Top 10 Things to Do in Thailand for Your Family Trip (Done Differently)

If you're planning a family trip to Thailand, you're making a great choice — this country is packed with experiences that work beautifully for families: beaches, elephants, waterfalls, temples, local food, and more.

In this guide, I'll share top things to do with teens or adult kids (I'm sure some of them aren't on the usual lists), along with exclusive ways to experience them in a more immersive and meaningful way.

Thailand has endless options, but in this guide, I'll focus on the classic first-time route: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and a southern island for beach time. You can also add a bonus stop — maybe history-rich Kanchanaburi or a national park full of nature and wildlife.

I'll walk you through the best experiences in each region to help you start planning with confidence.

Top Family-Friendly Destinations in Thailand

Here's a quick look at the best places and top experiences for families. From city sights to nature and beaches, this map helps you pick what suits your adventure.

1. Walk Beside Gentle Giants: Ethical Elephant Encounters

If your family love animals, spending time with elephants (but in an ethical way) is a must.

Elephant experiences are available across Thailand, but if your trip includes Chiang Mai, that's definitely the best place to find them.

Here you'll find the richest variety of experiences: walk alongside these gentle giants through jungle trails, help bathe them in a river, share a muddy bath with them, or even stay overnight and wake up to the gentle calls of elephants nearby.

Tell us what kind of experience your family prefers, and we'll help you find the perfect sanctuary. We've personally visited over 15 elephant camps in Chiang Mai to make sure you get a meaningful, crowd-free, and responsible encounter.

2. Explore Temples in an Immersive Way

Temples are part of every Thailand trip — but for teens, sweltering heat and packed crowds can turn a 'must-see' into a 'can-we-leave-now'.

That's why we do things differently.

In Bangkok, we head to the Grand Palace early, before the tour buses roll in. If you're not set on seeing the Emerald Buddha (often packed), we suggest the nearby Bangkok National Museum — quieter, cooler, and full of stories that bring Thai history to life. Then hop on a private long-tail boat to visit Wat Arun from the river — the best view, no traffic.

In Chiang Mai, we recommend staying inside the Old City so you can walk to the temples in the early morning. Catch monks receiving alms at Wat Chedi Luang at dawn, or enjoy the peaceful grounds of Wat Phra Singh just after sunrise or around sunset.

For Wat Doi Suthep, aim for late afternoon — arrive before 5:30 PM to witness the monks' evening chanting ceremony. By then, the crowds have thinned, the atmosphere is tranquil, and it's also the perfect time to catch the sunset over Chiang Mai.

3. Celebrate Thai Festivals: Unforgettable Family Moments

If possible, I highly recommend timing your trip to match one of Thailand's festivals. It can turn your vacation into a truly unforgettable cultural experience.

The Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai (November) is our top pick. For kids, it's like stepping into a real-life scene from Tangled—releasing lanterns into the sky together as a family is pure magic. At the same time, you can enjoy Loy Krathong, a beautiful river lantern festival with floating krathongs and colorful parades.

Can't make it in November? Head to Chiang Mai for the New Year's Eve Countdown. Inspired by Yi Peng, it features lantern releases, fireworks, and live music—an equally breathtaking experience to ring in the new year.

(And just so you know—we're proud to be the biggest local partner for both festivals. We can secure you premium tickets, arrange private transfers, and even help your family dress up in traditional Thai style for the occasion.)

If your trip falls in April, get ready for the world's biggest water fight during Songkran, Thailand's New Year. It's wild, joyful, and definitely a hit with kids (and adults too!).

4. Into the Wild: Hike and Wildlife in Khao Sok National Park

Want to experience Thailand's wild side with your family? I highly recommend Khao Sok National Park.

This southern gem is famous for its lush jungle, stunning lake, and floating bungalows. At the heart of it all is Cheow Lan Lake—a place where you can kayak through flooded forests, spot wildlife from a longtail boat, and spend the night in a floating bungalow or a treehouse. It's the kind of adventure kids absolutely love.

Guided jungle hikes range from easy to moderate, and you might see monkeys, colorful birds, or even wild elephants from a distance.

Yes, it takes more effort to get here (a short flight and a scenic drive), but families who make the journey often say it's their favorite part of the trip.

If you prefer something easier? Try Khao Yai National Park.

Just a 3-hour drive from Bangkok, Khao Yai is perfect for an easy day in nature—think gentle hikes, waterfalls, and maybe even elephant tracks. It's a great choice if you're short on time or traveling with younger kids.

5. Cook Like a Local: Thai Cooking Class in the Fields

If you're curious about Thai cuisine beyond just eating it, a hands-on cooking class is a great addition to your trip.

After visiting cooking schools across Thailand, I can confidently say: Chiang Mai is the best place to take a Thai cooking class. The pace is slower, the surroundings are often lush and rural, and the cost is more affordable than in other cities.

