For families living in or visiting Bangkok, finding the best outdoor spaces can be key to balancing screen time, schoolwork, and wellbeing. While Bangkok is famous for its skyscrapers, shopping, and street food, it also offers excellent green spaces that provide a breath of fresh air for both children and adults.
For parents new to the city or those keen to explore beyond their usual routine, it can be challenging to discover parks that are not only safe and clean but also truly engaging for children of all ages. The good news? Bangkok is home to a number of well-maintained parks that offer space to move, play, and relax without needing to leave the city.
In this guide, we highlight some of the best family-friendly parks in Bangkok, complete with playgrounds, bike paths, picnic areas, and nature trails. Whether you’re planning a quiet Saturday morning or a full-day adventure, these green spaces make it easy to enjoy quality outdoor time together.
How Parks Support Family Wellbeing
Physical and Mental Health Benefits
Spending time in green spaces supports both physical and emotional wellbeing, particularly for children. Parks encourage active outdoor play, helping reduce screen time and boosting physical fitness in a natural, unstructured setting. For parents, a simple walk in nature can reduce stress levels and offer a break from daily routines.
Numerous studies, including those cited by the World Health Organization, show that regular time in nature improves focus, sleep, and mood in children. For families living in a bustling city like Bangkok, regular trips to the park are an important part of a balanced lifestyle.
Source: Thailand Tourism website
Connection and Community
Parks also offer valuable opportunities for community connection. Whether meeting other parents at the playground or joining a local outdoor event, these shared spaces encourage interaction and a sense of belonging. For expat families, visiting parks can be a wonderful way to explore the city, practise Thai, and connect with the local culture beyond the school gates.
Top Family-Friendly Parks in Bangkok
| Park Name | Location | Highlights | Why Families Love It | Google Maps |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benjakitti Park (Benjakitti Forest Park) | Sukhumvit | Lake walks, forest trails, elevated skywalks, shaded playground, bike rental | Nature-rich escape in central Bangkok, ideal for cycling, walking, and peaceful play | View Map |
| Lumpini Park | Silom | Swan boats, large playgrounds, open lawns, outdoor gym | Classic city park perfect for picnics, exercise, and relaxed family outings | View Map |
| Queen Sirikit Park | Chatuchak | Botanical gardens, butterfly house, lotus ponds | Calm and scenic, ideal for toddlers and paired visits with the nearby Children’s Museum | View Map |
| Wachirabenchathat Park (Rot Fai Park) | Chatuchak | Cycling lanes, lakes, shady picnic spots, butterfly garden | Popular with active families; bike hire and nature exploration all in one spot | View Map |
| Suan Luang Rama IX Park | Srinakarin | Botanical zones, flower festivals, paddle boats, walking paths | Spacious and peaceful; perfect for weekend getaways from the city centre | View Map |
| Benjasiri Park | Phrom Phong (BTS) | Modern playground, skating areas, basketball court, art installations | Compact but lively park next to Emporium, great for after-school play | View Map |
Source: Thailand Tourism website
Tips for Visiting Parks with Children in Bangkok
Bangkok’s family-friendly parks are a fantastic resource, and with a little planning, your visit can be even more enjoyable. Here are some helpful tips:
Time Your Visit
Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to visit, ideally between 7:00–10:00 AM or 4:00–6:00 PM. This helps avoid the midday heat. Parks such as Benjakitti and Lumpini can be busier at weekends, so visiting during quieter hours is ideal for families seeking a more peaceful experience.
What to Bring
Pack a few essentials to ensure comfort:
- Reusable water bottles
- Mosquito repellent and sunscreen
- Hats and light, breathable clothing
- A picnic blanket or mat
Shade can be limited, so being prepared for the weather is essential.
Safety and Facilities
While most family parks in Bangkok are well maintained, keep an eye out for:
- Unfenced water features near lakes or canals
- Active cycling lanes (especially in Rot Fai Park)
- Toilet and handwashing facilities (Benjakitti and Lumpini have the best amenities)
How These Parks Support NIST’s Wellbeing Values
At NIST International School, we believe in nurturing the whole child academically, socially, and emotionally. Time spent outdoors in green spaces contributes directly to the personal wellbeing we prioritise through our curriculum and community life.
Balance Beyond the Classroom
Outdoor play offers children the freedom to explore, imagine, and unwind, complementing the inquiry-based learning and structured activities they engage with at school. A relaxed Saturday morning in the park can be just as valuable as time spent in the classroom, helping children build resilience, spark creativity, and foster independence.
For busy families, Bangkok’s parks provide a natural pause: a place to reconnect, be present, and model the importance of balance, central to NIST’s approach to student wellbeing.
Connection to Nature and Sustainability
Bangkok’s green spaces also provide easy, everyday entry points into conversations about sustainability and environmental awareness - key themes in our curriculum. From spotting butterflies at Benjakitti Forest Park to exploring native plants at Suan Luang Rama IX, these outings nurture curiosity about the world around us.
Whether you’re exploring shaded forest trails at Benjakitti, cycling through Rot Fai Park, or enjoying a lakeside picnic at Lumpini, Bangkok’s family-friendly parks offer refreshing, accessible ways for families to create shared memories outdoors - and a healthier, more balanced city life.
Interested in how outdoor experiences shape our students' wellbeing journeys? Discover more about life at NIST International School.