Things to do In KL With Kids

In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia kids will find themselves in a magical world of activities. As a central hub of South East Asia, KL is well worth exploring and a must include in your family travel. It is kid friendly, and there is a never ending list of kids attractions in KL.  It’s the type of city where life is super affordable and it is an easy city to visit with your children. So today we’re helping you to discover things to do in KL with kids!

Kuala Lumpur with Kids

Our Guide to Top Things to do in Kuala Lumpur with Kids

Kuala Lumpur is an easy place to visit. Locals primarily speak English, getting around couldn’t be easier, the food is to die for, and the cost of living… well, it just doesn’t get any better.

And when it comes to traveling with kids, Kuala Lumpur is the perfect destination. There is so much to see and do – finding things to do in Kuala Lumpur with kids is super easy. They will be thoroughly entertained, and it won’t put a huge dent in your wallet!

While visiting KL it is important to pace yourself. There is so much to see and do that it can quite literally lead to sensory overload, so to get the most out of a visit, take it slowly!

Things To Know About Kuala Lumpur

Getting to Kuala Lumpur

As a major hub in South East Asia, Kuala Lumpur is incredibly easy to get to, with many flights using Kuala Lumpur as a layover destination. Flying to and from KL is very affordable and to keep costs down, check out Air Asia. Their prices are hard to beat, and for a budget airline, their service is fantastic!

The Kuala Lumpur International Airport, otherwise known as KLIA or KLIA 2 (two different terminals) is located 45min – 1-hour drive south of the city. There are lots of different methods of getting yourself to the city, including the KLIA Ekspres, Uber, Metered Taxi or Grab Taxi.

Accommodation – Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur

There are many options for accommodation in Kuala Lumpur, and it is incredibly affordable. There are plenty of family friendly hotels in Kuala Lumpur, along with Airbnb and hostels – Kuala Lumpur has options for all tastes.

Naturally, there are many, many Airbnb listings, and costs are very reasonable. For a family of four, the average price is only $USD65/$AUD85. Stay more than a week and prices go down further! Budget accommodation is plentiful and starts around $USD25/$AUD35 a night!

Click here to save $41 on your first stay with Airbnb!

Hotels near KLIA

If you are only stopping in Kuala Lumpur for a short stopover you may be looking for a hotel near KLIA. Many airlines use Kuala Lumpur for layovers, and with the city itself being 45min-1hour away from KLIA a hotel near KLIA is a smart way to go.

Finding a hotel near KLIA is relatively simple. Any google search will reveal some Transit Hotels within KLIA itself. However, if you are a budget traveler there are better ways. Transit Hotels, for a family, can be super expensive, but finding a hotel near KLIA needn’t be!

Read our complete guide to KLIA Transit Hotels here

Getting around in Kuala Lumpur

Transport around Kuala Lumpur depends entirely on where you are staying. Within the main metro area, the train system is exceptional and very cheap. A huge part of Kuala Lumpur however, is not serviced by trains, so a popular method of transport is Uber or Grab Taxi. Regular taxis are certainly available, however, costs are considerably higher.

Uber is very popular in KL. However, you should be aware that since the introduction of the service, taxi drivers are rather upset. As a result, it is critical that when calling for an Uber you do so away from taxi ranks. There have been cases of taxi drivers getting VERY upset, however providing you order one away from a taxi rank, you shouldn’t face any issues.

Please be aware that although Uber is the most cost effective means of getting around the city, at the time of our visit driving to or from KLIA airport was substantially cheaper via the Grab Taxi Service (65MYR/$USD14.50/$AUD19 v’s 90MYR/$USD21/$AUD$26 with Uber)

Use Code eh33zo to save $2 of your first 3 rides with Uber!

Weather in Kuala Lumpur

Hot! Hot! Hot! Which explains why air conditioning is so popular in KL!

Generally speaking, Kuala Lumpur’s weather is good throughout the year, so there is never really a bad time to visit this vibrant city. Temperatures remain relatively consistent throughout the year, hovering around 28-30 degrees Celsius or 82-86 degrees Fahrenheit and very humid! You are guaranteed warm temperatures, and the balmy evenings mean you never have cause for a jacket.

For further details on Kuala Lumpur weather, please click here.

The Cost of Living in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a wonderful destination for budget travelers. You will be able to relax and enjoy yourselves, splurge on some luxuries and be comfortable that you will be very unlikely to blow the budget!

