Let’s start with the history of Chennai! Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is the capital city of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This metropolis is often referred to as India’s cultural capital due to its deep-rooted traditions and long history. The city serves as the entryway to the remainder of South India. It has the world’s second-longest seashore, located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal. With a population of over six million, it is India’s sixth most populous city.
The British founded the city in the 17th century, and it grew to become a significant urban centre and naval port. By the twentieth century, it had become a major administrative city, serving as the Madras Presidency’s capital. From before Independence to the present, the people of Chennai have played a significant part in defining the country’s political future.
Chennai’s economy has a diverse industrial base that includes automobile, technology, hardware manufacturing, and healthcare businesses. The city is India’s second-largest exporter of software, information technology, and IT-enabled services (ITeS). A significant portion of India’s vehicle manufacturing business is located in and around the city. Chennai, sometimes known as the Detroit of South Asia, accounts for 60 per cent of the country’s automotive exports.
Picture this: it’s a balmy Sunday morning in Chennai. The aroma of filter coffee wafts from homes, mingling with the fragrance of blooming jasmine. Your excited kids are up early, backpacks ready, impatiently waiting to explore the city they call home. Here is a list of the top family-friendly attractions in Chennai if this situation sounds similar to yours.
We’ve compiled a list of 25 top-notch destinations that will engage, entertain, and educate your kids while giving them a whirlwind tour of Chennai’s charm. These handpicked destinations will transform an ordinary day into an extraordinary adventure, from uncovering ancient secrets at the historic Fort St. George to engaging in a snowball fight at the Chennai Snow Kingdom. So, here goes, our hand-picked list of the best places to visit in Chennai for children.
Places to Visit in Chennai for Kids
Here is a list of some things to do in Chennai
- Guindy National Park
- Marina Beach
- Arignar Anna Zoological Park
- Science City
One of the most famous places to visit in Chennai for kids, this park is one of the few located within a city in India. Since it is home to such a wide variety of animals and plants, taking your children there will be both informative and fun.
Location: Raj Bhavan, Chennai
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
Entry Fee: INR 20 for adults, INR 10 for children
Things to Do: Explore diverse flora and fauna, enjoy picnics, guided nature walks.
How to Reach: Easily accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw from any part of Chennai. Nearest
Metro Station: Kotturpuram.
As the second longest beach in the world, Marina Beach provides a beautiful, sprawling playground for kids to run, build sandcastles, and fly kites.
Location: Along the Bay of Bengal, Chennai
Timings: Open 24 hours, best visited during early morning or late evening.
Entry Fee: Free
Things to Do: Build sandcastles, kite flying, and enjoy street food.
How to Reach: Well-connected by city buses and taxis.
Nearest railway station: Chepauk.
One of the major tourist places in Chennai, the zoological park is a haven for wildlife lovers. With over 170 species of animals, children can marvel at the wonders of nature.
Location: Vandalur, Chennai
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; closed on Tuesdays
Entry Fee: Around INR 30 for adults, INR 10 for children
Things to Do: Safari tours, wildlife photography, educational programs
How to Reach: Reachable by bus or taxi; the nearest railway station is Vandalur
For the aspiring scientists and inventors, this is a top choice among the entertainment places in Chennai. With interactive exhibits and planetarium shows, Science City cultivates a love for learning.
Location: Kotturpuram, Chennai
Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM; closed on national holidays
Entry Fee: Approximately INR 50 per person
Things to Do: Interactive exhibits, science shows, planetarium
How to Reach: Accessible by metro (Kotturpuram station), buses, and taxis
Places to Visit in Chennai for Kids
Here are some places to visit in Chennai with Kids
- Birla Planetarium
- Reserve Forest
- DakshinaChitra
- Madras Crocodile Bank
- Chennai Rail Museum
- Semmozhi Poonga
- MGM Dizzee World
- Chennai Snake Park
- Elliot’s Beach
- Click Art Museum
- ISKCON Chennai
- Express Avenue Mall
- Ripon Building
- Kapaleeshwarar Temple
- Cholamandal Artists’ Village
- Fort St. George
- HarbourMGR Film City
- Valluvar Kottam
- Chennai Snow Kingdom
- Kalakshetra Foundation
- Queensland Amusement Park
The modern planetarium gives kids the opportunity to experience the mystery and magic of space, making it one of the most unique things to do in Chennai.
