Family Fun Without Ever Leaving Beijing

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This year has been like no other. Most Beijingers have spent the past seven months stuck in the same house with the same people doing the same things over and over again. It’s like we’re suspended in limbo. But even though we still can’t travel far, there are many great things to do around Beijing to help you reclaim 2020 with your family.

All ages and experience levels are welcome at Le Cool Ice Rink

Live Your Ice Princess Dreams at Le Cool Ice Rink 国贸溜冰场

Beijing summers are notorious for its heat. What better way to cool down than to move the actives onto the ice? No worries if you can’t pull off a perfect triple axle – most rinks cater towards a wide range of ability and offer rental skates, lessons, protective gear, and snacks. Perfect for both the kids and adults, even beginners.

And since most rinks are located in popular malls, they’re the ideal place for a day trip. You could easily grab a bite, skate for a few hours, then reward yourself with some delicious ice cream afterward. (Or, you know, drop the kids off for a couple of hours and go on a long-deserved shopping date). It’s fun for the entire family!

Address: B2/F, China World Shopping Mall, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie Chaoyang District 建国门外大街1号国贸商城中区B2层

Opening hours: Daily 10am-9:30pm

Price: RMB 44 per 90 min

Phone: [phone]

Beihai Park has a lot of activities, but boating must be on your list!

Boating in Beihai Park 北海公园

If you’re looking for a more scenic option, Beihai Park is one of Beijing’s oldest and best-preserved imperial gardens and it’s a must-see, especially with the lotuses in full bloom.

For RMB 120 an hour, you can rent a small motor or pedal boat and explore the garden via the water. The boats fit up to six people and give you free rein over the giant lake and the view that comes with it. It’s the perfect spot to take Instagram worthy photos and is surprisingly leisurely, even for families with young children.

Exciting for the kids and relaxing for parents, Beihai is the perfect spot to learn about Beijing, escape from the city life, and maybe even see a couple of ducks.

Address: 1 Wenjin St, Xicheng District 西城区文津街1号

Opening hours: Daily 6.30am-9pm* May be subjected to change due to COVID-19. We suggest going around midday.

Price: RMB 120 per hour +RMB 400-500 deposit. Park admission: RMB 10, RMB 5 for students. Tickets need to be booked at least a day ahead of time.

Phone: [phone]

Jump your troubles away — as a family

Reclaim Your Childhood at Latitude 乐图

Also for fans of the vertical life, trampoline parks are a must-go. These popular birthday party destinations are wonderful places to drop the kids off for some fun.
While this activity seems more for the children than parents, it’s just the thing to bring out your inner child. Trampoline parks are stocked full of foam ball pits, climbing structures, sports equipment, and, of course, trampolines. Pull on some anti-slip socks, grab your water bottle, and get ready to jump!
Address: No. 3, Anping Street, Houshayu,Chaoyang District朝阳区市顺义区后沙峪安平街3号Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10am-5:30pm, Sat-Sun 10am-6:30pmPrice: RMB 115 per hourPhone: [phone]

How high can you go? 

Get In Touch With Your Adventurous Side at Hao Rock Sports Climbing Space 浩石运动攀岩空间

For those who prefer activities on solid ground and up in the air at the same time, rock-climbing gyms offer the perfect spot to get your body moving, release some of that pent-up energy, and take a break from the stresses of everyday life.
These bouldering gyms offer a wide range of difficulty (from V0-V7) and are perfect for beginners, young children, and experts alike. Though climbing without a harness may seem daunting, the routes are relatively close to the ground and heavily protected with thick mats and instructors ready to offer you help at all times.
Let the kids explore the gym’s built-in slide and children’s wall while you wake those dormant muscles. Happy climbing!
Address: Unit 2, 7/F, Lantao Center, 5 Wanhong Road, Chaoyang District  万红路5号蓝涛中心7号楼2门Opening hours: Mon 2-10pm, Tue-Thu 12-10pm, Fri 12-11pm, Sat-Sun 10am-9pmPrice: RMB 119 per dayPhone: [phone]

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798 always has something new to discover

Borden Your Horizons at 798 Art District

Love art? 798 is a modern Beijing must-go and a great location for families with older children. Explore what used to be an electronics factory and is now a steampunk art district. You might find pipelines the size of cars, graffiti that reaches three stories high, or long-abandoned industrial plants straight out of a dystopian movie.
Take a stop at one of the many coffee shops, bars, and restaurants. Visit some galleries and support local artists. Take a stroll among the street art and make up stories about all the sculptures. Was that one a monster now frozen in time? Does this one come alive at night to protect our city? Let your imagination run wild.
Address: 2 Jiuxianqiao Rd, Chaoyang District 朝阳区798西街Opening hours: Most shops are open from 10am-6pmPrice: The 798 Art District is open for free, but some galleries charge admission.Phone: [phone]

Feel the freedom of skydiving in a comforting indoor environment

Indoor Skydiving at Happy Flying Home 飞行家太空体验馆

Ever wanted to go sky diving? (For most people, probably not). Ever want to skydive without hurdling 60 meters per second out of a moving plane?

That you can try right here in Beijing. For two minutes, don a flight suit and experience the thrill of flying in a specially built wind tunnel. While there is a minimum weight limit for some youngsters, indoor skydiving is the perfect family adventure for those who dreamed of soaring through the sky.

Address: Bldg 12, South Sector, Zhongliang Xiangyung Xiaozhen

顺义区中粮祥云小镇南区12号楼

Opening hours: 10am-9pm

Price: RMB 240 per 2-minute session

Phone: [phone]

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Photos: Unsplash, Canva, Needpix 

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