We've handpicked a family-friendly cooking school that feels more like a farm than a classroom. It's peaceful and spacious, with a pond, rice fields, herb gardens, and fruit trees.

Your kids can run around and picking their own papayas, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves before heading to the semi-outdoor kitchen.

You'll learn how to cook Thai dishes based on your interests, like green curry, pad thai, mango sticky rice—surrounded by the smells of fresh herbs and open fields. It's hands-on, fun, and easy to follow for all ages.

6. Zip Through Bangkok by Tuk Tuk

Ever thought of transport as part of the adventure? Hop on a tuk tuk (local 3-wheeled taxi) and zip through Bangkok like a local.

I still remember my first tuk tuk night ride—racing through hidden alleys, no windows (literally!), warm air rushing past, and neon lights flashing overhead. Our tuk tuk was decked out in colorful lights and blasting Thai pop music. We stopped in Chinatown to taste local favorites: noodles, coconut ice cream, and smoky grilled skewers straight off the fire. Even when we got caught in a tropical downpour, we just laughed and kept going.

Want to try it? We can arrange a private tuk tuk tour with a safe route and an English-speaking guide who knows where to stop, what to try, and how to make the night smooth and fun.

You can also combine this with a daytime long-tail boat trip through Bangkok's canals to discover a quieter, more traditional side of the city.

7. Island Time: Easy Beach Fun + Island-Hopping

After the temples, elephants, and city buzz, it's time to unwind on the beach. With so many islands in Thailand, where should you go?

Let me make it simple:

• Phuket is best for variety and ease
• Koh Samui is best for a peaceful, resort-style break
• Krabi is best for nature-loving families

Now if I had to pick just one for families?

Phuket is our top pick overall. It's packed with kid-friendly resorts and tons of activities. And when it comes to island-hopping, nowhere beats Phuket for ease—just hop on a speedboat and you'll be snorkeling in 30 minutes. Nearby islands like Racha and Coral Island are great for half-day trips, with clear water, soft white sand, and calm, shallow spots where kids can safely splash around.

There's more than just beach time, too. You can also kayak through the hidden lagoons in Phang Nga Bay and visit the lively night markets for snacks and souvenirs.

If you want something quieter and more luxurious, Koh Samui is your best bet.

If you're more into dramatic cliffs, kayaking, or even rock climbing, head to Krabi.

8. Explore Local Markets: A Different Side of Thai Life

When you're in Bangkok, I highly recommend setting aside one full day to explore the local markets. It's not just about shopping—it's about stepping into Thailand's rich traditions and unique ways of life.

We offer a curated day tour that brings you to some of the most iconic markets, without the hassle of planning it all yourself. Here's what your day could look like:

Start early at Mahachai Market, Thailand's largest seafood market. It's a true feast for the senses—fresh catches, salty sea air, and rows of vendors starting their day.

Then, hop on a local three-wheeled bicycle (samlor) and cruise to Bangkok's first-ever train station. From here, you'll board a slow local train straight to the legendary Maeklong Railway Market—but not as a bystander. You'll be onboard the train as it rolls through the market, watching umbrellas and stalls fold away just inches from your window. It's a perspective few travelers get.

Next, head to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Climb into a long-tail boat and glide through narrow canals lined with wooden homes, fruit orchards, and paddle vendors selling coconut pancakes and tropical fruits. It's part market, part adventure.

This day isn't just about ticking off attractions—it's about experiencing Thailand's rhythm from the water, the rails, and the local lanes.

9. Adventure in Chiang Mai: Zipline + Sticky Waterfall

If your family loves a bit of fun and adventure, ziplining through the jungle in Chiang Mai is something you shouldn't miss.

King Kong Smile Zipline is a great choice. You'll glide between treetops, cross wobbly hanging bridges, and take in sweeping views of the forest below.

Still have energy? Head to the Sticky Waterfall (Bua Thong Waterfall). It is a magical place where the rocks are rough and grippy and you can climb up the waterfall without slipping. It's a fun mix of water play and adventure, and kids (and adults!) love it.

10. A History Class Like No Other: A Day in Kanchanaburi

If your kids are curious about history, consider an overnight trip to Kanchanaburi, just 2–3 hours from Bangkok.

You'll walk across the famous Bridge over the River Kwai, ride a local train along the WWII-era Death Railway, and explore Hellfire Pass—all in a way that's educational but not too heavy for kids.

To keep things light and fun, you can visit a nature stop, Erawan Waterfalls, one of the most beautiful falls in Thailand. Kids can swim in the turquoise pools and climb from tier to tier through the jungle.

At the end of the day, we highly recommend staying in a floating house on the River Kwai. It's a peaceful and special way to spend the night.

Ready to Customize Your Perfect Family Trip?

Every family is different. Whether your kids crave adrenaline or cultural insights, we design balanced itineraries that keep everyone engaged and comfortable. Contact us today to start planning your tailor-made Thailand family adventure!