Pattaya was an ordinary fishing village just a few decades ago. In a short period, it has successfully transitioned into a tourist city, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.
The city's smart policy of marketing it as a destination for visitors seeking spirituality and for those looking for modern amenities has benefited the tourism sector and local economy. Pattaya offers something that other cities mostly lack, from the ultra-modern sky tower to traditional temples.
Here are some of the best things to do in Pattaya, Thailand:
1. Ride 2Sky Pattaya-Rocket Ball
For thrill-seekers, the 2Sky Pattaya-Rocket Ball is a constant source of adrenaline. The ride, consisting of two steel towers, cords, and a steel vehicle for 2 participants, works by launching the vehicle vertically.
The machine can reach the speed of 100 km per hour in merely one second, applying a pressure equivalent to 5G. The launcher follows strict safety protocols, so you need not worry about any operational failure.
However, the ride is not suitable for people with heart conditions, pregnant women, and individuals prone to motion sickness. Also, you should be at least 1.1 meters (3.6 feet) tall to be eligible for this ride.
2. Visit The Sanctuary Of Truth
The Sanctuary of Truth is a massive wooden temple and museum, built entirely from wood without nails. This architectural masterpiece flawlessly represents Buddhist and Hindu philosophies that depict the relationship between humanity, the universe, and spirituality.
A tour of the museum usually involves watching the symbolic carvings; these sculptures are a tribute to deities, celestial beings, and mythological figures. Since construction is ongoing, visitors can also witness artisans as they work with ancient woodworking techniques.
3. Shop At Central Pattaya
As Asia's largest beachfront shopping mall, Central Pattaya surely lives up to its reputation. The place, also known as Central Festival Pattaya, is a one-stop destination for shopping and entertainment.
For those looking for Thai-style clothing and accessories, local boutiques and independent stores offer handmade jewelry and silk scarves. Tourists also frequent the Central Food Hall for its wide selection of gourmet international and Thai delicacies.
Another highlight is the duty-free section, where visitors can purchase cosmetics, perfumes, and liquor at bargain prices.
4. Enjoy The View From Big Buddha Temple
Big Buddha Temple is a great viewpoint to enjoy the sight of Pattaya city and Jomtien Beaches. The meditating statue itself is a relaxing place to be around.
The temple's entrance has a staircase that is filled with dragon-styled railings. Once you get to the top, you'll see 7 other statues of Buddha, although they are much smaller than the main statue.
The temple is a place of worship, so remember to be on your best behavior. Also, take off your shoes or sandals before entering the premises as a show of respect.
5. Cool Down On Summer Days At Ramayana Water Park
The park is the perfect place to hang out for kids, featuring over 50 rides and activities spread across a vast tropical landscape. Kids can enjoy splash zones, wave pools, and lazy rivers while parents relax in shaded cabanas.
The Ramayana Park's two main slides AquaLoop and Freefall offer high-speed drops and loops; whereas, the Python and Anaconda slides provide twisting multi-person tube rides.
For younger children, the Kid’s Aqua Play area features mini slides, fountains, and splash buckets.
6. Explore 3D World Of Art In Paradise
Currently, the Art in Paradise is the only gallery or museum in Thailand to exhibit illusion 3D art pieces. The gallery has a collection of 10 such masterpieces - including Underwater World, Dinosaur Hall, and so on.
Visitors can take realistic photographs in these halls, often blending the person with the scene of the original art piece. Or, you can add AR effects to your mobile device by connecting to the app.
The gallery charges a ticket price of about $12 for adults and $6 for kids. The ticket booth is open until 9:30 pm, although the museum remains open for an hour more.
7. Pet Big Cats At Tiger Park Pattaya
Tiger Park Pattaya is a must-visit place for tourists, especially for feline lovers. These tigers who were raised in the sanctuary are friendly with visitors, even allowing you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to pet a wild cat.
As of 2025, the park has over 300 tigers of various breeds - Bengal and Siberian, among others. The park provides various packages that allow you to interact with a tiger of your choice.
Kids who may be too scared to pet a big tiger can instead play with a cub or smaller tigers.
8. Stroll Around Terminal 21 Pattaya
This shopping mall isn't just a cool place to hang out, it's also a great destination for tourists to buy gifts, souvenirs, and other necessary items. The terminal has something for everyone, from luxury shops for rich people to budget shops for a casual traveler.