Location: Kotturpuram, Chennai
Timings: Show timings vary, usually from 10:00 AM – 5:45 PM
Entry Fee: Around INR 40 for adults, INR 25 for children
Things to Do: Astronomy shows, science exhibitions
How to Reach: Near Kotturpuram metro station, accessible by bus and taxiVandalur
Perfect for adventure-seeking kids, this reserve forest is a thrilling destination for spotting wildlife and experiencing the tranquillity of nature.
Location: Vandalur, South-western outskirts of Chennai
Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; varies seasonally
Entry Fee: Approximately INR 20-30 per person
Things to Do: Wildlife spotting, guided tours, nature walks
How to Reach: Best reached by car or taxi; also accessible by local buses
This museum offers a brilliant portrayal of South Indian culture. Your kids will enjoy interactive exhibits, workshops, and the chance to see traditional homes and artisans at work.
Location: Muttukadu, East Coast Road, near Chennai
Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; closed on Tuesdays
Entry Fee: Around INR 100 for adults, INR 30 for children
Things to Do: Explore traditional houses, participate in craft workshops, watch cultural performances
How to Reach: Accessible by buses and taxis along the East Coast Road
Home to one of the largest collections of crocodiles in India, this bank doubles as a herpetology research station. It seamlessly combines learning and enjoyment.
Location: Along the East Coast Road, towards Mahabalipuram
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM; closed on Mondays
Entry Fee: Approximately INR 50 for adults, INR 30 for children
Things to Do: Crocodile viewing, educational tours, night safaris (on specific days)
How to Reach: Located on the East Coast Road, easily reachable by bus or taxi
Train lovers will be thrilled with the range of vintage locomotives on display, plus a toy train ride!
Location: New Avadi Road, Chennai
Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; closed on Mondays
Entry Fee: About INR 50 for adults, INR 10 for children
Things to Do: Explore railway history, toy train rides, interactive exhibits
How to Reach: Accessible by metro (Villivakkam station), buses, and taxis
This botanical garden offers 20 acres of lush greenery, beautiful themed gardens, and serene ponds—a natural oasis in the heart of Chennai.
Location: Cathedral Road, Chennai
Timings: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Entry Fee: Around INR 15 per person
Things to Do: Botanical garden walks, photography, children’s play area
How to Reach: Easily reachable by bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw
This amusement park is packed with exciting rides and attractions that cater to all age groups, making it a fun-filled outing for the entire family.
Location: East Coast Road, Muttukadu, Chennai
Timings: 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM; weekends till 7:30 PM
Entry Fee: Varies, starting from around INR 699 per person
Things to Do: Amusement rides, water park, live shows
How to Reach: Located on the East Coast Road, accessible by bus or taxi
Let your kids get up close with various species of snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodiles. A sure shot way to peak their curiosity!
Location: Near Guindy National Park, Chennai
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM; closed on Tuesdays
Entry Fee: Approximately INR 20 for adults, INR 10 for children
Things to Do: Snake and reptile viewing, educational tours
How to Reach: Adjacent to Guindy National Park, easily reachable by local transport
Also known as ‘Bessie’, this is a calmer alternative to Marina Beach and offers plenty of space for kids to play.
Location: Besant Nagar, Chennai
Timings: Open 24/7
Entry Fee: Free
Things to Do: Beach walks, local eateries, water sports
How to Reach: Accessible by bus or taxi, nearest metro station is Thiruvanmiyur
A 3D interactive museum that’s sure to be a hit among kids. They’ll love the creative, mind-bending displays.
Location: VGP Snow Kingdom, East Coast Road, Chennai
Timings: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: Around INR 200 per person
Things to Do: Interactive 3D art exhibits, photography
How to Reach: Located within VGP Snow Kingdom on East Coast Road, accessible by bus or taxiI
Visit for a peaceful spiritual experience and to educate your children about the Hare Krishna movement and Indian culture.
Location: Injambakkam, Chennai
Timings: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free, donations accepted
Things to Do: Temple visit, spiritual sessions, vegetarian dining
How to Reach: Situated on the East Coast Road, easily reachable by bus or taxi
Outing Places in Chennai with Family
Here are some outing places in Chennai with Family
This mall has a range of entertainment options including a cinema, gaming arcade, and kid’s play area.Looking for a place where you can shop, eat, and have fun all in one place? Here it is, one of the top entertainment places in Chennai.
