Weekend in Taipei
This weekend itinerary offers a perfect blend of Taipei's best for families, from exploring diverse ecosystems and thrilling rides to engaging with art and enjoying local culture. We've incorporated free and low-cost activities alongside special ticketed experiences, ensuring a memorable and budget-conscious trip. Given that October 4-6, 2025, is a long weekend due to the Mid-Autumn Festival, some attractions might be busier, so early arrival is recommended. The itinerary is designed with children's energy levels, meal times, and early bedtimes in mind.
Friday Evening - Green Retreat & Water Show
Friday, October 3Botanical Garden Stroll
Enjoy a tranquil afternoon stroll through the Taipei Botanical Garden, a historic green oasis boasting over 2,000 plant species across various thematic gardens like the Lotus Pond and Chinese Zodiac Garden.
It's a peaceful escape from the city hustle and perfect for kids to observe nature.
Excellent for all ages, including toddlers in strollers. Kids will enjoy spotting different plants and the serene atmosphere. Paved paths are stroller-friendly, and there are accessible restrooms available. This is a relaxed activity to wind down the week.
Easily accessible via MRT. Take the Songshan-Xindian Line to Xiaonanmen Station, or the Tamsui-Xinyi Line to Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall Station. Parking is limited, so public transport is recommended.
Night Market & Water Show
Experience the vibrant energy of Raohe Street Night Market, known for its delicious street food and lively atmosphere.
Afterwards, head to Rainbow Bridge to catch the 'Taipei Water Dance Festival,' a stunning water and light show that runs until October 19, 2025.
Kids will love trying various snacks and soaking in the bustling market environment. The water show offers a magical visual spectacle perfect for families. Be mindful of crowds, especially with strollers. Public restrooms are available.
Take the MRT Songshan-Xindian Line to Songshan Station (Exit 5). The night market and Rainbow Bridge are a short walk from there. Public parking is available nearby but can be difficult to find on weekends.
Saturday - Zoo & Science Discovery Day
Saturday, October 4Taipei Zoo & Gondola
Embark on an exciting visit to Taipei Zoo, one of the largest zoos in Asia, home to over 400 animal species including giant pandas and koalas.
Begin your adventure by taking the Maokong Gondola from the Taipei Zoo Station for scenic views, then explore the zoo's diverse animal areas, including the Children's Zoo, which offers hands-on experiences.
Kids aged 3-12 will be captivated by the wide array of animals. The Maokong Gondola ride offers breathtaking panoramic views, especially fun for kids with its 'crystal cabin' option (check availability). The zoo has stroller rentals, nursing rooms, and accessible restrooms. Plan about 3-4 hours for a comprehensive visit.
Directly accessible via MRT Taipei Zoo Station (Wenhu Line). The Maokong Gondola station is adjacent to the zoo entrance. Parking is available, but public transport is highly recommended due to potential crowds on a long weekend.
Zoo Picnic Lunch
Enjoy a budget-friendly picnic lunch amidst the green surroundings of Taipei Zoo.
There are designated picnic areas and plenty of open spaces to relax. Alternatively, the zoo also has food courts and convenience stores if you prefer to buy food on-site.
Perfect for energetic kids to have a quick, relaxed meal before the next adventure. Pack sandwiches, fruits, and drinks to save money. On-site facilities offer diverse options, including child-friendly meals. Ample restrooms available.
Within Taipei Zoo premises, easily accessible by foot or internal shuttle train (extra fee).
Science Center Fun
Dive into the interactive world of the National Taiwan Science Education Center.
This museum offers permanent exhibits on various sciences, hands-on activities, a 'SkyCycle' bike ride 20 meters in the air, a glass bridge, and an earthquake simulator. There's also a dedicated 'Kids' Playground' on B1 for younger children (2-9 years old).
This is an excellent indoor option, especially if the weather is hot or rainy. Kids 3-12 will love the interactive displays and the SkyCycle. The B1 Kids' Playground is great for toddlers and younger children. Restrooms and stroller access are excellent. Plan for 2-3 hours.
Located a 3-minute walk from Taipei Children's Amusement Park. Easily accessible via MRT. Take the Tamsui-Xinyi Line to Jiantan Station or Shilin Station, then a short shuttle bus or taxi ride. Parking is available.
Shilin Dinner Treats
Enjoy an early dinner in the bustling Shilin area, known for its diverse food options.
While Shilin Night Market is famous, there are also many family-friendly restaurants around for a more relaxed sit-down meal, perfect for winding down after a day of adventures. Consider trying local favorites that are palatable for kids.
Look for restaurants offering kids' menus or dishes that appeal to children. This early timing allows for a relaxed meal before heading back for bedtime. Restrooms are widely available in restaurants and shopping areas.
The Shilin area is well-served by public transport. Many restaurants are within walking distance or a short taxi ride from the Science Education Center.
Sunday - Play & Create Day
Sunday, October 5Children's Amusement Park Fun
Spend the morning at Taipei Children's Amusement Park, a fantastically affordable theme park designed for younger children.
Enjoy a variety of rides from carousels and bumper cars to a drop tower and roller coaster, with individual rides costing only NT$20-30. The park also hosts a 'ONE PIECE Adventure Carnival' until October 12, 2025, which kids will love. There are indoor play areas and a free playground for rainy days.
Perfect for kids aged 3-12, with a broad range of rides. For unlimited rides, an NT$200 pass is a great value. The ONE PIECE theme adds extra excitement. The park has excellent family facilities, including nursing rooms, family restrooms, and stroller rentals. Plan 3-4 hours.
Accessible via MRT. Take the Tamsui-Xinyi Line to Jiantan Station or Shilin Station, then a short free shuttle bus or taxi ride. Indoor parking is available.
MOCA Kids Art Space
Engage your children's creativity at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Taipei's 'U12 Kids' Space'.
This friendly space provides hands-on craft tasks, playing and drawing areas, and storytelling sessions. It's designed for children aged 12 and under to experience art in an interactive and fun way.
A fantastic indoor alternative, especially for creative kids. The U12 space encourages imagination and offers workshops related to current exhibitions. Restrooms are available. Check MOCA's website for specific workshop schedules, which are often free with museum admission during 'Family Days' (10 AM - 12 PM on weekends).
Easily accessible via MRT. Take the Tamsui-Xinyi Line or Songshan-Xindian Line to Zhongshan Station (Exit R4). MOCA is about a 5-minute walk. Limited street parking available.
Fine Arts Park Play
Wind down the weekend with some active playtime at the Expo Hall Playground in Fine Arts Park.
This free outdoor playground is a great spot for kids to burn off any remaining energy, with various equipment suitable for different age groups.
Excellent for active kids who need to run and play. The park environment is pleasant for parents to relax while keeping an eye on their children. Restrooms are available in the surrounding park area. A perfect way to get some fresh air before heading home.
Take the MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line to Yuanshan Station. The park is right outside the station. Parking is available but can be busy on weekends.
This weekend itinerary for Taipei 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.