"Under the Sea in Shanghai The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is a window into underwater environments around the world. Unlike other aquariums, their glass-topped tunnel takes you underwater and into the exhibit so you can walk along surrounded by fish, sharks and other marine life. Divided based on ecosystems, their space is large and home to a variety of species. Make sure you see the jellyfish display!"

"Picnic in Century Park Covering 140 hectares (about one-half square mile), this is no small green space. Pack a picnic, grab a kite, and head over to Century Park for some space to run around, or simply to chill out and watch life go by. Open daily from 7am-6pm. 10 RMB entrance fee. By AFAR Traveler , AFAR Local Expert"

"Sun Island Resort For a surreal China experience, head out to Sun Island resorts just outside of the city. A pristine 18 hole course awaits you on this river island. And if you have kids, they'll love the water park here. You might want to pack a bag to spend the night here so you'll have enough time to ride the go-karts, get a massage or sign up for a session of laughter yoga. By AFAR Traveler , AFAR Local Expert"

"A two-hour trek from downtown will bring you to China's third-largest island, Chongming. Considered a "national geological park," the island is a known nature escape for city residents. While you're there, check out the Chongming Museum, stroll through Dongping National Forest Park (they have hammocks and BBQ pits if you want to camp out for a while here as well as bikes to cruise around on), hike up Jinao Mountain to the Shouan Temple, or go crabbing for some of China's most famous hairy crabs at the at Dongtan National Nature Reserve. How to get there: Ferries depart daily from Baoyang Port or take bus Shen Chong (申崇一线) from Shanghai North Long Distance Bus Station. *Photo Source Bert van Dijk (Creative Commons) By AFAR Traveler , AFAR Local Expert"

"Sunny Beach Right around the corner from the Waterhouse Hotel and the Cool Docks, you'll find Sunny Beach, a slice of sand bordering the river. With only a couple dozen chairs available, you might want to get here early to grab your space. While there isn't much in the way of snack stalls and cocktail bars, they do have a pretty liberal policy on bringing your own food and drink, so pack up a bag with some of your favorites, grab your towel and badminton racquet and come out for a day in the sand. Open 10am-10pm Admission: 20 RMB *Picture from People's Daily http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/90001/90783/91300/7337741.html By AFAR Traveler , AFAR Local Expert"

"Peking Opera in Zhujiajiao While a lot of people make the trek out to Shanghai 's famous watertown during the day, here's a good reason to go in the evening: outdoor Peking Opera. The Zhujiajiao Peking Opera association really comes to life in the summer with performances most evenings in warmer weather. Besides, staying through the evening means you'll get to see the town once the masses of other tourists have left. By AFAR Traveler , AFAR Local Expert"

"With over 50,000 plants and more than 100 different species, the Shanghai Botanical Garden is a true oasis in a busy city. If you're craving the flora and fauna that you can't get in a concrete jungle, slip in here for a few hours of green, plus some much-appreciated peace and quiet. Tip: for a true summer respite, head into the bamboo forest. Open 8:30 – 17:00 daily Tickets 40 RMB (All inclusive) By AFAR Traveler , AFAR Local Expert"

"Shanghai International Film Festival Every June since 1993, Shanghai has held an International Film Festival. One of the largest in East Asia, it's a great event for movie lovers. By AFAR Traveler , AFAR Local Expert"