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24 Free Things To Do In Bangkok, So You Can Save Your Baht For Thai Street Food & Shopping 

Free things to do in Bangkok


Thailand is usually the first place that comes to mind when one thinks of budget trips that don’t skimp on great views and eats. However, there are actually a lot of free things to do in Bangkok that will make your wallet all the happier on your next vacation.

The current exchange rate is ฿10 = ~S$0.37 as of 10th July 2024.


– Nature parks –


1. Benjakitti Forest Park


Bangkok’s “Central Park”


free things to do in bangkok - benjakitti park

Smack in the middle of the towering buildings in the city is Benjakitti Park, Bangkok’s very own “Central Park”. This park has a huge lake with views of skyscraper condominiums, and a lotus marsh where you might chance upon monitor lizards.

Take a few moments away from the night markets and massages for a walk here –  you can take in some fresh air and burn off some calories on the running track too.

Benchakitti Park
Google Reviews
4.6
(8,438)
Address
Thanon Ratchadaphisek, Khwaeng Khlong Toei, Khet Khlong Toei, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10110, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 04:30 AM - 09:00 PM Show More Timings

2. Lumphini Park


Free events & festivals


free things to do in bangkok - lumphini park
Image adapted from: @joy2k via Instagram 

Bangkok’s first public park, Lumphini Park, has been the staple for picnics and garden getaways, with art installations and a lake from which you can get clear views of skyscrapers like King Power Maha Nakhon.

It’s also your best bet to catch free concerts and performances, as local artists like the Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra have been using the park as a venue for public shows, so keep an eye out for upcoming gigs on your next visit.

Lumphini Park
Google Reviews
4.5
(34,117)
Address
Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 04:30 AM - 10:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

3. Rama IX National Park


Largest public park in Bangkok, with a pavilion


free things to do in bangkok - rama ix park
Image adapted from: Somchai Krongsomboon via Google Maps

At 200 acres, which is just a little smaller than the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Rama IX National Park is Bangkok’s largest public park with structures like the Rajmangala Pavillion, a mini hall with artefacts of King Rama IX, and the Queen Sirikit Monument, overflowing with flowers that pay tribute to the queen’s garden.

Although the park has an entrance fee of ฿10 from 5am-5pm, entry is free after 5pm till it closes at 7pm.

Suan Luang Rama IX
Google Reviews
4.7
(15,938)
Address
Chaloem Phrakiat Ratchakan Thi 9 Rd, เเขวง หนองบอน Khet Prawet, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10250, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 05:00 AM - 07:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

– Museums –


4. Bangkokian Museum


WWII memorabilia in restored heritage houses


free things to do in bangkok - bangkokian museum
Image adapted from: @renying1102 via Instagram and Museum Thailand

Although the Bang Rak district is known for Silom and Sathorn’s vibrant nightlife and shopping, it’s also home to an assortment of colonial buildings and architecture. One of these structures is the Bangkokian Museum, which features WWII artefacts displayed in 3 colonial homes.

You’ll find a combination of Thai and European antiquities that date as far back as 1929, such as vintage furniture sets, a piano, and even a toy collection.

Bangkokian Museum
Google Reviews
4.6
(1,058)
Address
273 Soi Saphan Yao, Khwaeng Si Phraya, Khet Bang Rak, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10500, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

5. Museum of Counterfeit Goods


Collection of fake branded items


free things to do in bangkok - museum of counterfeit goods
Image adapted from: Craig Burton via Google Maps

Bangkok is well known for its shopping malls and markets, but there are times when you need a second look to discern if that LV bag is the real deal. Regional law firm Tilleke & Gibbins started the Museum of Counterfeit Goods to raise awareness about this issue of intellectual property theft and the harmful labour practices that come with it.

Their collection consists of over 4,000 products that breach or mimic popular trademarks, from your Pumes (Puma) to Eddie Hardy (Ed Hardy). Though it’s free to enter, you have to book a visit at least 5 days in advance.

