Little Steps Reviews: The Perfect Macao Weekend Itinerary With Kids

Where We Stayed In Macao With Kids?

Where We Ate In Macao With Kids?

Beyond the iconic egg tarts and Portuguese cuisine that Macao is famous for, the city's culinary landscape has dramatically transformed. It now attracts world-class and Michelin-starred chefs who open establishments in this vibrant cosmopolitan city. In Macao, you can discover a wide array of cuisines that cater to every palate and budget, often set within exquisitely decorated environments.

We're fortunate that our four-year-old is an adventurous eater, which allowed us to explore beyond the typical but fantastic family-friendly dining spots. Nevertheless, every restaurant we visited was accommodating, happy to make food substitutions, and equipped with high chairs and child-friendly cutlery. Additionally, many offered dedicated kids' menus, enhancing our dining experiences.

On our first evening, we booked a table at Lai Heen, located on the 51st floor of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. This Michelin-starred Cantonese establishment offers stunning panoramic views of the city, all set within lavish interiors. Be sure to request a window table for the full experience! Other culinary highlights of our trip included Andaz Kitchen, known for its impressive buffets featuring both international and local dishes, Vida Rica at the Mandarin Oriental which boasts an exceptional kids' menu (as well as an exquisite Negroni!), and Gordon Ramsay's new pub and grill at The Londoner Macao, ideal for a relaxed and leisurely Sunday lunch.

Pro tip: While some restaurants might list a no-kids policy or age restrictions on their website, don't be discouraged. It's always worth giving them a call, as many are often willing to accommodate families upon request.

What To Do In Macao With Kids?

Now that we've covered the essentials - where to stay and where to dine - it's time to dive into the fun! Continue reading for our complete weekend itinerary. It was Ryan's first visit to Macao, so we made sure to include key cultural highlights as well.

Pro tips: Keep track of the opening times for playrooms and other attractions, as many don't open until late morning. To avoid both the heat and the crowds, we began our days early, tackling the outdoor activities first.

DAY 1: Family Weekend In Macao: Saturday

After enjoying a hearty buffet breakfast, we were ready to explore the city! We began in the charming old town, where we enjoyed the ruins of St. Paul. The cobbled streets, reminiscent of an old European city, offered a picturesque backdrop with numerous murals and stunning architecture. We also discovered quaint shops selling snacks - including the famous Macanese tarts - and beautiful souvenirs. Taking a break at one of the many cozy cafés for some refreshment is a must.

Next, we ventured to the cooler environment of TeamLab, located at The Venetian Macao. This immersive 5,000-square-foot art experience captivates both kids and adults, making it an ideal way to spend 1-2 hours. Following a quick lunch, we headed to the Galaxy Kidz indoor playroom. Here, kids can climb, run, and play in a beautifully designed space. The playroom also offers creative and educational workshops, which require advance booking. After an hour of play, we were ready to enjoy the outdoors again at the adjacent Grand Resort Deck. Here, we indulged in the pools, the fantastic lazy river, and outdoor toddler water play areas. We could have easily spent the entire day there! As the sun began to set, it was time to head back for a quick shower and change before dinner. What an incredible and memorable day!

Sample itinerary:

DAY 2: Family Weekend In Macao: Sunday

We set out early again and made our way to the Macao Giant Panda Pavilion and Pavilion of Rare Animals as they opened. Here, you might catch the giant pandas enjoying their bamboo breakfast—if they're not napping—alongside other fascinating creatures like monkeys and parrots. The zoo and park are thoughtfully designed, featuring several playgrounds for the kids. Remember, there isn't much shade, so don't forget your sunscreen! Afterward, we cooled off at Qube Kingdom, an incredible indoor play area at The Parisian, which is perfect for both toddlers and older kids. It boasts climbing structures, slides, ball pits, and even a movie-watching area.

While there, it's worth wandering through The Parisian for a bit of shopping - it has every store imaginable!

Don't miss the Sea Odyssey at MGM Cotai, where drone-powered dolphins whimsically soar above in the atrium—a delight for children and adults alike. Be sure to check the show schedule! Our final stop was the Wynn Palace, a lavishly decorated hotel brimming with attractions including art installations. It also hosts the Illuminarium exhibit—an immersive art experience that can transport you to outer space or on a wild safari, depending on the session you choose.

Sample itinerary: