Things to Do with Small Kids in Manila

Metro Manila offers countless opportunities for families with young children to play, learn, and explore. From interactive indoor play areas perfect for rainy days to outdoor spaces where kids can run free, plus educational attractions that make learning fun--these destinations cater specifically to toddlers and preschoolers. Whether you're looking for active play, animal encounters, or creative activities, this guide covers the best spots for memorable family outings.

Happy children playing at colorful indoor playground in Metro Manila
  1. Kidzoona Indoor Playground

    📍 Multiple locations: Shangri-La Plaza (Mandaluyong), Waltermart Makati, BGC Uptown Mall, and more

    Kidzoona is one of Metro Manila's most popular indoor playground chains, offering safe and engaging play spaces designed specifically for young children. Each location features colorful ball pits, soft play structures, slides, climbing areas, and age-appropriate toys that encourage imaginative play and physical activity. The venues are air-conditioned, supervised by staff, and designed with safety as a priority--perfect for parents of toddlers and preschoolers. Many locations also have dedicated areas for younger babies. Entrance fees vary by location and duration (typically starting around ₱350 for unlimited play). Socks are required for children and parents accompanying young kids. With 53 branches across the Philippines, you're likely to find one near you.

    "My toddler absolutely loves Kidzoona! The play areas are clean, safe, and well-maintained. Staff are helpful and the variety of activities keeps kids entertained for hours. Great for rainy days when we need indoor options." - Based on reviews
  2. The Mind Museum

    📍 JY Campos Park, 3rd Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig

    The Mind Museum transforms science education into an exciting adventure perfect for curious young minds. While the museum caters to all ages, it features many interactive exhibits designed specifically with children in mind. The hands-on galleries let kids explore the wonders of the atom, life on Earth, the universe, and technology through engaging displays that encourage touching, playing, and discovering. The Atom Gallery has light and sound exhibits, while the Life Gallery features dinosaur fossils and animal specimens that fascinate young children. Special programs and workshops are regularly offered for families. The museum is stroller-friendly and has facilities for nursing mothers. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Admission is ₱750 for adults, ₱600 for children aged 4-12 (children 3 and under are free), with discounts for students, seniors, and PWDs.

    "The Mind Museum is fantastic for young kids! My 4-year-old was mesmerized by the interactive exhibits. The staff are patient and helpful with little ones. It's educational but presented in such a fun way that kids don't even realize they're learning. Highly recommend for curious preschoolers!" - Based on reviews
  3. Manila Ocean Park

    📍 Behind Quirino Grandstand, Roxas Boulevard, Ermita, Manila

    Manila Ocean Park offers a magical underwater world that captivates children's imaginations. Home to over 14,000 marine creatures from 277 species, the park features multiple attractions perfect for young children. The Oceanarium's 220-degree curved tunnel walkway lets kids watch fish, rays, and sharks swim overhead--a mesmerizing experience for toddlers. The Jellies Exhibit showcases glowing jellyfish in a darkened space that feels like entering another world. Trails to Antarctica features adorable Humboldt penguins that kids love watching waddle and swim. The park also offers sea lion shows, bird shows, and interactive touch pools (supervised). Stroller-friendly with nursing rooms available. Operating hours: Monday-Friday 10:00 AM-6:00 PM, weekends and holidays 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. Admission varies by package; book online for discounts. Allow 3-4 hours to enjoy the attractions at a leisurely toddler pace.

    "My 3-year-old daughter had the most wonderful time! She was fascinated by the fish tunnel and couldn't stop talking about the penguins for days. The park is well-designed for families with small children and the staff are very accommodating. Perfect for introducing young kids to marine life." - Based on reviews
  4. Bounce Philippines

    📍 Southmall Access Road, Almanza Uno, Las Piñas City

    Bounce Philippines is a trampoline park and indoor playground that's perfect for high-energy toddlers and preschoolers. The facility features two play areas specifically designed for young children aged 1-5 years old, separate from the main trampoline areas where older kids play. The toddler zone includes soft play structures, slides, ball pits, age-appropriate climbing equipment, and a mini trampoline section. The dedicated space ensures little ones can play safely without being overwhelmed by bigger kids. Staff supervise all play areas. Air-conditioned facility with café for parents. Entry for kids aged 1-5 starts at ₱249. Socks are required (grip socks available for purchase if needed). Open daily--check their Facebook page for current hours and any special toddler time sessions. Located in Las Piñas, accessible via SLEX and South Luzon Expressway.

