The 5 top things to do when in Macau (that doesn't involve gambling)
Amusement rides, extreme sports and cultural experiences await
A melting pot of different cultural influences, the glitzy city of Macau is easily one of the world's most popular travel spots. While often known as the Las Vegas of Asia with its many casinos, it also boasts striking landmarks, great cityscape views, interesting heritage sites, shopping emporiums and more. From cultural activities to amusement parks, here’re some of the best ways to spend your time in Macau.
Wonder what it’s like to be in awe of Macau’s best and brightest cityscape views from a staggering 338 meter-high perch? Macau Tower makes this breathtaking experience possible—well, at least for those brave enough to face their fear of heights.
An unmatched view of the Macau Peninsula, Taipa and Coloane Islands await, and visible through glass panel floors. If you’re lucky, you can even witness bungee jumpers in action. Plus, this well-known city landmark features a cool panoramic glass elevator that gets you to the top in just a minute. Not for the faint of heart.
Speaking of the Macau Tower, if sightseeing isn’t enough, perhaps your inner thrill-seeker would be happier to take on the bungee jump. The extreme Macau Tower Bungee Jump is the highest commercial bungee platform in the world, perfect for all you daredevils out there.
From 223 meters above ground, one can dive headfirst at 200 kilometers per hour on a 50m bungee cord that extends up to four times its length. Don’t worry, it’s completely safe.
For the young and young-at-heart, an afternoon at this place will relieve all boredom. Macau’s top indoor playground makes for a day of fun cartoon adventures, featuring play attractions and rides with Warner Bro’s best and most-loved animated characters.
From a DC Comics Superhero Action Arena to a 4D Batman Dark Flight ride, run wild with glee at this mini-theme park. The cute Tom and Jerry Picnic playground is also an amusing sight to see, with human-sized fruit, cheese, banana slides and cheese stacking blocks to play with.
The flashy landmark of Macau, the popular Venetian Macao, is the luxury hotel and casino resort that is known to resemble its namesake in Vegas, yet its theme revolves around the buildings and canals of Venice, Italy. It boasts the largest casino in the world, with over 800 gaming tables and 3,400 slot machines, and is said to be the 6th biggest building in the world.
But aside from gambling, you can also enjoy a gondola ride and be serenaded by the Italian gondoliers, shop ‘til you drop at some of the world’s most luxurious brands, and simply admire the spectacular indoor view.
For history buffs looking to admire the heritage sites around Macau, visit some of the city’s cultural landmarks like St. Dominic’s Church, which is a must-see for design enthusiasts crazy about baroque architecture. The ruins of St. Paul, a major tourist attraction, showcases biblical scene carvings.
The A-Ma Temple, built in honor of Mazu, the goddess of the sea, is the oldest temple in the country readyex for viewing. You can also see firsthand the famous Portuguese-style architecture at the Taipa Old Houses. A visit to Macau’s famous Black Sand beach is perfect for some downtime after all the walking.
A version of this story first appeared on KKday.
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