🌞 Beat the Heat: Top Family Activities in Taiwan This Summer

School is almost out, which means a lot of overseas families are preparing for a summer in Taiwan. Summer in Taiwan is an experience of contrasts: vibrant festivals and lush landscapes juxtaposed with intense heat and humidity.

From June through August, Taiwan’s temperatures often soar above 33°C (91°F), with humidity levels that can make it feel even hotter. In urban areas like Taipei, the combination of concrete structures and limited airflow can amplify the heat, making even short walks outdoors a sweaty endeavor. It’s not uncommon for locals and visitors alike to seek refuge in air-conditioned spaces after brief periods outside.

To survive the Taiwan summer heat, we highly consider the following tips:

• Dress Appropriately: Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. These materials allow for better air circulation and help wick away sweat.
• Stay Hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it regularly. Convenience stores are ubiquitous in Taiwan and offer a variety of cold beverages to help you stay cool.
• Use Sun Protection are a MUST!: Apply sunscreen with a high SPF, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and consider using a UV-protective umbrella when walking outdoors.
• Plan Indoor Activities: Schedule outdoor excursions for early mornings or late afternoons when temperatures are slightly cooler. During peak heat hours, explore indoor attractions like museums, shopping centers, or aquariums.

Here are some of our favorite activities to do during the summer to have some water fun, stay cool and make fun memories with kids!

🏛️ Explore Interactive Museums

National Palace Museum (Taipei)

Dive into over 700 years of Chinese history at the National Palace Museum. Home to artifacts from the Ming and Qing dynasties, the museum showcases treasures like jadeite cabbages and ancient bronze mirrors. It’s an educational and cool retreat from the summer sun.

• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM; Closed on Mondays.
• Admission: Adults: NT$350; Students: NT$150; Free for children under 18 and Taiwan students with valid ID.
• Website: National Palace Museum

Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Taipei

Located in a historic Japanese-era building, MOCA Taipei offers a blend of contemporary Taiwanese and international art exhibitions. It’s a great spot for families to experience modern art in a comfortable setting.

• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 06:00 PM; Closed on Mondays.
• Website: MOCA Taipei

🛍️ Visit Shopping Malls for Food, Shopping and AC

Taipei 101 Mall

Beyond being an iconic skyscraper, Taipei 101 houses a luxurious shopping mall featuring world-renowned brands, and lots of dining options (Din Tai Fung). Their food court in B1 is pretty amazing with local cuisine and other international brands. It’s an ideal place for families to shop, dine, and relax in a cool environment.

• Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 11:00 AM – 09:30 PM; Friday, Saturday, and National Holidays, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
• Website: Taipei 101 Mall

Brand New – Taipei Dome Underground Shopping Center

If you haven’t been back to Taipei in the last year, this is a new exciting hotspot to visit. Right by Sun Yat Sun Memorial Hall on Zhongxiao East Rd, Sec. 4, is the Far Eastern Garden City, a new, sprawling shopping and entertainment complex within the Taipei Dome. Spanning approximately 139,000 square meters, this mall has a huge underground shopping mall, a refreshing escape from the Taipei’s summer heat. Families can enjoy a variety of attractions, including a 14-screen Show Times cinema complex (grand opening 5/25/2025) and Gourmet Park, featuring 14 themed restaurants such as STAR HUTONG and SPORTS NATION. The B2 Garden Corridor, an underground shopping street, connects directly to the Taipei Metro, ensuring convenient and climate-controlled access.

• Website: Taipei Dome

💦 Splash Around at Water Parks

Taipei Water Park

Situated in the Gongguan district, Taipei Water Park combines recreational water facilities with educational exhibits. Children can enjoy various water attractions, while the Museum of Drinking Water offers insights into the city’s water history. Summer season 2025 just opened on May 17th. It’s close to National Taiwan University campus – very accessible by bus or MRT. Be ware that it will be a ZOO on weekends. The water is very cold and clean though. We highly recommend going early – before 10am.

• Opening Hours: Non-Summer Period (January to June / September to December): 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM; Summer hours may vary.
• Website: Taipei Water Park

Leofoo Water Park

Located within the Leofoo Village Theme Park in Hsinchu County, this water park offers a range of water-based attractions suitable for all ages. From thrilling slides to relaxing pools, it’s a perfect destination for a family day out. More suitable for older kids who will be able to enjoy the water slides and rides. Younger kids still have a lot of fun walking through the water maze and the park in general. Remember to bring your swim cap because that’s a thing in Taiwan – swim caps for pool and water facilities.

• Website: Leofoo Village Theme Park

Enjoy, stay cool and have fun! Let us know how you like any of these suggestions above!