Best Tourist Places in Chennai for Family & Friends in 2025

DID YOU KNOW?

Chennai is the 35th-largest urban area in the world by population and attracts millions of tourists annually. This bustling city is more than just a gateway to South India—it’s a treasure trove of history, culture, and adventure!

From the iconic Marina Beach—the world’s second-longest urban beach—to the majestic Kapaleeshwarar Temple, thrilling amusement parks, and vibrant shopping streets, Chennai offers endless attractions for families, friends, and children.

Whether you’re a history buff, a thrill-seeker, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, this Chennai tourist guide from UPAR Hotels will help you explore the 25+ best must-visit tourist places in Chennai city that guarantee fun, excitement, and unforgettable memories. 

Let’s dive in!

Explore the best tourist places in Chennai with comfort! Stay at UPAR Hotels for a seamless and budget-friendly travel experience. Book now!

25+ Famous Tourist Places in Chennai You Got to Explore in 2025!

Best Tourist Places in Chennai for Family

1. Arignar Anna Zoological Park (Vandalur Zoo)

Get ready for an adventure! One of the best tourist places in Chennai, this massive zoo is home to over 2,500 animals, including majestic tigers, playful elephants, and rare white lions. Hop on a safari ride, explore the reptile house, and watch exotic birds up close—it’s a paradise for wildlife lovers!

2. Theosophical Society

Escape into a peaceful green oasis! This 100-year-old spiritual retreat is a renowned tourist destination in Chennai, famous for its 450-year-old banyan tree, serene gardens, and ancient libraries filled with rare books. Enjoy a quiet walk or a soothing break from the city's rush.

3. Marina Beach

Welcome to India’s longest urban beach! Feel the cool sea breeze, take a pony ride, and snack on crispy sundal (spiced chickpeas) and spicy raw mango. Sunsets here are magical, and the lively atmosphere makes it a must-visit. As one of Chennai’s top tourist places, this beach offers an unforgettable experience!

4. Valluvar Kottam

A towering chariot-shaped monument dedicated to the legendary Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar, this site is a must-visit for history lovers and architecture enthusiasts. With intricate carvings and a massive auditorium, it offers a cultural treat. It's also one of the best tourist places in Chennai for a one-day trip, making it a perfect destination to explore the city's rich heritage.

5. Madras War Cemetery

Step into a piece of history. This beautifully maintained war memorial, one of the major tourist attractions in Chennai, honours over 850 World War soldiers with neatly lined tombstones and a peaceful ambiance. A special place to remember and pay tribute to the fearless.

6. Guindy National Park

A real jungle in the heart of Chennai! Spread across 2.7 square kilometres, it’s home to blackbucks, spotted deer, and over 130 bird species. Kids will love the mini-zoo and snake park inside. A nature lover’s delight, this hidden gem is also among the best low-budget tourist places in Chennai, offering an enriching experience without burning a hole in your pocket!

7. Santhome Basilica

A stunning white church built over the tomb of St. Thomas, one of Jesus' 12 apostles, is one of the most famous tourist places in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Its magnificent stained-glass windows and peaceful atmosphere make it a must-visit for history and architecture lovers.

8. Birla Planetarium

Take off on a space adventure! This science and astronomy centre, one of the popular tourist attractions in Chennai, offers thrilling 3D space shows, interactive exhibits on black holes, and fascinating facts about the universe. A must-visit for kids and curious minds!

9. Cholamandal Artists’ Village

Immerse yourself in Chennai’s vibrant art scene, one of the famous tourist places in Chennai! This creative hub showcases stunning sculptures, paintings, and modern art installations by some of India’s finest artists. A great spot for art lovers and culture enthusiasts.

10. Amethyst Café & Garden

Amethyst Café & Garden is a hidden gem among the top tourist attractions in Chennai! This charming café, nestled inside a lush green garden, offers aromatic coffee, delicious cakes, and a relaxed brunch vibe. The antique décor and cosy ambiance make it the perfect spot for family bonding, adding a unique touch to your visit to Chennai.

