After spending a week in Shanghai with my wife and two kids (ages 6 and 10), I can honestly say that this city surprised me in the best way possible. It’s modern and fast-paced, but also filled with moments of quiet charm and cultural depth. Whether you’re a family looking for fun, food, or something educational, Shanghai offers a little bit of everything—without feeling overwhelming.

A City That Welcomes Families

The first thing I noticed was how family-friendly the city is. From the moment we landed at Pudong International Airport, the transportation was easy to navigate—even with luggage and two tired kids in tow. The metro is clean, efficient, and has English signs everywhere. We used it daily to hop from one part of the city to another.

We stayed near People’s Square, which turned out to be the perfect base. It’s central, walkable, and has easy access to several major attractions. Plus, there’s a park right in the middle of it, which gave the kids room to run around while we grabbed coffee from nearby shops.

Top Highlights for Our Family

Our first big stop was Shanghai Disneyland. I’ll be honest: I’m not usually a theme park person, but this one won me over. It’s newer, less crowded than its US counterparts (if you go on a weekday), and the rides are top-notch. The Tron coaster was a hit for the grown-ups, while our kids loved the Pirates of the Caribbean ride and the Alice in Wonderland maze.

Another must-visit was Yu Garden. The traditional Chinese architecture, koi ponds, and ancient rockeries gave the kids something to explore while giving us parents a rare moment of calm. It was also a great chance to introduce the kids to some Chinese history in a relaxed setting. Just outside the garden, we grabbed xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) from a busy but fast-moving stall—don’t skip it.

Food, Glorious Food

One of the best parts of Shanghai was the food. While the kids were happy with noodles and dumplings, we adults were blown away by the sheer variety. From Michelin-starred dim sum to mom-and-pop noodle shops, the options are endless. We even tried a food tour in the French Concession that was surprisingly kid-friendly—lots of snacks, short walking distances, and stories that kept the little ones engaged.

Simple Pleasures and Unexpected Finds

Some of our favorite moments weren’t planned. We stumbled upon a bookshop café near Tianzifang, where the kids colored while we enjoyed jasmine tea. In Century Park, we rented a four-seater pedal cart and explored the lake paths. These smaller, slower moments helped balance out the more tourist-heavy days.

Final Thoughts

Shanghai is a city that knows how to impress, but it also knows how to slow down just enough for families to enjoy it. There’s a rhythm to the place—between neon-lit skyscrapers and peaceful temples—that makes it both exciting and manageable.

If you’re considering an international trip with kids and want a destination that offers culture, fun, safety, and great food, Shanghai should be high on your list. It’s a place that my family left with tired feet, full stomachs, and memories we’ll be talking about for years.