Exploring Malaysia: School holiday driveaways to Johor for family fun

Your immediate family feeling as bored as this distant relative? Drive into Johor for some family fun!

Planning a quick driveaway with the family during the Singapore school holidays? These recreational spots in Johor offer a nearby blend of joy for young and old, multi-racial culture for you and me, and nature for those craving a break from the concrete jungle - there's something for everyone just across the border.

Fun for the kids

LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort

LEGOLAND is the crown jewel of Johor Bahru's (JB) entertainment scene, offering a child's dream world built entirely from LEGO bricks. Rides, shows, and interactive experiences within LEGOLAND cater to all ages, including kidults. After enjoying the resort, you may proceed to cool down at the neighbouring LEGOLAND Water Park.

If your child, or even yourself, grew up playing with LEGOs, you'll want to pay LEGOLAND a visit to relive those fun moments.

Fanpekka Indoor Playground

Fanpekka Indoor Playground is a vast indoor playground on the second level of Aeon Mall in JB. Fanpekka occupies a floor space of 27,500 sq ft (about the size of six basketball courts) and features a variety of play-ready setups that include slides, ball pits and climbing structures. Your children might become fans of Fanpekka after playing there. 

Blue Ice Skating Rink

Lace up your skates and glide across the ice at this state-of-the-art facility. The JB outlet of Blue Ice Skating Rink, located in Paradigm Mall, is perfect for a cool "winter" activity with your tropical family. 

The venue supports a range of activities, such as figure skating, speed skating, ice hockey and curling. There are also coaches to assist visitors who wish to become better ice-skaters. Buying your tickets in advance will be cheaper than doing it at the counter and also ensure that you can book your desired session before driving there. 

Camp5 Climbing Gym

Challenge your children to an upward adventure at Camp5 Climbing Gym, located in the same JB Paradigm Mall as Blue Ice Skating Rink. This is a primarily a vertical gymnasium with climbing walls, bouldering walls and auto-belay systems.

With an emphasis on inclusiveness, Camp5 is accessible to all individuals regardless of skill level and across all age groups. This means a fun activity for the whole family to try together. Availability is limited per day, so it is best to book your slot beforehand.

The Dreamliner Airways Cafe

Tired from all of the driving-and-doing in Johor? Check-in (without your passport) at The Dreamliner Airways Cafe, which offers landside "premium economy"  meals in a unique airliner-inspired setting. The aviation theme includes staff dressed as flight attendants, who probably won't be asking passengers/customers whether they want "Coffee, tea or mee".

Adventure Waterpark, Desaru Coast

For a splash-tastic time, head to Desaru Coast's Adventure Waterpark. This world-class waterpark boasts thrilling slides, relaxing lazy rivers and a wave pool - perfect for families.

In addition to wet-and-wild rides, the venue also has cabanas and huts (chargeable), which are good for some quietude or post-stimulation relaxation.

Multi-racial culture for everyone

Johor Old Chinese Temple

Visit the Johor Old Chinese Temple and discover the spirit of the Malaysian Chinese community. Built in the 1800s, the temple is one of the oldest structures in Johor Bahru and has become a cultural icon of the city.

This historical site will allow you and your family to learn about local customs and traditions, and gain a deeper understanding of the unity between the different Chinese dialect groups in southern Malaysia.

Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street

Journey back in time with a stroll down this charming street lined with beautifully-restored shophouses. Immerse yourself in JB's rich heritage and snap some Insta-worthy photos along the way!

Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque

The 125-year-old Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque, built in 1900, is twice as old as independent Singapore. Situated on a hill, the Islamic house of worship provides a panoramic and photogenic view of the Johor Straits - from the surrounding waters to the Causeway and the coastal parts of Singapore's Kranji, Marsiling and Woodlands.

Non-Muslims are allowed to enter this stately mosque, but are required to follow a modest dress code as a mark of respect.

Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple

The intricate glasswork adorning this stunning Hindu temple will mesmerise you and your family. The temple is decorated with colourful mosaics on approximately 95 percent of the temple's walls, ceilings and pillars.

This temple is a shiny symbol of racial and social harmony in Malaysia, and a must-visit if you are interested to learn more about Johor culture.

Nature for the city dweller

Johor Zoo

Johor Zoo is the oldest zoo in Malaysia - it has been around since 1928. The zoo reopened in 2024 after its three-year renovation works and it currently hosts more than 60 species of animals, which include the national animal of Malaysia, the majestic tiger, of course.

Firefly Park, Kota Tinggi

Kota Tinggi Firefly Park offers a dazzling light show from thousands of glowing fireflies, which thrive here in their natural habitat. Visitors can get a closer view of the magical bioluminescent display with a guided boat tour available from 7:30pm to 9:30pm.

Desaru Beach

Desaru Beach is a lovely place for your family to unwind. Escape the urban hustle and soak up the fresh air as you relax on the golden sand. Build sandcastles and sandy memories with the kids, or cool off with a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear sea.

Read More: Exploring Malaysia: Road trip adventures through scenic wonders

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