While it’s primarily famous for delectable street food and historical attractions, Penang is also home to a theme park with the largest tube water slide in the world, a butterfly farm with over 15,000 free-flying butterflies, a colourful island with stunning sunset views, and even a few fascinating museums that will keep you and the little ones entertained for hours.
Despite its renowned reputation for delicious food, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how welcoming this city is to families in terms of family-friendly attractions! So, if you’re planning your next family vacation in Penang, add these places to your list.
1. Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm, Tanjung Bungah
Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm, housed in a massive glass-house conservatory, is a beautiful place where butterflies and insects come out to play. About 15,000 free-flying butterflies call it home, and it is still one of Penang’s most popular family holiday attractions.
They even have a two-storey indoor discovery centre with educational exhibitions, interactive edu-stations, and indoor activities ideal for the curious little ones. Walk through the landscape surrounded by lovely waterfalls, ponds, caverns, vertical gardens, and meandering trails. Here, kids can explore and have fun for hours on end!
Address: C6X8+33, 830, Jalan Teluk Bahang, Teluk Bahang, 11050 Tanjung Bungah, Penang
Contact: +604 888 8111
2. ESCAPE Theme Park, Tanjung Bungah
ESCAPE theme park is unquestionably the most fun water-filled destination in Penang because it boasts the longest tube water slide in the world, which is 1,111 metres long! With over 30 exhilarating attractions, including zip lining, twisting water slides, challenging rope courses, rock climbing, rejuvenating pools, and more, it’s impossible to get bored here. The park is also surrounded by lush greenery!
Since most amusement rides and games at the theme park are made to be enjoyed by people of all ages, skill levels, and energy levels, you will enjoy yourself here just as much as your children.
Address: 828 Jalan Teluk Bahang, Teluk Bahang, 11050 Tanjung Bungah, Penang
3. Penang Hill, Air Itam
A trip to Penang Hill offers both adventure and breathtaking views. The highlight is the funicular railway ride to the top, which in itself is a memorable experience for kids. Once at the summit, families can explore the Penang Hill Gallery @ Edgecliff, play at the children’s playground, or visit the Penang Hill Mosque and Sri Aruloli Thirumurugan Hindu Temple. For nature lovers, The Habitat Penang Hill offers rainforest trails, a canopy walk, and even a zipline.
Address: Jalan Stesen Bukit Bendera, 11500 Air Itam, Penang
Contact: +60 4 828 8880
4. The Habitat, George Town
The Habitat provides a genuine educational experience amid its 130 million-year-old rainforest. With its flora and fauna, you can experience nature in its purest state right in the city centre.
Additionally, the space offers a big swing where you can relax and take in the beauty of the rainforest, a sunset walk, a Curtis Crest treetop walk, a Langur canopy walk, pathways, and zip lines. A great place to bring little ones to, for sure!
Address: Jalan Stesen, Bukit Bendera Air Itam, 11500 George Town, Penang
Contact: +6019 645 7740
5. Teddyville Museum, Batu Ferringhi
Did you know that some of Malaysia’s most interesting museums can be found in Penang? The charming Teddyville Museum, Malaysia’s first and largest collection of teddy bears from different countries and ages, is one such museum. Amongst the collection, you’ll find teddies of various shapes and sizes, from little ones to bears the size of humans!
A lot of work and effort has been put into having this 9000-square-foot room reflect the rich culture and history of Penang, which is why you’ll see the cuddly toys dressed in local garbs and placed in scenes that depict the city’s various tourist attractions. For kids who adore teddy bears, exploring amongst these fluffy and furry buddies will be a load of fun.
Address: DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Penang, 56, Jalan Low Yat, Puncak Ria, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Penang
Contact: +6016 550 5949
6. Adventure Zone, Batu Ferringhi
Even though Adventure Zone is a Shangri-La’s Golden Sands Resort property, you don’t have to be a guest to bring your kids here. The indoor playground has slides, ball pits, climbing structures, and other features that will keep the kids busy for hours. It’s the ideal location to bring your children to burn off some energy.
Address: Jalan Batu Ferringhi, Kampung Tanjung Huma, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Penang
7. Penang National Park, Teluk Bahang
Located at the northwestern tip of Penang, the Penang National Park is a natural haven perfect for family outings. The park is home to nine beautiful beaches, including Teluk Bahang, Pasir Pandak, and the well-known Teluk Duyung (Monkey Beach).
Families can enjoy a range of activities, such as hiking, wildlife spotting, and relaxing on the beach. Don’t miss the Penang Turtle Sanctuary, where kids can learn about endangered sea turtles. The park is easily accessible by public transport (bus 101 or 102).
