Kid-Friendly Attractions on Road Trips in Malaysia

Now that the border between Singapore and Malaysia is finally opened after 2 years of battling the pandemic, it's time to head to our favourite neighbour Malaysia for easy road trips! There're so many fun and kid-friendly things to do in Malaysia and here's a list of my best ones!

*Note: These were our experiences pre-COVID; do check the websites for the most updated information.


KID-FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS in MALAYSIA:

[JOHOR BAHRU]
Under 1 hour from Singapore

[1] Legoland Malaysia Resort

The nearest Legoland is only 30 minutes from the Second Link! It's super accessible and there are 2 parks in Legoland, the main theme park and a water park!

We've been to Legoland 6 times and will be going again in June so you know why this is first on my list *laughs*

[Address] 7, Persiaran Medini Utara 3, 79100 Nusajaya, Johor, Malaysia
[Website] https://www.legoland.com.my/
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Legoland Malaysia, Legoland Water Park and Legoland Hotel


[2] Hello Kitty Town & Thomas Town

Hello Kitty Town is definitely for the Sanrio lovers! It's not a big space but filled with many fun activities that will surely make you gush about how cute they are! It's mainly for kids but I've seen adults having a lot of fun too!

Thomas Town on the other hand, is only suitable for preschool kids, with various rides that they can take.

Being a closet Sanrio fan, I was so excited to get to stay in the Hello Kitty themed room at Hotel Jen! You really don't have to travel to Japan to experience a Hello Kitty themed room! You should try to stay here if you're visiting 😁

[Address] No.6-01, Jalan Bestari 6/2, Taman Nusa Bestari, 81300 Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
[Website] https://www.tlc.my/hello-kitty-town.html
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Hello Kitty Town and Thomas Town


[3] Fanpekka

This awesome indoor playground is located within Aeon Tebrau City. My kids love how huge it is, with all kinds of play structures to engage them. Definitely a must-visit!

[Address] Lot S102 2nd Floor Aeon Mall Tebrau City, No.1, Jalan Desa Tebrau, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100, Johor, Malaysia
[Contact] https://www.facebook.com/fanpekka/
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Fanpekka


[DESARU]
2 hours from Singapore

[1] Desaru Fruit Farm

Desaru Fruit Farm is not only famous for their fruits, they are also famous for their raw honey, which we buy very often. So often that the boss now sends the our honey directly to our home every time our stock runs low! 🫢

[Address] Sungai Cemaran, Desaru, 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor, Malaysia
[Contact] https://www.facebook.com/DESARUFRUITFARM/
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Desaru Fruit Farm


[2] Ostrich Farm

I never knew that Desaru had an Ostrich Farm and this one really surprised me for its size! Hopefully they can continue to operate the farm despite their difficulties during the pandemic because it will be such a pity if they closed down. 

This is probably one of the few times that we got to meet ostriches up close and even got to hold a freshly laid ostrich egg! An experience I will never forget!

[Address] Jalan Telok Ramunia, Kampung Changi, 81600 Pengerang, Johor, Malaysia  

[Contact] https://www.facebook.com/desaruostrichfarm/
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Desaru Ostrich Farm


[3] Lotus Desaru Beach Resort

If you're looking for a value-for-money resort that had everything from a water park to its own arcade, this is it! Super fun for the kids, though don't expect high end accomodation, food or service; you get what you paid for.

[Address] Lot 1854, Jalan Desaru, 81930 Bandar Penawar, Johor, Malaysia
[Website] https://lotusdesaru.com/
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Lotus Desaru Beach Resort


[4] Hard Rock Hotel

Being a fan of Hard Rock, I was so excited to stay at their Hotel at Desaru Coast. The best thing about the hotel is the close proximity to the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark and their Kids Club! 

[Address] Jln Pantai 3, 81930 Bandar Penawar, Johor, Malaysia
[Website] https://www.hardrockhotels.com/desaru-coast/
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast


[5] Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark

We didn't get to play at the waterpark because some of us were feeling unwell when we were there. However we could hear huge screams of excitement, which were probably indicative of the fun that people were having!

