People's Square (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is People's Square?
What makes it 77% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 can ride the People’s Park carousel, explore giant 3-D city models and run on lawns; prices stay low, but busy roads and long museum queues require attentive adult supervision.
Positives:
- Free entry and open space: Most attractions and the square itself are free to enter, giving families flexible options.
- Easy metro access: People’s Square station (Lines 1, 2 & 8) offers stroller-friendly routes and family restrooms.
Challenges:
- Weekend crowds: The square and nearby streets get very busy on weekends and holidays, leading to queues.
- Limited shade: Little canopy in the main square area—bring sun protection or plan visits during cooler hours.
What is People's Square?
- A sprawling public square at Shanghai’s urban core, laid out on the former Shanghai Race Club horse racing course.
- A designated kilometer-zero point from which all Shanghai highway distances are measured.
- A civic focal point framed by prominent structures including the Shanghai Municipal Government headquarters, the Grand Theatre, the Shanghai Museum and Nanjing Road.
What is so special about People's Square for with kids?
- Interactive 3D city model thrills kids at the Urban Planning Center
- Affordable carousel rides and simple attractions in People’s Park
- Free Shanghai Museum galleries plus optional children’s art workshops
- Hourly light and music fountain shows against the Shanghai skyline
- Neon-lit Nanjing Road offers snacks, shops, and family fun
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time for kids to enjoy key attractions and rides without getting tired.
Kids-Friendly Activities in People's Square
Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center:
Explore a giant 3D scale model of Shanghai with a light show and interactive design games.
Tip: Book tickets on WeChat ahead to skip the line and catch the 30-minute light show at the top of each hour.
People’s Park carousel & small rides:
Ride the merry-go-round and simple attractions in People’s Park aimed at young children.
Tip: Bring about 20 CNY per ride and arrive early to avoid waiting in line.
Shanghai Museum kids’ galleries & workshops:
Wander free galleries and sign up for optional paper-cutting or clay-modeling workshops.
Tip: Check the museum website or info desk on arrival for workshop times and register early.
Fountain show at People’s Square:
Watch the hourly light and music fountain performance set against the city skyline.
Tip: Choose the 6 PM show for smaller crowds and stand on the east side for an unobstructed view.
Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street:
Stroll neon-lit streets with snack stalls, the Disney Store, and family-friendly shops.
Tip: Let kids try bubble tea at a local stand and head to the Disney Store two blocks east.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to People's Square
- Visit early: Arrive by 9 AM to enjoy rides and galleries before peak crowds build up.
- Combine with park picnic: Bring snacks and relax on the lawns of People’s Park just south of the square.
When is the best time to visit People's Square (Shanghai, China)?
Summer can be hot and sunny—bring hats, sunscreen, and water. In winter, dress in layers and spend extra time at indoor exhibits.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Urban Planning Exhibition tickets (2 adults) | CNY 60 |
| Carousel rides (2 kids, 2 rides each) | CNY 60 |
| Museum craft workshops (2 kids) | CNY 40 |
| Bubble tea and snacks | CNY 25 |
| Total Estimated | CNY 185 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of People's Square
Address: People's Square, Huangpu, Shanghai, China
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