Location: Royapettah, Chennai
Timings: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free entry to the mall
Things to Do: Shopping, cinema, food court, kids play area
How to Reach: Central location in Chennai, well-connected by bus, metro, and taxi
For a slice of Chennai’s colonial history, visit the grand, white Ripon Building. Its architecture and the surrounding park provide a perfect backdrop for a family picnic.
Location: Near Chennai Central Railway Station
Timings: Best viewed during daytime, no specific visiting hours
Entry Fee: Free
Things to Do: Architectural viewing, photography, nearby parks
How to Reach: Very close to Chennai Central, easily accessible by train, bus, or taxi
Introduce your kids to spiritual heritage and stunning Dravidian architecture at this ancient temple.
Location: Mylapore, Chennai
Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Things to Do: Religious visit, admire Dravidian architecture, cultural exploration
How to Reach: Accessible by bus, taxi, and auto-rickshaw; Mylapore is a well-known area
Home to one of India’s largest artist communities, here, children can watch artists at work and appreciate various forms of art.
Location: Injambakkam, East Coast Road, Chennai
Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: Approximately INR 50 per person
Things to Do: Art exhibitions, watch artists at work, purchase artworks
How to Reach: Located on East Coast Road, reachable by bus or taxi
A historic landmark that houses a museum filled with artefacts, it offers children a glimpse into Chennai’s colonial past.
Location: Rajaji Salai, Near Chennai Harbour
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; closed on Fridays
Entry Fee: Around INR 15 for Indians, INR 200 for foreigners
Things to Do: Museum visit, historical exploration, photography
How to Reach: Accessible by bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw; close to Chennai
This sprawling complex is a treat for kids who love cinema. A chance to see the behind-the-scenes action of the Tamil film industry!
Location: Taramani, Chennai
Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Approximately INR 100 per person
Things to Do: Film sets tour, behind-the-scenes look at movie making
How to Reach: Accessible via public transport; Taramani is a well-connected area
A stunning monument dedicated to the classical Tamil poet, Valluvar. It’s a wonderful place to inspire a love for literature in your children.
Location: Nungambakkam, Chennai
Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: Around INR 20 per person
Things to Do: Monument visit, learn about Tamil poet Valluvar, cultural experience
How to Reach: Easily accessible by bus, taxi, and auto-rickshaw; Nungambakkam is a central location
One of the newest tourist places in Chennai, your kids will enjoy the rare chance to play in the snow right in the heart of tropical Chennai!
Location: VGP Snow Kingdom, East Coast Road, Chennai
Timings: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: Approximately INR 550 per person
Things to Do: Enjoy snow activities, play in artificial snow
How to Reach: Part of VGP Snow Kingdom on East Coast Road, accessible by bus or taxi
Immerse your children in the classical arts of India, with performances and workshops in dance, music, and the visual arts.
Location: Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai
Timings: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM; closed on Sundays
Entry Fee: Varies for performances and workshops
Things to Do: Watch classical dance and music performances, attend workshops
How to Reach: Accessible via bus or taxi; Thiruvanmiyur is a well-known locality
With thrilling rides and attractions, this park ensures an action-packed day of joy and excitement for your kids.
Location: Poonamallee, Chennai
Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM; closed on Wednesdays
Entry Fee: Approximately INR 550 for adults, INR 450 for children
Things to Do: Enjoy various rides and attractions, water park
How to Reach: Located on the Chennai-Bengaluru Highway, best reached by car or taxi
Chennai is a beloved city for a reason, with its unique blend of modernism and heritage, vibrant cityscapes, and peaceful beaches. We sincerely hope that you liked our list of the best places to visit in Chennai for Children. This guide will help you find some of the best things to do in Chennai. As you embark on these adventures, your family will collect a treasure trove of memories, weaving stories that your children will fondly recollect for years to come.
In the course of these explorations, if your little ones develop an interest in learning and growth beyond their regular curriculum, EuroKids is an excellent option to consider. EuroKids is renowned for its ‘Child-First’ ideology, blending learning with interactive fun. Visit our website to learn more about us!
Note: The timings, entry fees, and transportation options are subject to change, so it’s always best to check the latest information before planning your visit.
For informative and accurate articles on all things related to your new born-toddler’s development, growth, health and nutrition, follow EuroKids Blogs and do check out our nationally recognized preschools – EuroKids for the first step in your kid’s educational journey!
About Us
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