[Address] Persiaran Pantai, Desaru Coast, 81930 Bandar Penawar, Johor, Malaysia
[Website] https://desarucoast.com/adventurewaterpark


[MELAKA]
3 hours from Singapore

Melaka is close enough for short getaway over the weekend with lots to do for little ones. You can check out my full recommendations here.

[PORT DICKSON]
3.5 hours from Singapore

[1] Grand Lexis Port Dickson

There's nothing much to do in Port Dickson except to chill and admire the beautiful sand and sea!

Our room at Grand Lexis included a pool within the room, which the kids swam in for every second that we were in the room!

[Address] Batu 2, Jalan Seremban, 71000 Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
[Website] https://www.lexis.my/hotels-resorts/grand-lexis-port-dickson
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Grand Lexis Port Dickson


[KUALA LUMPUR]
4 hours from Singapore

[1] Petronas Twin Towers & KLCC

You can't visit KL without seeing the Petronas Twin Towers at least once! 

[Address] Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

[Website] https://www.petronastwintowers.com.my/
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Petronas Twin Towers & KLCC in the day & at night 


[2] Berjaya Times Square Theme Park

Berjaya Times Square in KL is the home to the largest indoor theme park in Malaysia! The best part about this theme park is that you can dine and shop after enjoying a day of fun!

[Address] No. 09-103, Berjaya Times Square, No.1, Jalan Imbi, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
[Website] https://berjayatimessquarethemeparkkl.com/


[3] Kidzania Kuala Lumpur

With Kidzania Singapore closed (such a pity because my kids are mega big fans!), the nearest Kidzania is now in KL. With different jobs for the kids to try out, it's super fun! ☺️

[Address] Curve NX, 18 Jalan PJU 7/5 Mutiara Damansara, Petaling Jaya 47810 Selangor, Malaysia.

[Website] https://www.kidzania.com.my/
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Kidzania KL


[4] Royale Ice-Skating Rink

It's temporarily closed right now but when it's open this is a great place for ice-skating.

[Address] 2, Jalan PJU 7/3, Mutiara Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
[Website] https://www.royalechulan.com/Damansara/Facilities.aspx
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Royale Ice-Skating Rink


[5] Kids Zone at The Curve

There's a really fun Kids Zone at The Curve mall that's FREE! Need I say more 🤭

[Address] 6 Jalan PJU 7/3 Mutiara Damansara 47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan Malaysia
[Website] https://www.thecurve.com.my/kids-zone
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Kids Zone


[6] Sunway Lagoon

There is both a theme park and a waterpark at Sunway Lagoon, which is fun for the whole family! I've visited a long time ago when I was younger and loved it. Hoped to bring my kids soon and update this page! #watchthisspace

[Address] 3, Jalan PJS 11/11, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
[Website] https://sunwaylagoon.com/


[GENTING HIGHLANDS]
4.5 hours from Singapore

[1] Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park

The outdoor theme park is finally opened! We can't wait to explore when we make a trip to KL (hopefully by this year)! 

Don't forget to also ride the cable car for a scenic ride up/down Genting Highlands!

[Address] Genting Highlands Resort, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
[Website] https://www.gentingskyworlds.com/


[2] Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park

There is also an indoor theme park, great for wet weather plans!

[Address] Genting Highlands, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
[Website] https://www.rwgenting.com/en/theme-parks/skytropolis-indoor-theme-park.html


[CAMERON HIGHLANDS]
6 hours from Singapore

[1] Holidays Park

Located next to Cameron Square, this outdoor arcade lights up for an evening of fun for the whole family!

[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Holidays Park

[2] Boh Tea Garden

If you like tea, you should pay the tea plantations on Cameron Highlands a visit! We liked Boh Tea Garden for its picturesque view and cafe.