For full details about the cost of living in Kuala Lumpur we highly recommend this link.

Things to do in KL with Kids

Below we feature a huge list of activities to keep you and your Worldschooling kids entertained while in Kuala Lumpur. We’ve included a link to each attraction’s website, so be sure to visit for further information including opening hours and pricing.

1

Kidzania Kuala Lumpur

If you’ve never experienced Kidzania and have little cards, you simply need to. It is amazing, and a must do activity for kids in Kuala Lumpur.

KidZania is an indoor play city where kids can have fun exploring the adult world! KidZania is one of the fastest growing educational entertainment brands, with 28 facilities all over the world from Mexico to Dubai to Tokyo.

For more information about Kidzania click here.

2

The Escape Room

If you are looking for something a little different, full of excitement and suspense, then the Escape Room may be right up your alley. It isn’t entirely a Malaysian cultural experience, but given how popular they are (with numerous different brands open throughout Kuala Lumpur), we had a go… and we had a blast!

An escape room is a physical adventure game in which players are locked in a room and have to use elements of the room to solve a series of puzzles and escape within a set time limit. We didn’t escape on our first try, but did so with time to spare on our second!

For more information about The Escape Room, please visit their website here.

3

KL Bird Park

Kids of all ages love the KL Bird Park. With so many beautiful birds on display, the KL Bird Park gives a unique insight into an incredible range of birds, including some you may never have seen before.

Located in the serene and scenic famous Lake Gardens, the KL Bird Park is well known for the World’s Largest Free-flight Walk-in Aviary and has over 20.9 acres of terrain to explore.

After wandering through the park, enjoy a lovely lunch at the Hornbill Restaurant, where prices were quite reasonable, and the food was delicious. If you’ve never tried a fish pedicure before, you can even relax and enjoy a few minutes of pampering in their beautiful spa.

For full information on the KL Bird Park, please visit their website here or buy tickets here.

4

Jungle Gym KL

Kids needing to burn some energy? Sit back and relax with a free cup of coffee at the Jungle Gym Playland at the Atria Shopping Centre (with 2 other locations now open). As far as playlands go, this one has it all. You can spend hours at Jungle Gym and it makes for a great meeting point to connect with other Worldschooling Families.

In the afternoon, when energy starts to run a little low, relax and watch a movie on their big screen, complete with comfy beanbags and popcorn.

Jungle Gym Playland has an onsite cafe with a great range of food, and weekday prices are just 30MYR/$USD6.70/$AUD8.75 per child 2-12 years.

For more information on Jungle Gym Playland, click here.

5

Sunway Lagoon Water Park

If you want a full day out with the family, Sunway Lagoon Theme Park in Petaling Jaya is for you. Whether you are 8 or 80, Sunway Lagoon Water Park is fun for all the family and features over 80 attractions on 88 acres of land!

Sunway Lagoon Water Park is more than just a waterpark though; it is a world of adventure featuring six distinct worlds of fun and games including the Water Park, Amusement Park, Wildlife Park, Extreme Park, Scream Park & Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon. There is something for everyone, and it is a must-do activity with kids while visiting Kuala Lumpur!

Ticket prices at the time of writing were 170MYR/$USD38/$AUD50 for adults and 130MYR/$USD29/$AUD38 and were worth every cent. Locker hire is available for all of your bags at 22MYR/$USD5/$AUD6.50 for the day. Get there early, don’t forget the sunscreen and enjoy an incredible day out.

For more information on Sunway Lagoon Water Park, visit their website here or buy discounted tickets below.

6

Aquaria Kuala Lumpur

The Aquaria Kuala Lumpur is a beautiful aquarium located at the KLCC Mall. They have a wonderful range of exhibits, topped off by their incredible moving platform through an aquarium tunnel.

The aquarium follows an easy to navigate map and includes feeding sessions at various times of the day.

Aquaria Kuala Lumpur is a place where you can easily spend hours getting up close to all sorts of animals, watching various sessions and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Be aware, however, that there are no pass outs. You cannot leave and come back for later sessions, so I would advise you to pack your lunch.

For more information on Aquaria Kuala Lumpur, visit their website here or buy tickets here.

7

Petrosains Discovery Centre

Petrosains Science Discovery Centre is an absolute must go if visiting Kuala Lumpur with kids.

Make sure to allow plenty of time for exploring, learning and playing. There is just so much to do that Petrosains Discovery Center is a full day activity.

