Manila Weekend Activities & Things to Do

Interactive Science Fun

Kick off the weekend with an exciting visit to The Mind Museum, an internationally acclaimed science museum that makes learning fun and interactive for all ages.

Kids will love exploring the five main galleries: Atom, Life, Earth, Universe, and Technology, with plenty of hands-on exhibits, engaging displays, and even a 3D animated show at the Science-in-the-Sphere dome. This is a fantastic way to spark curiosity and engagement after school.

Perfect for energetic kids aged 3-12. The exhibits are designed to be interactive, encouraging touch and play. Restrooms are available on all floors, and the museum is stroller-friendly. Allow at least 2-3 hours for exploration. Consider bringing a light snack for the kids beforehand. The museum typically closes at 6 PM on weekdays, so an afternoon visit allows ample time.

Family Dinner Treat

Enjoy an early family dinner at one of the many kid-friendly restaurants in Bonifacio Global City (BGC).

'Italianni's Restaurant' in Bonifacio High Street offers a welcoming atmosphere with a diverse menu that caters to both adults and children, including pasta, pizza, and desserts. The vibrant environment of BGC also provides a nice evening stroll opportunity after dinner.

Italianni's has a dedicated kids' menu and generally spacious seating accommodating strollers. The food is familiar and appealing to children. Early timing ensures kids can be home for their regular bedtime. Restrooms are available within the restaurant. Other family-friendly options abound in BGC.

Underwater Wonders

Dive into the amazing underwater world at Manila Ocean Park!

This marine theme park offers a captivating experience for children with various attractions like the Oceanarium, which features a stunning walk-through tunnel, and the 'Trails to Antarctica' Penguin Exhibit. Kids will be mesmerized by the diverse marine life and learn about ocean conservation.

Perfect for all ages, especially 3-12 year olds who will be fascinated by the fish, sharks, and penguins. The park is stroller-friendly with ramps and elevators. Restrooms are plentiful. Plan for at least 3-4 hours to enjoy the main attractions. Consider bringing a light jacket as some areas can be air-conditioned.

Park Picnic & Play

After your morning at Manila Ocean Park, head over to Rizal Park (Luneta Park) for a relaxed picnic lunch and some playtime.

Rizal Park is one of the largest urban parks in Asia, offering vast green spaces, playgrounds, and shaded areas perfect for a budget-friendly family meal. You can bring your own packed lunch or buy affordable snacks from vendors within the park.

Kids can run around, play on the swings and slides, and enjoy the open space. It's a great way to let them burn off energy. There are public restrooms available throughout the park. The park is vast and stroller-friendly. Choose a spot near a playground or shaded tree for comfort.

Manila Zoo Visit

Continue your animal adventure at the newly renovated Manila Zoo.

After years of closure, the Manila Zoo reopened with modern facilities and improved habitats for its diverse collection of animals. Children will love seeing elephants, tigers, monkeys, and various birds. It's an excellent opportunity for them to learn about wildlife and conservation.

Ideal for children aged 3-12. The zoo is now more spacious and pleasant for walking, making it suitable for strollers. Restrooms are readily available. Plan for about 2-3 hours to explore the entire zoo at a leisurely pace, allowing kids to observe the animals.

Early Dinner & Play

Conclude your action-packed Saturday with an early dinner at a family-friendly restaurant.

Consider 'Shakey's Pizza Parlor' for its casual atmosphere, extensive pizza and pasta menu, and often a dedicated play area for kids, making it a popular choice for families. Their branches are widely available across Manila.

Shakey's offers a 'Kids' Party Zone' in some branches, perfect for kids to unwind. The menu is universally loved by children. It's a great spot to wind down after a day of exploration. Restrooms are available. Early dinner allows for a calm evening routine.

Botanical Garden Stroll

Start your Sunday with a peaceful and refreshing visit to the Arroceros Forest Park, often called 'Manila's Last Lung'.

This urban forest offers a tranquil escape with lush greenery, walking paths, and various trees and plant species. It's a wonderful free activity for kids to connect with nature, observe birds, and enjoy a quiet morning walk.

This activity is ideal for a relaxed pace, suitable for all ages. Kids can explore the paths, look for birds, and simply enjoy being outdoors. It's stroller-friendly on most paths. Restrooms might be limited; it's advisable to use facilities before arriving. Bring water bottles and insect repellent.

Interactive Museum Fun

Head to the National Museum of Fine Arts, located nearby, for an enriching and free cultural experience.

While it houses fine art, many children enjoy the grandeur of the building and some of the larger-than-life paintings, especially if given a 'scavenger hunt' challenge to find specific elements or colors in the artworks. It's a good alternative for a quiet, air-conditioned activity.

This museum is free to enter and offers a calm environment. While not specifically a children's museum, it provides an educational opportunity. Engage younger children with observation games. Stroller access is good, and restrooms are available. Plan for 1.5-2 hours, focusing on sections that might appeal more to kids.

Afternoon Playtime

Wrap up your weekend with some free-play time at the Ayala Triangle Gardens.

This urban park in the heart of Makati is known for its open green spaces, walking paths, and often features art installations. It's a safe and pleasant environment for kids to run around, play tag, or simply relax on the grass before heading home for the evening.

Perfect for burning off any remaining energy before the school week starts. The gardens are well-maintained, stroller-friendly, and have public restrooms nearby. There are often snack vendors around the perimeter. This is a great spot for a casual family stroll and some unstructured play.