Top 5 Places to Visit in Penang with Family (2026 Guide)

Long favoured by families, Penang remains a delightful tropical island that promises to impress in the coming year. A holiday here remains timeless, where local heritage, flavourful cuisine, and nature flow together seamlessly. Uncover the best places to visit in Penang with family in this guide, highlighting the top five must-visit attractions that embody the spirit of Penang.

Within the sun-drenched landscape of this island, Angsana Teluk Bahang rests quietly among a tranquil neighbourhood within walking distance from the top kid-friendly attractions. Share a family adventure at this serene Penang resort, enjoy a short commute to iconic landmarks, and bring home cherished memories where togetherness takes the spotlight.

Penang’s signature attractions are tucked away between lush greenery and majestic hilltops. Discover the best outdoor and indoor places to visit for the whole family in our curated list.

1. Entopia — A Nature Learning Sanctuary

Local Tips:

• Visit before 11 a.m. when the butterflies are most active, and the garden feels cooler.
• Don’t miss the daily Vita Nova release sessions at 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., where children get to release newly emerged butterflies.
• Bring swimwear if you plan to visit ESCAPE theme park after, which is only 4 minutes away.
• Come to Entopia at night to immerse yourself in the World’s First Biofluorescent Garden.

Opening Hours:

• Entopia: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily (last admission at 5 p.m.).
• Entopia by Night: 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. from Thursday to Sunday (last admission at 9 p.m.).

Ticket Prices: RM75 for adults, RM55 for children and senior citizens (discounts for locals and family packages available).

2. ESCAPE Theme Park — Asia’s Longest Water Slides & Real Outdoor Play

Local Tips:

• Plan your trip on weekdays for dramatically shorter queues.
• Go straight to the Gravityplay area (high-speed slides) when gates open; crowds build by 11 a.m.
• The E-Scooters are available free of charge.
• Book a combo ticket (Dry + Water) as recommended by locals for the best value.

Opening Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, with waterplay opens at 11 a.m.

Ticket Prices: Around RM183 for adults and RM122 for children.

3. Tropical Spice Garden — Penang’s Most Peaceful Family Hideaway

A captivating journey awaits you at Tropical Spice Garden - an eco-tourism attraction in northeastern Penang that houses more than 500 species of spices and plants that take root in the island’s unique cuisine. This botanical sanctuary is set within an 8-acre rainforest where the microclimate is cooler, ensuring a comfortable day out for families with kids. Walk the aromatic spice trails, attend a cooking class, snap photographs of colourful butterflies, or relax at a garden cafe - a worthy exploration beckons at every turn at this peaceful family hideaway.

Local Tips:

• Visit in the early morning for cooler temperatures and shade. Afternoons tend to get more humid.
• Kids love the Giant Swing overlooking the greenery - a beloved photo spot among locals.
• If attending the cooking class, book the session with the garden tour included - a combo that lets you experience the garden in its essence.
• Dress in light clothing with appropriate footwear.

Opening Hours: 9 a.m. daily with slightly different closing times.

Ticket Prices: RM30 (Adult) and RM20 (Child) for standard entry. Guided or audio tours are available at higher rates.

4. Penang Hill & The Habitat — Scenic Nature Walks

If you crave fresh air, this refreshing escape delivers on every front. Soaring beyond the island, Penang Hill offers families temperatures up to 8°C cooler than George Town, complemented by sweeping 360° views over this tropical haven. Whether taking the funicular train or hiking the acclaimed Heritage Trail, the panoramic vista of the Andaman Sea alone makes the journey worth every second.

• Reserve “Fast Lane” funicular tickets on weekends, as queues can exceed 45 minutes.

• The best spot for photos is the Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk at dusk, when the sun casts a crimson hue over the landscape.

• If travelling with elderly family members, ask for the buggy service at The Habitat.

Opening Hours:

• Penang Hill Funicular: 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily (last ride up at 10 p.m.)

• The Habitat Penang Hill: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (last entry at 6:30 p.m. with extended hours for sunset visits)

Ticket Prices: RM30 to RM80, depending on access and experiences.

5. George Town UNESCO Area — Culture Made Fun for Kids

For families travelling with curious little ones, this attraction promises to deliver an unforgettable experience. A stroll through George Town UNESCO area feels like stepping into a living museum, where playful murals, books, and games spark instant connections with the young explorers. Time-honoured shophouses gradually emerge as you take a leisurely walk around the neighbourhood, which are perfectly framed by relaxing cafés and heritage corners. The rhythm of George Town echoes throughout this nostalgic enclave, crowning a visit here as one of the most rewarding things to do in Penang with kids.

Local Tips:

• The area is best explored early to avoid the heat, which enables a fitting half-day tour.

• Take a trishaw ride to admire the landmark from another angle.

• The “Kids on Bicycle” holds the most reputation, but nearby hidden murals like “Little Boy with Pet Dinosaur” are equally fascinating with shorter lines.

• Stop by Chew Jetty nearby for a distinct floating village experience and try snacks like apom, nutmeg juice, or local ice creams.

Other Places to Consider in Penang

• Penang National Park: A must-visit for families that are fond of outdoor adventures. Light hikes, boat rides, and access to quieter beaches like Monkey Beach and Pantai Kerachut offer a refreshing introduction to nature in the tropics to the kids.

• The Top Penang (KOMTAR): Plan around rainy spells with endless indoor activities in The Top Penang (KOMTAR) such as skywalks, observation decks, and interactive attractions.

• Avatar Secret Garden: Visit just after sunset for a mesmerising scene of the LED-lit night garden in Tanjung Tokong, especially engaging for young children.

• Batu Ferringhi Beach: Lounge at the Batu Ferringhi Beach under the palm-fringed shades for a relaxing day. Enjoy light water sports or an unhurried sunset walk to revel in simple moments with your loved ones.

Quick Tips for Visiting Penang with Family in 2026

• Best times: Penang embraces sunny days between December and April, while June to August has lighter crowds, giving travellers more convenience to experience popular attractions.

• Avoid traffic: Heavy traffic occurs from 5 to 7 p.m. along Batu Ferringhi. Reserve your dining spot, or sunset walks earlier or later, to bypass this.

• Point-to-point travel: Grab is a convenient taxi service that is favoured by the locals since parking is limited in George Town and at key attractions.

• Pack appropriately: Light and breathable clothing is recommended for Penang's weather. Hats, sunscreen, water, and comfortable footwear are essentials to help you explore the island with ease.

• Carry cash: Most cafés and attractions accept cards, but local streetfood vendors or trishaws often operate on cash only.

When your soul calls for deeper nourishment, relish in the best spa in Penang before sharing laughter over delicate flavours at our on-site Penang restaurants. For the final flourish, ask the concierge for the “Teluk Bahang Trio” itinerary of ESCAPE, Entopia, and Tropical Spice Garden to feature more unforgettable things to do in Teluk Bahang.