9 Best Things to Do in Medan with Family for Learning and Fun!

9 Things to Do in Medan with Family for Learning and Fun

Things to Do in Medan with Family – Traveling with family often means balancing two things at once: meaningful learning experiences for children and enjoyable moments for everyone. Medan, the lively capital of North Sumatra, offers both. Beyond being a major gateway to Lake Toba and the Bukit Lawang rainforest, the city itself holds a rich cultural identity shaped by Malay heritage, Batak traditions, and a colorful mix of global influences.

For international travelers, Medan can be surprisingly educational—its museums, wildlife attractions, and religious landmarks make it a family-friendly destination where children learn while still having fun. This guide explores the best Things to Do in Medan with Family, covering both educational activities and spiritually enriching visits, all based on real experiences and local insights.

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5 Things to Do in Medan with Family for Learning

In this city, there are suitable places for families who want something more meaningful than mall visits or short café stops.

1. Rahmat International Wildlife Museum & Gallery

If you only have time to visit one educational attraction in Medan, choose this one. Rahmat International Wildlife Museum & Gallery is a unique wildlife museum featuring more than 2,000 preserved animal species displayed in incredibly realistic dioramas. From jungle predators to African landscapes, the museum brings visitors into various habitats crafted with remarkable detail.

Its spacious galleries make it enjoyable for children who love exploring. There is also a comfortable rest area and a small souvenir shop offering cold drinks and ice cream at affordable prices. Perfect for cooling down after walking through the exhibits.

This museum is highly recommended because the experience feels like stepping into an entirely different world of realism. Families, children, and even animal lovers will exit the museum with new knowledge and memorable photos.

Address: Jalan S. Parman No. 309, Medan
Ticket price: IDR 75,000
Opening hours: Daily, 09:00–17:00 WIB

2. Museum Negeri Sumatra Utara

For families who enjoy history, this museum provides a calm and informative experience. Museum Negeri Sumatera Utara teaches visitors about the historical timeline of North Sumatra, from traditional ethnic groups to Indonesia’s independence era.

Parking is free and the location is convenient, making it an easy stop during your city tour. It’s not a large or overwhelming museum, so children can comfortably take in the information without feeling exhausted.

Address: Jalan HM. Joni No. 51, Medan
Ticket price: Adults: IDR 5,000 & Children IDR 3,000

Read also: 6 Things To Do in Medan with Kids for a 2–3 Day Trip

3. Kebun Binatang Simalingkar (Medan Zoo)

If you are visiting Medan with kids, sometimes a simple zoo visit is all you need to brighten their day. Kebun Binatang Simalingkar is a small zoo, and although it has limited animal collections, many families still visit for an easy and affordable outdoor experience.

One important note: if you use an online transport app or GPS, make sure to type “Simalingkar”, not “Medan Zoo,” because the old listing is inaccurate.

Address: Jalan Bunga Rampai IV, Medan Tuntungan

Ticket price:

Weekdays: IDR 15,000
Weekends: IDR 20,000

However, please keep expectations realistic. Several recent reviews mention that the zoo needs better maintenance, some enclosures are empty, and certain facilities feel neglected. It’s still a decent place for children, but not the main highlight of Medan’s attractions.

4. Asam Kumbang Crocodile Breeding Farm

This crocodile farm is one of the most fascinating family attractions in Medan. It houses hundreds of crocodiles, ranging from juveniles to gigantic adults. Visiting around 4 PM is ideal because it often coincides with feeding time—an exciting moment for children and adults alike.

You can also buy a duck (around IDR 40,000) from the staff to feed the crocodiles directly into the lake, where they’ll aggressively compete for it. It’s thrilling, educational, and truly a unique experience.

The area also includes a small playground with swings, slides, and seesaws for younger kids. If you need a quick bite, there is a simple canteen, though the menu is mostly limited to instant noodles.

Address: Jl. Bunga Raya II No. 8, Asam Kumbang
Ticket price: IDR 10,000
Parking: Motorcycle: IDR 3,000, Car IDR 5,000

4. USU Deer Sanctuary “Things to Do in Medan with Family”

Located inside Universitas Sumatera Utara, this deer sanctuary is a peaceful stop for families. Entry and parking are completely free, making it one of the most budget-friendly attractions in Medan.

Children can enjoy seeing many deer up close, along with ducks, geese, turkeys, and chickens. Sometimes, local animal communities also gather here and bring exotic pets such as civets or snakes during events.

Visitors are allowed to feed the deer with carrots, green beans, or water spinach. You can buy these on-site or bring your own.

Address: Jalan Dr. Mansyur No. 9 Selayang, Medan
Ticket price: Free
Parking: Free

4 Things to Do in Medan with Family for Religious Trip

Medan is one of Indonesia’s most culturally diverse cities, home to Malay Muslims, Batak Christians, Tamil Hindus, and Chinese Buddhists. Because of this, visiting religious buildings becomes an enriching cultural trip—not just a spiritual one.

Below are some of the most notable religious landmarks suitable for a respectful family visit.

1. Masjid Raya Al-Ma’syum (Great Mosque of Medan)

Known for its iconic octagonal architecture and elegant interiors, Masjid Raya Al-Ma’syum is one of the oldest and most important mosques in North Sumatra.

Visitors must dress modestly, but once inside, you’ll appreciate its calm atmosphere and historical significance. This mosque teaches children about Islamic heritage in a peaceful urban setting

2. Graha Maria Annai Velangkanni

A visually striking Catholic church built in Indian-style architecture, Graha Maria Annai Velangkanni is one of only two churches of its kind in the world—the other is in India. The building features layered towers, bright colors, and detailed carvings, making it perfect for photography and cultural learning.

Address: Perumahan Taman Sakura Indah, Jalan Sakura III No. 7, Tanjung Selamat, Medan
Parking: Optional donation

3. Kuil Shri Mariamman (Shri Mariamman Temple)

Located in the Petisah area, this Tamil Hindu temple showcases colorful sculptures and intricate carvings of Hindu deities. Families can learn about Indian heritage in Medan while admiring the temple’s vibrant design.

Address: Jalan Teuku Umar No. 18, Petisah, Medan

Parking:

Motorcycle: IDR 2,000
Car: IDR 5,000

4. Cemara Asri Residence – Maha Vihara Maitreya

Inside this housing complex lies one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in Southeast Asia: Maha Vihara Maitreya. It is a peaceful spot for walking, photography, or simply introducing children to Buddhist teachings. Many travelers take selfies here because the architecture is clean, modern, and beautifully structured.

Address: Jalan Cemara Boulevard Raya, Deli Serdang
Parking: Free

Medan Is Known for Its Culinary Delights! Here Is a Must-Try Place to Eat

A family trip is never complete without good food—and Medan is a paradise for culinary lovers. One restaurant that you absolutely must try is Mie Ayam Jamur Haji Mahmud, a name well-known among locals and travelers.

This restaurant is famous for its delicious Special Chicken Mushroom Noodles, one of the city’s most beloved dishes. International travelers often visit not only for the noodles, but also to explore other local specialties served here.

The menu is diverse: Medan-style cuisine, Indonesian comfort food, and even oriental dishes. Whether you’re looking for morning toast, a hearty lunch, or a warm cup of Medan coffee to end your day, this place has it all. The restaurant is spacious, making it perfect for large families with children.

And the best part—prices are friendly.