the evening ambiance, especially if any early Christmas light installations or fountain shows are starting for the holiday season. The Dancing Fountain in Rizal Park typically runs a show in the evenings.

Early dinner ensures kids aren't too tired or hungry before heading home. Many street food vendors offer affordable and delicious options like fish balls, kwek-kwek, or corn-on-the-cob. Alternatively, there are fast-food chains and casual restaurants nearby. The Dancing Fountain is a free spectacle that kids often enjoy. Timing is good for early bedtimes.

Rizal Park area (vendors and nearby eateries), Roxas Blvd, Ermita, Manila

Stay within the Rizal Park vicinity. Walking is the easiest option. If driving, your car will still be in the Rizal Park parking area.

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2

Saturday - Family Adventure Day

Saturday, November 22
2.1
10:00 AM
PHP 2,500 - 3,500 for whole family

Underwater Wonders

Dive into the amazing aquatic world at Manila Ocean Park, the Philippines' first world-class marine theme park.

Explore various zones like the Oceanarium, which features a stunning 25-meter underwater tunnel, and interact with marine life through diverse exhibits. They also have shows and other attractions.

A fantastic experience for all ages, especially 3-12. Kids will be mesmerized by the sharks, stingrays, and various fish. The penguin exhibit and bird encounters are also highlights. Stroller accessible, with numerous restrooms and food stalls inside. Allow 3-4 hours for a full experience. Consider bringing a light jacket as some areas are air-conditioned.

Manila Ocean Park, Behind Quirino Grandstand, Lumuneta, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila

Manila Ocean Park has a dedicated parking facility (paid). It's also accessible via taxi/ride-sharing services. It's a short walk from Rizal Park.

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2.2
1:30 PM
PHP 1,000 - 1,800 for family lunch

Harbor View Lunch

After your underwater adventure, enjoy a family lunch at one of the many restaurants located within or around the Manila Ocean Park complex, offering various cuisines and often views of Manila Bay.

There are options ranging from casual cafes to more sit-down restaurants.

Kid-friendly menus are usually available. Eating nearby saves travel time. Look for establishments with good ventilation or outdoor seating if weather permits. Makan Makan Asian Food Village offers a wide variety of Asian dishes in a casual setting, suitable for families. Good facilities with restrooms.

Restaurants within or adjacent to Manila Ocean Park, e.g., Makan Makan Asian Food Village

Walk directly from Manila Ocean Park to nearby restaurants. No additional transport needed.

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2.3
3:00 PM
PHP 1,500 - 2,000 for whole family

Exploration & Play

Head over to The Mind Museum in Bonifacio Global City for an afternoon of interactive science discovery.

This world-class science museum offers five main galleries with over 250 hands-on exhibits covering the Atom, Earth, Life, Universe, and Technology.

Highly engaging and educational for children aged 3-12 (and adults too!). Exhibits are designed to be hands-on and foster curiosity. There are clean restrooms and a café. Stroller accessible. Allow 2-3 hours. It's an excellent indoor option in case of rain or hot weather.

The Mind Museum, JY Campos Park, 3rd Ave, Taguig, 1634 Metro Manila

From Manila Ocean Park, it's best to take a taxi or ride-sharing service to Bonifacio Global City (BGC), which is approximately a 30-45 minute drive depending on traffic. Paid parking is available at The Mind Museum.

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2.4
5:30 PM
PHP 1,200 - 2,000 for whole family

BGC Playground & Dinner

After The Mind Museum, let the kids unwind at the nearby parks and playgrounds within Bonifacio Global City, such as the Greenway Park or the interactive play structures around the area.

Afterwards, enjoy an early dinner at one of the many family-friendly restaurants in BGC.

BGC is known for its open spaces and pedestrian-friendly environment. Kids can enjoy a bit more outdoor play. Numerous restaurants cater to families, offering a wide range of cuisines. Many have kid-friendly options and casual atmospheres. Consider options around High Street or Burgos Circle. Restrooms are widely available in malls and establishments. Early dinner allows for a relaxed end to the day.

Bonifacio Global City (various parks and restaurants), Taguig, Metro Manila

Walkable from The Mind Museum to nearby parks and restaurants in BGC.

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3

Sunday - Relaxed Family Day

Sunday, November 23
3.1
10:30 AM
PHP 0 for whole family

Greenbelt Gardens & Play

Spend a relaxing Sunday morning at the Greenbelt Park in Makati.

This urban oasis features lush gardens, koi ponds, and open spaces where children can enjoy a stroll or simply relax. There's also a chapel within the park, and often art installations or small events.

A beautiful and peaceful environment, perfect for a relaxed Sunday. While not a dedicated playground, the open spaces and natural elements provide a nice change of pace. It's stroller-friendly and has clean public restrooms within the Greenbelt malls. There are also many cafes around the perimeter for a morning snack or coffee.

Greenbelt Park, Greenbelt Complex, Ayala Center, Makati, 1226 Metro Manila

Greenbelt is well-served by public transport. Paid parking is available in the Greenbelt malls. It's highly accessible via taxi or ride-sharing services.

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3.2
1:00 PM
PHP 800 - 1,500 for family lunch + play

Mall Play & Lunch

After enjoying Greenbelt Park, head into one of the adjacent Greenbelt or Glorietta malls for lunch and some indoor fun.

Many malls in Manila offer indoor playgrounds, arcades, or even ice-skating rinks (check specific mall for attractions). This is a good indoor alternative for active kids and provides air-conditioned comfort.

Malls offer diverse food court and restaurant options to suit all tastes and budgets for lunch. Indoor play areas or arcades provide entertainment for kids, especially good for a hot or rainy day. Restrooms are abundant and clean. Check specific mall directories for play areas or kids' zones.

Greenbelt / Glorietta Malls, Ayala Center, Makati, 1226 Metro Manila

Walk directly from Greenbelt Park into the connected malls.

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3.3
4:00 PM
PHP 300 - 500 for whole family

Home-bound Treats

Before heading home, grab some delicious local treats or desserts to enjoy as a family.

Consider iconic Filipino snacks like halo-halo, dirty ice cream (sorbetes), or ensaymada from a local bakery. This provides a sweet end to the weekend and a chance for final family bonding.

A simple, affordable, and sweet way to wrap up the weekend. Kids always love a special treat. Many malls have branches of popular bakeries like Goldilocks or Red Ribbon, or local ice cream vendors. Good for a quick stop before the journey home.

Various bakeries or dessert shops in Makati or on the way home

Depending on your route home, pick a convenient location for your treat stop.

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This weekend itinerary for Manila can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.