Are you looking for the best places to visit in Mumbai with family? If yes, you need to include these ten places in your list. Spending time with family is valuable, and that’s no lie! That’s why planning a family outing is always a fantastic idea. The only thing to remember is to select destinations that cater to both adults and children. Luckily, Mumbai has an array of attractions for all ages, making it an ideal place for a friends and family holiday. Here are some of the top locations in Mumbai that are perfect for visiting with your loved ones.
Table of Contents
Best Places to Visit in Mumbai With Family
1. The Gateway of India
The Gateway of India, an iconic monument in Mumbai, stands as a testament to the city’s landscape. It was built in 1924 for the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. This colossal structure exemplifies architectural brilliance and is a must-visit spot in Mumbai.
The massive monument is located next to the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel and overlooks the mesmerizing Arabian Sea. It is an ideal location to spend quality time with loved ones during the early morning or late evening hours. For those looking for places to visit in Mumbai at night with family, do not miss out on this spot. A ferry ride is a must-do activity here, offering a stunning view of this magnificent structure from the sea.
Timings:
- The Gateway of India is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For a more enjoyable visit, consider going early in the morning or in the evening when the weather is cooler.
- The monument is illuminated in the evening, and on special occasions, it may be lit up in thematic colors.
Entry Fee:
- There is no entry fee. You can explore this historic landmark without any cost.
Things to Do:
- Enjoy the View: Admire the stunning views of the Arabian Sea from this iconic monument.
- Photography: Capture the grandeur of the gateway against the sea backdrop. No charges apply for bringing your camera and equipment.
- Boat Rides: Consider taking a boat ride from the Gateway of India. Prices range from ₹30 to ₹150, depending on the type of boat ride.
- Local Tea Stalls: Savor hot chai from nearby tea stalls.
- Trick Photography: Engage with local photographers for creative shots, such as framing yourself “holding” the Gateway of India.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit the Gateway of India in Mumbai is early morning or evening. These times offer cooler weather and a pleasant experience
2. Elephanta Caves
These ancient caves are located on Elephanta Island, accessible by ferry from Mumbai’s mainland, and date back to the 2nd century BC. The Elephanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with rock-cut architecture and Buddhist stupas. For history lovers, these basalt caves are one of the best places to visit in Mumbai. They are spread over two hills namely Cannon Hill and Stupa Hill.
Timings:
- The Elephanta Caves are open daily from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, except on Mondays when they are closed.
- Plan your visit within these hours.
Entry Fee:
- Indian Citizens: ₹10 per person
- Foreign Nationals: ₹250 per person
- Free for Children under the age of 15 years.
Exploring the Caves:
- Cave Temples: These rock-cut temples are dedicated mainly to Lord Shiva. Admire the intricate sculptures and carvings depicting Hindu mythology.
- Trimurti Sculpture: Don’t miss the grand Trimurti Sadashiva, a 5.45-meter-high, three-faced statue of Shiva.
- Nataraja Sculpture: Marvel at the depiction of Nataraja, the Lord of Dance.
- Yogishvara Sculpture: Explore the sculpture of Yogishvara, the Lord of Yogis.
- Buddhist Stupas: Discover a few Buddhist stupa mounds dating back to the 2nd century BCE.
Best Time to Visit:
- The ideal time to visit is during the cooler months from November to February when the weather is pleasant.
- Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rains and rough seas for ferry rides.
3. Juhu beach
As the most popular beach in Mumbai, Juhu Beach is located close to Andheri and was once a quite beautiful place. It has the longest beach in Mumbai and is the most popular tourist attraction. The beach has some of the best beach resorts in Mumbai and also offers a wide range of street foods with typical Mumbai flavors sweet and sour. It is not uncommon to see famous Bollywood and television celebrities jogging on the beach in the surrounding area of Juhu, one of the poshest localities in Mumbai. Amitabh Bachchan’s bungalow is the most famous bungalow in the area.
Timings:
- Juhu Beach is accessible throughout the day, but the best times to visit are during the evening and night when the beach comes alive with activity.
Entry Fee:
- There is no entry fee; Juhu Beach is a public beach and you can visit freely.
Things to Do:
- Enjoy Street Food: Sample Mumbai’s iconic street food from the many stalls, including Vada Pav, Potato Twisters, and Steamed Momos.
- Stroll Along the Shore: Take a leisurely walk along the 6 km stretch of sandy beach.
- Watch the Sunset: Enjoy the scenic views of the sunset over the Arabian Sea.
- Explore Celebrity Homes: Juhu is known for its Bollywood celebrity residences, and you might spot some famous homes.
- Admire Sand Art: Check out creative sand art made by talented local artists, often including kids.
Best Time to Visit:
- Evening and night are ideal for experiencing the lively atmosphere, enjoying street food, and seeing the beach under moonlight.
