Are you looking for free things to do in Kuala Lumpur with kids? We have got the best list because we went to KL recently and checked everything out so we could report back!
Home of a seemingly bottomless list of things to do; Kuala Lumpur is a destination of wonder. The city can accommodate for a range of desired experiences, whether you’re seeking relaxation, thrill, adventure, or anything and everything in-between, making it the perfect travel location for the entire family.
Whether you’re a tourist looking to entertain the family, or a local excited to discover something new in your home town, there’s always a new attraction to uncover in Kuala Lumpur. If you’re looking for some exciting attractions to see in Kuala Lumpur, we’ve made an extensive list of things to see and do while visiting. The best part? They’re free or at very low cost to you, making it easier for you to stick to your travel budget.
Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia, home of iconic skyscrapers such as the KL Tower and the Petronas Twin Towers. The weather in KL makes it an ideal location for holidays. The city spans over 243 square kilometres and has a total population of approximately 1.5 million. Although despite this mass of people, you can always find somewhere to escape the rush of the city and admire the quieter side of Kuala Lumpur.
Here are some family friendly attractions to check out on your next visit.
Batu Caves
The Batu Caves are an iconic outdoor activity of Kuala Lumpur, welcoming a countless number of tourists every single year. The network of caves lies within a limestone mountain, housing a variety of temples, idols, and statues that are about 100 years old. Plus, limestone formations can be found throughout the main cave that is approximately 400 million years old.
The 3 main caves that make up the network are the Cathedral Cave, the Art Gallery Cave, and the Museum Cave. The Cathedral Cave is the biggest and most popular of the 3, with a 100 m high ceiling and many Hindu shrines. The Art Gallery and Museum Cave offer tourists a glimpse at various Hindu paintings and statues.
The Batu Caves are located approximately 11 km north of Kuala Lumpur. The attraction can be reached via bus or taxi. Entry into the Batu Caves is free.
Hours: Monday to Friday (10 am to 5 pm) Saturday and Sunday (10:30 am to 5:30 pm)
Price: Free
Address: Gombak, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor, Malaysia
Website: N/A
Dataran Merdeka
Sitting in front of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building; Dataran Merdeka (Merdeka Square) holds a historical significance within Kuala Lumpur. This was the location where the Malaysian Flag was raised for the first time in 1957. From then, it has been the sight of the annual Merdeka Parade, held on the 31st of August to celebrate Malaysia’s independence. Visitors can stop by the Royal Selangor Club, St. Mary’s Church, or simply admire the peaceful beauty of the surrounding area (at zero cost).
Hours: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week
Price: Free
Address: Jalan Raja, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Website: N/A
Kuala Lumpur Craft Complex
The Kuala Lumpur Craft Complex stretches across 7.3 acres, offering countryside landscapes to admire and traditional activities that the whole family can get involved with. The building has Malay Terengganu architecture and offers tourists a variety of handcrafting activities to engage in. By educating through the creative arts, visitors can attain a unique, deeper appreciation of Kuala Lumpur and the Malaysian culture. Not to mention, refreshments are also available. For a much more traditional experience, be sure to stop by the Kuala Lumpur Craft Complex. Head over to the website for more information on the activities and attractions on offer.
Hours: Monday to Sunday (9 am to 7 pm)
Price: Free
Address: 5, Jalan Conlay, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Website: click here
National Art Gallery
Located on the northern brim of Kuala Lumpur; the city’s National Art Gallery was initially established in 1958 and is home to a large selection of local artwork. Spread across 3 floors, the facility houses several galleries, an outdoor exhibition, and even a cafe.
One of the most prominent pieces that’s worth seeing is on the walkway leading to the main entrance entitled ‘Graffiti’. Some other popular artists featured in the museum are Abad Osman, Wong Hai Cheong, and many more. Not to mention, the gallery also shares photographs, sculptures, ceramics, and much more.
The National Art Gallery’s ground floor hosts a variety of temporary exhibits, with a focus on Malaysian artists. This can include various paintings, sculptures, or photographs. The permanent collections can be found on the second and third floor. Head over to the website for more information on the exhibits on offer.
Hours: Monday to Sunday (10 am to 6 pm)
Price: Free
Address: No. 2, Jalan Temerloh, Titiwangsa, 53200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Website: click here
KLCC Park in Kuala Lumpur
Located conveniently close to the Suria KLCC shopping centre, KLCC Park is an entertaining adventure that the whole family can enjoy. The park stretches across 50-acres and houses a collection of outdoor activities accompanied by remarkable views of the Petronas Twin Towers.
The KLCC Park is comprised of an ever-stretching, man-made lake, which is an attraction within itself. Lake Symphony houses water fountains, waterfalls, reflecting pools, children playgrounds, and so much more. Not to mention, throughout the park are over 1,900 indigenous trees to admire.
A trip to KLCC Park makes for an entertaining half-day trip for the whole family. Kids can cool off in the water or explore the colourful playground while parents can admire the beautiful city views and vibrant surroundings. It’s a win-win!