Not only will your kids have an absolute ball, you will too, and so will your wallet. While there is lots for kids to explore, parents will find plenty to entertain them as well and parents are more than welcome to get involved.

Ticket prices are very reasonable plus Petrosains is a member of the ASTC Travel Passport Program, so members of a science center or museum participating in the program are eligible for free entry!

For more information about the Petrosains Discovery Centre, please visit their website.

8

Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park

The Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park is a large public butterfly zoo in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia. It is a super popular tourist attraction and is located adjacent to the Lake Gardens and Kuala Lumpur Bird Park.

Spanning over 80,000 square feet of landscaped garden with over 5,000 butterflies, exotic plants, butterfly-host plants and ferns, the butterfly park houses many species that are local to the country and is one of the largest houses in the world. The butterfly park houses a wonderful exhibition area with information on butterflies and other insects, a great learning opportunity for all Worldschooling kids!

For further information please visit their website here.

9

Batu Caves Kuala Lumpur

Batu Caves is a limestone hill that has a series of caves and cave temples in Gombak, Selangor. They are a super popular tourist destination, with around 5,000 visitors each day making their way up the 272 stairs.

The caves are said to be 400 million years old and served as a shelter for indigenous people. They are now one of the most popular Hindu shrines outside of India.

Just eight short miles north of the city, the Batu Caves house a 113-year-old temple, along with an interesting array of Hindu artwork and shrines.

You can travel to Batu Caves by Uber and stop at Royal Selangor on the way home.

For more information on visiting the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, please visit their website here or find Batu Cave tours here.

10

Royal Selangor Visitor Centre

Lovers of pewter will enjoy a visit to Royal Selangor, home to Malaysia’s pewter industry.

Home to one of the world’s foremost names in quality pewter, the Visitor Centre is located in Setapak Jaya, just 20 minutes from the Kuala Lumpur city center.

The Royal Selangor Visitor Centre gives an interesting look into the history of pewter, and the popular industry in Malaysia. Guided tours through the factory allow you to see first hand, how their incredible pieces of art are created and must be seen to be believed. Kids of all ages will be fascinated during their visit.

The center offers kids the opportunity to create a piece of art of their own through their kids’ class. The class takes about 45 minutes, and you can inquire at the service desk at the end of the tour.

For more information on visiting the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre, please visit the tourist website here.

11

Berjaya Times Square Theme Park

Berjaya Times Square Theme Park is Malaysia’s largest indoor theme park, located in Bukit Bintang. It is super bright and colorful and a place that is sure to put a smile on any child’s face.

Full of fun amusement rides, including some bigger, scarier ones for older kids and adults, Berjaya Times Square Theme Park is well worth a visit. Even if you decide not to go into the theme park, Berjaya Times Square itself is a super popular mall, and home to a wide range of attractions, including bowling, a cinema, an Escape Room, Laser Battle, and Archery!

For more information about Berjaya Times Square Theme Park, visit their website here. For information on the Berjaya Times Square Mall, visit their website here.

12

Petronas Towers

Petronas Twin Towers are what Kuala Lumper is knwon for.  While visiting KLCC Mall, be sure to stop outside to admire the Towers and take the obligatory photos. To go up the towers, you can book tickets via their website, however being so popular, you may need to book up to 2 weeks in advance.

The ticket cost is quite high by Malaysian standards (85MYR/$USD20/AUD$25 for adults and 35MYR/$USD8/$AUD10 for children 2-12), and in reality, you get no more than around 50 minutes in the towers.

The views are lovely, and the towers themselves are incredible. Just check your expectations. You will have limited time in each area and will be moved quickly from one area to another.

If it’s the views that you are after, KL Tower may be a better option, especial for those on a budget. It’s a personal decision. If you dream of visiting the Petronas Towers themselves, then it is certainly worth a visit!

Nearby you will also find KLCC Park and the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

To find out more about Petronas Towers, visit their website here or buy tickets at great prices here.

13

KL Tower

KL Tower is the seventh tallest telecommunication tower in the world and the tallest in Southeast Asia. Standing at 421m and located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the KL Tower offers a unique blend of Cultural, Adventure and Nature experience not found anywhere else in the world.

Tickets to visit the tower are 51MYR/$USD11.50/$AUD15 per adult and 32MYR/$USD7/$AUD9 per child.

The tower offers much more than just views. Clearly, the views from the Observation Deck are a highlight, as they are at Petronas Towers, however, they also offer the outdoor Sky Deck, Sky Box Experience and several other activities.

