15 Best Things to Do in Belfast With Kids

You’ll find Belfast packed with family adventures, from exploring Titanic’s story through interactive exhibits at Titanic Belfast to conducting hands-on experiments at W5 Science Centre‘s 250+ displays. Take guided tours of historic Crumlin Road Gaol, spot over 1,200 animals at Belfast Zoo, and walk the safe Lagan Towpath to see the Big Fish sculpture. Don’t miss Colin Glen’s Gruffalo Trail, Ulster Museum‘s free exhibits, and panoramic city views from Victoria Square’s glass dome. Discover how each attraction offers unique experiences for every family member.

Titanic Belfast

Belfast’s crown jewel attraction, Titanic Belfast, transforms learning about the world’s most famous ship into an unforgettable adventure your kids will love. You’ll explore nine interactive galleries featuring multi-sensory exhibits with sound, lighting, and large-scale projections that captivate children and adults alike.

Don’t miss the Shipyard Ride, an indoor dark ride that simulates a journey through the historic shipyard with authentic sights, sounds, and temperatures from the early 1900s. Your kids can interact with touch-screen displays, explore reconstructed cabins, and examine detailed scale models that bring ship life to reality.

The attraction’s location in Titanic Quarter, where the actual ship was built, adds historical significance. The building’s impressive design features an angular form that mimics ship prows and reaches the same height as Titanic’s hull at 126 feet. With on-site amenities including a café and gift shop, you’ll have everything needed for a complete family day out.

W5 Science Centre

With over 250 interactive exhibits spread across eight themed zones, W5 Science Centre transforms learning into an exciting hands-on adventure that’ll keep your kids engaged for hours. Your little ones can build structures, bring robots to life, and experiment with magnets while exploring topics from climate change to medical science.

The Lost Planet zone captivates ages 3-11 with its space-dinosaur theme and physical play features.

Don’t miss RoboThespian, the life-sized interactive robot that talks and performs. Daily live science shows add extra excitement to your visit.

Plan 2-4 hours for your exploration. Book timed entry online to guarantee admission, and enjoy same-day re-entry privileges. The centre offers locker facilities on the ground floor and Level 2 for just £1.00, with your coin returned when you open the locker.

Located in the Odyssey complex near Titanic Quarter, it’s perfectly positioned for a full day of Belfast discoveries.

Ulster Museum

Northern Ireland’s treasure house awaits your family at Ulster Museum, where free admission opens doors to an eclectic mix of art, history, and natural science that’ll captivate every age group.

You’ll discover diverse galleries featuring Egyptian mummies, Spanish Armada gold, and exhibits covering the Troubles alongside dinosaurs and meteorites. Kids love the hands-on Discovery Centres for Art, History, and Nature, plus the natural world room with large windows overlooking an old graveyard.

Visit during Family Focus Sessions on second Saturday and Sunday monthly for free object-handling activities.

The museum offers wheelchair access, baby-changing facilities, and pushchair-friendly navigation across multiple floors. A typical visit lasts 1-2 hours, making it perfect for families with children of varying attention spans.

Located within Belfast’s Botanic Gardens, you can easily combine your visit with playground time and exploring the Victorian glasshouses for a full day out.

Belfast Zoo

After exploring indoor treasures, head north to Belfast Zoo where your family can encounter over 1,200 animals from 140 species across 55 sprawling acres. You’ll climb visible steps from Antrim Road, but the city views make the ascent worthwhile for older children.

The zoo attracts over 300,000 visitors annually, focusing on endangered species conservation through 90+ international breeding programs. Your kids will love spotting the UK’s only tree-kangaroo Kwikila, Sumatran tigers, and smooth-coated otters.

The state-of-the-art Visitors’ Centre offers respite, while multimedia presentations teach wildlife conservation. The zoo also features a working farm with domestic animals including pygmy goats, Shetland ponies, and rabbits that children can interact with.

Consider the audio tour for educational value, and don’t miss the excellent playground. With most animals endangered in their natural habitats, you’re supporting essential conservation work while creating lasting family memories.

Crumlin Road Gaol

Step into Northern Ireland’s only remaining Victorian prison at Crumlin Road Gaol, where 150 years of compelling history await your family’s exploration. You’ll discover the fascinating stories of over 25,000 former inmates, from political prisoners like Éamon de Valera to suffragettes, through engaging audio-visual exhibits and guided tours.

Your children will be captivated by the underground tunnel connecting to Crumlin Road Courthouse and the imposing Victorian Gothic architecture designed by Sir Charles Lanyon.

The standard historical tours work well for families with older children, covering cells, wings, and daily prison routines. The prison’s unique layout features a central courtyard with four radiating wings that were originally designed for prisoner segregation.

