Sichuan is not only the hometown of giant pandas, but also a wonderful destination for family trips. With its adorable national treasures, fun and educational science museums, and exciting amusement parks, it offers plenty of opportunities for both entertainment and learning.
Add to that the delicious local food and comfortable travel experiences, and Sichuan becomes the perfect choice for family adventures. Whether you want to explore nature with your children or immerse them in science and culture, this region promises a journey full of joy and discovery.
First Stop: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
- Highlights
Observe giant pandas and red pandas up close
Watch baby pandas in their daily life
Visit the ecological science museum to learn about wildlife protection
For children, giant pandas are “superstars.” At the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, visitors can watch pandas eating bamboo, rolling around, or climbing. In the early morning, pandas are most active—making it the best time to visit with kids and help them develop a love for nature and animals.
- Tips
Arrive before 8:30 a.m. to avoid the crowds.
Book tickets online in advance.
In summer, bring hats and water to stay cool.
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
Chengdu Panda Base
Second Stop: Sichuan Science and Technology Museum
- Highlights
More than 20 themed exhibition areas covering the universe, earth, life, transportation, and more
Interactive experiences: driving simulators, virtual experiments, and robot shows
A dedicated Children’s Science Park, combining fun with education
Located at Tianfu Square in downtown Chengdu, the Sichuan Science and Technology Museum is an ideal place for children to expand their horizons. Interactive exhibits allow kids to “learn by playing”—for example, riding a simulated aircraft or performing hands-on experiments that bring science to life.
- Tips
Admission is free, but real-name reservation is required.
Visit on weekdays or in the morning to avoid heavy weekend crowds.
Third Stop: Chengdu Happy Valley
- Highlights
Over 100 rides and attractions, from thrilling roller coasters to kid-friendly rides
Family shows at the Happy Time Theater and colorful character parades
A summer water park, perfect for cooling off with the whole family
As one of the largest theme parks in Southwest China, Chengdu Happy Valley is packed with fun. Beyond the adrenaline-pumping rides, there are also child-friendly attractions such as merry-go-rounds and little trains, so the whole family can enjoy a joyful day together.
- Tips
Buy combo tickets or family packages in advance for better value.
For the water park in summer, bring swimsuits and sun protection.
Fourth Stop: Family-Friendly Options Around Chengdu
Chengdu Zoo: Large in scale with a wide variety of animals, suitable for younger children.
Guose Tianxiang Amusement Park: An “Oriental culture”-themed park featuring both water and children’s play areas.
Luodai Ancient Town: Experience western Sichuan folk culture along with child-friendly activities.
Dujiangyan & Mount Qingcheng: An educational trip where kids can learn about ancient Chinese irrigation engineering and Taoist culture.
Food & Accommodation Recommendations
- Family-Friendly Dining
Chengdu Hotpot (Yin-Yang Pot): Spicy broth for adults and mild soup for kids.
Local snacks: Zhong dumplings, Long chao shou (wontons), Lai glutinous rice balls—favorites for children.
Panda-themed restaurants: Dine in a playful, panda-inspired setting.
- Accommodation
Downtown hotels: Convenient for visiting the Science Museum and Panda Base.
Family-friendly hotels: Some offer play areas and family suites.
Resorts: Located near Happy Valley or Dujiangyan, perfect for a relaxing stay.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Morning at Panda Base → Afternoon food experience at Kuanzhai Alley
Day 2: Morning at Sichuan Science and Technology Museum → Afternoon stroll around Tianfu Square
Day 3: Full day at Chengdu Happy Valley
Day 4 (Optional): Dujiangyan & Mount Qingcheng cultural trip
Recommended tourist routes
7-Day 6-Night Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou & Mount Emei Tour – Giant Pandas, Leshan Buddha & More
Travel Tips
Best time to visit: Spring and autumn have the most pleasant weather. During summer vacation, try to avoid peak times.
Tickets: Book online in advance for attractions like Panda Base and Happy Valley.
Transportation: Chengdu has convenient public transport, with metro and buses covering major attractions.
Safety: Choose rides suitable for your child’s height and age; avoid overly intense rides.
Sichuan is a land full of fun and surprises for family travel. From the adorable giant pandas, to the joy of learning at the science museum, to the endless excitement of theme parks, it satisfies children’s curiosity while allowing parents to relax and enjoy. A trip to Sichuan will surely become a cherished memory for the whole family.