Best Children's Tourist Places in Chennai

11. VGP Universal Kingdom

Looking for a fun day with your kids? VGP Universal Kingdom, a top Chennai tourist spot, is the perfect place! From exciting water rides to thrilling theme park attractions, there's something for everyone, making it an unforgettable adventure for the whole family.

12. Chennai Rail Museum

All aboard for a fun journey through history at the Chennai Rail Museum, one of the top tourist places to visit in Chennai! Kids can explore vintage trains, hop on the toy train, and learn about India’s railways in a hands-on, exciting way. It’s the perfect spot for young train enthusiasts!

13. Madhavaram Butterfly Park

Let your kids experience nature at its finest at Madhavaram Butterfly Park, the best tourist spot in Chennai! Surrounded by colourful butterflies and blooming flowers, it’s a magical and educational place where children can learn about these beautiful creatures in a peaceful, natural setting.

14. Kalakshetra Foundation

Spark your child’s creativity at Kalakshetra Foundation, a prominent name on our Chennai tourist places list! This cultural gem offers mesmerising dance performances, art workshops, and the chance to explore traditional Indian music. It’s an inspiring way for kids to experience India’s rich arts and culture.

15. Snake Park Chennai 

Want to give your kids a thrill? Take them to Snake Park Chennai, one of the top tourist places in Chennai! They’ll get up close with fascinating reptiles like snakes, lizards, and turtles in a safe, interactive environment. It’s a perfect mix of excitement and education for young adventurers.

16. Kart Attack ECR

Get ready for a fast-paced adventure at Kart Attack ECR, one of the top Madras tourist places! Your kids will love the excitement of go-kart racing on thrilling tracks. Whether they’re beginners or pros, it’s a high-energy, fun-filled experience that will keep them racing for hours.

17. Marine Kingdom Chennai

Dive into the wonders of the deep at Marine Kingdom Chennai, India’s first walk-through aquarium! Located among the top tourist places in Chennai city, kids can explore vibrant underwater worlds, meet majestic sea creatures, and even get up close with sharks. It’s an awe-inspiring experience for the whole family, offering a unique blend of adventure and education.

18. Anna Tower Park

If you’re looking for a relaxing spot for your kids to run and play, Anna Tower Park is the place! As one of the important tourist places in Chennai, it offers plenty of green space, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It’s the ideal location for a day of outdoor fun and family bonding.

19. Semmozhi Poonga

Take your little nature lovers to Semmozhi Poonga, one of the must-visit tourist places in Chennai! This beautiful botanical garden is filled with exotic plants, flowers, and lush greenery. It’s a peaceful and educational spot for kids to learn about nature while enjoying a relaxing walk in the heart of the city.

20. Adyar Eco Park

Let your kids connect with nature at Adyar Eco Park, one of the top local tourist places in Chennai! This green oasis is perfect for outdoor adventures, with scenic walking paths, birdwatching opportunities, and lots of space to explore. It’s a great way for children to enjoy nature while staying active and engaged.

Best Tourist Places in Chennai for Friends 

21. Mahabalipuram

Grab your friends and hit the road to Mahabalipuram! One of the top summer tourist places in Chennai, this UNESCO heritage site is packed with breathtaking rock-cut temples, massive stone carvings, and the famous Shore Temple overlooking the Bay of Bengal. It’s the perfect mix of history, adventure, and stunning ocean views—ideal for those Instagram-worthy group photos!

22. Escape Room Chennai 

Ever wanted to feel like Sherlock Holmes? Escape Room Chennai throws you into thrilling, brain-teasing mysteries where teamwork is the only way out! Solve riddles, crack codes, and race against time. A fun, high-energy challenge for friends who love puzzles and a little friendly competition! Featured in this 2025 Chennai tourist guide, it’s a must-try experience for visitors seeking adventure.

23. Phoenix MarketCity

This is Chennai’s ultimate hangout spot! From international brands and quirky local stores to VR gaming zones and live music events—Phoenix MarketCity has it all. Recognised as one of the best tourist places in Chennai, it’s perfect for a day out. Grab your squad, indulge in delicious food, and challenge each other in gaming arcades. It’s where shopping meets endless fun!

