The city has a plethora of parks from sedate gardens and wildlife enclosures to wild rides at thrilling theme parks.

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy some of Shanghai’s outdoor attractions. And for those looking for a diversion from the long lines and hundreds of thousands of people at the Expo 2010 Shanghai, the city’s water parks, amusement parks, botanical gardens, zoos and other parks are ideal attractions. Despite the heat, there are countless adventures waiting to be discovered in Shanghai. Here are some of the best.

1. Happy Valley

Happy Valley, built in 2009, is a new amusement park famous for its exciting and breathtaking facilities that integrate high-end technology. With more than 100 attractions scattered throughout seven different themed areas, the park is a wonderful destination for those looking for adventure. A trip to Happy Valley is not complete without a ride on the wooden roller coaster – it’s said to be the most thrilling in town.

Address: 18 Linying Avenue, Songjiang District

Tel: 021-3355-2222

Opening hours: 9 am-6 pm

Ticket: 100-200 yuan

Transportation: Metro line 9

2. Dino Beach

As the only water park in the city, Dino Beach should be on the top of any summer to-do list. The water park is usually full of cheerful young people. The park has many water slides, but the two most-recommended attractions are the large wave pool, said to be the biggest in Asia, and a very relaxing flowing river that circles the entire park. Food and drinks can’t be brought into the park, so be sure to bring extra money. Most importantly, don’t forget to bring sunscreen. Visitors can also go at night, when there are shorter lines and no hot sun. Floating down the lazy river in an inner tube will be a soothing way to view a starry night.

Address: 78 Xinzhen Road, near Gudai Road

Tel: 021-6478-3333

Opening hours: 10 am-11 pm (summer only)

Ticket: 100-150 yuan (weekdays), 150-200 yuan (weekends)

Transportation: Metro line 1

3. Jinjiang Action Park

Jinjiang Action Park is an older, yet still exciting, park to visit. With classic rides like bumper cars, a two-story merry-go-round and a massive Ferris wheel – where riders can marvel at panoramic views of the Western part of the city – visitors will enjoy a variety of attractions. And for the adventure seeker, there are many thrill rides, including the Mega Drop, Pirate Boat and a steel roller coaster. Whether it’s a ride on a high-energy roller coaster or a calming ride on the merry-go-round, Jinjiang Action Park is a perfect place for everyone.

Address: 201 Hongmei Road (near Meilong Road)

Tel: 021-5421-6858

Opening hours: 8:45 am-5 pm (until 10 pm in summer)

Ticket: 80 yuan

Transportation: Metro line 1

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