50+ Best Things to Do in Galway with Kids

Are you looking for the best things to do in Galway with kids? Perhaps you are planning a summer getaway to the west coast of Ireland and are wondering if you should stay in County Galway? Or, you might have already booked somewhere to stay in or near Galway and are wondering how to fill your time with your little explorers? There are plenty of things to do in Galway with kids, whether you are visiting for a day, a weekend, or longer holiday. And you’ll find them right here!

Things to do in Galway for kids

When it comes to things to do, Galway Ireland has plenty on offer for families. In fact, much more than you would think. Galway is home to the Connemara National Park, the Aran Islands, Galway City, and the Wild Atlantic Way follows the Galway coastline up to its border with Mayo. And this is barely scratching the surface.

Whether you are looking for family things to do in Galway City or the wider county, I have a list of over 50 things for families to do in Galway which will keep both you and the kids happy no matter how long you are spending in the county.

The list of things to do in Galway with kids is divided into nine sections according to the type of activity/interest. You can skip to the one you want to check out, or you can read the entire list and create a bucket list of things to do with the kids in Galway for your next trip. The choice is yours!

Galway things to do outdoors – Nature, Parks, Beaches

This section is dedicated to outdoor things for kids in Galway that involve nature, parks, and beaches.

Burren Nature Sanctuary

Located in Kinvara, this is the perfect place to discover the landscape of the Burren National Park and is one of the best outdoors things to do in Galway with family. There are nature trails that wander through ancient hazel and ash woodlands, kids can get up-close-and-personal with farm animals, find fairies and visit the unique Burren Botany Bubble. You can explore the 50-acre site, take a 10-stop audio tour, let the kids run wild in the adventure playground, or discover the National Collection of Burren Flora in the botany bubble. Note: This site is closed in 2021.

Find the latest news, opening hours and more information here.

Address: Burren Nature Sanctuary, Cloonasee, Kinvara, Co. Galway, H91 PTK7

Salthill Beach and Promenade

Less than 2km from Eyre Square in Galway City, you’ll find one of the best free things to do in Galway with kids, Salthill Beach and Promenade. I spent many a summer on Salthill Beach with my sisters and have so many fond memories from our time there. Made up of several sandy beaches separated by rocky outcrops, and backed by a long promenade suitable for walking, cycling, or even rollerblading, the kids will thoroughly enjoy spending a day here if the weather is sunny and warm.

Address: Beach, Salthill, Galway City

Barna Woods

To escape the hustle and bustle of Galway City, travel 7km west, past Salthill, and you will uncover a quiet woodland that is perfect for a lovely stroll. Accessible from Cappagh Park (see below) or the Barna Road (Coastal Road – R336). Just note there are no facilities or amenities in these woods.

Find more information here.

Address: Barna Woods (near Knocknacarra), Co. Galway

Cappagh Park

If you are looking for free things to do in Galway for kids, then a visit to Cappagh Park won’t cost you a penny. This park features a playground, gardens, woodland path leading to Barna Woods (above), football pitches, and picnic areas.

Address: Cappagh Rd, Galway

Connemara National Park

As one of the six national parks of Ireland, Connemara is famous for its wild and rugged landscape and Connemara ponies which roam free and wild in the area. Families can enjoy hiking and walking along the Twelve Bens mountains, enjoy beaches galore, or visit Kylemore Abbey on the edge of the park.

Address: Letterfrack, Co. Galway

Brigit’s Garden

A beautiful sanctuary located just 20 minutes from Galway City is a great place to visit with kids, Brigit’s Garden. This award-winning Celtic Garden and visitor centre takes kids on a

Magical journey into the heart of Celtic heritage and mythology.

Set within 11 acres of woodland and wildflower meadows, Brigid’s Garden has a nature trail, an ancient ring fort (fairy fort), roundhouse and crannog, has a natural playground, kids’ discovery trail, and more. There is a café, gift shop, and is a great place to bring the kids in Galway.

For more information about opening time and admission prices, click here.

Address: Pollagh, Rosscahill, Co. Galway

Diamond Hill

A climb up Diamond Hill near Letterfrack is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with kids in Galway. This 442m hill is an isolated peak and has paths and a boarded mountain trail that are easy to walk along, making it popular with families. Take a picnic and enjoy it along your walk. Just remember to take your rubbish home with you.

