Looking for things to do with kids in Cardiff? If you’re visiting for the weekend or lucky enough to call this vibrant city home, Cardiff is packed with fun, family-friendly things to explore. From climbing adventures and museums to castles and green spaces, here are 9 brilliant outdoor and indoor activities in Cardiff to try with your little ones – and maybe even enjoy yourself.
Kick off your adventure with some active indoor fun at Flashpoint Cardiff. This indoor climbing centre is ideal for kids of all ages and abilities, offering bouldering walls, auto-belays, and a colourful kid-friendly zone known as The Den. There are over 200 climbing problems set across regularly updated routes, so even return visits stay exciting. It’s a brilliant way to build confidence, strength, and coordination, all while having a proper laugh.
And if you like it so much, there’s various options of memberships available.
Time to spend: 60–90 minutes
Step back in time at Cardiff Castle, right in the heart of the city. Kids can climb the Norman keep, walk through atmospheric tunnels used during WWII, and peek inside lavish rooms once used by nobility. Costumed guides, a gift shop filled with shields and swords, and plenty of open grounds to explore make it a hit with children and adults alike. Don’t forget to check out the Animal Wall just outside the castle – great for a quirky photo stop!
Time to spend: 1.5–2 hours
One of Cardiff’s top attractions for families, Techniquest is an interactive science centre where everything is hands-on. Children can build, launch, touch, and play their way through exhibits on everything from outer space to human biology. There’s even a toddler zone for little scientists and a planetarium for curious minds. It’s educational fun at its best, and a total winner on rainy days.
Time to spend: 2–3 hours
Nestled behind Cardiff Castle, Bute Park is a giant green playground where families can enjoy a breath of fresh air. With cycle paths, picnic spots, wooden sculptures, and riverside trails, it’s ideal for kids who need space to roam. Bring a ball, a frisbee, or just your walking shoes – it’s the perfect place for a casual afternoon.
Time to spend: 1–2 hours (or more if the weather’s lovely!)
Located in the Old Library building, the Museum of Cardiff gives families a look into the city’s story through interactive displays, film, and activities. It’s a smaller museum, so it won’t overwhelm younger children, but it’s packed with little gems. There’s even a soft play-style corner for toddlers to let off steam.
Time to spend: 45–60 minutes
Make a splash at Cardiff International Pool, where you’ll find flumes, a lazy river, fountains, and a dedicated splash zone for under-8s. Older kids can brave the larger slides while younger swimmers paddle in shallower areas. There are also family changing rooms and a café, making it easy to spend half a day there without any fuss.
Time to spend: 1.5–2 hours
Cardiff International Pool & Gym website
An outdoor museum that feels like walking through a living storybook, St Fagans features more than 40 historic buildings from across Wales, including cottages, shops, a school, and even a working bakery. Kids can watch craftspeople at work, see farm animals, and get involved in hands-on activities during school holidays. Best of all – it’s free!
Time to spend: 2–3 hours (or longer if you want to see it all!)
St Fagans National Museum of History website
Introduce the kids to the magic of live performance with a family-friendly production at the Sherman Theatre. From laugh-out-loud comedies to magical adaptations of classic tales, the theatre’s children’s programme is thoughtfully curated and engaging. Many shows include pre- or post-show activities like crafts or meet-the-characters sessions.
Time to spend: Depends on the show (usually 1–2 hours)
Finish your day with a visit to Roath Park, a local favourite for generations. Kids can burn off energy at the large play area, feed the ducks, and enjoy a gentle boat ride on the lake in warmer months. The Victorian-style conservatory is home to fish, reptiles, and tropical plants – a peaceful little hideaway in the park.
Time to spend: 1.5–2 hours
There’s plenty of things to do in Cardiff with kids, from bouncing around The Den, paddling on Roath Lake, or getting hands-on at Techniquest, the city offers a brilliant mix of indoor and outdoor activities and fun for families. There’s something here to suit every mood, whatever the weather.
So grab a raincoat (just in case), pack a snack, and start ticking off your Cardiff family fun list today!
