Children are naturally curious and love places that fuel their imagination and provide an outlet for their energy. They enjoy being in places that allow them to explore, play, and discover new things while having fun. Whether it’s interacting with animals, running free in open spaces, or engaging in creative activities, kids find joy in hands-on and engaging experiences. They’re drawn to spaces where learning feels like an adventure and fun is at the centre of everything.
While Chennai is known for its vibrant culture, aromatic filter coffee, and the beauty of blooming jasmine, there are many family-friendly destinations here as well. The city blends entertainment, education, and fun. Especially for families with kids, it offers a variety of attractions that are great for spending quality time.
We’ve compiled a list of 25 top-notch destinations that will engage, entertain, and educate your kids while showcasing Chennai’s unique charm. From exploring the historic Fort St. George to experiencing the thrill of snow at the Chennai Snow Kingdom, these places ensure every outing becomes a memorable adventure.
Places To Visit In Chennai For Kids
Here is a list of some things to do in Chennai
- Guindy National Park
- Guindy Childrens’ Park
- Marina Beach
- Activities for Kids
- Attractions to Explore
- Arignar Anna Zoological Park
- Exciting Animal Encounters
- Fun and Educational Experiences
- Interactive and Engaging Activities
- Science City
- Interactive Exhibits and Activities
- A Place for Knowledge
- Birla Planetarium
- Interactive Exhibits
- 3D Sky Shows
- By Car: Via Velachery Main Road or Tambaram-Chengalpattu Road.
- By Public Transport: Nearest bus stops, 8-10 km from Tambaram Railway Station.
- Dakshina Chitra
- 8. Madras Crocodile Bank
- Chennai Rail Museum
- Semmozhi oonga
- MGM Dizzee World
- Chennai Snake Park
- Elliot’s Beach
- Click Art Museum
- ISKCON Chennai
- Express Avenue Mall
- Ripon Building
- Kapaleeshwarar Temple
- Cholamandal Artists’ Village
- Fort St. George
- Harbour MGR Film City
- Valluvar ottam
- Chennai Snow Kingdom
- Kalakshetra Foundation
- Queensland Amusement Park
During the 1670s, a garden area was created within the Guindy forest.
Later, in 1978, this area, which popularly has been known as Guindy Deer Park, was declared a national park. This park has been playing a crucial role in Chennai’s ecological environment.
Guindy National Park offers a range of services to help with Afforestation, soil conservation, land use planning, protecting plants and animals, restoring damaged ecosystems, managing Wetlands, and creating Urban tree planting Management Plans, among others.
Guindy Children’s Park is located within the Guindy National Park in Chennai. The park is a unique blend of a children’s park and a wildlife sanctuary, offering both recreational and educational experiences. It is one of the few parks in India situated inside a national park. It is one of the top 10 places to visit in Chennai with family, as kids can explore nature, enjoy outdoor activities, and learn about wildlife.
There are a total of 50 animal species residing in the park, which includes 10 mammal species, 30 bird species, and 10 reptile species. These animals are carefully displayed in naturalistic settings so that visitors can observe their natural behaviours, habits, and habitats.
It is home to a variety of species such as:
Mammals: Jackal, Palm Civet, Porcupine, Barking Deer, Sambar Deer, Black Buck and Spotted Deer.
Birds: Grey Pelican, Painted Stork, White Ibis, Grey Heron, Spoonbill, Night Heron, Bengal Vulture, Pigeon, Great Horned Owl and Barn Owl.
Reptiles: Venomous snakes, crocodiles and tortoises.
Located in the heart of Chennai, this park covers 22 acres of land and functions as a Nature Education Centre to raise awareness about biodiversity and involve people in conservation efforts. Additionally, the park’s diverse wildlife creates a serene atmosphere and is also a great place for visitors to enjoy at sunrise.
Location: Raj Bhavan, Chennai
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
Entry Fee: INR 20 for adults, INR 10 for children
Things to Do: Explore diverse flora and fauna, enjoy picnics, guided nature walks.