Address: Letterfrack, Co. Galway

Dog’s Bay and Gurteen Beaches

These two beaches near the pretty village of Roundstone sit back-to-back, forming a tombolo jutting into the Atlantic Ocean. Dog’s Bay has a horseshoe shape with white sand which is not made from limestone but fragments of seashells, as is the sand on Gurteen Beach. Thanks to their sheltered position both are popular with bathers, windsurfers, and kite surfers alike.

Address: Ervallagh, Roundstone, Co. Galway

Coole Park Nature Reserve

One hour south of Galway City is a great place to take the kids for a day out in nature. Covering an area of approximately 400 hectares is the wetland and woodland nature reserve of Coole Park. The two reserves constitute woods, limestone reefs, lakes, and turloughs where you can see interesting Irish vegetation and fauna. Formerly owned by Lady Gregory, visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls through native woods, spend time trying to spot the red squirrels, otters, and pine martins, and then enjoy a treat in the tearooms.

For more information, visit the website.

Address: Coole Demesne, Gort, Co. Galway, H91 HF5X

Kilcornan Woodland

Located in the grounds of Kilcornan House Demesne, just outside Clarinbridge 20km south of Galway City, is another lovely woodland for a family stroll. There is a woodland trail that is buggy-friendly, and you can see the ruins of a church and monument in the woods. Kids will enjoy running along the trail while trying to spot flowers, animals, and insects among the trees.

Address: Lydacan, Co. Galway

Portumna Forest Park

Covering over 450 hectares and formerly owned by the Clanrickarde family, Portumna Forest Park is located along the northern shore of Lough Derg and is an excellent place for a family day out in Galway. There are plenty of forest and lakeside walks, a car park, toilet facilities, and observation points. Whether you want to visit on foot or on bike, these are all welcome. There is also an old, 15th-century abbey, and a castle nearby. Kids will enjoy making their way along the trails while trying to spot red squirrels or fallow deer. Orienteering is a popular activity in the forest park as well.

Find out more about the different trails in the park here.

Address: 6 St Joseph’s Rd, Portumna Demesne, Portumna, Co. Galway, H53 AH10

Monivea Woods & Playground

30km east of Galway City is another wood that is a perfect place to enjoy a family walk in Galway. Well known for its unique flora and historic archaeology, Monivea is a beautiful woodland for walks, and all trails are bike-friendly as well. There are two looped trails to enjoy, and you can also see the 17^th century historic “Ice House” which was part of the Ffrench Castle. In Monivea village, there is a great community playground to let the kids enjoy themselves in.

Address: Monivea Demesne, Co. Galway

Carrabane Forest Walk

Near Athenry, you will find a forest walk to enjoy with your little explorers called the Carrabane Forest Walk. There is a looped trail that is composed of gravel (so not really buggy-friendly) that crosses streams and over bridges that kids and dogs will love. Take a picnic to enjoy, and if you are visiting in autumn, take a food container so the kids can do some blackberry picking.

Address: Carrowbaun, Co. Galway

Merlin Park Woods

Merlin Park Woods is a large urban woodland located on the eastern edge of Galway City and is a great place to visit with kids. On the former site of the Waithman estate, this haven for wildlife is a great place for a walk away from the city centre. Merlin Castle lies in the North Wood, and there is a playground too that kids will enjoy.

Address: City Park, Merlin Woods, Doughiska Rd, Galway

Rinville Park

Located five minutes from Oranmore lies Rinville Park. It was created around an ancient castle stately home and demesne and has extensive trails through woodlands, an open farm, and by the sea. As well as a chance to view flora and fauna, there is access to Rinville Point and Salem Point from where you can enjoy views across Galway Bay and the Burren. There are picnic areas and a children’s playground, making it very family-friendly.

Address: Marshallspark, Co. Galway

For information on all the public parks in Galway City, click this link.

Millennium Children’s Park & Playground

Updated in 2019, Millenium Children’s Park is a must if you are in Galway City with kids. The colourful playground has plenty of things to keep the kids occupied and the nearby skatepark is one of the best things to do in Galway with teenagers. Just remember their skateboards! There are also toilets nearby and a place to feed the ducks.