Terminal 21's highlights include Levi's, Lyn, Uniqlo, Seiko, and more. Between your shopping spree, you can also enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the local restaurants or cafeteria.
9. Photography At Mini Siam
Established in 1986, Mini Siam is a miniature park featuring scaled-down replicas of famous landmarks from Thailand and around the world. Established in 1986, the park is approximately 46,400 sq. meters in area and is divided into two zones: Mini Siam and Mini Europe.
The Mini Siam section features replicas of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Arun, and Ayutthaya’s ancient ruins. Mini Europe displays landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Statue of Liberty, and the Sydney Opera House.
The park will surely impress your kids as they feel invincible standing in the miniature world. Also, the place is the ideal destination for photographs, so don't forget to bring your camera.
10. Ride A Boat Across Pattaya Floating Market
At the Pattaya Floating Market, visitors can rent traditional rowboats directly within the market premises. These boats are available for hire at designated piers inside the market.
On average, a typical boat ride costs around $3; this fee grants a 20-minute journey through the market's canals. Similarly, a normal tour of the Pattaya Floating Market involves exploring its four distinct sections, each representing a different region of Thailand: North, Northeast, Central, and South.
Additionally, visitors can stroll along wooden walkways and discover several stalls selling traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
11. Visit Million Years Stone Park And Pattaya Crocodile Farm
Located just a 15-minute drive from Pattaya, the farm spans over 70 acres and is home to both saltwater and freshwater crocodiles. The thrilling crocodile shows, where skilled trainers perform daring stunts with these powerful reptiles, are a major draw for visitors.
Besides crocodiles, the park also hosts elephant performances, exotic bird displays, and a mini zoo. While the park provides a comprehensive day of activities, it does not offer lodging facilities. Visitors planning to stay overnight will need to seek accommodation in nearby Pattaya.
12. Enjoy City View From Pattaya Park Tower
Pattaya Park Tower within the Pattaya Park Beach Resort is a beautiful spot for enjoying the views of the beach and other parts of the city.
From the tower's 55th-floor observation deck, guests can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of Jomtien Bay, Pattaya City, and the expansive Gulf of Thailand.
Similarly, the tower also features revolving restaurants on the 52nd, 53rd, and 54th floors. For thrill-seekers, the Tower Jump allows visitors to descend from the top of the tower via a controlled cable descent.
If the Tower Jump is too much for you to handle, consider using the Speed Shuttle or Sky Shuttle.
13. Watch Exhibits At Ripley's Thailand
The Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum is renowned for providing its followers with bizarre exhibits, interactive experiences, and entertainment. The museum itself revolves around oddities, strange facts, and exhibits that challenge visitors' perceptions of reality.
As for the art pieces, the museum displays a broad spectrum, from the world’s smallest sculptures and rare animal specimens to life-like wax figures of famous personalities.
At the same time, visitors can challenge themselves in the Mirror Maze, navigate through the Infinity Maze, or try out the 4D Moving Theater.
14. View Pattaya City Sign
The Pattaya City Sign, situated on Pratumnak Hill, can be reached through a taxi or songthaew (shared pickup truck taxi) from central Pattaya; most drivers will be familiar with this popular viewpoint. Alternatively, you can take a 10-minute hike from the city center.
This iconic sign, with its large, bold letters spelling out "Pattaya City," is reminiscent of the famous Hollywood sign. At night, the sign is illuminated, adding to Pattaya's dazzling nightscape.
Visiting the Pattaya City Sign offers more than just a photo opportunity; it's a chance to experience a different side of the city, away from the busy beaches and nightlife.
15. Buy Souvenirs At Pattaya Night Bazaar
With over 250 stores, the Pattaya Night Bazaar primarily targets tourists. Visitors coming to this market can simply explore the beauty and tradition of the bazaar, walking across the different stalls and shops.
The Night Bazaar is mainly famous for three things: clothes, souvenirs, and herbal products. The stalls are known to sell fake versions of branded clothes that almost look the same as the original.
However, these fake copies are extremely cheap, allowing people to wear high-brand clothes without paying the price.
16. Go To Anek Kuson Sala
Also referred to as the Viharn Sien or the Chinese Temple in Pattaya. Anek Kuson Sala is a unique cultural heritage built using Thai and Chinese architectural styles. The museum was constructed to honor Chinese heritage and house an impressive collection of Chinese art and artifacts.
