Location & How to Get There
Shanghai Children’s Museum sits quietly on Songyuan Road in Changning District, just a 5-minute walk from Songyuan Road Station on Metro Line 10. If you’re coming from downtown, hop on the metro or grab a taxi—it’s easy to reach. The area feels calm, away from the busiest parts of Shanghai, making it perfect for a family day out. Bonus: There’s plenty of bike parking if you’re exploring by pedal power!
Surrounding Vibes
The museum isn’t in a loud tourist spot, but it’s tucked near Zhongshan Park (a green lung with lakes and trails) and upscale cafes. After your visit, you can stroll around the nearby streets, which feel more like a cozy neighborhood than a rushy city center.
What’s Inside: Exhibits That Wow Kids
Shanghai Children’s Museum is all about fun with learning. It’s split into quirky zones that’ll keep kids (and parents!) hooked. Let’s break it down:
Space & Sail Galleries
These two floors are pure adventure. The Space Gallery has real rocket models, interactive screens, and even a mock space station where kids can “blast off.” The Sail Gallery shows giant ship models and lets little ones steer virtual boats through storms. Both galleries mix old-school exhibits (think vintage spacesuits) with touchscreen games—so grandpas won’t bore the kids, and kids won’t bore the grownups!
Toys Through Time
The Toys Gallery is a candy shop for nostalgia. You’ll spot century-old Chinese kites next to LEGO-style bricks and robotic pets. My favorite? The hands-on craft room where kids can mold clay, paint, or build simple machines. Pro tip: Bring socks if they want to try the climbing maze!
180° Movie Magic
The Globe Movie Hall here is next-level. They loop short films with dinosaurs, ocean dives, or space trips—all in a giant dome that makes you feel like you’re in the scene. It’s like watching IMAX, but for kids.
Practical Stuff for Families
The museum nails family-friendly details. Here’s what to expect:
- Diaper stations and kid-sized toilets in restrooms.
- A cafeteria with pancakes, noodles, and fruit plates (prices are decent).
- Lockers to stash bags while you play.
- A gift shop stacked with educational toys and Shanghai-themed souvenirs.