4. Marine drive
As a result of its beautiful view during the night that resembles necklace beads, Marine Drive is one of Mumbai’s most popular destinations for families. You can enjoy beautiful walks or even horse-drawn carriage rides while enjoying street food bought from local vendors as you enjoy a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea and the entire city skyline.
Timings:
- Marine Drive is open 24/7. The best times to visit are early morning or late evening when the promenade’s lights create a magical atmosphere.
Entry Fee:
- There is no entry fee. Marine Drive is a public space and you can enjoy it for free.
Things to Do:
- Stroll Along the Promenade: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the C-shaped concrete road, taking in the sea breeze and views of the Arabian Sea.
- Admire the Queen’s Necklace: At sunset, the street lights along Marine Drive form a glowing necklace, earning it the nickname “Queen’s Necklace.”
- Photography: Capture stunning photos of the skyline, particularly during sunrise or sunset.
- Street Food: Sample local street food like bhel puri, vada pav, and chaat from vendors along the promenade.
- Relax and Reflect: Sit on the wide pavement, listen to the waves, and enjoy a moment of solitude.
Best Time to Visit:
- Early morning (around sunrise) or late evening (sunset) for the most pleasant experience, with cooler weather and beautiful lighting.
5. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
You can experience India’s rich cultural heritage at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, a premier museum in South Mumbai. It is home to an extensive collection of artifacts, artwork, and archaeological treasures dating back thousands of years. The museum features ancient sculptures, intricate textiles, and fascinating exhibits that showcase India’s diverse heritage and history.
Timings:
- The museum is open daily from 10:15 AM to 6:00 PM.
Entry Fee:
- Adults: ₹100
- Children (ages 5-12) and Senior Citizens: ₹50
Things to Do:
- Explore Art and Artifacts: Discover a wide range of sculptures, decorative arts, and historical artifacts.
- Admire the Architecture: The museum’s building features a stunning blend of Indo-Saracenic and Gothic Revival styles.
- Visit the Natural History Section: Learn about India’s flora, fauna, and geology.
- Explore the Miniature Paintings Gallery: View intricate Indian miniature paintings.
- Attend Special Exhibitions and Events: Check the museum’s schedule for temporary exhibitions and cultural programs.
Best Time to Visit:
- The ideal time to visit is during the cooler months from October to February.
6. Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park, located in the northern suburbs of Mumbai, offers a unique opportunity to escape the urban hustle and bustle. It is indeed one of the top tourist places visited in India by people all over the world. Nature trails, wildlife safaris, and picnics amidst lush greenery are among the activities offered at the park for families. It’s a memorable day for kids to see leopards, deer, butterflies, and more among a variety of flora and fauna.
Timings:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Sunday: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee (in ₹):
- Adult: ₹58 per person
- Child: ₹31 per person
- Mini Train:
- Adult: ₹50 per person
- Child: ₹70 per person
- Tiger Safari:
- Adult: ₹81 per person
- Child: ₹28 per person
- Combined Tiger & Lion Safari:
- Adult: ₹97 per person
- Child: ₹32 per person
- Boats:
- 4-seater: ₹97
- 2-seater: ₹48
- Cycle Rent: ₹60
- Shuttle Bus (park entrance to caves): ₹60 per person
- Still Camera: ₹50
Things to Do:
- Explore Kanheri Caves: Visit these ancient Buddhist caves, carved from basaltic cliffs about 2400 years ago.
- Wildlife Spotting: Look for over 40 species of mammals, 254 bird species, 150 butterfly species, and 78 reptile and amphibian species.
- Nature Walks: Enjoy serene walks through lush greenery and scenic landscapes.
- Visit the Souvenir Shop: Purchase artifacts, books, and organic products related to SGNP’s biodiversity.
Best Time to Visit:
- Winter Months (November to February): Ideal for pleasant weather and frequent wildlife sightings. Early mornings and late afternoons are best for safaris and nature walks.
7. Essel World, Mumbai
If you’re looking to have a fun-filled day with your family, check out Essel World, one of the country’s largest and most popular amusement parks. It is considered one of the top places to visit in Mumbai for a good time, offering an array of adventurous rides and activities suitable for all ages. The park features everything from family-friendly rides to adrenaline-pumping thrill rides, as well as attractions specifically designed for kids. Additionally, there is also a 6-lane bowling alley, a spacious dance floor, and an ice skating rink available to keep you entertained throughout the day. And don’t forget to grab a quick bite at one of the many restaurants located within the park to recharge yourself.