How to Reach: Easily accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw from any part of Chennai. Nearest
Metro Station: Kotturpuram.
Marina Beach is one of Chennai’s most famous spots, and it’s a great place to visit in Chennai with kids. With its vast sandy shores stretching along the Bay of Bengal, the beach is perfect for a family day out. While the strong currents make it tricky for inexperienced swimmers, there’s still plenty to enjoy.
The beach comes alive in the mornings and evenings as there are many activities. A family walk along the shore during sunrise or sunset is a relaxing way to enjoy the view. As the day goes on, the beach turns into a vibrant fairground, with stalls selling crafts, souvenirs, and tasty snacks. Kids can have a blast playing games, flying kites, or even going for a pony ride.
The beach also has a few attractions that kids will love. The aquarium is always a hit, where they can marvel at the variety of sea creatures. Not far from the beach, there’s the Ice House (also known as Castle Kernan), a historic site that gives a peek into the city’s past. As you walk along the beach, you’ll also spot several statues, including the Victory of Labor and Mahatma Gandhi statues, which add a nice touch to your outing.
Location: Along the Bay of Bengal, Chennai
Timings: Open 24 hours, best visited during early morning or late evening.
Entry Fee: Free
Things to Do: Build sandcastles, kite flying, and enjoy street food.
How to Reach: Well-connected by city buses and taxis.
Nearest railway station: Chepauk.
The Arignar Anna Zoological Park in Chennai is a must-visit destination for families and one of the best spots for kids’ activities in Chennai. As one of the largest zoos in Southeast Asia, it offers children a chance to explore wildlife in an engaging and educational setting. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including rare and endangered species, providing an exciting opportunity for kids to learn about animals and conservation.
One of the park’s main attractions is the Lion and Deer Safari Park, where kids can safely view animals up close while riding in a vehicle. Kids will enjoy seeing the majestic lions and playful deer as they roam in their natural surroundings.
The zoo also features a walk-through aviary, where children can see colourful birds flying around in an open space and an aquarium filled with various aquatic species. To get a closer look at nocturnal animals, the Nocturnal Animal House is a great spot to visit. It’s a fascinating experience to see animals that are active during the night.
The park offers more interactive experiences with its Butterfly Park, Reptile Section, and Exotic Bird displays, all of which are sure to keep young visitors engaged. For little ones, the Children’s Park provides a space to play and unwind.
Location: Vandalur, Chennai
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; closed on Tuesdays
Entry Fee: Around INR 30 for adults, INR 10 for children
Things to Do: Safari tours, wildlife photography, educational programs
How to Reach: Reachable by bus or taxi; the nearest railway station is Vandalur
Science City in Chennai is a great place for children to explore and learn about science and technology in an engaging way. Located within a hub of educational institutions, it offers interactive exhibits that make complex scientific concepts more accessible for young minds.
Science City features a range of exhibits and activities designed to spark curiosity and encourage exploration. Kids can interact with hands-on displays, allowing them to understand various scientific principles in a fun and engaging way.
The area surrounding Science City is home to several educational and research institutions, creating an environment where learning and innovation thrive. This makes it one of the best places to visit with kids in Chennai, as they can see how science is connected to everyday life.
Location: Kotturpuram, Chennai
Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM; closed on national holidays
Entry Fee: Approximately INR 50 per person
Things to Do: Interactive exhibits, science shows, planetarium
How to Reach: Accessible by metro (Kotturpuram station), buses, and taxis
If your kids are curious about space and the universe, the BM Birla Planetarium is a fantastic place for a family outing.
It brings the wonders of space right in front of your eyes with stunning visuals and interactive displays. Kids can learn about the universe, from the Earth’s movement to the changing seasons, all through exciting multimedia presentations.
The planetarium offers hands-on exhibits that will fascinate your little explorers. They can dive into displays about the Solar System, the life cycle of stars, the sky and seasons, and even the mysteries of comets and the moon.