Address: Taman Negara P. Pinang, Jalan Hassan Abbas, 11050 George Town, Penang
Contact: +60 4 881 3530
8. Canopy walkway at Penang National Park, George Town
Time in nature will do anyone good, especially kids. This 150-meter-long canopy walkway, which takes 20 to 30 minutes to complete, allows you to explore the spectacular landscapes and gives little ones a chance to burn that never-ending energy too. You’ll also be treated to a bird’s eye view of some of the most majestic trees.
Address: Pejabat Taman Negara P. Pinang, Jalan Hassan Abbas, 11050 George Town, Penang
Contact: +604 881 3530
9. Audi Dream Farm, Balik Pulau
Visit Balik Pulau, a charming town deserving of a trip, by taking a quick drive to Penang Island’s quieter Southwest region. There, you’ll find Audi Dream Farm — a charming miniature zoo and farm ideal for family outings.
In contrast to the bustle of the city, this picturesque place gives visitors a much-needed breath of fresh air. At the farm, spend the day with your loved ones while getting up close with nature. You also can engage in various entertaining hands-on activities here, including riding animals, planting, feeding birds, and more.
Address: Audi Dreamfarm 145, MK B, Sg.Rusa, 11010 Balik Pulau, Penang
Contact: +6012 499 9099
10. Saanen Dairy Goat Farm, Balik Pulau
Another hidden gem in Balik Pulau is Saanen Dairy Goat Farm, where you can get up close and personal with friendly animals like dairy goats, ostriches, chickens, and others. On this family-friendly farm, you can feed, pet, cuddle, and take pictures with the cuddly creatures, and the best part of all — there’s no entry charge.
If you’re planning on a large group visit, you can contact the owner directly. Before leaving, buy some fresh goat’s milk, goat’s milk custard, or a yoghurt beverage to take home and support the place.
Address: 298 Mukim 1 Sungai Pinang, 11010 Balik Pulau, Penang
11. Trishaw ride around George Town
Penang is one of the few locations in Malaysia where you can still ride a trishaw. The trishaw, a three-wheeled taxi that has influenced the city’s transportation since the 1950s, is also affectionately called a beca by the locals.
There used to be thousands of these trishaws throughout Penang, but today there are approximately only 200 left, and they are still a significant part of the city’s living history. Hop on a trishaw and discover the city from a different perspective if you’re looking for a creative way to explore.
Address: 52D, Jalan Penang, George Town, 10000 George Town, Penang
12. Visit Pulau Jerejak
Prepare for a colourful journey to Pulau Jerejak, a charming historic island about a 10-minute ferry ride from Penang Island. Stunning photo opportunities surround this hidden gem, such as a rainbow pier and a charming beach swing. It is also well-known for its spectacular sunsets, which will turn the sky pink, yellow, and orange!
Although Pulau Jerejak has had a long and tumultuous history, it’s slowly transforming into a vibrant island ideal for a day excursion from Penang. You can also spend the night at the picturesque Jerejak Island Resort.
Address: No 1 Mukim 13, Daerah Timur Laut, 11900 Pulau Jerejak, Penang
13. Tech Dome Penang, George Town
In the heart of George Town, KOMTAR is home to Tech Dome Penang, a science museum with 120 interactive exhibits. This is a great indoor activity for families, where kids can enjoy hands-on experiences with gravity, coding, and more. Highlights include the G-Drop, laser beam maze, and a climbing wall. KOMTAR’s Tech Dome is a must-visit for young science enthusiasts.
Address: Geodesic Dome, KOMTAR, Jln Penang, 10000 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Contact: +60 4 262 6663
14. Hin Bus Depot, George Town
Hin Bus Depot, an arts and event space in George Town, offers a unique cultural experience for families. Originally a bus depot, it now hosts art exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events. The site is known for its street art and murals, providing an opportunity for families to explore Penang’s vibrant art scene. On weekends, the depot often hosts a market with food stalls and local crafts, adding to its family-friendly appeal.
Address: 31A, Jalan Gurdwara, George Town, 10300 George Town, Penang
15. Penang Toy Museum, Teluk Bahang
A visit to the Penang Toy Museum is like stepping into a world of nostalgia. With over 110,000 toys and collectibles, the museum offers a delightful experience for both kids and parents. The collection includes vintage action figures, modern gadgets, and toys from various cultures, making it a fascinating place to explore toy history together.
Address: 1370, MK2, Teluk Bahang, 11050 Penang (Beside SJK (C) Eok Hua School)
Contact: +60 12 460 2096
16. Tropical Spice Garden, Teluk Bahang
A short distance from Batu Ferringhi, the Tropical Spice Garden is a lush paradise showcasing over 500 species of tropical plants, herbs, and spices. Families can explore the garden, join cooking classes, and participate in educational programs designed for all ages. The garden is open daily and is easily accessible by the 101/102 Rapid Penang Bus.
Address: Lot 595, Mukim 2, Jalan Teluk Bahang, 11050 Penang
Contact: +60 12 423 6797
