Best Things to Do in Glasgow with Kids: A Family Day Out Guide to Scotland’s Largest City
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Planning a family trip to Glasgow? Whether you’re here for the first time or it’s your tenth visit, Scotland’s largest city offers a perfect mix of educational, cultural, and downright fun things for young children, older kids, and the whole family.
We love Glasgow, and each time we go, it keeps getting better! Eliza is now 4 years old, and Kimi is 11, and as far as they’re concerned, it’s their favourite break to date. Each time we go, we always have to include a trip to the Glasgow Science Centre—which they’ve been visiting since Kimi was 4! And during our February half-term trip, we discovered Inflata Nation, which was a total hit.
From interactive exhibits and imaginary play to green spaces, delicious food, and rainy-day rescues, here’s your ultimate mum-approved guide to where to take the kids in Glasgow.
⭐ Our Top Picks for Families in Glasgow
- Must-Do: Glasgow Science Centre – a full day of hands-on science fun. Think Eureka but on steroids – truly unmissable!
- Top Free Venue: Riverside Museum – free entry, full of trains, trams, and even a Tall Ship. The perfect place for transport lovers (and budget-conscious parents!).
- Best for Rainy Days (Big Energy): Wonder World Soft Play – a huge space packed with soft play zones, go-karts, and great food. It’s ideal when the kids need to burn off steam.
- Best for Rainy Days (Little Ones): Kelvin Hall Mini Soft Play – smaller, circus-themed, clean, and calming for younger kids.
- Hidden Gem: Glasgow Subway – The city’s unique underground system is a great experience in itself. The kids loved how tiny and fast the trains were. It’s also the easiest way to zip between the West End and the city centre without tiring little legs – especially on rainy days. We ended up using it daily just for the fun of it!
These picks come straight from our family trips – tested by Eliza and Kimi and approved by me!** Kelvin Hall Mini Soft Play – smaller, circus-themed, clean, and calming for younger kids.
These picks come straight from our family trips – tested by Eliza and Kimi and approved by me!
🧪 Glasgow Science Centre – A Full Day of Hands-On Fun
📍 Address: 50 Pacific Quay, Glasgow G51 1EA
🚇 Nearest Subway: Cessnock Station (12-minute walk)
The Glasgow Science Centre is a must-see attraction with so many interactive displays, especially if you’ve got kids of different ages. It’s like Eureka! But on steroids and you need a full day, we did 6 hours in one trip!!!
The building is split into three main areas:
- Science Mall – three floors of hands-on exhibits and activities
- Planetarium – a magical journey through the stars
- IMAX Theatre – showing science films and family blockbusters
Inside the Science Mall, you’ll find everything from gravity-defying experiments and optical illusions to tech labs and the BodyWorks exhibit. There’s even a soft play-style climbing area for younger kids to enjoy some physical play. It’s one of my top attractions for kids in Glasgow. We started our first trip when Kimi was 4 years old, and now he’s 11, and his sister, who is 4 years old, is just as in love with it. It’s so worth visiting and the entry fee is well worth it, as it’s such a unique experience.
There’s also a quieter interactive under-7s zone where toddlers and younger children can enjoy sensory and imaginative play away from the big kids.
🎟️ Ticket Prices (as of April 2025):
- Adult (16–59): £15.50
- Child (3–15): £12.00
- Concession (60+, students, unemployed): £13.80
- Under 3s: Free
- Planetarium Add-On: £3.50
- IMAX Documentary Add-On: £3.50
- Glasgow Tower Add-On: £5.50
- Science Passport (Annual Pass):
- Adult: £46.50
- Child: £36.00
- Concession: £41.40
- *Note: Prices include a voluntary donation to support the centre’s charitable work. You can opt-out during booking.*
🕒 Opening Hours:
- Daily: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Hours may vary during holidays and special events.
Top Tips:
- Book the Planetarium early – it sells out fast during school holidays.
- Budget for the gift shop – it’s full of brilliant STEM toys and kits.
- Plan at least 4–6 hours here – the kids won’t want to leave!
👧 Ages: 3–12+
🌦️ Perfect for: Rainy days, a full-day adventure, curious minds.glasgowsciencecentre.org
🚂 Riverside Museum & The Tall Ship Glenlee – Transport Meets Adventure
📍 Address: 100 Pointhouse Place, Glasgow G3 8RS
🚇 Nearest Subway: Partick Station (10-minute walk)
The Transport Museum is free in Glasgow, located on the banks of the River Clyde. This museum is a dream for kids who love wheels, boats, or anything that moves. The Riverside Museum is packed with historic vehicles – including trams, steam trains, motorbikes, skateboards, and even old prams. You can step aboard many of them, too, making it super interactive.
The exhibits tell the story of Glasgow’s industrial past but in a way that’s playful and family-friendly.
There’s a recreated cobbled street with old shops to explore, and during school holidays, they often run special events. The last time we visited, it had a Star Wars Lego Hunt, which both kids loved!
Outside, docked just behind the museum, is the Tall Ship Glenlee – a beautifully restored sailing ship with a mini maritime museum on board. The ship itself is free to board and is often quieter than the museum, making it a great place for younger children to explore with fewer crowds.
