Overview
What to Expect
Beijing Olympic Park is a world-famous sports and cultural complex that hosted the 2008 Summer Olympics and 2022 Winter Olympics, making it the first venue in history to host both Games. Covering 11.59 square kilometers, the park centers on two iconic buildings: the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) – known for its unique steel lattice structure resembling a bird’s nest, and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center) – famous for its bubble-like ETFE membrane exterior, now transformed into an indoor ski resort (Ice Cube) in winter. The park also includes the Olympic Forest Park (a large urban green space), Olympic Museum, and Dragon Boat Lake. It’s a must-visit for tourists to experience Olympic history, admire cutting-edge architecture, and enjoy outdoor activities. Popular with international visitors for its global significance and photogenic landmarks.
World’s first venue to host both Summer (2008) & Winter (2022) Olympics – global sports landmark
Iconic Bird's Nest Stadium (unique steel lattice architecture) & Water Cube (bubble-like ETFE membrane design)
Year-round appeal: summer sports tours, winter Ice Cube ski experience, spring/autumn park walks
Easy subway access (Line 8/15) – 30 mins from Tiananmen Square, perfect for a half-day Beijing trip
Free park entry (separate tickets for Bird's Nest/Water Cube) – great value for architecture & sports fans
Things to Do
- Tour the Bird’s Nest interior – walk on the Olympic track, visit the VIP lounge, and learn about Games history via English audio guides
- Experience the Water Cube/Ice Cube – summer: swim in Olympic pools; winter: ski on indoor slopes (equipment rental available)
- Rent a bike or walk in Olympic Forest Park – 680 hectares of green space with lakes, perfect for photos with the Bird’s Nest backdrop
- Watch a concert or sports event at the Bird’s Nest (check schedule in advance for international events)
- Shop for Olympic souvenirs – official 2008/2022 Games merchandise, including mascots (Fuwa/Bing Dwen Dwen)
Suggested Itinerary
- Morning – Bird’s Nest Exploration
Arrive at Olympic Park, visit the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) – tour the interior, stand on the Olympic track, and learn about its design and 2008/2022 Games history. Take photos of the iconic exterior from the central square. - Midday – Water Cube & Lunch
Walk to the Water Cube (5-min walk from Bird’s Nest) – explore the Aquatics Center, or in winter, experience the Ice Cube indoor ski resort. Have lunch at the Olympic Park food court (international cuisine options available). - Afternoon – Olympic Forest Park & Souvenirs
Visit the Olympic Forest Park for a relaxing walk or bike ride (bike rental available). Stop by the Olympic Souvenir Shop to buy 2008/2022 Games memorabilia. Return to city center via subway.
How to Get to Beijing Olympic Park (Bird's Nest, Water Cube)
- Subway (Recommended): Take Line 8 or 15 to “Olympic Park Station” (Exit A/B). 5-min walk to the park entrance. Subway runs 5:10-23:30, ¥3-5.
- Taxi/Didi: 30-40 mins from Tiananmen Square (¥50-80), 45-60 mins from Beijing Capital Airport (¥120-180). Ask driver for “Aolinpike Gongyuan” (Olympic Park).
- Airport Bus: Take Airport Bus Line 5 from Capital Airport T2/T3 to “Olympic Park Stop” (1.5 hours, ¥30).
- Tour Bus: Many Beijing city tours include Olympic Park as a stop – book English-speaking tours for in-depth commentary.
Travel Tips
- Tickets: Bird’s Nest exterior visit: free; interior tour: ¥50. Water Cube/Ice Cube: ¥30 (visit); ¥180 (ski experience). Buy tickets online via WeChat or at the gate (English ticket machines available).
- Best time to visit: 9:00-11:00 AM (fewer crowds for photos); sunset (17:00-18:00) for golden light on the Bird’s Nest.
- English services: Bird’s Nest/Water Cube offer English audio guides (¥40) and bilingual staff at information desks. Download the “Beijing Olympic Park” app for English maps.
- Comfort tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes – the park is large (11+ sq km). Bring sunscreen and a hat in summer; warm clothes in winter (Ice Cube is -5°C).
- Events: Check the Bird’s Nest schedule for concerts, football matches, or winter ice shows – international artists often perform here.
FAQ
Can I enter the Bird’s Nest/Water Cube for free?
You can visit the Olympic Park grounds for free, but entry to the Bird’s Nest interior and Water Cube requires tickets. The exterior photo spots are free and offer great views of the iconic buildings.
Is the Ice Cube (Water Cube in winter) suitable for beginners?
Yes! The Ice Cube has beginner-friendly ski slopes and offers ski lessons (English-speaking instructors available for booking). Equipment rental (skis, boots, jackets) is included in the ski ticket.
How far is Olympic Park from other Beijing landmarks?
It’s 15 km from Tiananmen Square (30 mins by subway), 20 km from the Forbidden City (40 mins by subway), and 30 km from Beijing Capital Airport (1 hour by taxi).
Are there restaurants near Olympic Park?
Yes, the Olympic Park Food Court has international options (KFC, Pizza Hut) and Chinese cuisine. For a nicer meal, walk to the nearby Olympic Village (5 mins) for Western and Asian restaurants.
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