It’s definitely possible to combine learning with fun in an outing with children in Macau! Take the kids to these five museums for a productive day that’s both informative and entertaining. Explore cool and interactive activities, friendly exhibits and educational events. Offering more than just conventional artworks and displays, these museums will teach your children culture, history, and science while providing them with endless entertainment.
Macau Science Center
There’s no way kids won’t get excited entering a silver, cone-shaped building that resembles a spaceship. The 14 galleries advance in an upward spiral exploring diverse subjects such as robotics, earth science, sports health, ecological conservation, and more. The center also generates 3D effects via a high-definition 3D projection system in the planetarium, the first digital system to be simultaneously equipped with ultra-high definition and 3D visual effects in the world. These are all designed to give visitors an entertaining yet educational insight into the fascinating world of science. Many exhibits and activities are specifically designed for children so there is never a boring moment for the little ones.
How much: MOP $25–80
Macau Science Center Avenida Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, NAPE, Macau, +853 2888 0822, [email protected], www.msc.org.mo
Photo credit: IACM
Macao Museum
One of the most distinctive Macau museums located near the Ruins of St. Paul’s is the Macao Museum. It’s easy to navigate your way up to Mount Fortress where the museum is located. The permanent exhibitions include a first floor devoted to history; a second floor focusing on folk customs, and the third floor to contemporary Macau. The museum also houses a regularly rotating series of temporary exhibitions covering a variety of topics. The grounds around the museum are perfect for relaxing and provide great panoramic views of the city below. This is a fun place for kids to learn more about the history and culture of Macau.
How much: MOP $15
Macao Museum 112 Praceta do Museu de Macau, +853 2835 7911, [email protected], www.macaumuseum.gov.mo
Taipa Houses-Museum
The Taipa Houses-Museum, which includes five houses with Macanese architectural characteristics, is considered one of the cultural relics and heritages of the island. The houses were built in 1921 and were the residences for high superior civil servants and Macanese families. There is a beautiful garden nearby where you can take photos and run around with the kids. Head to the play area with slides and swings near the garden or relax on one of the benches outside the houses and take in the views of the Cotai skyline.
How much: Free admission
Taipa Houses Museum Avenida da Praia, Carmo Zone, Taipa, +853 8988 4000, +853 2882 7527, [email protected], www.icm.gov.mo/houses
Museum of Sacred Art and Crypt
The Museum of Sacred Art and Crypt was built in the inner area of the Ruins of St. Paul’s, where the magnificent Church of Mater Dei had been previously located. From 1990 to 1996, the government proceeded with archaeological excavation and restoration and built in the location of the chancel of the ancient church.
In the center of the crypt, on the granite rock, lie the remains of a tomb, which may have belonged to the founder of St. Paul’s College, Father Alexander Valignano. Along the sidewalls, there are relics of Japanese and Vietnamese martyrs. This museum may not be the first choice for a visit with the younger kids, but it has many important historical artifacts and a mystery that children of a certain age might find interesting.
How much: Free admission
Ruins of St. Paul Rua de D. Belchior Carneiro, Macau, +853 2836 6866, [email protected], www.culturalheritage.mo
Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum brings together a number of stories–development of the fishing industry, vessel design, the early Portuguese exploration of Macau, and within the context of greater South China. A variety of exhibits includes original fishing tools, boat models, maps, and scale dioramas. A fun museum that brings a visual immediacy to learning about Macau’s maritime history.
How much: Standard ticket MOP $10, children MOP $5
Maritime Museum 1 Largo do Pagode da Barra, Macau, +853 2859 5481, [email protected], www.marine.gov.mo