For information on other playgrounds around Galway City, visit this website.

Address: University Rd, Galway

Knockma Wood Fairy Fort

Also known as Cnoc Meadha, this wood is located 10 minutes west of Tuam (a town my parents used to live near for many years). There are two cairns there and legend says it used to be the residence of the king of the Connacht fairies, Finnbheara. Knockma has another name, the Hill of Maeve, and it is reputed that this Queen of Connacht is buried in one of the cairns. As well as enjoying walks, there is a well-preserved tower house, Castle Hackett, and a good observation point for enjoying views across County Galway. Note that there are steep inclines, and although many of the paths are paved, at times they are not buggy-friendly. Will the kids find a fairy in these woods?

Address: Tobermina, Belclare, Co. Galway

Aasleagh Falls

If you are looking for fun things to do in Galway this weekend with the kids, and you don’t mind travelling in the car for an hour and a half, then head to the Galway/Mayo border to visit the Aasleagh Falls. Located a short drive from the village of Leenane, these falls are very picturesque. Combine this with a visit to the Connemara National Park for a fun family day out in Galway County.

Address: River Erriff, Co. Mayo

Sports, Adventure and Fun things to do in Galway for kids

In this section, you’ll find ideas for things to do in Galway for families involving sports, adventures, and other fun things to do in Galway for kids and their families.

Leisureland

Leisureland, Galway is a great place to take the kids in Galway if they love swimming. With a 25m pool, learner pool, leisure pool with water slide, inflatable obstacle course, crazy golf, and free parking and coffee shop, this is a great place in Galway for kids, especially if you are looking for family things to do in Salthill.

Find out more, latest prices and opening hours on the website.

Address: Salthill Rd Lower, Galway

Pure Skill, Fusion of Sport

A state-of-the-art sports centre to visit with the kids if you are in Galway is Pure Skill. A 25,000 square foot indoor sports centre, Pure Skill is a great family day out in Galway. There are 10 different sporting challenges to complete during which you collect points. Some of the skills challenges include Gaelic Free Kicks, Basketball Free Throws, Tennis Volleys, and more. The fully automates system moves you from challenge to challenge with over 2 hours of fun to test your sports skills as a team. Suitable from the ages of 8 years, this is a complete family fun package.

Find out more information, prices and how to book your family slot here.

Address: Western Distributors Road, Knocknacarra, Galway

Slieve Aughty Centre

If you have kids who love horses and are near Loughrea, then take them to the Slieve Aughty Centre. This family-owned eco-friendly equestrian and leisure centre is set on 17 acres of land and offers horse riding activities and pony rides, and you’ll also find crafting activities, a playground and you walk through the Enchanted Forest and hunt for fairies. There are even freshly caught fairies from the forest ready to adopt and take home!

Find more information and latest prices here.

Address: Kylebrack West, Loughrea, Co. Galway

Rusheen Bay Windsurfing

Have you got a budding surfer on your hands who would love to try their hand at windsurfing? Or does your family enjoy paddleboarding? Rusheen Bay Windsurfing, located just over 10 minutes drive from Eyre Square, is a great place to take them. Kids can take windsurfing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding lessons, and they also run summer watersports camps, which is one of the best things to do in Galway for teenagers who love the water.

You can find more information on the Rusheen Bay Windsurfing website by clicking here.

Address: Barna Rd, Rusheen Bay, Galway, H91 V6WO

Wildlands

Located in Moycullen, 11km from Galway City Centre, Wildlands is an amazing activity centre with both indoor and outdoor activities including zip wires, climbing walls, challenge rooms, off-road adventure fun, bushcraft, and more. There is a huge variety of activities to choose from and with a number of them being indoor activities, this is one of the best things to do in Galway with kids when it’s raining.

Discover all the activities available, prices, opening hours and more by clicking here.

Address: Ballyquirke, Moycullen, Co. Galway, H91 WYV2

Delphi Adventure Centre

If you are going to be staying or visiting the Delphi Resort on the edge of Connemara, then why not book some activities for the kids in the adventure centre. There are a number of land and water-based activities for kids ranging from kayaking to archery to a bog obstacle course. Whether you are staying at the resort or not, you are welcome to book activities for your kids for a fun day out on the edge of Connemara. The resort is located 76km from Galway City, a journey of about one hour and twenty minutes.