Tilleke Gibbins Museum of Counterfeit Goods
Google Reviews
5
(2)
Address
MGMX+32X ซอย นราธิวาสราชนครินทร์ 30 Khwaeng Chong Nonsi, Khet Yan Nawa, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10120, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday Closed Show More Timings

6. King Prajadhipok Museum


Underrated museum about the life of a Thai monarch


free things to do in bangkok - king prajadhipok museum
Image adapted from: @ps_nankhorn via Instagram and King Prajadhipok Museum

The Bangkok National Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art may be the first places that come to mind when you think of museums in the city. But the King Prajadhipok Museum is an underrated gem, housed in a huge mansion-like building.

Serving as a tribute to King Rama VII, the 3-storey building used to be the king’s personal storage space. You’re likely to find his belongings like badges and portraits between plaques describing his life story. There’s a floor dedicated to his queen as well, with her old possessions such as animal-shaped tape measures.

King Prajadhipok Museum
Google Reviews
4.7
(492)
Address
2 Lan Luang Rd, Khwaeng Wat Sommanat, Khet Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10100, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

7. Papaya Studio


Huge museum-like antiques & furniture warehouse


 

Though Papaya Studio isn’t necessarily a museum, its 4 stories of antiquities make it a treasure trove of funky vintage items for you to see. The collection is also curated, allowing you to explore the store section by section, from retro radios and sound systems to oddly shaped chairs and couches.

PAPAYA Studio Thailand’s Largest Antique vintage store
Google Reviews
4.4
(376)
Address
405, 1 Sukhaphiban 5 Alley, Khwaeng Tha Raeng, Khet Bang Khen, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10220, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 09:30 AM - 07:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

8. Bangkok Art & Culture Centre


Contemporary gallery with free-to-view exhibitions


free things to do in bangkok - bangkok cultre and art centre

If history isn’t your forte, and you’d rather gaze at some inspiring art pieces, head down to the Bangkok Art & Culture Centre, which has free-to-enter galleries featuring works by local artists and students. They’ve also hosted free exhibitions and festivals like the Bangkok Art Biennale.

The building’s architecture itself is a masterpiece, with intricate floor designs and staircases. If you need to grab a bite, the centre has 8 different eateries ranging from cafes to Thai noodle stores.

Bangkok Art and Culture Centre
Google Reviews
4.5
(17,994)
Address
939 Rama I Rd, Khwaeng Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 10:00 AM - 07:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

– For kids –


9. Chill Out: Farm & Cafe


Mini zoo with birds & horses


free things to do in bangkok - chill out farm and cafeImage credit: Chill Out: Farm & Cafe via Facebook

If you’re looking for something for your little ones to do that isn’t just running around in mall play zones, try taking them to Chill Out: Farm & Cafe. Their mini zoo may not have elephants and tigers, but they’ll allow kids to interact with and learn about animals like birds, horses and pigs.

They’ll be able to pet the gentle beasts and even feed them for an additional ฿20. As the name suggests, there’s a cafe on site where you can enjoy hearty, farm-to-table, Western meals.

Do note that the farm is about an hour’s drive from the city centre, so make sure to allocate enough time for that in your itinerary, and prep your kiddos for the long drive.

Chill out farm & cafe
Google Reviews
4.5
(453)
Address
Soi Suwinthawong 110, Khwaeng Krathum Rai, Khet Nong Chok, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10530, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 10:00 AM - 08:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

10. Bambini Villa


Kids’ mall with art space & playground


free things to do in bangkok - bambini villa
Image credit: @bambinivillabkk via Instagram

Bangkok is known for its great deals and finds, and now your kiddos can experience the joys of shopping in this city at Bambini Villa, a mall that’s just for the little ones. There are toy shops, kid’s fashion stores, art spaces with workshops, and best of all a sheltered, free-for-all wooden playground with see-saws and slides.