The planetarium also hosts daily 3D shows in different languages. These sky presentations cover a range of topics like eclipses, shooting stars, and the wonders of the moon. It’s an engaging way for kids to learn about the sky and space.
Location: Kotturpuram, Chennai
Timings: Show timings vary, usually from 10:00 AM – 5:45 PM
Entry Fee: Around INR 40 for adults, INR 25 for children
Things to Do: Astronomy shows, science exhibitions
How to Reach: Near Kotturpuram metro station, accessible by bus and taxi
Nanmangalam Reserve Forest
Nanmangalam Reserve Forest can be considered one of the best places to visit in Chennai with family, especially for families who enjoy nature, peace, and a bit of adventure.
It offers a unique opportunity for kids to explore nature through wildlife spotting and bird watching. The forest’s tranquil environment also makes it an excellent place to teach children about conservation and the importance of preserving natural habitats.
While it might not have the typical touristy amenities like other spots in the city, its charm lies in its natural beauty and the chance to experience the outdoors in a tranquil setting.
Location: Nanmangalam, southern Chennai, around 20 km from the city centre.
Timings: Daylight hours, best visited early morning or late afternoon.
Things to Do: Nature walks, bird watching, wildlife spotting, relaxed picnics.
How to Reach:
Dakshina Chitra, which means “a picture of the south,” is a museum that showcases the rich heritage and culture of South India.
Kids would enjoy visiting Dakshina Chitra because it offers a hands-on, interactive experience where they can explore the vibrant culture of South India. The museum features traditional homes, crafts, and artefacts from various South Indian states, allowing children to see, touch, and even try out different cultural practices. The workshops and performances, such as craft-making or folk dances, engage children and make learning about history fun and memorable. It’s a unique opportunity for them to experience South Indian traditions, architecture, and art in a way that’s both educational and entertaining.
Location: Muttukadu, East Coast Road, near Chennai
Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; closed on Tuesdays
Entry Fee: Around INR 100 for adults, INR 30 for children
Things to Do: Explore traditional houses, participate in craft workshops, watch cultural performances
How to Reach: Accessible by buses and taxis along the East Coast Road
The Madras Crocodile Bank is located in Muttukadu, which is about 40 kilometres south of Chennai, along the East Coast Road (ECR). It’s a popular destination for families, especially those interested in wildlife, and is situated near other attractions such as the Dakshina Chitra Museum and the popular Kovalam Beach.
It is a fantastic place for kids because it offers an exciting and educational experience focused on wildlife and conservation. Kids can see a wide variety of crocodile species up close, along with other reptiles like snakes, turtles, and lizards. The park provides an opportunity for children to learn about these fascinating animals and their natural habitats.
The educational talks and feeding sessions make the experience even more engaging. It’s a great way for kids to develop an appreciation for wildlife and conservation while having fun observing these incredible reptiles in a safe environment.
Location: Along the East Coast Road, towards Mahabalipuram
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM; closed on Mondays
Entry Fee: Approximately INR 50 for adults, INR 30 for children
Things to Do: Crocodile viewing, educational tours, night safaris (on specific days)
How to Reach: Located on the East Coast Road, easily reachable by bus or taxi
The Chennai Rail Museum showcases technical and heritage displays, featuring a significant assortment of steam engines from the British Raj era. Additionally, it houses antique coaches like the Ooty trains that were once prevalent on Indian railways.
With its collection of vintage steam engines and heritage coaches, children can step back in time and explore how railways evolved. Interactive exhibits and miniature train rides add an element of fun, making the museum both educational and entertaining. The open spaces and hands-on displays ensure kids have a memorable and engaging experience.
Semmozhi Poonga, also known as Semmoli Poonga, is a beautiful botanical garden located in Chennai. It was established through a collaboration between the Horticulture and Agricultural Engineering Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu. This enchanting garden holds the distinction of being the city’s very first botanical garden.