To see more information, or to book your activities, visit this link.

Address: Delphi Resort, Leenane, Connemara, Co. Galway, H91DP08

Corrib Cruises

If you are looking to enjoy the water with kids without getting wet, then consider taking a Corrib Cruise. A family-run passenger boat service on Lough Corrib that was established in 1976, Corrib Cruises offer daily sailings on the lake including historic sailings from Ashford Castle and an island cruise to Inchagoill Island. The cruises last between one and six hours, depending on the type you choose and the destination you depart from. This is a great idea for a family day out in County Galway and a great way to visit Lough Corrib.

Find more information about the available cruises and latest prices here.

Address: 1 Camp St, Fough East, Oughterard, Co. Galway, H91 N52F

Killary Adventure Centre

A premium adventure centre offering excitement and fun, Killary Adventure Centre on the edge of Connemara and at the Galway/Mayo border is a great place to take the kids if you are in this part of the west of Ireland. Activities range from kayaking in Ireland’s only fjord to climbing walls, stand-up paddleboarding, and more. They offer adventure days and summer camps.

If you want to know more or see the latest prices and activities available, click here.

Address: Killary Adventure Co, Derrynacleigh, Leenaun, Co. Galway, H91 PY61

Eilemental Activity Park

15km from Galway City Centre is where you will find Eilemental Activity Park. Set in over 50 acres of forest and heath, kids can enjoy paintballing, laser tag, archery, orienteering, and more. Note that activities are suitable for kids from the age of 10 (some from the age of 14), so this is an ideal place to take teenagers in Galway for some adrenaline-filled adventure and fun.

Click here to see the full range of available activities and how to book them.

Address: Lettergunnet, Furbo, Co. Galway

Places and towns to visit in County Galway with kids

There are lots of picturesque seaside towns and villages in Galway to visit with kids and here you’ll find a few ideas for some of them to add to your Galway itinerary. If you are wondering what other places to visit in Galway with kids, consider these.

Aran Islands

If you fancy getting off the mainland, you can take an Aran Islands ferry from Galway City to the islands that lie off the coast in Galway Bay. There are three main islands that people visit, with Inishmór being the largest of them. There you can visit the Dun Aonghasa Iron/Stone Age fort, see the natural tidal pool called the Wormhole, or enjoy walking/cycling the island.

Find the latest timetables and prices for ferry crossings to the Aran Islands here.

Clifden

Known as the unofficial capital of Connemara, Clifden is located 77km west of Galway City. If your kids enjoy a road trip, then head for the Sky Road, a 16km looped road that takes in breathtaking scenery. It passes through the Kingstown peninsula which is part of the Wild Atlantic Way. Along this road, there is Clifden Castle, a ruin. In Clifden itself you’ll find accommodation, plenty of restaurants and cafes, and also playgrounds to entertain the kids.

Spiddal

15km west of Galway is the Gaeltacht town of Spiddal. It is one of the largest Irish-speaking settlements in County Galway and is an ideal town to stop in if you are looking for a craft village, a pier, great restaurants, and more. There is also a great beach the kids will enjoy.

Inishbofin

If you are wondering what to do in Galway with kids and looking for somewhere a bit more unusual to go, head to Inishbofin. This small island, 11km off the west coast of Connemara, has a few inhabitants and is wild and rugged. To reach the island you need to take a ferry from Cleggan Pier, and if your kids love boat rides, this alone will be right up their street. The island has some great beaches and walks, and there is a small Heritage Museum to visit. To the northwest of the island is Cromwell’s Barracks, a star-shaped fort that the kids might enjoy exploring. You can even explore the island on a bike as it’s relatively quiet.

Unusual things to do in Galway with children

If you are looking for unusual or unique things to do with kids in Galway, then this section will give you a few ideas.

Galway Tourist Train

If you are compiling a list of things to do in Galway City with kids, make sure to add the tourist train to your itinerary. These little red trains, found in a few cities across Ireland, are the ideal way to spend an hour getting your bearings in a city. The Galway train snakes through the city for 45 minutes, giving you an introduction to points of interest and a short history of the city through an audio guide.