Bambini Villa
Google Reviews
4.5
(373)
Address
18 Soi Attha Kawi 1, Khwaeng Khlong Tan, Khet Khlong Toei, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10110, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 09:00 AM - 10:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

11. Children’s Discovery Museum


Water playground & dinosaur exhibits


free things to do in bangkok - childrens discovery museum
Image credit: Sonia Zhang via Google Maps

The Children’s Discovery Museum is Bangkok’s equivalent to Science Centre Singapore, except that this attraction has no admission fee.

With 3 floors of educational play facilities, just one day may not be enough for your kids to explore it all. They can dig up dino bones at a fossil-themed sandbox, or cook up authentic Thai dishes at the Junior Thai Kitchen. There’s even a children’s library and a marine life-themed water playground.

Children’s Discovery Museum
Google Reviews
4.5
(3,864)
Address
810 Kamphaeng Phet 4 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Khet Chatuchak, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10900, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

– Photo ops –


12. Asiatique The Riverfront


Riverside markets, Ferris wheel & boat dining


 

Imagine a romantic stroll on a boardwalk illuminated by the lights of carousels and Ferris wheels, with a clear view of the city skyline. You can get all that and a night market at Asiatique The Riverfront.

Although there are a lot of paid activities like theme park rides and dining on a boat, just strolling down its artsy streets gets you to a lot of photo ops, such as life-size Marvel figurines, floral arches, and street art.

Asiatique The Riverfront
Google Reviews
4.3
(60,060)
Address
2194 Charoen Krung Road, Khwaeng Wat Phraya Krai, Khet Bang Kho Laem, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10120, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings
Contact Information

13. Harajuku Thailand


Replica of the famous Japanese street with shophouses & shrines


free things to do in bangkok - harajuku thailand
Image adapted from: @lordzele, @blueview.lk via Instagram

For the peeps that don’t have enough vacation days to travel all the way to Tokyo, you can still fool your friends at Harajuku Thailand, a Japan-themed space that mimics some of the most popular streets in the country.

The space is immaculately detailed, with canals, graffiti, and lanterns that look just like the real thing. There are even kimono rentals and Japanese restaurants for you to live out the full fantasy.

HARAJUKU THAILAND
Google Reviews
4.2
(3,211)
Address
47 2 Thanon Suwinthawong, Khwaeng Krathum Rai, Khet Nong Chok, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10530, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Show More Timings

14. Charlerm La Park


Graffiti walls for IG posts


free things to do in bangkok - chalerm la park
Image credit: @walk_bkk_street via Instagram

Tucked between a bunch of malls is Chalerm La Park, a small park with a tyre playground and beautiful graffiti murals on an abandoned building. It’s the best place for you to do your baddie photoshoots, or just let out your inner punk.

There are even portraits of K-idols and BL actors here, though hurry down to check them out before they get painted over by new art.

Chaloemla Park (Graffiti Park)
Google Reviews
4.2
(187)
Address
QG2J+3M4, Thanon Phetchaburi, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 09:00 AM - 08:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

15. Pickadaily Bangkok


Old English town-style mall


free things to do in bangkok - pickadaily bangkok
Image credit: @pickadailybangkok via Instagram

When you’re done “travelling” to Japan in Harajuku Thailand, make your way to England at Pickadaily Bangkok. What looks like a little mid-century English town, with cottages and a clock tower, is actually a shopping centre with fashion stores and restaurants.

Inspired by London’s Piccadilly Circus, complete with its own replica of the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain, this mall has ample places for you to fill your socials with shots of you strolling on the cobblestone pavements.

Pickadaily Bangkok
Google Reviews
3.9
(871)
Address
2343 On Nut Rd, Khwaeng Suan Luang, Khet Suan Luang, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10250, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Show More Timings

16. Chang Chui Market


Night market with restaurant in a plane


free things to do in bangkok - chang chui market

You could say that the Land of Smiles could also be known as the Land of Night Markets, and if you’ve already checked off most of them, head to Chang Chui Night Market to dine at Na-oh, a fine-dining restaurant inside a retired plane.