Book ahead since the venue hosts various events. While paranormal tours are available, stick to daytime historical experiences for younger visitors to ensure an educational yet age-appropriate adventure.

Botanic Gardens

Escape the confines of historic stone walls and immerse your family in Belfast’s breathtaking Botanic Gardens, where 28 acres of lush greenery and Victorian glasshouses create the perfect outdoor adventure for children of all ages.

You’ll discover the magnificent Palm House, a mid-19th-century cast-iron masterpiece showcasing exotic plants and seasonal displays that’ll captivate young minds.

The sunken Tropical Ravine offers an enchanting journey through banana plants, tree ferns, and towering orchids.

Your kids can explore the dedicated playground between garden tours, while you enjoy free admission and accessible facilities including baby-changing rooms. The gardens welcome families daily from 7:30 am, making it easy to start your Belfast adventure with a morning stroll through nature.

The circular 0.8-mile walking path keeps little legs engaged without overwhelming them.

Don’t miss the giant bird feeders and interactive exhibits that transform this Victorian gem into an educational nature adventure.

Cave Hill Country Park

Towering 370 meters above Belfast’s skyline, Cave Hill Country Park transforms into your family’s gateway to panoramic adventure.

Three waymarked trails wind past ancient caves and archaeological treasures that’ll spark children’s imagination. Choose shorter 0.8-mile loops for younger kids, or tackle the challenging Cave Hill Trail with teens to reach McArt’s Fort and Napoleon’s Nose.

The free Cave Hill Adventurous Playground keeps 3-14 year-olds entertained with swings, climbing nets, and an aerial runway.

Visit the Cave Hill Visitor Centre for educational materials about local wildlife and geology. The park also features the historic Belfast Castle with its beautiful gardens and the famous ‘nine cats’ sculpture that children love to explore.

Pack water and snacks since the moorland terrain can be demanding.

Free entry makes this an affordable day out with breathtaking views over Belfast Lough.

Belfast Castle

Perched 400 feet above Belfast on Cave Hill’s lower slopes, Belfast Castle offers your family a perfect blend of Scottish Baronial architecture, whimsical cat-themed gardens, and breathtaking panoramic views that’ll captivate kids and adults alike.

You’ll love exploring the themed cat garden featuring topiary, mosaics, and statues that create an engaging treasure hunt for children. The short 0.8-mile Castle Trail suits younger walkers, while open lawns provide space for games and picnics.

Don’t miss the on-site playground and café for family breaks. The Cave Hill Visitor Centre on the second floor features free exhibits and an 8-minute film that brings the area’s history to life for curious young minds.

Best of all, admission’s completely free to the castle, gardens, and grounds. The estate’s buggy-friendly paths and proximity to Belfast Zoo make it ideal for combining into a memorable day out exploring Belfast’s family attractions.

SS Nomadic

Step aboard the SS Nomadic, the last surviving White Star Line vessel and the only remaining ship designed by Thomas Andrews, Titanic’s architect. You’ll explore the same decks that carried 247 passengers to Titanic’s maiden voyage, including famous figures like John Jacob Astor IV and Benjamin Guggenheim. Your kids will love the self-guided audio tours through ornate first-class lounges and discovering 100 years of maritime history.

The 230-foot vessel offers family-friendly exhibits showcasing luxurious finishes from Titanic’s construction era. Located in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring the area’s maritime heritage. You’ll learn about the ship’s fascinating wartime service and 57-year career. The ship’s four decks plus a hold provide plenty of space for families to explore different areas and accommodations.

The museum provides engaging displays about famous passengers and shipbuilding history that’ll captivate visitors of all ages.

Belfast City Hall

Since its completion in 1906, Belfast City Hall has stood as the city’s most recognizable landmark, offering families an impressive blend of architectural grandeur and interactive learning experiences.

You’ll discover Belfast’s fascinating history through the 16-room exhibition, featuring themed displays on everything from the Belfast Blitz to local street games. Kids will love the interactive elements and audio guides available in multiple languages.

The building’s stunning Baroque Revival architecture showcases marble staircases, mosaic floors, and a magnificent copper dome.

The 1.5-acre grounds provide essential green space in the city center, perfect for picnics and informal play. The site holds special significance as it replaced the old Linen Hall, reflecting Belfast’s rich textile heritage.

You can catch family-friendly screenings on the Belfast Big Screen, which attracts 50,000 visitors annually.

Daily guided tours last 45 minutes, with the exhibition open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm and weekends 10am-5pm.

Peace Walls and Political Murals Tour

Over fifty years after their construction, Belfast’s Peace Walls offer families a powerful educational experience that brings Northern Ireland’s complex history to life through colorful murals and towering barriers.