For more information about departure points, times and prices, check out their Facebook page.

The Sheep and Wool Centre

Got kids who love sheep and want to know more? Then head for the Sheep and Wool Centre on the northwestern edge of Connemara. Their mission is to

Foster awareness of the traditional sheep and wool industry in Connemara.

They hold daily wool craft demonstrations, visitors can learn about the history of sheep farming and about the wool craft in the west of Ireland. You can even buy woolens in the gift shop or enjoy homemade cakes in the café. There is also a small museum, audio-visual room, and gallery corridor.

Find out more information about the Sheep and Wool Centre here.

Address: Letterbrickaun, Leenaun, Co. Galway

Killary Fjord Boat Tours

Killary Fjord Boat Tours offers a 90-minute trip along Ireland’s only fjord in which you will get uninterrupted views of some amazing scenery. There are several sailings a day and kids aged 10 and under are free. The tours are very family-friendly and you might be lucky to spot some dolphins during your trip.

For more information about the boat tours and to see the latest prices, visit the website.

Address: Nancys Point, Leenane, Co. Galway

Glengowla Mines & Family Farm Experience

Located 30km northwest of Galway City is a unique thing in Galway to visit with kids. Glengowla Mines and Family Farm experience is an all-in-one family attraction. As well as an underground mine tour in which you can learn about the mining of silver and lead, there is the chance to have a traditional Irish sheepdog herding demonstration and also a traditional Irish turf-cutting demonstration. If your kids have an interest in Irish farming, then this is the place to visit.

Discover more information on their website.

Address: Glengowla, Oughterard, Co. Galway

Kids activities, Galway involving animals

For kids who love animals, these Galway children’s attractions are the ones to consider visiting. Many of these are among the top things to do in Galway with toddlers as they can get close to animals.

Atlantaquaria

The Galway aquarium, Atlantaquaria, is the National Aquarium of Ireland and is one of the best kids attractions in Galway. Located at the promenade of Salthill, kids will love seeking out fish of all shapes and sizes. Split across two floors, visitors can learn about the fish that call the Irish waters home. There are Bass, Eel, Seahorse, and more to discover. Families can also take part in feeding, hold a starfish and explore a model submarine.

Find the latest prices and opening times on their website by clicking here.

Address: Seapoint Promenade, Galway, H91 T2FD

Turoe Pet Farm

Located 30 minutes east of Galway City is Turoe Pet Farm. This indoor and outdoor children’s activity centre is ideal for all weather conditions. Opened in 1993, this leading family attraction in County Galway has a pet farm where children can get close to, and feed, farm animals. There is also a nature trail for walks, an indoor inflatable city that is one of Europe’s largest bouncy castles, and an indoor soft play area. Kids of all ages will love having fun at Turoe Farm. And for parents, there is the chance to enjoy a coffee and cake while the kids play.

Check out their website for the latest opening hours and admission prices.

Address: Turoe House, Turoe, Loughrea, Co. Galway, H62 A432

Rathbaun Farm

Looking for more family things to do in Galway? Then why not take the kids to Rathbaun Farm, 35 minutes drive from Galway City. As one of Ireland’s premier farm experiences, visitors can get an insight into Irish farming, past and present. The main attraction is the 250-year-old thatched-roof cottage with original stonewalls and turf fire. Visitors can see farm animals, feed the lambs at the right time of year, and discover more about farm life from the family that runs Rathbaun Farm. There is a farm tour, sheep shearing demonstration, sheep herding demos, and tours are served homemade scones with tea or coffee afterwards.

Find out more about the farm here.

Address: Rathbane, Ardrahan, Co. Galway, H91 CP89

Loughwell Farm Park

25 minutes from Galway City Centre is Loughwell Farm Park. Jam-packed with lots of different activities, kids can meet the animals including pot-bellied pigs, have fun in the miniature Play Village complete with Teddy Bear Hospital, or have fun in the huge soft play area. There are also indoor skittle lanes, an indoor didi car track, mini-golf, go-karts, and more. There is endless opportunity for fun and excitement at Loughwell Farm Park making it the perfect location for a fun family day out in Galway.