There’s also a giant dog statue at the entrance of Chang Chui to relive Clifford-esque moments from your childhood, and neon light walls for some great snaps. Of course, you can also just stroll in the shadow of the plane while you enjoy your Thai snacks.

ChangChui Creative Park
Google Reviews
4.2
(7,849)
Address
460/8 Sirindhorn Rd, Khwaeng Bang Phlat, Khet Bang Phlat, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10700, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

17. Chocolate Ville


Open-air theme park restaurant with parades


free things to do in bangkok - chocolate ville
Image adapted from: @chocoalteville via Instagram

Unless you don’t have a sweet tooth, it won’t take much convincing to go to Chocolate Ville, a European theme-park restaurant with a Candy Land and Canal Cafe. The whole place is set up like a Willy Wonka-Disneyland mashup, with a boat parade led by bear mascots.

Best of all, you don’t have to be eating at the restaurant to take in the views or nail those aesthetic pictures. You might even get photobombed by some of the ducks and swans swimming in the canal.

Chocolate Ville
Google Reviews
4.4
(13,259)
Address
23 1-16 Thanon Prasert-Manukitch, Khwaeng Ram Inthra, Khet Khan Na Yao, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10230, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings
Contact Information

– Temples –


18. Wat Chakrawat


“The Crocodile Temple”


free things to do in bangkok - wat chakrawat crocodile temple
Image adapted from: @lestouptrotteurs via Instagram & Varut via Google Maps

When you think of temples, you think of peace and meditation, not carnivorous reptiles for sure. However, when you go to pray at Wat Chakrawat, you’ll be greeted by 3 crocodiles, peacefully relaxing beside the Buddha statues.

The crocodiles there aren’t running amok or performing in any shows – they are simply residents of the temple and are cared for by the monks. If they’re not basking where you can see them, there’s still the beautiful Buddhist architecture of the temple to check out.

Wat Chakrawat
Google Reviews
4.4
(8)
Address
4566+57Q, Khok Kung, Kaeng Khro District, Chaiyaphum 36150, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings

19. Wat Yan Nawa


“The Boat Temple”


free things to do in bangkok - wat yanawa boat temple
Image credit: Joe628 via Wikimedia Commons

Though there may not be any crocodiles at this temple, Wat Yan Nawa is also riverine-themed with its boat-shaped structure, leading to the nickname “The Boat Temple”. The temple was built to resemble a Chinese Junk, one of the main ships used during maritime trade in the 18th century, and is one of the only full-sized Chinese viharns, or Buddhist assembly halls, in Bangkok.

Wat Yan Nawa
Google Reviews
4.5
(4,647)
Address
40 Charoen Krung Road, Khwaeng Yan Nawa, Khet Sathon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10120, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 08:00 AM - 06:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

20. Erawan Shrine


Grand golden shrine in the middle of the city


free things to do in bangkok - erawan shrine
Image adapted from: @andyqkw via Instagram

The Erawan Shrine doesn’t need much of an introduction, as you’ve probably seen it while mall-hopping, and most likely heard of it. The famous mosaiced structure is located in the middle of the city, right in front of the Grand Hyatt, hosting a golden idol of the four-faced Thai deity of creation. It’s said to grant whatever you wish for, and sees so many supplicants each day that attendants have to clear the flowers and incense sticks every few minutes.

Erawan Shrine
Google Reviews
4.6
(5,509)
Address
494 Thanon Ratchadamri, Khwaeng Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 06:00 AM - 10:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

– Activities –


21. Havana Social


Sunday Latin dance classes


free things to do in bangkok - havana social free latin dance classImage credit: Havana Social Bangkok

Latin culture and Thai culture definitely have things in common, such as spicy food, but the Latin world extends this spiciness to their dancing as well. On your next trip, get ready to let out your fiery Spanish dancer at Havan Social’s free Latin dance classes.

