Independence Palace (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Independence Palace?
What makes it 77% Kids-Friendly: Kids enter cheap or free, ride the electric car, join the ground-floor Kids’ Club and study outdoor war vehicles, yet long ceremonial halls and few hands-on elements may tire or bore under-12s.
Positives:
- Stroller accessible: Ramps and elevators reach all public areas.
- Free guided tours: Join English tours every 30–45 minutes without extra cost.
- Under-6 enter free: Youngest child can stay on lap or stroller at no charge.
Challenges:
- No baby-changing tables: Use restroom cubicle floors or bring a portable mat.
- Indoor heat: Halls can feel warm; plan breaks in shaded garden areas.
- Limited seating: Café has no high chairs; bring a travel booster seat if needed.
What is Independence Palace?
- A mid-20th-century governmental palace serving as the official residence and workplace of the President of the Republic of Vietnam
- An architectural landmark embodying modernist design with reinforced-concrete facades, sweeping reception halls and an extensive subterranean bunker complex
- A historic symbol of the Vietnam War’s conclusion when North Vietnamese forces captured its grounds on April 30, 1975
What is so special about Independence Palace for with kids?
- Kids can climb on tanks and helicopters for fun photo moments
- Underground bunker tour offers a safe mini-adventure
- Electric car ride keeps children engaged with a short loop
- Under-6 enter free and stroller access makes moving easy
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time for main halls, underground bunker, electric car ride and a quick snack without tiring the kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Independence Palace
Self-guided palace tour:
Walk through the President’s Office, Banquet Hall and war rooms.
Tip: Point out old furniture and maps to spark kids’ curiosity.
Explore the underground bunker:
Descend into the former bomb shelter used in 1975.
Tip: Bring a phone flashlight and guide children by hand through low ceilings.
Electric car ride around grounds:
Take a 10-minute loop in a small open-air vehicle.
Tip: Buy tickets early; line up at the entrance to skip the midday queue.
Outdoor war-vehicle exhibits:
See tank #843, Huey helicopter and artillery pieces.
Tip: Let kids climb near exhibits for hands-on photo moments.
Kids’ Club activities:
Drawing, puzzles, LEGO and a small history library.
Tip: Check opening hours: daily April–August and weekends during school term.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Independence Palace
- Arrive at opening: Get there at 7:30 AM to avoid crowds and midday heat.
- Start underground: Visit the bunker first when it’s coolest and least busy.
- Pack water and snacks: Bring refillable bottles and light snacks to skip long café lines.
Reviews of Independence Palace
Rajneesh Chauhan
Visiting Independence Palace in Ho Chi Minh City was an eye-opening experience. This iconic site stands as a symbol of Vietnam’s journey through war, resilience, and unification. The palace itself is beautifully maintained — a perfect blend of 1960s architecture and historical significance. Walking through the meeting rooms, war command centers, and underground bunkers gives a vivid picture of ho...
Minh Tran
Excellent tourist experience. The electric car tour gave an overview of the exterior ground and history lessons of the palace ground. Price at 105,000Đ Once inside the side entrance, a guided tour is an extra package for group of 1-15 at 350,000Đ. Even if the group is one person, they charge the same price The basement provided the most unknown and surprise of me.
Tomáš Náprstek
Was alright, the palace is nicely preserved but dont expect anything "wow"! Its important part of VN history so its good to see. Just be prepared there is no aircon so its quite warm and humid there.
Nhi Nguyễn
Visiting the Independence Palace was a fascinating experience. Walking through the historic halls and rooms, I could really imagine about the important events that took place there. Addtional, i used to use the audio guide that was a really helpful experience. It gave me clear and detailed explanations, so I could understand the history and meaning behind them. The instructions were easy to foll...
Robert Speller
Very good place to visit for a couple of hours. Will always be remembered for the tanks bursting through the gates and the helicopter taking staff ect from the roof during the final day of war. There is enough information not to need an audio guide. Lovely to see all the furniture there so you get a good feel as to how the rooms were used. Entrance fee 80k vnd per adult.
When is the best time to visit Independence Palace (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)?
November–April has cooler, dry mornings. In May–October expect afternoon rain showers; pack lightweight raincoats.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Admission (2 adults + 1 child) | VND 90,000 |
| Electric car ride (4 riders) | VND 100,000 |
| Snacks and drinks at Café 30/4 | VND 80,000 |
| Total Estimated | VND 270,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Independence Palace
Address: Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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About Independence Palace
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+84 28 3822 3652Average price
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