Footloose in Ho Chi Minh City: 5 new-ish things to do in old Saigon

Ho Chi Minh City has recently unveiled five new activities and attractions aimed at revitalizing its historic neighborhoods, offering fresh experiences for both tourists and residents. These developments are confirmed and are part of ongoing efforts to boost tourism and local engagement in the city’s old Saigon area.

Among the new offerings, a revamped street art tour now showcases murals created by emerging Vietnamese artists, attracting art enthusiasts. A new rooftop bar atop a historic building provides panoramic views of the city skyline, blending modern leisure with old-world charm. Additionally, a series of pop-up markets featuring local crafts and street food have been launched in several neighborhoods, aiming to support small businesses and promote cultural heritage. A recently opened bicycle tour route offers a scenic way to explore the city’s colonial architecture and bustling markets. Lastly, a cultural performance space has been established in a restored colonial-era building, hosting traditional music and dance shows aimed at preserving Vietnam’s cultural heritage.

Why It Matters

These developments matter because they present innovative ways to experience Ho Chi Minh City’s rich history and vibrant culture. They are expected to attract more tourists, support local businesses, and foster cultural preservation. For residents, these activities offer new leisure options and opportunities for community engagement, contributing to the city’s ongoing urban revitalization efforts.

Background

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, has historically been a hub of commerce, culture, and history in Vietnam. Recent years have seen increased efforts to modernize and promote tourism, especially after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The city has launched various initiatives to attract international visitors, including new attractions, cultural programs, and infrastructure improvements. These five new activities are part of that broader strategy, reflecting a focus on blending heritage with contemporary entertainment.

“These new activities aim to showcase the vibrant culture and history of Saigon while offering fresh experiences for visitors and residents alike.”

— Nguyen Van Anh, local tourism official

“The rooftop offers a unique view of the city, blending the old with the new, and has quickly become a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.”

— Linh Tran, owner of a local café near the new rooftop bar

What Remains Unclear

It is not yet clear how sustainable or long-term these new activities will be, or how much they will impact overall tourism numbers. Details about visitor numbers and local engagement are still emerging, and some attractions may be affected by future urban development plans.

What’s Next

Next steps include monitoring visitor feedback and engagement with these new activities, as well as potential expansion or additional programming. City officials and local businesses are expected to evaluate the success of these initiatives over the coming months, with possible plans for further development or refinement based on public response.

Key Questions

What are the five new activities in Ho Chi Minh City?

The five new activities include a street art tour featuring murals by local artists, a rooftop bar with city views, pop-up markets with local crafts and street food, a scenic bicycle tour route, and a cultural performance space for traditional music and dance.

Are these new activities officially open to the public?

Yes, all five activities are currently open and accessible to visitors and residents, with some venues operating seasonally or on specific schedules.

How do these developments aim to impact tourism?

These initiatives are designed to attract more visitors by offering diverse, culturally rich experiences that complement the city’s historic character, supporting local businesses and enhancing overall tourism appeal.

Will these activities remain permanent?

Most are intended as ongoing attractions, but their long-term status will depend on visitor response and city planning decisions. Some may evolve or be replaced over time.