4 family-friendly activities to enjoy near Hanoi's west lake

Nestled in the heart of Hanoi, West Lake, or "Tây Hồ" in Vietnamese, offers a tranquil oasis in the heart of the bustling city. Located not too far from the Old Quarter, it’s the perfect place to relax after a day’s work or squeeze in some family time on the weekends. To make your visit to West Lake and its neighborhood even more memorable, here is a short list of family-friendly activities we’re sure you’ll love:

1. Put your pedal power to the test on West Lake.

No trip to West Lake is complete without spending some time on the lake itself! Start your adventure by renting a paddle boat and gliding across its sparkling waters. Pedaling a boat is not only great exercise but also a relaxing experience for the whole family. Enjoy the picturesque views, feel the gentle breeze, keep an eye out for local wildlife, and let your kids marvel at the serene beauty of this enormous lake. 

2. Cool down at Ho Tay Water Park.

Can’t stand the scorching sun of the Vietnamese summer? Head up to the northern end of West Lake to cool off at Ho Tay Water Park. Take a dip in a pool, get your heart racing on the water slides, or just drift along on the winding lazy river. Once you’ve dried off, head to the amusement park within the same complex to enjoy thrilling roller coasters and even Hanoi’s own Ferris wheel!

3. Take a culinary tour of Vietnam’s delicacies.

Exploring Hanoi’s West Lake and its surroundings is incomplete without indulging in some delicious Vietnamese cuisine. Be sure to sample iconic dishes like Bánh mì, a delectable Vietnamese sandwich bursting with flavors, and egg coffee, an iconic local beverage of coffee topped with creamy whipped egg custard. These culinary delights are sure to tickle your taste buds and provide an authentic taste of Vietnamese culture, recharging you with the energy needed to enjoy the rest of your day.

4. Enjoy hours of indoor fun at Timezone Vincom Center Metropolis.

As you explore West Lake, keep in mind that sometimes, unexpected showers or the sweltering sun can alter your outdoor plans. That's where Timezone Vincom Center Metropolis comes to the rescue.

Located about a thirty-minute walk from the southwest corner of the lake, it offers an incredible range of games and activities suitable for all ages. Whether you’re a family looking for things to do with kids on a rainy day, grandparents wanting to entertain the grandkids, or simply a group looking to escape the weather, you’ll be sure to enjoy Timezone’s arcade games for hours on end. Practice your aim with shooting games, groove to the latest rhythm games, or battle the undead in Zombie Outbreak. It’s time to game on!

Plus, its location within the Vincom Center Metropolis shopping mall means easy access to endless entertainment, dining, and retail options for the whole family. You can even take a break in between games to eat lunch before heading back for more or take the fun one step further by planning a birthday party in one of Hanoi’s best kids’ party venues.

Now that we’ve spilled our secrets on what to do near Hanoi’s West Lake, there’s no denying it’s a great destination for all ages. Gather your loved ones and get ready to go – it’s time to enjoy wholesome family entertainment near you!