Timings:
- Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee (in ₹):
- Adults:
- Basic: ₹290
- Silver: ₹885
- Fast Track + Silver*: ₹1,170
- Combine^: ₹1,405
- Annual Pass – Passport Next (3 entries per year to either park): ₹1,640
- Children (height above 3’3″ and below 4’6″):
- Basic: ₹290
- Silver: ₹530
- Fast Track + Silver*: ₹900
- Combine^: ₹945
- Annual Pass – Passport Next (3 entries per year to either park): ₹1,640
Things to Do:
- Family Fun:
- Explore the Alibaba Adventure Maze
- Enjoy the Copper Chopper ride
- Experience the Aqua Drive rollercoaster
- Ride the Zipper Dipper rollercoaster
- For Adults:
- Thrilling rides such as Shot-n-Drop, Hoola Loop, and Tunnel Twister
- Bowling alley, ice-skating rink, and a discotheque
- For Kids:
- Exclusive rides designed for children
- Visit the Navy ship Prabal, now a life science museum
Best Time to Visit:
- Essel World is enjoyable year-round, but the winter months (November to February) provide the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
8. Mumbai Film City
Mumbai and Bollywood seem to be synonymous, don’t they? You can see how things unfold on the screen at Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari aka Mumbai Film City if you and your family are big Bollywood fans. This studio features lakes, gardens, prisons, temples, courts, fountains, mountains, waterfalls, villages, theatres, recording rooms, and open spaces, which are often used for Bollywood filming sequences.
- Timings:
- 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. It’s a good idea to check for specific schedules or guided tours in advance.
- Entry Fee:
- Regular Tour: ₹599 per person (includes bus ride and guided tour)
- Super Saver Tour: ₹1,099 per person (includes bus ride, guided tour, and Bollywood costume experience)
- Exclusive Tour: ₹1,499 per person (includes bus ride, guided tour, Bollywood costume experience, and live shooting spot visit)
- Things to Do:
- Guided Tour: Explore film sets, studios, and iconic locations used in Bollywood movies and TV shows.
- Bollywood Costume Experience: Dress in Bollywood-style costumes and take memorable photos.
- Live Shoots: Watch ongoing film or TV show shoots (subject to availability).
- National Museum of Indian Cinema: Visit the museum within Film City to learn about the history of Indian cinema.
- Enjoy the Scenic Beauty: The area is surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for nature lovers.
- Best Time to Visit:
- Winter Months (October to February): Ideal for pleasant weather.
- Avoid Monsoons (June to September): Due to heavy rains.
9. Red Carpet Wax Museum
Why not capture a family moment next to Sir Isaac Newton or snap a selfie with James Bond? These are just some of the experiences waiting for you in Mumbai, and we are not kidding! The Red Carpet Wax Museum is the perfect destination for making these dreams a reality. With life-size statues of global figures ranging from world leaders and politicians to scientists, actors, musicians, sports icons, and even fictional favorites like Harry Potter, this place truly comes to life. And be warned that convincing your kids to leave won’t be easy. It’s no surprise that the Red Carpet Wax Museum is at the top of the list when it comes to unique attractions in Mumbai.
Timings:
- 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. It’s a good idea to check their official website or contact them directly for any updates or changes.
Entry Fee:
- The entry fee is not specified here. For the most accurate and current information, please visit their official website or contact the museum directly.
Things to Do:
- Meet Celebrities: See lifelike wax statues of famous personalities such as Mahatma Gandhi, Barack Obama, Queen Elizabeth, and more. Take photos with your favorite icons!
- Create Your Own Hand Wax: Make a personalized wax hand as a unique souvenir.
- Explore Snow Kingdom and Click Art 3D Museum: Tickets for these attractions are available at the same location. Don’t miss out on these additional experiences!
- Feel Like a Star: Enjoy the museum’s red carpet ambiance, making you feel like a celebrity.
- Immerse in History: Discover global leaders, social workers, and other influential figures through their meticulously crafted wax statues.
10. Hanging Garden
A beautiful hanging garden at the top of Malabar Hill in South Mumbai. As citizens attempt to escape the hectic city life, the hanging gardens are referred to as Pherozeshah Mehta gardens. With its panoramic views, the emerald green grass patched up by neat lawns binds you close to the sea. It’s the perfect place to relax with family and let your soul wander.
Timings:
- The Hanging Gardens are open daily from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Entry Fee:
- There is no entry fee.
Things to Do:
- Enjoy the Sunset Views: The gardens offer stunning views of the sunset over the Arabian Sea, making it a perfect spot to unwind.
- Explore the Terraced Layout: Wander through the terraced gardens, admire the lush greenery, and enjoy the well-maintained pathways.
- Animal-Shaped Hedges: Discover hedges shaped like various animals, adding a unique touch to the garden.
- Photography: Capture panoramic views of the city and sea.
- Relax and Unwind: Find a peaceful spot to relax, read a book, or simply enjoy the serene environment.
Best Time to Visit:
- Evening, especially around sunset, offers the most beautiful and tranquil experience.
Conclusion
If you are planning a trip to Mumbai, these are the best places to visit in Mumbai with family for a memorable experience. These places offer an array of attractions that are perfect for family outings, blending fun, culture, and relaxation. From iconic landmarks and historical sites to vibrant beaches and lush parks, there’s something for everyone. Whether exploring architectural marvels, enjoying scenic views, or immersing in Bollywood’s magic, families can create lasting memories. The diverse experiences available make Mumbai an ideal destination for quality time with loved ones.