    "Perfect place for active toddlers! My 2-year-old loved the soft play area and mini trampolines. It's great that they have a separate space for younger kids so they're not mixing with rough older children. The staff watch carefully to ensure safety. My son was exhausted (in a good way) after our visit!" - Based on reviews
  5. Avilon Zoo

    📍 Barrio San Isidro, Rodriguez, Rizal

    Avilon Zoo is one of the Philippines' largest and most diverse zoological parks, spanning 7.5 hectares with over 3,000 animals representing more than 600 species. Young children are fascinated by the variety of animals including tigers, crocodiles, exotic birds, primates, reptiles, and farm animals. The zoo emphasizes conservation and education with spacious, well-maintained enclosures that allow visitors to observe animals up close. Many areas are shaded and stroller-friendly, though some paths are uneven so a carrier might be helpful for very young toddlers. The petting zoo area allows gentle interaction with friendly animals like rabbits and goats--always a hit with preschoolers. There's also a playground area where kids can burn off energy. Bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Open daily 8:00 AM-5:00 PM. Admission is ₱600 for adults, ₱500 for children. Located about 1.5-2 hours from Metro Manila, best visited with your own vehicle or by hiring a van.

    "Wonderful zoo with so many animals! My kids (ages 3 and 5) were thrilled to see the tigers, birds, and especially loved the petting zoo. The grounds are extensive so expect to do a lot of walking. Bring snacks and water. It's a bit of a drive from Manila but worth it for a full day with the animals." - Based on reviews
  6. Rizal Park (Luneta)

    📍 Ermita, Manila

    Rizal Park, also known as Luneta, is Metro Manila's iconic 60-hectare urban park offering wide open spaces perfect for letting young children run, play, and explore. The Children's Playground features swings, slides, and play equipment specifically designed for young kids. The Dancing Fountain show (weekends and holidays) delights toddlers with choreographed water displays set to music. Rent a paddleboat at the Japanese Garden pond for a gentle water adventure. The Chinese Garden offers peaceful paths and pagodas for family strolls. Wide, flat walkways make stroller navigation easy. Street food vendors offer affordable snacks. Visit early morning (6:00-9:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM onwards) to avoid midday heat. The park is free to enter, making it perfect for budget-conscious families. Best visited on weekday mornings when it's less crowded. Bring sunscreen, hats, snacks, and plenty of water.

    "Great free outdoor space for kids to run around! My toddler loved the playground and we had a nice time feeding the pigeons (bring bread). The park is huge so there's plenty of space. Go early in the morning when it's cooler and less crowded. A Manila classic for families." - Based on reviews
  7. BGC Parks (Terra 28th & Track 30th)

    📍 Bonifacio Global City, Taguig

    Bonifacio Global City features several excellent parks perfect for families with small children. Terra 28th is a 1,000 square meter park with a children's playground featuring modern equipment including slides, swings, climbing structures, and a sandbox--all set on soft, safe rubber flooring. Track 30th offers open green spaces and a 1.5-kilometer track perfect for tricycles, balance bikes, and learning to ride. Both parks are clean, well-maintained, and located in pedestrian-friendly BGC with plenty of nearby cafés and restaurants where parents can grab food. The parks offer shade trees, benches, and clean public restrooms. Free to access. Best visited in early morning (6:00-9:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00-6:00 PM) to avoid midday heat. Weekday mornings are less crowded than weekends. BGC's safe, walkable environment makes it ideal for families. Combine your park visit with a meal at one of BGC's many family-friendly restaurants.

    "Perfect urban parks for toddlers! The playground equipment at Terra 28th is safe and well-maintained, and my kids love running around the open spaces. BGC feels very safe and clean. We usually go in the late afternoon, play at the park, then have dinner nearby. Great for a relaxed family outing." - Based on reviews
  8. Sta. Elena Fun Farm

    📍 Sta. Elena Golf & Country Estate, Santa Rosa, Laguna

    The Fun Farm at Sta. Elena offers a wonderful outdoor escape where children can connect with nature and animals. This natural outdoor playspace features farm animals that kids can interact with and feed (under supervision), including goats, rabbits, ducks, and chickens. The farm also offers pony rides, a playground with swings and slides, open green spaces for running and playing, and nature trails perfect for little explorers. Educational activities teach children about farm life, animal care, and where food comes from. The facility emphasizes connecting with nature in a safe, family-friendly environment. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Entrance fees vary (check their Facebook page for current rates). Located in Santa Rosa, Laguna, about 1-1.5 hours from Metro Manila via SLEX. Best visited during the dry season (November to May). Bring hats, sunscreen, insect repellent, snacks, and water. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on grass and dirt paths.

    "Wonderful place for city kids to experience farm life! My children (ages 3 and 5) absolutely loved feeding the animals and the pony rides. It's a nice break from the city and the open spaces are perfect for energetic toddlers. The drive is manageable and the farm is well-maintained. Great for a half-day trip." - Based on reviews