We sent the The Kubiaks (two kids age 4 and 2) to Ritan Park to see if the park had the goods for a family-friendly adventure. Here is the report.

Our family loves to go to Ritan Park for year-round play. It’s our go-to place whenever we are stuck for ideas and pollution levels are acceptable.

As far as Beijing parks go, Ritan Park is relatively small. Still, it has everything parents need to satisfy children in need of a bit of fun in the city center—so much so that it’s nearly impossible to tear our kids away from there!

During the warmer months, our trips to Ritan Park are characterized by romps in the wonderful little amusement park and playground where the kids can jump around in the bouncy castle. We also like to make our way over to the lake where the kids can spend 10 minutes walking and rolling on water from inside giant plastic balls. Those things never fail to tire even the most energetic child. Occasionally, the children will engage in more placid activities like fishing.

Even though it's winter, there is still an abundance of activities. The lake is a much calmer (and tinier) alternative to Houhai for chair skating, and requires no waiting time. My children also love scrambling upon the ubiquitous blue-and-yellow outdoor gym equipment, which are especially popular among locals. Next to these you’re almost always guaranteed to see people practicing tai chi or some type of stringed instrument. The outdoor climbing wall is also nearby. Though it's closed in winter, it makes a great source of amusement come spring.

At some point on every visit, we go on a small climb up to the pagodas and then descend into the cave formations for a round of “going on a bear hunt.” Afterwards, we like to sit down to a delicious duck meal at Xiao Wang Fu, which is particularly nice in the warmer months thanks to the lovely rooftop terrace with views of the park and the city beyond.

DETAILS

What: Ritan Park

The Family: The Kubiaks

The Verdict: It has everything parents need to satisfy children in need of fun in the city center

Perfect For: Parents and kids of all ages

Where: 6 Ritan Beilu, Chaoyangmenwai,朝阳门外日坛北路6号