The casinos here are studies in luxury, but away from the tables Macau is a beautiful destination with historical temples, manmade volcanoes and plenty for the young ones to do while daddy goes double or nothing with the college fund. Not venturing outside would mean missing half of Macau's unique character.
Here are our picks:
A-Ma Cultural Village
Goddess A-Ma is supposed to protect fishermen and sailors. Legend has it that she saved the crew of a ship during a howling storm and ascended to heaven near the historic A-Ma Temple located in this cultural village. Established in the 16th century, this temple is the oldest place of worship in the region.
Visitors can check out a statue of the goddess A-Ma, which stands on a mountaintop on Coloane Island. They will also find a bell tower, drum tower, carved marble altar in the Tian-Hou Palace, a dressing hall, a museum, and shops.
The village is surrounded by a park, a recreational fishing area and an arboretum that features more than 100 species of local and exotic trees.
Macau Fisherman’s Wharf
A shopping, dining and convention-friendly site, the wharf is located within walking distance of the Macau Ferry Terminal. Here, attendees will find:
- Dynasty Wharf, a replica of Tang Dynasty architecture filled with shops.
- East Meets West, an entertainment area that includes live shows for children, convention and exhibition facilities, and family rides, all set in a themed environment that blends Eastern and Western culture.
- Volcano's Dragon Quest and River of Fire, the first indoor rides in Asia. In the evening, the manmade volcano erupts with fireworks.
- Children's Fort, an adventurous environment that includes rides for children, game booths, snack bars, and souvenir shops.
- Legend Wharf offers a mix of European and Latin architecture where visitors can sample delicious treats and shop to their heart's content.
- Water World, an outdoor venue where groups can enjoy ski-jet action shows.
- Babylon, a boutique casino where visitors can see if Lady Luck is smiling.
St. Paul’s Church
Attendees can walk up the stairs of this Catholic church to visit its ruins. Although some may find it grim, visitors can view bones of parishioners who perished here due to a fire.
Macau Tower
Standing at 1,000 feet, this tower is a must for thrill-seekers. Groups can bungee jump from its top or walk its upper perimeter while strapped into a harness. The tower is connected to the Macau Tower Convention & Entertainment Centre.