Find out more information here.

Address: Loughwell, Moycullen, Co. Galway

What to do in Galway with kids who like history

If you are wondering what to do with kids in Galway and, they like history and castles, then these sites across the county are a must.

Kylemore Abbey

Originally Kylemore Castle and built in 1868 as a private residence, it is now known as Kylemore Abbey, a Benedictine monastery founded in 1920. As well as beautiful walled gardens, visitors can learn about the history of the castle, see a neo-Gothic Church and enjoy walks and trails in the surrounding woodlands. If your kids love castles, they’ll enjoy pretending they are princesses and knights at Kylemore Abbey.

Find more information here.

Address: Kylemore Abbey, Pollacappul, Co. Galway

Aughnanure Castle

A great Tower House to visit with kids in Galway is Aughnanure Castle. Located near Oughterard, it is one of over 200 tower houses in County Galway. Built in the 16^th century this castle is a great place to stretch the legs and let the kids run off some excess energy. You see the remains of the banqueting hall, the watchtower and a dry harbour too.

See the latest information about opening hours here.

Address: Aughnanure, Oughterard, Co. Galway, H91 PX20

Portumna Castle & Gardens

One of the top family attractions in Galway is Portumna Castle and gardens. Built in the early 17^th century, this castle is a semi-fortified house located in the town of the same name. Located close to the shores of Lough Derg, it was built in the Renaissance style and the grounds have walled gardens, gate lodges and is right beside the River Shannon and Portumna Forest Park, making it an ideal family day out location in County Galway.

For more information about opening hours and facilities, click here.

Address: Portumna, Co. Galway

Dunguaire Castle

Sitting on the southeastern shore of Galway Bay is Dunguaire Castle, a 16^th-century tower house. The Irish name Dún Guaire comes from the legendary king of Connacht, King Guaire. The castle has a 75-foot tower and defensive walls which have all been restored and are open to the public during summer. You can join a castle tour, explore the grounds with the kids or even enjoy a medieval banquet at Dunguaire Castle. This castle is ideal for visiting in combination with a trip to the Cliffs of Moher or the nearby Burren National Park with the kids.

For more information about admission prices, opening hours and the medieval banquets, click here.

Address: Dungory East, Kinvarra, Co. Galway

Athenry Castle

Athenry Castle, Galway is a national monument located in the town of the same name in the east of the county. This rectangular tower house dates from the 13^th century and is a great place to visit with kids who fancy themselves as a prince or princess.

You can learn more about the castle here. For the latest admission prices and opening hours, click here.

Address: Gorteenacra, Athenry, Co. Galway

Museums and Heritage Galway days out

If you are looking for things to do on a rainy day in Galway with kids, then you can’t go wrong with a museum indoors. Here are some ideas of places to head to if the weather is rubbish outside.

Galway City Museum

If you are looking for Galway things to do with kids to learn more about the city, then head for the Galway City Museum beside the Spanish Arch. Founded in 2006, the museum collects, preserves, and displays materials relating to the history of the city. Everything from folklore to archaeology, art, and more can be found at the Galway City Museum. With three floors to explore, it can be a great place to spend a few hours with the kids if it is raining outside. There are both permanent and temporary exhibitions and during certain times of the year, events are held.

To find out more about special events, visiting exhibitions and opening times, click here.

Address: Spanish Parade, Galway, H91 CX5P

Kiltartan Gregory Museum & Millennium Park

Located 40 minutes south of Galway City is the Kiltartan Gregory Museum and Millennium Park. Once a former National School, this award-winning museum features works of Lady Gregory and WB Yeats, and visitors get a chance to see inside a school classroom from 100 years ago in the restored school. It is an interesting place to visit and afterward you can enjoy a walk or picnic in the Kiltartan Millennium Park with the kids.

Find more information about the museum and opening hours here.

Address: Kiltartan, Cross, Co. Galway, H91 C85C

Connemara Heritage & History Centre

Located in Clifden, the Connemara Heritage and History Centre, also known as Dan O’Hara’s Homestead, is an open-air museum that was established in the 1980s. As well as audio-visual presentations about a pre-famine farmer, Dan O’Hara, visitors can also see inside a replica crannog and ring fort and the pre-famine farm. Kids will enjoy seeing farm animals, getting close to turf, and imagining times gone by.