This botanical garden offers 20 acres of lush greenery, beautiful themed gardens, and serene ponds—a natural oasis in the heart of Chennai. Semmozhi Poonga offers kids a chance to enjoy nature in a serene environment, providing a refreshing outdoor experience.
Location: Cathedral Road, Chennai
Timings: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Entry Fee: Around INR 15 per person
Things to Do: Botanical garden walks, photography, children’s play area
How to Reach: Easily reachable by bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw
MGM Dizzee World in Chennai offers an exciting getaway to one of India’s biggest and oldest amusement parks. Since its establishment in 1993, this iconic park has been captivating over a million visitors annually across its sprawling 60-acre property. From heart-pounding rides like the famous Rolling Thunder and Rainbow Coaster to top-notch safety standards, there’s no shortage of thrills here. With attractions like the Amphitheatre and other unique offerings, a visit promises an unforgettable time. Whether you’re planning a family day out or a fun hangout with friends, our amusement park in Chennai guarantees a memorable experience for all. Come and immerse yourself in a day of adventure, creating memories that will last a lifetime!
Location: East Coast Road, Muttukadu, Chennai
Timings: 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM; weekends till 7:30 PM
Entry Fee: Varies, starting from around INR 699 per person
Things to Do: Amusement rides, water park, live shows
How to Reach: Located on the East Coast Road, accessible by bus or taxi
The Chennai Snake Park is also a fun place for kids in Chennai. It is located near the Children’s Park in Guindy National Park and houses a variety of reptiles, including snakes like adders, pythons, vipers, and cobras. It is an interesting spot for kids, offering a chance to see a variety of reptiles up close. The park provides an educational experience about these creatures and their role in nature, making it both fun and informative for slightly older children.
Location: Near Guindy National Park, Chennai
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM; closed on Tuesdays
Entry Fee: Approximately INR 20 for adults, INR 10 for children
Things to Do: Snake and reptile viewing, educational tours
How to Reach: Adjacent to Guindy National Park, easily reachable by local transport
Edward Elliot’s Beach offers a peaceful, family-friendly escape, ideal for a relaxed day out with kids. The soft, sandy shore is perfect for children to run, play, or build sandcastles. The gentle waves make it safe to spend time in the water under supervision. The quieter atmosphere ensures a calm experience for families, and the clean surroundings and tranquil vibe are perfect for picnics or evening walks. Additionally, nearby landmarks like Annai Vailankanni Church and Ashtalakshmi Temple provide cultural exploration, making the visit even more enriching. This makes it one of the top family entertainment places in Chennai, perfect for quality time together.
Location: Besant Nagar, Chennai
Timings: Open 24/7
Entry Fee: Free
Things to Do: Beach walks, local eateries, water sports
How to Reach: Accessible by bus or taxi, nearest metro station is Thiruvanmiyur
The Click Art Museum in Chennai is a must-visit place for kids, boasting an impressive array of 3D wall art that captivates visitors of all ages. As India’s first ‘Trick Art’ museum, it offers a delightful experience for everyone. This unique museum is like a gallery, filled with a fantastic collection of Trick Arts waiting to be discovered by tourists.
Kids will love the interactive nature of the exhibits, where they can become a part of the artwork. The playful, optical illusions spark their creativity and imagination, making it a fun and engaging experience for children of all ages.
Location: VGP Snow Kingdom, East Coast Road, Chennai
Timings: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: Around INR 200 per person
Things to Do: Interactive 3D art exhibits, photography
How to Reach: Located within VGP Snow Kingdom on East Coast Road, accessible by bus or taxi
Visit for a peaceful spiritual experience and to educate your children about the Hare Krishna movement and Indian culture.
The ISKCON Temple in Chennai, also called the Sri Sri Radha Krishna Mandir, is a temple in Chennai, India that follows the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition. This temple is devoted to Lord Krishna and Radha. It was officially opened on April 26, 2012.
