While Johor is a tropical paradise with tons to do outdoors, there will be some days when a little indoor fun is needed, especially when it is rainy. Luckily, many Johor tourist attractions offer engaging indoor experiences, ensuring there’s always something exciting to explore. If you’re wondering what to do in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, you’ll find plenty of exciting options to keep you entertained indoors, from shopping malls to family-friendly attractions.
Ice Skating
Ice skating is for you if you want to escape the typical Malaysian heat and the good news is, you can find an ice skating rink in Johor.
You can try speed and figure skating or ice hockey—everyone can enjoy skating at their own pace, and it is a welcoming retreat from the tropical weather outside.
Don’t worry about not having your own pair of ice-skating boots, there are rental facilities there.
Indoor Rock-Climbing
Looking for something exciting to do with the kids? If you’re wondering what to do in Johor Malaysia, a visit to a rock climbing gym is in order.
These rock climbing facilities are usually massive with various walls, catered for beginners, right to the seasoned climbers. The walls are adorned with coloured holds and obstacles for guidance.
Whether new to climbing or looking to challenge yourself seriously, these climbing gyms offer something for everyone. It is also not just for kids—adults can get just as much out of the experience. It’s a way to have competitive fun with friends or push your limits.
Shop at Johor Bahru Paradigm Mall
What is Johor without all its shopping malls?
One we would like to highlight here is the Paradigm Mall Johor Bahru. The mall made an impression when it opened on November 28, 2017. It’s a massive spot in the southern region, stretching seven floors with about 500 shops to browse. The space is around 1.3 million square feet dedicated to retail. Plus, there’s no hassle with parking, as there are over 4,200 spots.
It features a 20,000-square-foot ice skating rink—you can glide across the ice when you need a break from shopping! There’s also a cinema with 16 screens to indulge in.
It’s located conveniently in Skudai district, just a quick 10-minute drive from the Johor Bahru City Centre, and has direct access to several major highways.
The mall is part of a larger 13-acre development that includes plans for a new hotel, Hyatt Place, and a serviced residence called Paradigm Residence.
Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque
Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque is located at the top of a hill in Jalan Gertak Merah and was constructed between 1892 and 1900 under the reign of Sultan Abu Bakar.
Its design combines Victorian architecture with Islamic elements. White marbles highlight intricate Moorish patterns intertwined with Victorian styles. The minarets stretching into the sky might remind you of British clock towers, a nod to the colonial influences of the time.
The prayer hall has large arches and soft light filtering through stained glass. The mosque is also a symbol of harmony in design and culture.
It is open daily.
Indoor Playgrounds
If you’re looking for a place where your kids can have a blast and learn something new, head down to any one of the many indoor playgrounds in Johor.
These playgrounds usually feature a range of games that stimulate mental and physical abilities. Kids can zoom around in bumper cars, navigate through interactive slides, and engage in other fun games that encourage them to think and move. It’s also a spot where they can make new friends and enjoy being kids in a safe, indoor environment.
Some indoor playgrounds have an arts corner, where children can unleash their creativity. Whether painting, drawing, or crafting, watching their imaginations take shape in real-time is inspiring.
Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum
The city has a rich history and offers plenty for those considering what to do in Johor Malaysia. The Malaysian Chinese community has contributed significantly to its development. The Chinese began settling in Johor during the 19th century. This was drawn by the promise of work in the booming agricultural and mining sectors. Over the years, their influence has permeated every aspect of local culture, cuisine, and economy, shaping Johor Bahru into the city it is today.
The Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum in the heart of the city centre does a fantastic job of showcasing the lives and contributions of Chinese immigrants.
The museum is spread across four floors and has artefacts that tell the story of early Chinese settlers, from old typewriters and traditional musical instruments to porcelain pieces.
The museum is located at Jalan Ibrahim, Johor Bahru and is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 9 am to 5 am.
Laser Battles With Friends
Laser battle indoor parks are gaming destinations where players use laser beams to tag opponents and score points. You can play alone or with friends, choosing from various game modes emphasising strategy and agility.
Johor has a couple of laser battle parks to choose from. Dive into the game without concerns as the lasers are safe.
Shopping at Johor Premium Outlets
Are you still thinking about what to do in Johor, Malaysia? This outlet mall is quite the destination for anyone looking to catch deals on middle to semi-high end brands. You can find brands like Gucci, Prada, and Fendi offering significant discounts that are hard to find anywhere else.
Johor Premium Outlets is also a spot to unwind. The centre has cafes, including familiar names like Starbucks, where you can grab a latte, and Old Town White Coffee, which offers local flavours.
Given the size of the place, which sprawls over two floors filled with stores and eateries, it’s easy to spend an entire day here.
It is located at Bandar Indahpura, Kulai, and is open daily from 10 am to 10 pm.
Showcase your Clay-Art Talent
It’s been said that there is an artist in every one of us.
Grab some friends and unleash your creativity as you craft your bespoke cups, plates or vases. Pottery or clay-art is all about exploring new dimensions and infusing thoughts and ideas into your masterpieces.
Spend a couple of hours savouring each step of the pottery process.
Palace Tour – Istana Besar
The opulent Istana Besar, or Big Palace, was constructed in 1866. It is the Grand Palace of the Johor state and was once the home of the Sultan of Johor.
Incorporating a blend of both Malay and Western architectural styles, the palace is majestic with its ethereal white walls and signature blue roof.
Today, the Istana Besar primarily serves official functions, but a section of it has been transformed into the Royal Abu Bakar Museum. If you’re exploring what to do in Johor, Malaysia, this museum highlights a collection of antiques and heirlooms from the Royal Family.
The Istana Besar sits at 107, Jalan Tun Dr Ismail, Taman Istana, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor.
