Bespoke Experiences for Kids at The Peninsula Hong Kong

Famous for its fleet of bespoke Rolls Royce Phantoms and reputation as Hong Kong’s oldest hotel, The Peninsula Hong Kong is one of the best choices for those who prefer the exclusivity and amenities of a truly luxurious property. And, with its recently upgraded rooms and new Peninsula Academy,  it can be a perfect fit for families visiting Hong Kong with kids. It’s also on our list of best family hotels in Hong Kong.

During our time as expats in Hong Kong, we frequented the property’s signature restaurants—mostly Gaddi’s and the Philippe Starck-designed Felix—and enjoyed afternoon tea at The Lobby more times than I can count. We’ve yet to stay overnight but plan to change this hopefully on our next trip because, in addition to programs offered by the Hong Kong luxury hotel, there are a lot of things to do with kids nearby.

The Peninsula Academy

In an effort to provide guests with unique cultural experiences in each destination, The Peninsula Hotels have rolled out The Peninsula Academy, a wide range of bespoke programs catering to adults and children.

In Hong Kong, options include a helicopter tour of the UNESCO Geoparks, a journey into the city’s vibrant art scene, style sessions with a personal shopper, caviar connoisseurship, dim sum cooking lessons and more that I would love to do.

The Peninsula Academy’s “A Little Pastry Chef’s Adventure” Program

Give kids ages 4-10 a break from touring by enrolling them in “A Little Pastry Chef’s Adventure” where they’ll go behind the scenes in the hotel kitchen for a lesson in baking and decorating.

The program theme is Candy Wonderland and begins with a quick lesson from the pastry chef followed by an opportunity to ask questions. After a small break, kids are able to use their own talent and creativity to decorate on their own.

In addition, kids take a group photo with the chef, keep their Peninsula Hotels apron, receive a recipe booklet and take their treats back to the room.

Other Kid-Friendly Features

Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the famous Hong Kong island skyline while allowing plenty of light to flood the 8th floor pool deck.

For the times you’d like to (and you should) hit the town without the kids in tow, babysitting can be arranged through the concierge. I’ve had excellent experiences with arranging sitters through Hong Kong luxury hotels so I would expect The Peninsula to be no different.

Children’s menus are available throughout the property. Ironically, one of the most frequently-asked questions I receive is whether or not it’s OK to bring kids to afternoon tea. It absolutely is and I would highly recommend it.

Tea at The Peninsula is one of those things you must do while in Hong Kong. You may order off The Lobby menu if for some reason the tea set doesn’t suit your kids (mine loves it).

Within Walking Distance of The Peninsula Hong Kong

Located on the Kowloon side of Victoria Harbour, there are quite a few things to do with kids within walking distance of The Peninsula Hong Kong.

• Harbour City shopping mall: There is an entire wing dedicated to kids’ clothing that is anchored by a Toys”R”Us.
• Star Ferry: Kids love taking the famous green or multicolored ferry boats across to Central or Wan Chai.
• Avenue of the Stars: It’s fun to walk around and see the giant statue of Bruce Lee, though kids probably won’t recognized most of the Chinese actors with stars in the ground.
• Hong Kong Science Museum: This museum has a Cathay Pacific DC3 plane hanging from the ceiling. It’s about a 20 minute walk.
• Hong Kong Space Museum: It’s a little dated but great for an hour especially in inclement weather. My daughter loved the hands-on exhibits and walking through a faux space shuttle. It’s just a few blocks from the hotel.
• Hong Kong Art Museum: Also, a few minutes walk from the hotel, this has some hands-on activities for kids and showcases tons of Chinese art from calligraphy to ceramics.
• Kowloon Park: There’s a little adventure playground for kids in this park.
• Tsim Tsa Tsui MTR station: The station is huge (know your exit) but is your gateway to the rest of Hong Kong as well as Hong Kong Disneyland.
• Nathan Road: Older kids will love the various knick-knacks, electronics, clothing and knock-offs available on this somewhat hectic street.

You are probably best taking a taxi to the Bird Market and the Temple Street Night Market, both also fun for kids in Hong Kong. I’ve walked them both from The Peninsula and it’s probably 20+ minutes.

The Bottom Line

Just because The Peninsula Hong Kong is one of the most prestigious hotels in the city, doesn’t mean it isn’t kid-friendly.