Location: Injambakkam, Chennai
Timings: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free, donations accepted
Things to Do: Temple visit, spiritual sessions, vegetarian dining
How to Reach: Situated on the East Coast Road, easily reachable by bus or taxi
This is one of the famous family entertainment places in Chennai. The mall has a range of fun options including a cinema, gaming arcade, and kid’s play area. Those looking for things to do in Chennai with kids can visit the Express Avenue Mall. It is a great place where you can shop, eat, and have fun all in one spot.
Location: Royapettah, Chennai
Timings: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free entry to the mall
Things to Do: Shopping, cinema, food court, kids play area
How to Reach: Central location in Chennai, well-connected by bus, metro, and taxi
The Ripon Building serves as the main office and headquarters for the Greater Chennai Corporation. This magnificent structure is a blend of Ionic and Corinthian styles and represents neoclassical architecture.
The reason it is one of the best places to visit in Chennai with family is that it offers families a chance to explore the city’s rich heritage. Its iconic all-white façade and historic significance make it an ideal spot for introducing kids to the city’s cultural and architectural legacy.
It is located near the Chennai Central railway station, which makes it convenient to visit. It also provides a picturesque backdrop for family photos, blending learning with leisure.
Location: Near Chennai Central Railway Station
Timings: Best viewed during daytime, no specific visiting hours
Entry Fee: Free
Things to Do: Architectural viewing, photography, nearby parks
How to Reach: Very close to Chennai Central, easily accessible by train, bus, or taxi
Introduce your kids to spiritual heritage and stunning Dravidian architecture at this ancient temple. The Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Shiva and is located in Mylapore, Chennai in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The temple was built around the 7th century CE and is an example of South Indian Architecture.
Location: Mylapore, Chennai
Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Things to Do: Religious visit, admire Dravidian architecture, cultural exploration
How to Reach: Accessible by bus, taxi, and auto-rickshaw; Mylapore is a well-known area
Cholamandal Artists’ Village is one of the unique places to visit in Chennai with kids, offering a creative and cultural experience in a relaxed, open setting. The artistic brilliance of the Cholamandal artists is widely acknowledged, and their exceptional work is regularly showcased in galleries throughout India. Not only have these talented artists exhibited their creations in Europe, the United States, and South America, but they have also left an indelible mark on the global art stage.
As one of the top family entertainment places in Chennai, it allows children and adults in the family to explore vibrant art galleries, participate in hands-on workshops like painting or pottery, and learn about modern Indian art in an engaging way. The calm surroundings and chances for interactive learning and exploring art make it a great place for families to spend time together while encouraging creativity and curiosity.
Location: Injambakkam, East Coast Road, Chennai
Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: Approximately INR 50 per person
Things to Do: Art exhibitions, watch artists at work, purchase artworks
How to Reach: Located on East Coast Road, reachable by bus or taxi
Fort St. George is a fascinating spot in Chennai where families can step back in time and explore the city’s colonial roots. Built in 1644 by the British East India Company, it stands as a reminder of a bygone era. The museum inside showcases artifacts, paintings, and documents from the colonial period, offering kids a chance to learn about India’s history in an engaging way. The open spaces and well-preserved structures make it a great place for a leisurely family outing while inspiring curiosity about the past. It’s an enriching destination that blends learning with exploration, making it one of the best places to visit in Chennai with family.
Location: Rajaji Salai, Near Chennai Harbour
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; closed on Fridays
Entry Fee: Around INR 15 for Indians, INR 200 for foreigners
Things to Do: Museum visit, historical exploration, photography
How to Reach: Accessible by bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw; close to Chennai
MGR Film City, located in Taramani, is a large film studio complex that opened in 1994. It was initially called JJ Film City and later renamed to honour M.G. Ramachandran. The place draws both filmmakers and tourists with its blend of movie magic and history.
Harbour MGR Film City is a fun and unique spot in Chennai where families can experience the magic of cinema. Built to honour the legendary actor and politician M.G. Ramachandran, it offers a peek into the world of filmmaking with its sets and replicas of famous locations. Kids will love seeing how movies are created, and the wide-open spaces make it a great place for a relaxed family day out. It’s an entertaining and creative experience for all ages.
