Looking for fun things to do with the kids in Belfast? Whether you’re entertaining toddlers, planning a weekend adventure with teenagers, or searching for affordable family days out during the school holidays, Belfast is packed with fantastic attractions that keep everyone smiling.
From interactive science experiences and fascinating museums to outdoor adventures and animal encounters, we’ve rounded up some of the very best places to enjoy a memorable family day out.
At Love Belfast, we’re always sharing the latest family-friendly events, seasonal attractions and school holiday ideas, making us your go-to guide for discovering what’s happening across the city all year round.
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1. W5 – Belfast’s Ultimate Interactive Discovery Centre
If there’s one attraction guaranteed to keep children entertained for hours, it’s W5.
Located beside the SSE Arena, W5 is packed with hundreds of hands-on exhibits covering science, technology, engineering and creativity. Kids can climb, build, experiment and explore while learning without even realising it.
Best for
- Ages 3–14
- Rainy days
- School holidays
- Curious young minds
Ticket Prices
- Adults from approximately £10.50
- Children from approximately £9
- Toddlers free (check seasonal pricing before visiting). (W5 Belfast)
Travel Tip
There’s convenient parking beside the Odyssey complex, while Lanyon Place Station is around a 15-minute walk away. Consider combining your visit with lunch in the Titanic Quarter.
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2. Titanic Belfast – History Comes to Life
One of Northern Ireland’s most famous attractions isn’t just for adults.
Titanic Belfast features immersive galleries, interactive exhibits, giant projections and ride experiences that younger visitors genuinely enjoy. It’s ideal for families wanting to mix entertainment with education.
Best for
- Ages 6+
- History lovers
- Visitors to Belfast
- Rainy day adventures
Ticket Prices
- Adults from approximately £24.95
- Children (5–15) from approximately £11
- Under 5s go free when accompanied by an adult. (titanicbelfast.com)
Travel Tip
Book online in advance for the best prices, especially during weekends and school holidays.
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3. Belfast Zoo – Meet Over 100 Amazing Animal Species
Set on the slopes of Cave Hill, Belfast Zoo offers spectacular views across the city alongside hundreds of fascinating animals from around the world.
From giraffes and elephants to playful primates and big cats, it’s one of Belfast’s classic family days out.
Best for
- Ages 2+
- Animal lovers
- Outdoor adventures
- Summer days
Price Guide
Ticket prices vary by season, with family tickets offering excellent value. Booking online is recommended before you visit. (Belfast City Council)
Travel Tip
Wear comfortable shoes—it’s a hilly site with plenty of walking. Arriving earlier in the day often means you’ll catch more animal feeding times.
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4. Ulster Museum – One of Belfast’s Best Free Attractions
Looking for a fantastic free family day out?
The Ulster Museum is packed with dinosaurs, Ancient Egyptian artefacts, wildlife exhibits, interactive displays and modern art—all under one roof.
It’s one of the city’s hidden gems for families.
Best for
- Ages 4+
- Budget-friendly days out
- Rainy afternoons
- Curious children
Price
Free admission
Travel Tip
Pair your visit with nearby Botanic Gardens, where little ones can run around before exploring the museum.
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5. Botanic Gardens
Right beside the Ulster Museum sits one of Belfast’s most beautiful green spaces.
Children love exploring the Palm House, the Tropical Ravine and the wide open lawns, making it ideal for picnics and family walks.
Best for
- All ages
- Picnics
- Summer afternoons
- Toddlers
Price
Free
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6. Streamvale Farm
Only a short drive from Belfast city centre, Streamvale Farm offers tractor rides, animal feeding, indoor play areas and seasonal events including Easter, Halloween and Christmas experiences.
It’s particularly popular with younger children.
Best for
- Toddlers
- Ages 2–10
- Seasonal events
Travel Tip
Tickets for festive events often sell out weeks in advance.
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7. Cave Hill Country Park & Belfast Castle
For families who love the outdoors, Cave Hill offers beautiful walking trails, wildlife and panoramic views over Belfast.
After your walk, stop at Belfast Castle for lunch or enjoy the gardens while children search for the famous cat sculptures hidden around the grounds.
Best for
- Active families
- Ages 5+
- Free days out
Price
Free
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Planning Your Family Day Out
Rainy Day Ideas
- W5
- Titanic Belfast
- Ulster Museum
Sunny Day Adventures
- Belfast Zoo
- Botanic Gardens
- Cave Hill
- Streamvale Farm
Best for Toddlers
- Streamvale Farm
- W5
- Botanic Gardens
Best Value
- Ulster Museum (Free)
- Botanic Gardens (Free)
- Cave Hill (Free)
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Don’t Miss Belfast’s Family Events
Belfast’s family calendar is always changing, with outdoor cinema screenings, children’s theatre shows, festivals, interactive workshops, seasonal trails and school holiday activities taking place throughout the year. (Visit Belfast)
That’s where Love Belfast comes in.
We regularly feature:
- Upcoming family events
- School holiday guides
- Free things to do with kids
- New attractions
- Seasonal experiences including Halloween, Christmas, Easter and summer activities
- Weekend inspiration for families across Belfast and Northern Ireland
Be sure to check our latest What’s On and family event listings before planning your next adventure—you never know what exciting new experience is happening just around the corner.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for an educational day out, an outdoor adventure or somewhere to burn off plenty of energy, Belfast has something for every family and every budget.
Our top three picks?
🥇 W5 for interactive fun.
🥈 Titanic Belfast for an unforgettable experience.
🥉 Ulster Museum for one of the best free family attractions anywhere in Northern Ireland.
Whatever you choose, you’ll find there’s always something new to discover—and Love Belfast will be here to help you find it.
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