Kids are fascinated by a lot of what they see in London – watch any of them as they explore the Tower of London! – but there are two things that can keep your children entertained for hours: animals and boats. (What is it about animals and boats?) Here are some ideas for the whole family to enjoy:

London Wetland Centre: Just outside of London, you can discover all kinds of wildlife, including nearly 200 different kinds of birds, roaming around in the grass, marshes and water areas. Plenty of trails for exploring.

London Zoo: Penguins, Komodo dragons, bugs, dozens of monkeys (the “Meet the Monkeys” enclosure is awesome), and a terrific little petting zoo are all highlights here. The café even has “kid-friendly” sandwiches (like cheese, bread – and that’s it!).

London Butterfly House: Tropical butterflies from the four corners of the world are on display here in the greenhouse, flying freely for you to watch. There’s a special “emerging cabinet” where caterpillars are going through their transformation to future butterflies. There’s plenty to see and do for the whole family.

London Aquarium: Just steps away from the London Eye, you’ll find fish of all kinds (including piranhas, a kid favorite) swimming in various habitats and displays. There’s a “petting area” for starfish and other hearty creatures, and it’s the only place you’ll witness sharks in the capital!

Cutty Sark Clipper Ship: In Greenwich, you’ll find the only ship of its kind just ready to be explored. You’ll see the different areas “below decks” and you can have a picture opportunity at the captain’s wheel.

HMS Belfast: Another sole survivor, this warship actually saw service in World War II and beyond. It’s another wonderful place to explore, room by room, throughout nine decks (including the boiler and the engine rooms) and see what it might have been like to be a sailor out to sea. More picture opportunities here, including enormous anti-aircraft guns!