The tower is showing it’s age a little, however, if you want to see views of Kuala Lumpur at a budget-friendly price, the KL Tower is sure to be your best bet!

For more information on the KL Tower, visit their website here or find cheap tickets here.

14

Islamic Arts Museum

The Islamic Arts Museum, located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s tourist belt amidst the lush greenery of Perdana Botanical, is one of KL’s most popular tourist attractions.

Well-regarded as Southeast Asia’s largest museum of Islamic art, it houses extensive collections of Islamic decorative arts from all over the world. The stunning building (worth a visit to see this alone) is located at the fringe of the 227-acre Lake Gardens and is accessible within a five-minute walk from the National Planetarium and National Mosque.

This is one of many stops on KL’s Hop-on Hop-Off Tour, which is a double-decker and air-conditioned tour bus that takes you to over 40 attractions throughout Kuala Lumpur. Best of all, the pre-recorded multi-lingual commentary is available for each of the attractions, including the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia.

For more information about this attraction visit their website here.

15

China Town

China Town Kuala Lumpur is a major tourist attraction and is well worth a visit. In the heart of the city, China Town never sleeps, and as you stroll through the busy street, you can’t help but feel you’ve been whisked away to another city. The atmosphere in China Town is electric – so much to see and do, and if you like shopping, you are in for a treat; China Town is a bargain hunter’s paradise with a massive range, from Chinese herbs to imitation goods. It is a shoppers’ paradise!

16

Little India

As you enter Little India, you can’t help but feel that you’ve been swept into another world. The suburb of Brickfields is Malaysia’s official “Little India” and what was once a simple residential neighborhood, has been transformed into a wide street with Indian stores and restaurants, run by the local Indian community.

17

Kuala Lumpur Planetarium Negara

The Kuala Lumpur Planetarium is not often listed in Top 10 Must See lists. However, it was a hidden gem that you’ll be happy to discover!

Located near the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park, the Planetarium has an incredible display that helps children (and adults too) learn about science and astronomy. It’s a fun and educational outing, and for the brave-hearted, it includes a super exciting virtual rollercoaster ride!

For more information about Planetarium Negara visit their website here.

18

Kuala Lumpur Cinemas

For a relaxing, cheap afternoon activity, Kuala Lumpur Cinemas are a must-do! In many countries, taking the family to the cinema can be frightfully expensive, in Kuala Lumpur however, ticket prices are CRAZY cheap. Splurg on popcorn and drinks, buy your tickets and a family of 4 can still get in and out for under $USD20!

For more information on going to the movies in Kuala Lumpur, visit their website here.

19

Explore the Central Market

A visit to the Central Market Kuala Lumpur is a wonderful way to experience Malaysian culture, arts, and crafts. Only minutes from the heart of the city, it is a great place to spend an afternoon, with plenty for all to see and do!

The Central Market is a hub for Malaysian culture, steeped in history. Home to over 300 stalls, the Central Market was built in 1888 and initially used as a traditional wet market. After substantial renovations, Central Market is now a must-see tourist attraction.

For our full review of the Central Market, please click here.

20

Enjoy a Fish Pedicure

If you’ve ever wondered if fish pedicures really work, Kuala Lumpur is the place to give it a go. There is a wonderful little store at the Central Market that offers fish pedicures for only 10 MYR/$USD2.45. Whether you like it or not, it is certainly fun for the whole family, although little ones may be a little unsure. The staff are more than happy for little ones to have a go before you pay– a good idea if they ultimately decide that fish nibbling on their feet feels funny!

21

Batik Painting Class

Kuala Lumpur really is a city for kids, and a Batik Painting Class is a wonderful way to experience a local craft.

These beautiful creations are made using a very specific technique that children can learn at the Central Market. For only a few dollars they can spend as long as they like painting their masterpiece, which is dried and packaged for them to take home when completed.

Kid Friendly Restaurants in KL

With so much to do, of course you’ll need to stop and eat along the way. Check out these delicious, Worldschooler tried and tested family restaurants in KL.

22

Dip N Dip

Chocolate lovers, pay attention. Kuala Lumpur is home to THE most incredible chocolate restaurant. If you’ve heard the saying “death by chocolate”, just wait until you visit Dip N Dip!

The entire menu is chocolate, from chocolate-covered waffles, pancakes, cake and more! It will be an experience you will never forget!

