1. A Splashing Day Out
Also known as "Tiger Beach" and gathered around an inlet in the Bohai Sea, Laohutan Ocean Park is around 8 miles southeast of the city center, but it's definitely worth making the trek. Highlights include the massive 36 meter long tiger statues at the heart of the resort, as well as Polar Region Marine Animals World - one of China's leading places to see aquatic beasts like beluga whales at play. And on top of all that, there's a 4D cinema and death-defying ropewalk across the ocean - adding up to a day's worth of marine-themed activities.
2. A Dizzying Array Of Architectural Influences
Dalian's civic hub, Zhongshan is a great place to launch your exploration of what the city center has to offer, which may surprise you. For instance, there's Yuguang Street Church, which once served the city's small Anglican community, and has a charming red-brick construction. There's also the elegant 1914 Dalian Hotel - built by the Japanese rulers of the time as a fitting hotel for their railway terminus, and a key set for Steven Spielberg's "The Last Emperor". The French-style CITIC Bank is also eye-catching, but the whole area repays exploration.
3. Dalian's Delightful Seaside Resort
Head due south for a few miles from Dalian, and you'll hit Fùjiāzhuāng Beach - the city's premier coastal getaway. With its picturesque bay and islands dotting the horizon, its large seaside park, and innumerable stores, bars and restaurants the other side of the hill, it's no surprise that this is the most popular spot for Dalian's locals when they need some sunshine and sand. There are woodland trails to get away from the throngs at the beach, as well as boats to hire, and even a few amusement park rides to keep kids happy.
4. Stuff Yourself With Natural Knowledge
Located on a promontory in the Heishijiao neighborhood, Dalian's Natural History Museum is a must for biology buffs (and anyone else, really). The largest purpose-built nature museum in the whole of China, it's a grand showcase for the northeast's biodiversity, featuring 200,000 specimens in total. If you're a taxidermy fan, you'll marvel at the sheer range of the animals that the museum has put on display, from whales and dolphins, to echidnas, giant pandas, and monkeys. However, the 17.1 meter-long whale is a definite highlight.
5. Beauty By The Bohai Sea
Justifiably designated a "scenic area", Bangchui can be found a few miles east of Dalian, and it's a stunning place to spend some time. The beaches are generally not too busy (if a little rocky in parts) and the bays are swimmable, while the coastline in Bangchui is achingly picturesque. And, if you're feeling active, there's a resort hotel with golf, pools, and tennis courts available - all within sight of the placid ocean waters.
