There are also more traditional outdoor scenic spots and markets to visit.
Here are five recommendations if you are planning a trip to Zhuhai in the coming weeks.
1. National Geographic Ultimate Explorer
A collaboration between National Geographic, the US TV network best known for its nature programmes, and family entertainment company iP2 Entertainment Design, this 4,500-square-metre (48,000-square-foot) immersive experiential centre in Novotown is a must-visit for anyone seeking an “out of this world” adventure – indoors.
The “edutainment park” features over a dozen experiences that take visitors from the far reaches of space to the deepest depths of the oceans.
With the help of immersive simulation cabins, VR headsets and other interactive technology, you can climb to the top of a rainforest, cross the remote polar regions, descend deep into the Mayan ruins to uncover ancient secrets, unearth dinosaur fossils at archaeological sites and travel between planets.
There are also puzzles to solve and challenges that test your physical fitness. All the while, you get to learn something new about the world, and universe, through fun and immersive activities.
Anyone whose birthday falls in September take note: there is a one-off free admission promotion for you at the explorer centre throughout the month.
Level 3, Novotown, 10am-6pm (5pm for last entry). One-day pass from HK$121.
2. Lionsgate Entertainment World
Another attraction you should not miss is this 22,000-square-metre theme park inspired by blockbuster movies from Lionsgate Studios. Using virtual, augmented and 3D technologies, the entertainment centre is “where movies come alive”.
Mockingjay Flight – Rebel Escape is a simulator adventure that takes visitors through the treacherous world of The Hunger Games, where danger lurks around every corner, while The Twilight Saga: Midnight Ride is an action-packed, VR dirt bike experience.
Gods of Egypt: Battle for Eternity is a VR roller-coaster adventure through ancient Egypt, while Escape Plan: Prison Break offers a hi-tech escape room experience.
There are six major zones and a day pass allows visitors free access to all the attractions and rides. There are also a number of free interactive games scattered throughout the park for additional thrills.
3. Zhuhai Shijingshan Tourist Cableway
One of the highest points in Zhuhai, the 148-metre-tall Shijing Hill offers a panoramic view of the city. Do not worry about hiking up it – a cableway from Jingshan Park takes you to the top.
Once there you have a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding area from the 360-degree platform, including landmarks such as Xianglu Bay Beach, the Zhuhai Fisher Girl Statue, the Zhuhai Grand Theatre and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge.
To get down again, why not take the roller-coaster-like tube rail slide? The 630-metre-long slide snakes its way down to ground in a ride that takes about three minutes.
It is highly recommended to time your excursion around sunset for the best views. Admission to Jingshan Park is free, and a package ticket for the cableway and slide costs HK$86.
Haibin North Road, Xiangzhou district, 9am-8pm (last entry 7.30pm)
4. Xiawan Night Market
If you want to keep up with local food culture, then you should not miss the Xiawan Night Market.
With more than a hundred stalls operating into the small hours, the place absolutely heaves with food lovers.
Among the cuisine on offer are dishes from northeast China, local specialities such as grilled garlic Taishan oysters, a variety of stir-fried dishes, and mini pan-fried buns with a choice of fillings, with some costing as little as 10 yuan. Wash all that down with a bowl of delicious double-skin milk.
210 Xiawan Road, Xiangzhou district, 9.30pm-5.30am
And for somewhere to stay:
5. Renaissance Zhuhai Hotel
Not far from the Xiawan Night Market is the Renaissance Zhuhai Hotel, which has 316 rooms and suites all with large windows offering views of the Qianshan River and Macau landmarks such as the Macau Tower and the Grand Lisboa.
Like many high-end hotels in the Greater Bay Area, the Renaissance Zhuhai Hotel offers a number of family- and fine-dining options.
Rise Kitchen & Terrace Western Restaurant serves international cuisine and its spacious terrace offers a stunning view of the city.
Riverfront Mansion Chinese Restaurant serves modern Cantonese cuisine and specialises in fresh fish dishes.
The hotel offers amenities including a children’s playground and outdoor and indoor pools. It is not part of Novotown, but it is still worth checking for any special deals in September.