Hours: Monday to Sunday (7 am to 10 pm)
Price: FREE
Address: Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory Of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Website: N/A
Planetarium Negara
Head over to Malaysia’s national planetarium for a brief glimpse into astronomy from a unique perspective. Kids can learn about all things space through various interactive exhibits and the space theatre. Those brave enough can have a spin on the human-sized gyroscope or head up to the observation deck to admire the Lake Gardens from above. Whether you’re wanting to have a calm look around or to get interactive with some of the exhibits, there’s something for you at the planetarium. Head over to the website for more information or to help plan your visit.
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday (9 am to 4:30 pm)
Price: Free
Address: 53, Jalan Perdana, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Website: click here
KL Forest Eco Park
Yet another opportunity to admire Kuala Lumpur’s natural side; the Forest Eco Park is a thrilling adventure for the whole family. The park is located only 3 kilometres from the city centre and is located upon the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve. Tourists of the park have plenty of attractions to choose from, including the acclaimed canopy walk, walking trails, herbal garden, picnic garden, and heaps more.
The Forest Eco Park has 3 main entrances; from Jalan Ampang, from Jalan Raja Chulan, or from the steps near the Kuala Lumpur Tower. The best part? Entry into the park is free, making it the perfect option for those looking to save some money while exploring the city.
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday (7 am to 8 pm) Sunday and Tuesday (7 am to 6 pm)
Price: Free
Address: Lot 240, Jalan Raja Chulan, Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Website: click here
Perdana Botanical Gardens
Initially established in 1888 as Kuala Lumpur’s first large recreational park; the Perdana Botanical Gardens is the perfect escape. Although the vibrant garden is located conveniently in the heart of the city, a visit proves to be the perfect cure for those looking to escape Kuala Lumpur’s bustle.
The park stretches over 91 hectares, housing a collection of environments for tourists and locals to explore. While visiting, be sure to stop by the Forest Tree Collection, the Exotic Species Collection, Lesser Fruit Tree Collection, the Sunken Garden, Cycad Island, Taman Perdana, Deer Park, and the Orchard Garden.
A trip to the Perdana Botanical Gardens is a great way to start the day. For a full description of the various features of the parkland, or more information on the park itself, head over to the website.
Hours: Monday to Sunday (7 am to 8 pm)
Price: Free
Address: Jalan Kebun Bunga, Tasik Perdana, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Website: www.klbotanicalgarden.gov.my
Street Food
When exploring Kuala Lumpur with kids, one of the must-try experiences is indulging in the city’s vibrant street food scene. Not only is it a budget-friendly option, but it also offers a delicious glimpse into Malaysia’s diverse culinary heritage. From bustling night markets to hidden hawker centers, there’s an array of free and cheap street food delights to tantalize your taste buds.
Treat your little ones to savory satay skewers, aromatic roti canai, or mouthwatering char kway teow, all of which can be found at affordable prices from street vendors. The lively atmosphere and aromatic aromas will undoubtedly capture the attention and intrigue of your young explorers as they savor the authentic flavors of Kuala Lumpur’s street food culture.
Aquaria in Kuala Lumpur
Kids under 2 years of age can explore Kuala Lumpur’s Aquaria free of charge. Both adults and children can appreciate this attraction, with countless fascinating creatures to discover and admire in their typical habitats. To top it off, kids can also learn more about the animals and how they contribute to their various ecosystems.
The Aquaria houses a wide collection of animals great and small, including otters, turtles, flying rays, piranhas, sharks, crabs, and heaps more. Feeding times for the different creatures are scattered throughout the day. For those wishing to plan their trip around the feeding times, visit the website for more information. The Aquaria is conveniently situated beneath the city’s convention centre and next to the Petronas Twin Towers.
Hours: Monday to Sunday (10 am to 8 pm)
Price: Free of charge for children under 2. Children 3 to 12 MYR31. Adult – MYR44
Address: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Website: click here
Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park
Although it’s not quite free, it’s the next best thing; Kids can stroll among the worlds largest butterfly garden for only RM13. The Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park stretches over 80,000 square feet and offers a close look at over 5,000 butterflies. The facility not only includes a diverse range of butterfly species to admire, but also exotic plant life, koi fish, turtles, and much more. Those wishing to learn a bit more about the insects can head over to the facility’s museum.
The Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park is an exciting venture that the whole family can effortlessly enjoy, without dinting the travel budget. With the impressive collection of butterflies and the vibrant surrounding ecosystem, this journey proves to be unlike any other in Kuala Lumpur. To start your day in the most magical way possible, head over for a visit in the morning. For more information on the butterfly park, head over to the website.
Hours: Monday to Sunday (9 am to 6 pm)
Price: Adult – RM24. Children – RM13
Address: Taman Tasik Perdana, Jalan Cendarasari, Kuala Lumpur, 50480, Malaysia
Website: click here
Free & cheap things to do in Kuala Lumpur with kids
Kuala Lumpur is home to a wide range of attractions that tourists can enjoy free of charge. Whether you’re looking to gain a deeper understanding of the Malaysian culture, wander through peaceful parks, or explore captivating museums, the city holds an experience to suit anyone’s needs.
Make your way over to the Perdana Botanical Gardens to wander among a flourished array of colourful plant-life, head over to the Kuala Lumpur Craft Complex to educate the kids on the country’s culture in a creative manner, or stop by the iconic Batu Caves and wander beneath a limestone mountain. With an endless list of exciting things to see and do, minus the need to reach for your wallet, you can discover new experiences to suit everyone’s interests in Kuala Lumpur.
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