As someone constantly searching for exciting things to do in Shanghai, I recently discovered a hidden gem that’s perfect for both locals and tourists - the newly opened Shanghai Greenhouse Garden. Located in the Shanghai World Expo Culture Park, this magnificent attraction has quickly become one of my favorite shanghai places to visit, especially for families with children.
Three Unique Pavilions to Explore
The garden features three distinct pavilions, each offering a unique experience. Here’s my firsthand experience exploring each one:
Pavilion 1: Coastal Oasis
The first pavilion, known as the Coastal Oasis, showcases an impressive collection of tropical plants, including the iconic Baobab tree. As I walked through this section, I was amazed by the diversity of plant species that make this one of the most distinctive shanghai attractions.
Pavilion 2: Cloud Forest
The Cloud Forest pavilion truly stands out among shanghai tourist spots with its stunning waterfall feature. The misty environment and lush vegetation create an ethereal atmosphere that transports you far from the urban bustle.
Pavilion 3: Misty Valley
The final pavilion, Misty Valley, is particularly exciting for families looking for shanghai family activities. It features a children’s water play area on the first floor, making it a perfect spot for kids to cool off and have fun.
Practical Information for Visitors
Tickets and Timing
When planning things to do in Shanghai, remember to book your tickets through the “Shanghai World Expo Culture Park” WeChat mini-program. Prices vary:
- Weekdays: ¥98 for adults
- Weekends/Holidays: ¥128 for adults
- Special discounts for seniors and children (1-1.4m tall)
- Children under 1m: Free
- Family packages available
Visit Duration and Best Times
A complete tour takes about 2 hours, making it a perfect addition to your list of shanghai activities. The garden offers four visiting slots:
- 9:00-11:00
- 11:00-13:00
- 13:00-15:00
- 15:00-16:30
Tips for Families
As someone who’s visited with family, here are my top tips:
- Bring a change of clothes for children if they want to enjoy the water play area
- Strollers are allowed but might be inconvenient due to stairs
- Vending machines are available for water, but bring your own snacks
- The surrounding area includes a central lake and children’s playground, perfect for extending your visit
Getting There
Parking is available at P5 parking lot (¥8/hour), just a short walk from the entrance. The location is easily accessible and well-marked within the Shanghai World Expo Culture Park area.
Whether you’re a local or tourist looking for unique things to do in Shanghai, the Shanghai Greenhouse Garden offers a refreshing escape from the city. With its combination of natural beauty, educational value, and family-friendly facilities, it’s definitely worth adding to your Shanghai itinerary.