[Address] Boh Road Habu, 39200 Ringlet, Pahang, Malaysia
[Website] https://bohtea.com/visit-our-tea-gardens/
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Boh Tea Garden


[3] Big Red Strawberry Farm

There are many strawberry farms on Cameron Highlands that gave the kids a chance to pick their own strawberries for the first time! Super fun! 🍓

[Address] Brinchang, 39000 Brinchang, Pahang, Malaysia
[Website] http://www.cameronhighlandsinfo.com/attraction/big_red_strawberry_farm/
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Big Red Strawberry Farm


[4] Lavender Garden

If lavender is your favourite flower, you must visit this attraction! I personally love it, especially the lavender flavoured ice-cream!🍦

[Address] Tringkap, Cameron Highlands, 39100 Pahang, Malaysia
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Lavender Garden


[5] Ee Feng Gu Bee Farm

If you're visiting the Lavender Gardens, you can also visit nearby Ee Feng Gu Bee Farm!

[Address] Green Cow, No 75, Batu 43, 39100, Pahang, Malaysia
[Website] https://cameronbeefarm.com/
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Ee Feng Gu Bee Farm


[IPOH]
6.5 hours from Singapore

[1] Lost World of Tambun

Besides the amazing food, Ipoh is also home to a really huge theme park, the Lost World of Tambun, which comprises of a water park, an arcade, a mini zoo, a petting zoo and most importantly, a hot spring pools! It's super value-for-money and worth the visit!

[Address] No.1, Persiaran Lagun Sunway 1, Sunway City Ipoh, 31150 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
[Website] https://sunwaylostworldoftambun.com/
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Lost World of Tambun


[2] Movie Animation Park Studios (MAPS)

It is now closed and no one knows whether it will ever reopen. I'm guessing that it may never reopen because the last time we were there pre-COVID, there were already no crowds at all. During the height of the pandemic, I'm sure the theme park was hit very badly. In any case, I'm adding it to this list, just in case :)

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[PENANG]
8 hours away from Singapore

[1] Golden Sands Resort

It's quite a drive from Singapore but not impossible as we've proven! Our favourite resort to stay at is Shangri-la's Golden Sands Resort. They have both an indoor playground and an outdoor water playground to entertain the kids!

[Address] Jalan Batu Ferringhi, Kampung Tanjung Huma, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
[Website] https://www.shangri-la.com/en/penang/goldensandsresort/
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Golden Sands Resort and Adventure Zone


[2] Penang Hill

The view is great at the top of Penang Hill but the most fun thing for the kids is the train up the hill!

[Address] 11500 Bukit Bendera, Penang, Malaysia
[Website] https://penanghill.gov.my/index.php/en/
[Details] Click here to read our full experience at Penang Hill

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This post is part of my series on Kid-Friendly Attractions Around the World and my travel page, MADPSYCHMUM TRAVELS, where you can find other family-friendly itineraries!

 


Click on each city below to read our top picks on kid-friendly attractions in our favourite cities/countries:
(this list will be updated as we go along)

Reminiscing Our Honeymoon in Italy 13 Years Ago

When we went on our honeymoon 13 years ago, we had very little money in our pockets. Our entire honeymoon (including expenses) was sponsored by our very generous relatives as part of our wedding gifts plus a little bit of savings from our very frugal wedding. 

To ensure that we could have a relaxing trip without the need to plan anything (planning the wedding was already exhausting enough!), we booked a Switzerland-Italy tour with a tour agency that is no longer in operation (though I'm still friends with our tour guide on Facebook; power of social media 😀). 

We spent the first half of our honeymoon exploring the very scenic and beautiful Switzerland, one of my favourite countries in the world to visit.

I realised I never did a follow up on the next half of our honeymoon where we explored the historical Italy! 

Milan (Milano)

We left the fresh air of Zermatt in Switzerland, home of the Matterhorn, and travelled to our first Italian city, Milan, the fashion capital of Italy. 

We visited the Castello Sforzesco (the brown building in the picture below) but to be honest, I had no idea what it was or its significance because we were so young and not as well-informed as we are now. Nevertheless, it was a really beautiful place. 

