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Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is a vibrant city offering a rich blend of history, culture, and modernity. Known for its pristine beaches, ancient temples, and bustling shopping streets, the city offers something for everyone. Whether you want to explore natural beauty, learn about the region’s cultural heritage, or enjoy leisurely time with your loved ones, places to visit in Chennai with family have plenty to offer. The city’s warm hospitality and family-friendly attractions make it a perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation.
Top 13 Places To Visit In Chennai With Family
Here’s a curated list of the best places to visit in Chennai with family, ensuring that you make the most of your trip:
1. Marina Beach
Photo: Abinayasekar357 / Wikimedia Commons
Marina Beach, stretching over 13 km, is one of the longest urban beaches in Tamilnadu and in the world. It’s a perfect family-friendly destination for enjoying a day by the sea. Children can indulge in activities like kite flying, and the beach is lined with stalls selling local snacks such as roasted peanuts and Sunday. Families can enjoy horse rides, stroll along the promenade, or simply relax on the sandy shores while watching the sunset.
Tourist Attractions: Lighthouse, food stalls, and pony rides
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (20 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Chennai Central Railway Station (6 km)
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Suggested Read: Beaches Near Chennai
2. Arignar Anna Zoological Park
Photo: Yakshitha / Wikimedia Commons
Also known as Vandalur Zoo, the Arignar Anna Zoological Park is one of the largest zoos in India and a great place for a family outing. The park is home to over 170 species of animals, including tigers, elephants, and exotic birds. Children will love the safari rides, where they can spot lions and deer in their natural habitats. The zoo also has a dedicated children’s park and educational programs that make it a fun learning experience for young minds.
Tourist Attractions: Animal safari, children’s park, and butterfly house
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (15 km)
Ideal Duration: 4 – 5 hours
Best Time To Visit: October to March
3. Guindy National Park And Snake Park
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
Guindy National Park, located in the heart of Chennai, offers an enriching experience for families looking to explore wildlife. It is one of the smallest national parks in India but is home to various flora and fauna, including blackbucks, spotted deer, and a range of bird species. Adjacent to the park is Snake Park, where visitors can see a collection of snakes, crocodiles, and turtles.
Tourist Attractions: Blackbuck enclosure, aviary, and reptile house
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (12 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Guindy Railway Station (1 km)
Ideal Duration: 3 – 4 hours
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Suggested Read: Mudumalai National Park
4. MGR Film City
Photo: Vinayaraj/ Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
A haven for movie buffs, MGR Film City is an exciting destination located in Taramani. It showcases the fascinating world of Tamil cinema, complete with sets, studios, and even a film museum. Families can take guided tours or take help from nearby peoples to see behind-the-scenes action of movie-making or explore recreated film sets. The open grounds, film sets, and gardens offer a unique experience for children and adults alike, making it one of the best places to visit in Chennai with family.
Tourist Attractions: Film sets, museum, and gardens
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (13 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Taramani Railway Station (2 km)
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Best Time To Visit: November to February
5. Dakshinachitra Museum
Photo: Mohan Babu V / Wikimedia Commons
Dakshinachitra Museum is a must-visit. Located on the East Coast Road for families interested in the rich cultural heritage of South India. This living museum preserves the art, architecture, and lifestyles of South Indian communities, making it one of the best places to visit in Chennai with family. . Visitors can explore traditional homes from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, interact with artisans, and enjoy cultural performances.
Tourist Attractions: Traditional South Indian homes, craft workshops, and cultural performances
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (25 km)
Ideal Duration: 4 – 5 hours
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Suggested Read: Explore Science Museums In Chennai
6. Birla Planetarium
Photo: Thamizhpparithi Maari / Wikimedia Commons
The Birla Planetarium, located inside the Periyar Science and Technology Centre, is an engaging place for families, especially for children curious about astronomy and space. The planetarium hosts several interactive exhibits on science and space exploration, making it one of the best places to visit in Chennai with family. The 360-degree sky theatre offers a thrilling experience of virtual night skies, constellations, and celestial events.
Tourist Attractions: Sky theatre, science exhibits, and space gallery
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (15 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Guindy Railway Station (5 km)
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Best Time To Visit: November to February
7. Semmozhi Poonga
Photo: Eashchand / Wikimedia Commons
Semmozhi Poonga is a beautifully landscaped botanical garden in Chennai’s heart. It’s an excellent place for families to unwind amidst nature. The park features a variety of exotic plants, a children’s play area, and a beautiful lake. Families can enjoy picnicking under the shady trees and in the peaceful environment or take leisurely walks. The park is also home to several species of birds, making it one of the most exciting places for family trips to visit Chennai.
