Marina Beach
If you’re planning a trip to Chennai city, then definitely pay a visit to Marina Beach. This iconic landmark stretches a span of 13 kilometres and is one of India’s longest urban beaches. While people cannot swim in the marina, it offers an excellent spot for jogging, walking, or family picnics. Whatever you do, don’t forget to indulge in the local delicacies like tasty roasted corn on the cob to spicy bajji as you bask in the cool sunsets. Whether it’s a one-day trip or a weeklong trip, strolling on Marina Beach is a must on your list of things to do in Chennai.
Muthukkadu
A calm coastal town renowned for its stunning backwaters, Muttukkadu in ECR is a haven for nature lovers. Located near Covelong (Kovalam) beach the lake at Muthukkadu is a treasure trove featuring a diverse array of flora and fauna. The boat house at Muthukkadu is famous among water sports lovers for providing a wide range of activities like waterskiing, windsurfing, and kayaking. Beyond its tranquil beauty, the coastal town also features popular attractions like MGM Dizzee World Amusement Park next to MGM Beach Resorts making it an apt destination for day outings nearby Chennai.
Guindy National Park
A protected area within the Chennai city, the Guindy National Park is home to a variety of flora and fauna within the city. It serves as a national education center to conserve the endangered animals and protect their biodiversity. The park along with the adjoined snake park is the home to blackbucks, spotter deer, and numerous species of birds and reptiles. The Guindy National Park is the perfect place for parents to take their kids for a family weekend day outing.
Mahabalipuram
A timeless city with rich culture and heritage Mahabalipuram is a famous sightseeing place. Regarded as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Mahabalipuram is home to some of the famous historical attractions such as the Shore temple, Pancha Rathas, Arjunas Penance, and Krishna Mandapam. Apart from its heritage sites, it is also famous for its beach that attracts locals and tourists alike. In recent years, it has become famous for its IT Express highway as it became a hub for software companies. What’s more, Pondicherry is just a few hours’ drive from here – just rent a car and go on a pleasant road trip to Puducherry or bask in the sandy shores. All said, Mahabalipuram is the perfect destination if you are looking for a day out trip with friends or family
Arignar Anna Zoological Park
Popularly known as the Vandalur Zoo by locals, the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, established in 1855, is one of the largest zoos in southeast Asia. Having started with just a few hundred animals, the zoo is now home to more than 500 species of wild animals. Spread across 602 hectares of land, the zoo works toward the conservation and breeding of rare and endangered animals. The Arignar Anna Zoological Park is a must visit place in Chennai for families, kids, and animal lovers.
Government Museum Egmore
The Government Museum in Egmore in Chennai is a treasure trove for art and history fanatics alike. This museum is one of the oldest in India and has an extensive collection of historical artefacts spanning various eras. It has a large repository of diverse exhibits ranging from art, archaeology, anthropology, numismatics, and ancient sculptural specimens. It is renowned for housing the largest collection of Roman antiquities outside Europe. The museum also features an additional children’s museum designed to visually entertain kids on topics related to nature, history, technology, and more.
Semmozhi Poonga
One of the most popular places in Chennai, the Semmozhi Poonga has a diverse mix of indigenous and exotic plants, flower beds, bonsai gardens, and rare tree spices. Spread across 20 acres, the park was established by the Tamil Nadu Horticulture Department in 2010. The park is famous among couples, individuals, and friends for its themed gardens. The park also has child-friendly attractions that makes it’s a wonderful place to relax with families. Designed with well-maintained pathways, seating areas, and shaded zones, the Semmozhi Poonga is one of the best places to visit in Chennai.
Kalaignar Centenary Park
A recent addition to Chennai city, kalaignar Centenary Park combines ecofriendly landscaping with traditional elements reflecting the beauty of Tamil culture. It is one of the largest parks in the city, spanning 25 acres, the park features diverse recreational elements. The park has dedicated jogging and cycling tracks, children play area, and an interactive water fountain. With its expansive lawns, shaded walkways, and variety of attractions, the park has quickly become a couple and family favourite for picnics and casual outings during weekends or holidays.
Dakshinachitra
If you are looking to explore places with rich cultural and historical vibe then Dakshinachitra is the place for you. Located south of Chennai, Dakshinachitra is a heritage museum that showcases the art, culture, and architecture of South India. It offers a serene retreat to experience and explore the reconstructed traditional homes of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. Also, the place comes with various workshops, performances, and exhibitions, making it a great place to visit in Chennai to explore with family and kids.
The Madras Crocodile Bank
The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust is a must on your itinerary for things to do in Chennai for its unique experience. Located along the ECR, this reptile zoo is a Centre for Herpetology that’s home to diverse crocodile species, snakes, and turtles. Renowned as one of the largest reptile zoos in the world, the centre aims to conserve critically endangered species. If you are looking for an adventurous activity like snake-handling, or thrilling night safaris with family and friends, The Madras Crocodile Bank is a must on your list of places to visit in Chennai.