Every Sunday from 9pm, this Cuban cocktail bar hosts these classes with a veteran instructor who can teach Salsa, Cha Cha, Merengue, Bachata, and Reggaeton. It’s a great date night idea or a fun way to meet a new beau.

Havana Social
Google Reviews
4.4
(1,997)
Address
41, 3 Sukhumvit Rd, Khwaeng Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10110, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 06:00 PM - 02:00 AM Show More Timings
Contact Information

22. Spaceplus Bangkok


No cover charges at this club


free things to do in bangkok - spaceplus club
Image adapted from: @spaceplus_bangkok via Instagram

Thinking of going untz-untz but spent all your money on pre-booze? You can party at Spaceplus Bangkok without any cover charge or minimum drink order. Unless there are any paid events happening, you can enter for free and groove to the EDM tracks, or maybe even catch an MMA match.

Space plus bangkok
Google Reviews
4.4
(474)
Address
31/10 3rd floor, RCA plaza, Soi Phetchaburi 47, Bangkapi, Khet Huai Khwang, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10310, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 09:00 PM - 03:00 AM Show More Timings
Contact Information

23. KHON: Epic Thai Masked Performance


Traditional Thai dance in a mall


free things to do in bangkok - khon masked dance performance mbk centre
Image adapted from: @mbkcenter via Instagram

Thai masked dance shows, or Khon, are some of the most exciting performances to see when you visit Thailand. Usually, you’d have to scout out a specific hall or restaurant to see it and of course, buy tickets.

Lucky for those of us who don’t want to shell out for the shows, MBK Center has KHON Epic Thai Masked Performance, a free show. This year, these are scheduled for every last Thursday of the month till 26th December 2024.

Time: 3pm and 6pm
Dates: 25th July, 29th August, 26th September, 31st October, 28th November, 26th December

MBK Center
Google Reviews
4.3
(39,117)
Address
444 Phaya Thai Rd, Khwaeng Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

24. Pak Khlong Talat


Bangkok’s largest flower market


free things to do in bangkok - pak khlong talat flower market
Image adapted from: @aroundpausworld via Instagram

One of the more unique ways to see flowers that doesn’t involve visiting a garden would be to visit Bangkok’s largest flower market, Pak Khlong Talat. Its name translates to “market on the mouth of a canal”, and still stands on the Chao Phraya riverside with hundreds of vendors.

Previously a fish market, the space is now fragrant with the perfume of fresh blooms and produce. It’s open around the clock, and you can see stall owners at work making fresh bouquets and garlands. Sometimes, they hold workshops for garland making too.

Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market)
Google Reviews
4.4
(11,219)
Address
สน พระราชวัง Pak Khlong Talat - Wat Kanlayanamit, Khwaeng Wang Burapha Phirom, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand
Opening Hours:
Saturday 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM Show More Timings

Bonus: Festivals


It’s always good to check out what festivals might be going on when you travel to Bangkok, as there are usually a lot of deals and free festival-specific activities to enjoy. Here’s a list of some popular festivals and related free activities you can expect.

Festival Timing Free Activities
Lunar New Year January-February Dragon & lion dance shows
Bangkok Design Week February Art exhibitions & installations
Songkran April Club events & water fights
Pride June-July Parade, drag shows & movie screenings
Vegetarian Festivals October Chinatown performances & snacks
Mid-Autumn Festival  September-October Dance shows and lantern workshops
Loy Krathong November-December Firework displays & lantern shows

Enjoy these free things to do in Bangkok

Save a few bucks on your next trip to Bangkok with these free things to do so you can spend them on more shopping and food instead. The best part is that even if you don’t enjoy some of them, you won’t have spent a single cent.

If you’re still on the lookout for more things to do in Bangkok, check out our list of the best family-friendly activities in Bangkok or cheap mookata buffets in Bangkok. For nightlife activities see our list of the best hidden bars in Bangkok or travel to the outskirts for the best things to do near Bangkok.


Cover image adapted from: Sonia Zhang via Google Maps, @hand_in_rose via Instagram & Joe628 via Wikimedia Commons