Tourist Attractions: Exotic plants, walking trails, and a lake
Nearest Railway Station: Chennai Egmore Railway Station (4 km)
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Nagercoil Explore Tamil Nadu’s Scenic Landscapes
8. VGP Universal Kingdom
Photo: Mohan Babu V / Wikimedia Commons
The VGP Universal Kingdom is a family-friendly amusement park on East Coast Road. It offers a wide range of thrilling rides, water slides, and entertainment shows that cater to all age groups. The park has a dedicated kids’ zone with age-appropriate rides, while older children and adults can enjoy roller coasters and water rides, making it one of the best places to visit in Chennai with family.
Tourist Attractions: Roller coasters, water park, and live shows
Nearest Railway Station: Velachery Railway Station (15 km)
Ideal Duration: 5 – 6 hours
Best Time To Visit: November to February
9. Cholamandal Artists’ Village
Photo: Destination8infinity / Wikimedia Commons
For families interested in art, Cholamandal Artists’ Village is a unique destination showcasing contemporary Indian art. Located near Injambakkam, this artist commune is one of the oldest in India and offers visitors a chance to view and purchase paintings, artisans made sculptures, and crafts directly from the artists. The wonderful surroundings and galleries displaying modern and traditional art provide a peaceful setting for a cultural family outing.
Tourist Attractions: Art galleries, sculptures, and craft exhibitions
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (22 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Perungudi Railway Station (10 km).
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Suggested Read: Explore Places To Visit In Tirunelveli For Its Rich Cultural And Historical Heritage
10. Elliot’s Beach
Photo: Sara13891 / Wikimedia Commons
Elliot’s Beach, commonly known as Besant Nagar Beach, is one of the most peaceful beaches in Chennai. It is less crowded compared to Marina Beach, making it a great spot for families to relax. Children can enjoy playing in the sand or flying kites, while adults can indulge in the local street food. The Ashtalakshmi Temple and Velankanni Church, located near the beach, add a spiritual element to the visit.
Tourist Attractions: Ashtalakshmi Temple, Velankanni Church, and beachside eateries.
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (15 km).
Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvanmiyur Railway Station (5 km).
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours.
Best Time To Visit: November to February.
11. Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Photo: Sailko / Wikimedia Commons
Kapaleeshwarar Temple, located in Mylapore, Chennai, is a magnificent Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known for its colorful gopuram, intricately carved pillars, and cultural significance, it is a major spiritual hub in the city. The temple attracts both devotees and tourists who come to admire its rich heritage and vibrant festivals, especially the Arubathimoovar festival. Visiting this temple offers a glimpse into Chennai’s history, traditions, and architectural brilliance, making it a must-see attraction.
Tourist Attractions: Dravidian architecture, cultural festivals, ancient carvings
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Chennai Egmore
Ideal Duration: 1–2 hours
Best Time To Visit: November – March
Suggested Read: Ancient Temples In Tamil Nadu For Every Devotee To Visit
12. San Thome Basilica
Photo: Anugarg2000 / Wikimedia Commons
San Thome Basilica, in Mylapore, is a neo-gothic Roman Catholic church built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle. Its striking white structure, stained glass windows, and spiritual aura make it one of the most prominent religious landmarks in Chennai. The basilica includes a museum showcasing relics of St. Thomas and offers a peaceful retreat for prayer and reflection. This sacred site beautifully blends history, faith, and architecture, attracting pilgrims and tourists from across the world.
Tourist Attractions: Tomb of St. Thomas, stained glass art, church museum
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Chennai Central
Ideal Duration: 1–2 hours
Best Time To Visit: December – February
13. Government Museum
Photo: PP Yoonus / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Government Museum Chennai, located in Egmore, is India’s second oldest museum, renowned for its vast collection of art, archaeology, numismatics, zoology, and anthropology. Its highlight is the Bronze Gallery, housing some of the finest Chola bronzes. The museum also features ancient sculptures, Amravati art, and rare manuscripts. For history and culture enthusiasts, it provides an incredible journey into India’s rich heritage. It is an unmissable attraction for families, students, and tourists keen on exploring Chennai’s cultural depth.
Tourist Attractions: Bronze Gallery, archaeological relics, art collections
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Chennai Egmore
Ideal Duration: 2–3 hours
Best Time To Visit: November – March
Suggested Read: Experience The Timeless Heritage Of The Fort St George Museum
Chennai is a family-friendly destination that offers a blend of cultural, historical, and recreational activities, ensuring an unforgettable experience for everyone. These places to visit in Chennai with family provide endless family bonding and fun opportunities. Plan your next family vacation to Chennai with Trip XL !
Cover Photo: Ashwin / Wikimedia Commons
