🔄 Updated 21 Jun 2026
Nong Nooch sits in Na Chom Thian, Sattahip district, Chonburi province, about 18 km south of central Pattaya. It is a long-running botanical garden with grounds so large that a sightseeing tram loops around them. What makes families come is the mix: pretty gardens for the adults to stroll, open lawns for kids to run around safely, and a dinosaur zone that children get especially excited about, all in one place you can explore for most of the day.
Highlights for kids
The dinosaur zone is the biggest hit, but there are plenty of other corners to wander and photograph throughout the day.
- Dinosaur Valley — dozens upon dozens of life-size dinosaur models set out across the garden; kids love hunting for the big T-Rex and posing next to them.
- Sightseeing tram — ride the tram around the sprawling grounds; little ones love the ride and grown-ups avoid getting worn out walking.
- Themed gardens — the French garden with topiary trimmed into shapes, the cactus garden, the orchid nursery, and colorful photo corners to stroll through.
- Open lawns — wide, safe spaces for kids to run, good for laying down a mat and taking a snack break during the day.
- Sky walk viewpoint — an elevated walkway looking down over the French garden's patterned hedges from above.
Tips for visiting with kids
The grounds are large and the sun is strong, so arrive early when it opens (around 8 a.m.) while it is cooler and quieter. Bring hats, sunscreen, drinking water, and a handheld fan. Strollers work well because most paths are smooth, and when little legs get tired the tram is a great backup so you can stay longer without the meltdowns.
Before you go
- Opening hours — open daily, roughly 08:00–18:00. Coming in the morning gives you a full day and helps you dodge the afternoon heat.
- Approximate entry fee — a garden-only ticket (shows not included) is around 300 baht for Thai residents and around 500 baht for foreign visitors. Children under 90 cm tall usually enter free, and children 90–120 cm pay the child rate. Prices are approximate, so check the official website or confirm on site.
- Getting there — about 18 km south of Pattaya along Sukhumvit Road, roughly a 25–35 minute drive by car, taxi, or ride-hail; many tours offer packages that include hotel transfers.
- Good for what ages — fine for all ages; kids aged 3–12 enjoy the dinosaurs and the tram the most. There is a fair bit of walking, so bring a stroller or lean on the tram for younger children.
On the animal shows and value
The garden also runs elephant shows and elephant rides sold as separate tickets, and the welfare of elephants in shows like these is something many people question. We will be honest and would not steer you toward the elephant show or elephant riding. The good news is you can buy a garden-only ticket and spend a full day at Dinosaur Valley and the gardens without entering the animal-show areas at all, which is both better value and easier on the conscience.
Plan a full Pattaya–Chonburi trip
See the Chonburi travel guide →