The food is delicious and whatever you order, you are given a choice of your favorite chocolate, which is then drizzled over your food at the table in front of you.

To say this is a favorite with kids is a complete understatement. Eyes will light up when they discover they are having chocolate for dinner… but hey, why not. You only live once!

To find out more about Dip N Dip Restaurant, visit their website here.

23

Dolly Dim Sum

If you love dim sum and want a great meal at an affordable price, Dolly Dim Sum is well worth a visit. Somewhat surprisingly, Dolly Dim Sum is great for families, offering a huge variety tht even fussy eaters will enjoy. At Dolly Dim Sum, seeing lots of little pieces served on numerous little plates will certainly catch their attention!

To find out more about Dolly Dim Sum, visit their website here.

24

Jalan Alor Street Food Market

Bustling with activity the Jalan Alor Street Food Market is a unique food destination in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. The whole character of the city changes when you step onto the street. Gone are the modern shopping malls that align the city, replaced by something special. During the day, there is not much activity but when the sun goes down, the street comes alive with the hustle and bustle of activity.

The food at the market is delicious and there is a huge range on offer. To top it off, the food is cheap and you can feed the whole family on just a few dollars.

For more details click here.

25

Sushi King

Sushi King is a Sushi Train restaurant, and as such is a hit with kids of all ages. It’s easy, found all over KL and is super affordable with a family of 4 able to eat a full meal for about $USD25!

Watching the food ride around on the train is highly entertaining for kids, and this interaction must be the key to them enjoying it so much.

Word of advice: if you are going to visit Sushi King more than once, join their loyalty club. It costs 20MYR, however, you get a 20MYR voucher back AND you get 10% off your future meal costs!

Visit their website here for more details.

26

Shabu Shabu

Shabu Shabu is a wonderful experience for families and one the kids will likely love. Shabu shabu is a Japanese hotpot dish of thinly sliced meat and vegetables boiled in water.

A buffet-style display allows you to choose your favorite vegetables, and you choose from a selection of thinly sliced meats. In the center of your table, a bowl of boiling soup or stock sits on an element and you cook the food at the table in front of you.

Lots of fun, well priced and a wonderful experience.

27

ABC

ABC or Ais Kacang is a crazy, messy looking Malaysian Dessert made from ice, that combines a range of different elements to create a wonderful local dessert. It may not look too appealing but don’t let that stop you – give it a go – you may be pleasantly surprised. The different elements just shouldn’t work together, but magically, they do.

28

Shangri La Buffet

The Shangri-La Buffet is not particularly budget friendly however, if you have a special occasion or just want to splurge a little, Shangri-La Buffet is a wonderful way to do it.

The food was incredible and the range of dishes will likely make your jaw drop!

To find out more about the Shangri-La Buffet, visit their website here.

Shopping Malls in Kuala Lumpur
29

Cool off in a Mall

Shopping Malls are a favorite Malaysian past time – hanging out with friends in a mall, is, according to a local, “what we do”. And with good reason. Often it is too hot to be outside, so the cool of the air conditioning is sure to be a huge drawcard.

And when it comes to malls – Kuala Lumpur knows how to do it!

Malls are such a big part of everyday life in KL, you simply can’t avoid them. Especially for the kids, it will be something that feels familiar, which at times, can be super important.

Some of the major malls include:

  • Suria KLCC
  • Pavillion Kuala Lumpur Shopping Mall
  • Midvalley Megamall Kuala Lumpur
  • Berjaya Times Square
  • Sunway Pyramid
  • Sungei Wang Plaza
  • IOI City Mall
Get Some Rest!
30

Rest, Relax & Recharge!

With so much to do, it is easy to wear yourself out, and with children along for the ride, we all know where that could lead!

Don’t forget that in the middle of all the fun you’ll no doubt have in Kuala Lumpur to take a day off. Rest, relax, hang out and just recharge your batteries, because there’s lots more things to do in KL with kids!

Summary

Some may think of Kuala Lumpur as just another big city, however, for those traveling with kids, KL is much much more. It is an incredible city, and with so much on offer for kids of all ages, it is a wonderful city to visit and a fantastic hub to use for travel through other parts of SE Asia.

Kuala Lumpur is a lovely mix of new experiences, cultural differences, and affordable living which makes it a place many traveling families are drawn to, for good reason!

Did we leave anything off our list? Share your favourite things to do in KL with kids in the comments below!