My most vivid memory from Milan is buying my first ever luxury bag from a Gucci store in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, the MBS of Milan 😊

I still have the Gucci bag I bought till this day; it's one of my very treasured bags 😍

Be sure to try to spot Leonardo Da Vinci Statue in the vicinity, yet another prominent landmark in Milan 😊

Leonardo Da Vinci was part of the team that designed the famous Cathedral Duomo di Milan, the white gothic-style cathedral in the picture below.  

The cathedral was really unique and lots of intricate details were added as you can see! 

 

Venice (Venezia)

The next morning, we headed to Venice! You definitely cannot go to Italy without visiting Venice, the only city in the world built on water. 

We took a boat ride that brought us around the city so we could see it in a different light. 

We passed by the famous canals and the Bridge of Sighs, the white bridge in the picture below surrounded by loads of advertisements at that time due to renovation work. 

This picturesque sight (sans the adverts!) was what we came to Venice to see! Super beautiful!

One also should not miss visiting the Piazza San Marco and St Mark's Basilica, the other equally famous Venetian landmarks. 

 

Loving the beautiful architecture and soaking up the energy of the crowd!

Our tour guide brought us to a Glass Blowing Factory where we got to watch a demonstration of how they made their glassware. 

Although we really love the glass pieces, we were simply too broke to have afforded them. Instead, we decided to wander around Venice and take more photos of the area. 

I almost bought an Hermes wallet but decided against it as I found it 'pricey' (it was about SGD500 then, which was pretty pricey when you're broke)! On hindsight, I should have gotten it because the price of Hermes has gone up by so much!! Anyway, we bought souvenirs instead, the typical touristy thing to do 😅

Florence (Firenze), Tuscany

The next day we travelled to Florence, the capital of Tuscany, a region in Italy. Florence is considered to be the birthplace of Pinocchio!

We visited the Santa Maria del Fiore, yet another cathedral, this time with an iconic gold door.

We also explored the streets of discovered many canals and statues.

Look at us, so young and carefree (but broke 😅)! And admiring the 'rolling hills' of Tuscany!

We also stopped by the very famous Statue of David by Michelangelo. 

We ended the night with a Tuscany dinner.

Life is good! 😊

Pisa, Tuscany

The next day we visited another very famous landmark located in Tuscany, the Leaning Tower of Pisa!

The actual building itself is smaller than expected but well it's a big tick on my bucket list! 😁

Siena, Tuscany

We visited Siena next and at the time, I have never heard of Siena to be honest. We visited the Cathedral of Siena, which to amateurs like us look to be similar in style to all the other cathedrals in Italy.

We also spent time exploring Piazza del Campo, the most iconic location in Siena.

The scenery was so beautiful! Definitely one of the reasons to visit Italy!

Rome (Roma)

The last place we visited was Rome, the home of the Vatican City. A local tour guide brought us around and introduced us to the different landmarks in Vatican City. Of course, you can't go to Vatican City without visiting St. Peter's Square!

Some key landmarks to look out for include the Basilica di San Pietro aka St Peter's Basilica, which was built by architects including Michangelo, and Obelisco di Piazza San Pietro (the obelisk below).

We also walked to the Arch of Constantine, a triumphant arch dedicated to Emperor Constantine the Great (of course I googled this, I'm not a walking history book!).

And last but definitely not least, you can't go to Rome and not visit the Colosseum! 

Oh yes, and the Fountain of Trevi!

It looks nicer in the pictures than in person but it's a must-visit at least once in your lifetime to tick off your bucket list! :)

Finally, we ended the day with some free time at the shopping streets near the Spanish Steps.

Of course, I had to buy my first LV bag from their store in Rome! It was a Louis Vuitton Speedy 25 at just S$800+! You can't buy a speedy at this price anymore! I use it all the time and to this day, it is one of my favourite bags of all time!

That was such a memorable honeymoon for us! Really can't wait to travel to Europe again! :D

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Visit MADPSYCHMUM TRAVELS for my travel itineraries!

You can also follow my travel adventures on Instagram via the hashtag #madpsychmumtravels! =)