24. Chokhi Dhani 

Want to experience Rajasthan without leaving Chennai? Chokhi Dhani, one of the hidden tourist places in Chennai, offers camel rides, puppet shows, folk dances, and mouthwatering Rajasthani thalis. It’s a colourful, cultural escape, making it a fantastic place for friends to enjoy a fun-filled, traditional village experience together!

25. Mayajaal Multiplex 

Why settle for an ordinary movie night when you can go big at Mayajaal? As South India’s largest multiplex and a popular tourist destination in Chennai, it offers multiple screens, gaming zones, and a buzzing food court. Watch the latest blockbusters, grab a snack, and make it a fun weekend outing with your gang!

26. De Monte Colony 

If you and your friends love a spooky thrill, De Monte Colony is the place to test your bravery! This eerie, abandoned neighbourhood is one of the important tourist places in Chennai, packed with chilling ghost stories and unexplained mysteries. Visit at night—if you dare—and see who gets scared first!

27. Chetpet Eco Park 

Escape the city chaos with your friends at Chetpet Eco Park, the best tourist spot in Chennai for a nature retreat. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride, take a scenic walk, or just chill by the lake. Whether you're up for a fitness session or a laid-back chat, this park offers the perfect escape right in the city's heart!

28. Spencer Plaza 

This is not just a mall—it’s history! Spencer Plaza, one of India’s oldest shopping centres, blends nostalgia with trendy fashion, quirky collectibles, and budget-friendly deals. As one of the major tourist attractions in Chennai, it offers a unique shopping experience where you can explore hidden gems, shop for cool finds, and relive the city’s vibrant retail culture with your squad!

29. Royapuram Clock Tower 

Step back in time and capture a stunning piece of Chennai’s colonial past! The 19th-century Royapuram Clock Tower is a beautiful landmark, perfect for Instagram-worthy clicks. A must-visit among summer tourist places in Chennai, this historic gem offers a charming backdrop for vintage-style photo shoots. Grab your photographer friend and get creative!

30. Madras Literary Society 

For those who love the smell of old books, this 200-year-old library is pure magic! Filled with rare manuscripts and historic books, it’s one of the top tourist places in Chennai, perfect for a quiet, literary escape with friends. Explore, read, and soak in the rich heritage of Chennai’s oldest library!

Which is the Best Place to Stay in Chennai for Tourists?

Looking for a budget-friendly hotel close to local tourist places in Chennai? Upar Hotels is the perfect choice! Here’s why it stands out:

Stay Smart, Stay Comfortable at Upar Hotels!

Looking for a budget-friendly stay in Chennai without compromising on comfort? Upar Hotels has you covered! With cosy rooms, top-notch amenities, and prime locations in T. Nagar, Nungambakkam, and Ashok Nagar, we make your stay stress-free and enjoyable.

Affordable Stays, Premium Comfort

Why pay more when you can get super comfy, non-smoking rooms, high-speed WiFi, and 24/7 parking at unbeatable prices? At Upar Hotels, we focus on giving you the best experience—everything within your budget!

Chennai’s Best Spots Just Minutes Away

Want to explore the city? Stay close to top tourist attractions in Chennai, shopping streets, and buzzing cafés. Whether you're here for business or leisure, our strategic locations put you right where the action is!

24/7 Support, Because You Deserve the Best!

Need help with bookings or local recommendations? Our friendly team is available round the clock to make your stay smooth and hassle-free. Book your stay at Upar Hotels today!

Wrapping Up,

Chennai is a city that captivates travellers with its perfect blend of history, culture, adventure, and entertainment. Whether you're visiting with family, friends, or embarking on a solo trip, the famous tourist places in Chennai ensure vibrant energy and diverse experiences.

From its rich heritage and spiritual sites to its modern attractions, Chennai offers an unforgettable journey through time and tradition. For a hassle-free and comfortable stay in Chennai, Upar Hotels provides the perfect balance of affordability and convenience. 

With prime locations in Ashok Nagar, T Nagar, Nungambakkam, Medavakkam, Uthandi ECR, and Thoraipakkam OMR, we ensure that your Chennai adventure is as comfortable as it is exciting. Book your stay with Upar Hotels and experience Chennai at its best! 

Looking for fresh travel ideas and expert advice? Check out our blog section today!