Top 5 Family Activities Siem Reap with Kids: Recommended by a Local
Siem Reap offers families an extraordinary playground where thousand-year-old temples stand alongside contemporary cultural experiences. Children can climb ancient steps carved by Khmer kings in the morning and watch acrobatic performances by local artists in the evening, creating adventures that span centuries within a single day.
To help families make the most of their stay, we've asked the property team at Anantara Angkor Resort. Ezhu Wong, Assistant Marketing & Communications Manager, shares her expert recommendations for the destination's most engaging family activities. Here are five essential experiences that showcase the very best of what Siem Reap has to offer.
1. Explore Angkor Wat at Sunrise
Nothing quite prepares families for the awe-inspiring moment when dawn breaks over Angkor Wat. Built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman VII, this world's largest religious monument stands as Cambodia's national symbol and provides an unforgettable start to any family adventure.
Arriving before dawn allows families to witness the temple's dramatic silhouette against a glowing sky. Children delight in climbing ancient stone steps, discovering intricate carvings of elephants, lions, and mythical creatures whilst watching golden rays reflect across surrounding lotus ponds.
Continue to Bayon Temple, famous for its mysterious stone towers featuring over 200 serene, smiling faces. Complete your temple tour at Ta Prohm, affectionately known as the Tomb Raider Temple, where massive tree roots intertwine with crumbling stone walls.
Pro Tip from Ezhu: The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to March, when clear skies make for the most stunning sunrise views. However, the rainy season from May to October has its own charm with lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, and dramatic skies that make the temples look even more mystical.
2. Visit the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB)
Located 40 kilometres north of Siem Reap near Kbal Spean, the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB) represents Cambodia's pioneering wildlife rescue and conservation efforts. This educational experience offers families meaningful connections with the country's remarkable biodiversity.
During guided tours, children and parents encounter rescued gibbons, turtles, lizards, and rare bird species whilst learning about each animal's unique rescue story. Set within pristine forest surroundings, the experience extends beyond simple animal encounters, helping families understand protecting Cambodia's natural heritage.
Pro Tip from Ezhu: The best time to visit is in the morning, when the animals are most active and the forest air is cool and refreshing. Guided tours typically run at set times, so it's wise to check ahead and plan your journey accordingly. Pairing the visit with a stop at nearby Kbal Spean makes for a rewarding family day out that blends wildlife, culture, and nature.
3. Discover Tonle Sap Floating Villages
A boat journey across Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake provides families with fascinating cultural insights. This extraordinary ecosystem has shaped Cambodian life for centuries, supporting communities through fishing, farming, and unique water-based traditions.
Families explore floating villages by boat, observing how entire communities flourish on water. Children watch in wonder as floating schools conduct lessons, vibrant markets trade goods from boat to boat, and stilted homes rise above the waterline.
Pro Tip from Ezhu: For the most authentic experience, visit in the late afternoon when the light is soft and golden, perfect for photography and watching daily life unfold on the water. If you prefer fewer tourists, mornings are quieter and cooler.
4. Artisan Workshops & Pottery Classes
Local artisan workshops throughout Siem Reap invite families to explore Cambodia's vibrant creative traditions. These hands-on experiences allow children and adults to work alongside skilled local craftspeople, improve their focus, spend quality time, and learn traditional techniques in pottery, painting, and sculpture.
Families can shape clay into different shaped and sized pottery, paint traditional Cambodian motifs, or sculpt figures inspired by local culture. These workshops nurture creativity whilst providing deeper understanding of regional craftsmanship which can be treasured even after the trip.
Pro Tip from Ezhu: Check out Khmer Ceramics & Fine Arts Centre and Artisans Angkor for your authentic workshop experiences. The Khmer Ceramics & Fine Arts Centre operates as a woman-owned small business that empowers disadvantaged groups, with over half its staff being deaf or mute and 60% of employees being women. Meanwhile, Artisans Angkor focuses on revitalising traditional Khmer handicrafts through skilled artisans who preserve authentic Cambodian cultural techniques in their contemporary designs.
5. Experience Phare Cambodian Circus
As evening approaches, Phare Cambodian Circus presents performances that blend acrobatics, theatre, music, and storytelling. Located in Siem Reap town just five minutes from Anantara Angkor Resort, this extraordinary show features young Cambodian artists sharing stories of resilience, hope, and everyday life through captivating performances.
Children become mesmerised by daring aerial stunts, colourful costumes, and energetic music, whilst adults appreciate the artistic depth, humour, and emotional resonance of each story. Shows typically begin after sunset, creating magical ambiance perfect for families.
Pro Tip from Ezhu: Arrive 30-45 minutes early to enjoy the lively atmosphere, browse the art displays, and grab a snack before the show begins. Seats are first-come, first-served, so early arrival ensures the best view of the breathtaking acrobatics.
Your Family Base at Anantara Angkor Resort
After days filled with temple exploration and cultural discoveries, families can retreat to the comfort of Anantara Angkor Resort's Family Suite and Family Pool Suite, both of which are ideal for family traveling with kids. With connecting rooms, they offer the perfect balance of privacy for parents and comfort for children. Spacious, welcoming, and truly a home away from home.