For latest opening hours and admission prices, click here.

Address: Lettershea, Clifden, Co. Galway

Indoor family activities, Galway

If you are looking for indoor activities for kids in Galway and the wider county, then this section is for you. Handy if the weather is wet and miserable outside and you don’t want to visit a museum.

Monkey Business

If you are looking for no-fuss family activities in Galway, then try Monkey Business. An indoor play centre which is ideal for kids from age 2 upwards, this soft play centre has a café which allows parents to grab a coffee and sit down while the kids play.

Check their Facebook page for the latest information on opening hours and admission prices.

Address: Bothar Stiofáin, Galway City

Busy Bees

Another great place to visit indoors with kids in Galway is Busy Bees. It’s one of the great things to do with toddlers in Galway as it is suitable for kids from the age of 6 months. There is a large soft play area, a separate one for toddlers, there is a roller skate disco suitable for kids age 7-12, a teddy bear stuffing workshop (a great birthday party idea), and laser tag for the over 8s. There is plenty to do at Busy Bees to keep kids entertained for hours.

Find more information on the website.

Address: 5, Oranmore Business Park, Carrowmoneash, Oranmore, Co. Galway

Kidsplace

If you are looking for things to do with children in Galway and will be visiting the shopping centre in Briarhill, then pop into Kidsplace. This is a small indoor soft play centre that the kids will appreciate after dragging them around the shops.

Keep an eye on their Facebook page for the latest opening information.

Address: Level 2, Shopping Centre, Ballybrit Cres, Briarhill, Co. Galway

Hip Kidz

Hip Kidz, in Galway City itself, is an interactive sports and activity centre. Kids can learn new skills while keeping fit at the same time. There are four zones with activities such as wall climbing, obstacle courses, dance mats, and more. Let them challenge themselves and have fun at the same time.

Find out a bit more about Hip Kidz here.

Address: Unit 7 Briarhill Business Park, Briarhill, Galway

Jumpanes

If you are looking for energetic and fun things to do for kids in Galway, then head to JumpLanes. At this huge indoor trampoline park, kids will jump out all their excess energy while having fun bouncing to their hearts’ content. As well as the trampoline lanes, there are pool tables, two giant human-sized soccer pool lanes, and there is an ice-skating rink too.

For information on opening hours and prices, click here.

Address: Monivea Rd, Ballybane Beg, Galway

Festival activities in Galway for families

Looking for ideas for some fun family things to do in Galway, then if you are visiting the county you might want to time your visit to coincide with a festival.

Feile Traidphicnic

Held in July, this festival is very family-friendly and features traditional Irish musicians, language, and arts, and is an inclusive, access-for-all festival. Held in Spiddal, events over the weekend include live music, arts and crafts, and guided walks. Find out more here.

Galway Arts Festival

Typically held in July, the Galway Arts Festival is one of the biggest festivals in Ireland and is an ideal place to spend some time with the kids. The festival is visited by dancers, artists, musicians, and more who take part in events ranging from comedy sets, dance and literary performances to gigs. Find out more by visiting the website.

Galway Races

This famous horse racing summer festival takes place at the end of July/beginning of August and holds a special Family Day on the Sunday. Children are admitted free and there is family-friendly entertainment such as face painting, a children’s disco, and bouncy castles. While there is racing taking place, kids are welcomed with open arms and there is plenty to keep them occupied while adults keep an eye on their favourite horse. Click here to find out more details.

Tedfest

Held in February, Tedfest is a festival dedicated to the TV show, Father Ted. This small festival is suited more to older children. Attendees often dress up as the characters to enjoy themselves at this fan convention. Held on Inishmore, one of the Aran Islands, events that have taken place in past festivals include quizzes, speed dating, movie charades, and crazy golf. Find out more here.

So, if you are wondering what’s on in Galway this weekend for kids, then I hope this list has given you a few ideas for things for kids to do in Galway and the surrounding area. Whether you want to get outdoors and enjoy nature, learn about some history or simply let the kids run off steam at an indoor centre, there is something for everyone in County Galway.

Cath x

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