Shanghai People’s Square is not just a bustling urban center; it also boasts several free attractions that are perfect for a day of exploration. With ample space to roam and engage with various exhibits, this guide highlights five must-visit venues that offer a rich cultural experience without the expense of admission fees. Enjoy local dining options nearby, and follow our suggested route to make the most of your day in this iconic area.
Recommended Route
These venues are spacious, so plan for a full day to explore them. There are plenty of dining options around People’s Square, including Raffles City, New World, and the pedestrian street. Here’s a recommended route (feel free to adjust based on your preferences):
- Start at People’s Square Station (Lines 1, 2, and 8) at the Urban Planning Museum exit (Line 2), which leads directly to the planning museum at B1.
- Walk about 600 meters to the Shanghai Museum (上海博物馆).
- Continue walking 500 meters to the Shanghai Craftsman Museum (上海工匠馆).
- Stop for lunch at Raffles City, New World, or World Trade Center.
- After lunch, walk 500 meters to the Shanghai Sports Museum (上海体育博物馆).
- Finally, walk 300 meters to the Shanghai History Museum (上海历史博物馆).
Free Venues at Shanghai People’s Square
1. Shanghai History Museum (上海历史博物馆)
- Address: 325 Nanjing West Road, Shanghai
- Admission Fee: Free, no reservation needed
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM); closed on Mondays, except on national holidays.
2. Shanghai Museum (上海博物馆)
- Address: 201 Renmin Avenue (entrance near the South Gate on Wusheng Road)
- Admission Fee: Free, reservation required (can be made on-site)
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM); closed on Mondays, except on national holidays.
3. Shanghai Urban Planning Museum (上海城市规划馆)
- Address: 100 Renmin Avenue, Huangpu District, Shanghai
- Admission Fee: Free, reservation required (can be made on-site)
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM); closed on Wednesdays, except on national holidays.
4. Shanghai Craftsman Museum (上海工匠馆)
- Address: 120 Xizang Middle Road, near Beihai Road (1st floor of the Workers’ Cultural Palace)
- Admission Fee: Free, no reservation needed
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; closed on Mondays.
5. Shanghai Sports Museum (上海体育博物馆)
- Address: 150 Nanjing West Road, Shanghai
- Admission Fee: Free, no reservation needed
- Opening Hours:
- Morning: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM (last entry at 11:00 AM)
- Afternoon: 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM); closed on Mondays, except on national holidays.