Beijing parents are always asking “Where can I throw a birthday party for my kid?” Well, we’re here to tackle that big bouncy question as we explore different types of venues all over the city, and give you an in-depth look at your kids’ party options. Search #BigBeijingBirthdayPartyList for more recommendations from us.
I usually lament my residential address just shy of the fifth ring road because it’s a little far from the city center and there isn’t much around. So when a new outdoor playground opened up not 8 minutes’ walk away from me, I was understandably excited and went to check it out!
Surrounded by brick walls that close off the busy streets around it, Ai Le Yuan spans two large enclosed areas right off the main road of Chaoyang Lu. Except for a glimpse of color and chrome over the exterior walls, you wouldn’t know there was a massive play area waiting within. Entering from the small road between the two areas, you’ll find the younger kids’ section on the right and the more challenging play area on the left.
Let’s first take a look at the right side play area, which I would say is good for kids younger than 6 or so. What will immediately catch your eye is the large aerial obstacle course, well-sized sandpit and the petting zoo – which has enclosures with pigs, rabbits, alpaca, goats, horse, donkeys and even squirrels to feed, for an extra fee, though nobody’s stopping you from bringing your own carrots! There are a couple of sheltered stations behind the obstacle course which offer fishing in inflatable pools, as well as a “mining for gems” machine which is pretty common in most play areas in Beijing. There’s also some tables and chairs next to the convenience kiosk here.
The playground on the left side of the park is definitely the larger, more open one, probably best suited to kids older than 6. The first thing you’ll see is the huge blue and red play structure that consists of easy climbing walls and many slides. What’s fun is how two metal slides come together to form a heart shape, and if you time it perfectly the kids will meet right at the end! Next to this is a towering playground with what might be the longest and tallest slides I’ve seen in an outdoor playground in Beijing. I’m not sure I would dare slide down it myself…
One key selling point of this play area might be the day tents they offer for rent, at a rather hefty price tag of RMB 600 for the day. But if you share it with another family or two, it could be worthwhile to spend the whole day in the relatively warmer comfort of the cloth tents while keeping an eye on the kids. Pack a picnic basket and you’re good to go. These tents are also great for parties and celebrations so you can keep this venue in mind for your kid’s next birthday!
Right now as part of its opening promotion, Ai Le Yuan entrance tickets are just RMB 49 per pax and RMB 89 for one adult and one child, valid for multiple entries all day long! Do note that several stations within the play areas themselves are subject to additional charge, including the trampoline. PRO TIP: If you are able to negotiate a fixed budget with your child beforehand, it can certainly keep you from shelling out too much yuan for add-ons.
KEEP READING: Puppies and Piggies and Sheep, Oh My!
Images: Vivienne Tseng-Rush