You’ll explore Falls Road’s Republican murals and Shankill Road’s Loyalist artwork during a 1.5-2 hour black cab or walking tour with knowledgeable local guides.

Your children will see the famous Bobby Sands Mural and Cupar Way Peace Wall, where international visitors have left signatures alongside political messages.

Many tours offer city-center pickup and wheelchair-accessible vehicles for families.

You can book private tours that allow custom pacing and age-appropriate explanations, as some murals contain violent imagery. These murals tell the stories of over 30 years of sectarian conflict that deeply divided Belfast’s communities.

Guides often adjust their commentary for younger audiences, making this complex history accessible while maintaining educational value.

Colin Glen Forest Park

After exploring Belfast’s urban history, you’ll find natural adventure awaits just five minutes from the city center at Colin Glen Forest Park. This 200-acre forest sanctuary offers Ireland’s only official Gruffalo Trail, perfect for younger children who’ll love discovering character sculptures and story panels along the way.

Older kids can tackle Ireland’s longest zipline or experience the Black Bull Run Alpine Coaster for serious thrills. The award-winning SKYTrek high ropes course caters to various ages and abilities, while outdoor laser tag and archery provide group fun.

Choose from marked trails: the wheelchair-friendly Yellow route (2.3 miles), scenic Blue route with panoramic views (2.8 miles), or challenging Red route (4 miles). The park also features educational programs and volunteering opportunities that engage families in learning about local environmental conservation. Free parking‘s available at the Stewartstown Road entrance, making this Belfast’s accessible “green lung” ideal for family adventures.

Belfast Harbour Marina

Just minutes from Colin Glen’s forest trails, Belfast Harbour Marina anchors your family’s waterfront adventure in the heart of Titanic Quarter. You’ll find safe, traffic-free quayside paths perfect for buggies and wheelchairs, letting kids watch boats and harbour activity up close.

The marina connects to the Maritime Mile, a signposted waterfront trail with public art and viewing points overlooking Belfast Lough. You can spot cruise ships, working docks, and the iconic Harland & Wolff cranes while strolling the flat, paved walkways.

Position yourself strategically here—you’re walking distance from Titanic Belfast’s immersive exhibits and W5’s interactive science displays. The nearby entertainment complex offers cafés and family dining. The waterfront also features recreational activities including tennis courts and swimming facilities for active families.

While exploring, check out special events like Belfast Maritime Festival, which bring nautical-themed activities and street performers directly to the waterfront.

Big Fish Sculpture and Lagan Towpath

Ten meters of gleaming ceramic scales catch your family’s eye as you approach Belfast’s beloved Big Fish sculpture on Donegall Quay. This salmon-shaped artwork doubles as a history lesson, with hundreds of blue-and-white ceramic tiles displaying centuries of Belfast stories, from Tudor times to modern headlines.

Kids love spotting children’s drawings from local schools embedded in the scales, turning visits into treasure hunts.

The sculpture sits where the River Farset meets the Lagan, the historic spot that gave Belfast its name. Legend says patting the “Salmon of Knowledge” brings wisdom and luck—a ritual kids ardently embrace. The fish becomes even more magical after dark when nighttime illumination transforms it into a glowing beacon along the waterfront.

Extend your visit along the adjacent Lagan Towpath, perfect for family walks and cycling. The flat, paved riverside route offers gentle exercise with stunning waterfront views.

Victoria Square Shopping Centre Dome

Why not combine shopping with sightseeing by heading to Victoria Square’s spectacular glass dome? Located atop Belfast’s largest shopping centre, this 35-meter glass structure offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, coastline, and surrounding mountains – completely free of charge.

You’ll access the dome via lifts within the shopping centre, making it perfect for families. The enclosed platform means kids stay safe while enjoying panoramic views in any weather.

On clear days, you’ll spot landmarks like City Hall and Albert Clock, with helpful signboards identifying key sights. The attraction maintains a strong 4.1 rating based on visitor reviews, reflecting its popularity among families and travelers alike.

The dome rises 45 meters above street level, providing an unforgettable perspective of Belfast. After taking in the views, you can explore over 50 stores and 18 eateries below, making it an ideal family-friendly stop.

The Sum Up

You’ll discover Belfast offers incredible family experiences that’ll create lasting memories. Remember to check opening times and book tickets in advance for popular attractions like Titanic Belfast and the zoo. Always supervise children near the harbor and river areas, and dress appropriately for Northern Ireland’s changeable weather. Whether you’re exploring interactive museums or enjoying outdoor adventures, Belfast’s kid-friendly attractions guarantee everyone stays entertained while learning about the city’s rich history and culture.