Before the museum was set up, the property served as the temple. This is evident from the collection of statues and relics from Chinese history and mythology, including depictions of ancient Chinese gods, warriors, and historical figures.
The Anek Kuson Sala isn't just for tourists; it will give the locals a chance to under Chinese traditions and culture, along with how the two countries' relationship has evolved over the years.
17. Take A Tour Of Pattaya Elephant Village
Elephants naturally catch our attention with their large size but gentle personality. These giants are known to feel and express emotions like humans, and their bond with humans never breaks.
The Pattaya Elephant Village currently houses four gentle elephants: Pang Motoki, Somkid, Frank, and Thangthai. As a guest of the village, you'll be allowed to feed them, watch them taking mud baths, or take a ride on their backs.
Anyway, the village is worth a visit for every animal lover or tourist spending time in Pattaya.
18. Stay At Pattaya Park Beach Resort
Staying overnight at the Pattaya Park Beach Resort is a luxury experience most people save for special occasions. Enjoy the high-end services offered by the resort; you can spend the day idling by the outdoor swimming pool or taking a stroll along Jomtien Beach.
In the afternoon, guests have various activities to choose from. For adventure lovers, a visit to the Pattaya Park Tower is a must. Meanwhile, families may prefer the nearby water park for a gentler experience.
For entertainment, the resort often hosts cultural performances or provides access to the nearby Pattaya nightlife scene. Guests can also end their day at the resort’s bar or relax in the comfort of their rooms.
19. Walk Around Central Marina
A shopping mall located on Pattaya Second Road, Central Marina is a mall designed with a nautical theme. The mall's inspiration comes from the charm of a traditional fishing village.
The thematic approach gives rise to a unique shopping atmosphere that stands as a symbol of Pattaya's coastal heritage.
At the mall, you can simply hang out or explore the various boutiques, local fashion brands, and electronics stores. The mall also features a Big C Super Center that provides a wide selection of groceries and household items.
20. Witness Nightlife At Walking Street
The Walking Street is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors with its eccentric nightlife. Tourists from all around the world who come to Pattaya should get a taste of the city's nightlife at least once.
Exploring the vibrant atmosphere, you can enter one of the clubs, pubs, or bar for a couple of drinks. The place also has some decent seafood restaurants that will feed you an authentic Thai meal.
Or, you can ditch the establishments and just enjoy walking through the market.
21. Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden
Spanning over 500 acres, the garden is home to a vast collection of tropical plants and themed gardens. Basically, it's a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike.
One of the trophies, the French Garden, resembles the famous gardens of Versailles, and the Butterfly Hill. Meanwhile, the Cactus and Succulent Garden, as well as the Orchid Garden, showcase rare and exotic plant species from around the world.
Beyond its botanical wonders, Nong Nooch Garden offers cultural and entertainment experiences. Traditional Thai performances, including classical dances, Muay Thai demonstrations, and elephant shows, take place daily.
At the same time, the garden also features a car museum with a collection of vintage and luxury vehicles as a way to appeal to automobile enthusiasts.
22. Spend A Day At Yunomori Onsen And Spa
Yunomori Onsen and Spa offers a chance to experience traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring) bathing with Thai spa treatments for the relaxation of their visitors.
The onsen experience, being the highlight, features multiple mineral-rich baths - including hot spring baths, cold plunge pools, jet baths, and carbonated baths.
Apart from that, visitors are provided with traditional Thai massages, aromatherapy massages, and deep tissue treatments. The center's signature treatments focus on muscle relaxation and stress and combine Japanese and Thai healing techniques and relief.
23. Get Amazed At The Beauty Of Khao Chi Chan
Also referred to as the Buddha Mountain, the Khao Chi Chan features a massive Buddha image carved into the limestone cliff and inlaid with gold.
The image, which stands at 109 meters (358 feet) tall, was used to celebrate King Rama IX’s 50th anniversary on the throne. Beyond the Buddha Image, the site is also a center for meditation and spiritual retreats.
Generally, the ride to Khao Chi Chan is about 25 kilometers long and takes around 30–40 minutes. The site, near other attractions like Silverlake Vineyard, is convenient for a day trip; entry is free, though donations for maintenance are appreciated.