Location: Taramani, Chennai
Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Approximately INR 100 per person
Things to Do: Film sets tour, behind-the-scenes look at movie making
How to Reach: Accessible via public transport; Taramani is a well-connected area
Valluvar Kottam, located in Chennai, is a monument honouring the renowned Tamil poet-philosopher Valluvar. This cultural centre stands as the largest of its kind in the city.
The structure includes a beautiful arch, a large auditorium that can hold approximately 3,500 individuals, and the Kural Manimandapa, where all 1,330 couplets from the 133 chapters of Kural literature are engraved on bas-relief. The standout feature of the monument is the 39-meter-tall (128 feet) stone chariot, a copy of the renowned temple chariot of Thiruvarur.
Location: Nungambakkam, Chennai
Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: Around INR 20 per person
Things to Do: Monument visit, learn about Tamil poet Valluvar, cultural experience
How to Reach: Easily accessible by bus, taxi, and auto-rickshaw; Nungambakkam is a central location
Chennai Snow Kingdom is an indoor snow park located in the heart of Chennai, offering a unique experience in the city’s warm climate. It provides visitors with a chance to enjoy snow and winter-like activities, making it a fun escape from the heat. The park has snow slides, snow play areas, and themed attractions, allowing families to have a blast in the chilly atmosphere. Kids especially love the opportunity to play in real snow, build snowmen, and enjoy snowball fights, all while staying cool indoors. With its combination of entertainment and a refreshing environment, it’s definitely one of the top things to do in Chennai with kids!
Location: VGP Snow Kingdom, East Coast Road, Chennai
Timings: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: Approximately INR 550 per person
Things to Do: Enjoy snow activities, play in artificial snow
How to Reach: Part of VGP Snow Kingdom on East Coast Road, accessible by bus or taxi
Kalakshetra Foundation is an excellent destination for families looking to experience the richness of Indian culture. It offers a unique opportunity to witness traditional dance, music, and art forms that have been preserved and passed down through generations. Families can enjoy watching live performances of Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance form, and learn about the history and significance of Indian art. It’s a perfect way to introduce children to the world of classical arts while spending quality time as a family.
Location: Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai
Timings: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM; closed on Sundays
Entry Fee: Varies for performances and workshops
Things to Do: Watch classical dance and music performances, attend workshops
How to Reach: Accessible via bus or taxi; Thiruvanmiyur is a well-known locality
Queensland Amusement Park in Chennai is a fantastic, family-friendly destination where both kids and adults can have a blast. With a variety of rides ranging from thrilling roller coasters to fun carousels and water rides, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained. It’s an ideal place for families looking to spend a fun day out, as the park has something for all ages, whether it’s the adrenaline-pumping rides or more laid-back attractions. Parents can join in the excitement or relax while the kids enjoy themselves. With food courts and clean facilities, it’s a great spot to unwind, have fun, and create lasting memories together.
Location: Poonamallee, Chennai
Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM; closed on Wednesdays
Entry Fee: Approximately INR 550 for adults, INR 450 for children
Things to Do: Enjoy various rides and attractions, water park
How to Reach: Located on the Chennai-Bengaluru Highway, best reached by car or taxi
Chennai is a beloved city for a reason, with its unique blend of modernism and heritage, vibrant cityscapes, and peaceful beaches. We sincerely hope that you liked our list of the best places to visit in Chennai for children. This guide will help you find some of the best things to do in Chennai. As you embark on these adventures, your family will collect a treasure trove of memories, weaving stories that your children will fondly recollect for years to come.
While travelling and exploring can help spark your little ones’ curiosity, EuroKids provides the perfect environment to further nurture their love for learning in a fun and engaging way. EuroKids is renowned for its ‘Child-First’ ideology, blending learning with interactive fun. Visit our website to learn more about us!
Note: The timings, entry fees, and transportation options are subject to change, so it’s always best to check the latest information before planning your visit.
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