Top Tips:
- Bring snacks or a picnic for the riverside area (there’s also a café inside).
- If your child loves boats, bring a pirate hat – the Tall Ship is perfect for role-play!
- Keep an eye on the What’s On section for special-themed days.
👧 Ages: 2–12
💷 Entry: FREE for both the museum and Tall Ship
🌤️ Perfect for Dry days or short half-day trips
🚌 City Sightseeing Glasgow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus – Explore the City with Ease
📍 Main Departure Point: George Square, Glasgow
The City Sightseeing Glasgow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus is an excellent way to explore the city’s top attractions without the hassle of navigating public transport or walking long distances—especially beneficial when travelling with little ones.
🚍 Yellow Route – Family-Friendly Highlights
Operating during the high season (April 4th – September 29th), the Yellow Route offers a 90-minute loop with 24 stops, running every 30 minutes from 9:45 AM to 4:15 PM. This route covers both the east and south sides of Glasgow, providing access to a variety of attractions.
- Tennent’s Brewery – Discover the history of Scotland’s oldest brewery.
- Barrowlands – An iconic music venue.
- Celtic Park & Ibrox Stadium – Explore the homes of Glasgow’s famous football clubs.
- Glasgow Science Centre – Engage with interactive science exhibits and watch your kid’s eyes light up with all the hands-on activities.
- Riverside Museum – Experience Glasgow’s transport history.
- Kelvingrove Museum – Take in the art and artefacts.
- Govan Stones & Fairfield Museum – For local heritage.
The Yellow Route is particularly well-suited for families, offering easy access to attractions.
- Audio Commentary: Free headphones when you board
- Accessibility: Buses are wheelchair accessible, with one dedicated space on the lower deck.
🎟️ Ticket Options
- 1-Day Ticket: £20 (Adult), £11 (Child), £44 (Family)
- 2-Day Ticket: £27 (Adult), £16 (Child), £56 (Family)citysightseeingglasgow.co.uk
Children under five travel free. citysightseeingglasgow.co.uk
👨👩👧👦 Family Tips
- Flexibility: Hop on and off at any stop to tailor your day to your family’s interests and energy levels.
- Comfort: The open-top buses provide great views, and the lower deck offers shelter in case of rain.
- Convenience: Ideal for covering more ground without tiring out little legs.
🎨 Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum – Culture That’s Fun
📍 Address: Argyle Street, Glasgow G3 8AG
🔗 glasgowlife.org.uk
🚇 Nearest Subway: Kelvinhall Station (5-minute walk)
Don’t be fooled by the word “art” – this museum is amazing for kids. Inside the red sandstone building, you’ll find everything from Ancient Egypt and natural history to art, weapons, and Scottish stories. It’s walkable from the West End and Kelvingrove Park, so it’s easy to fit in around lunch or a stroll.
There’s a Spitfire suspended from the ceiling, a mummy, and interactive exhibits throughout. The museum doesn’t feel like a “don’t touch” space – it invites exploring and asking questions.
There’s also a fab little café with kid-friendly lunch options. And when the weather plays nice, the museum backs onto Kelvingrove Park, where there’s a brilliant play park and loads of open space.
Top Tips:
- Head straight to the Ancient Egypt and Natural History galleries if you’ve got dinosaurs or history lovers.
- There are often live organ recitals in the main hall – worth catching if the kids are calm enough to sit!
- Perfect for mixing education with movement – there’s loads of space.
👧 Ages: 3–12
💷 Entry: FREE
🌦️ Perfect for: Rainy mornings + sunny afternoons in the park
🎠 Wonder World Soft Play – Soft Play Paradise in the City
📍 Address: 99 Middlesex St, Glasgow G41 1EE
🔗 wonderworldsoftplay.co.uk
🚇 Nearest Subway: Shields Road (6-minute walk)
This place is a game changer for parents with younger and older kids when it comes to soft play areas. Wonder World Soft Play is a massive indoor centre designed for physical play, role-playing, and big adventures. There are multi-level climbing frames, trampolines, a drop slide, ball pits, a mini football pitch, and even a go-kart track. It’s ideal for burning off steam on a rainy day – we’ve used it to fill in gaps between sightseeing, too.
The layout makes it easy to supervise from the seating area, and their café is one of the best we’ve come across in a soft play – proper meals, fresh pizzas, and a good coffee.
Top Tips:
- Peak pricing is high – go off-peak if you can for better value.
- Their birthday parties are brilliant – you can even book-themed rooms.
- Don’t miss the drop slide – if your child’s feeling brave, it’s unforgettable!
👧 Ages: 1–12
💷 Price Range: £5–£15 depending on age/time
🌧️ Perfect for Rainy days or big-energy kids
🏰 Inflata Nation Glasgow – A Bouncy Obstacle Park
📍 Address: 134 Portman Street, Kinning Park, Glasgow G41 1EJ
🚇 Nearest Subway: Kinning Park (3-minute walk)
Inflata Nation is like soft play – but turbocharged. It’s one giant inflatable theme park with ball pits, climbing walls, obstacle courses, and a giant slide. It’s one of the best rainy-day activities for kids in Glasgow, especially if you have tweens or slightly older children who need more of a challenge.
There’s even a dedicated under-4s area with its own soft inflatables and ball pool. If you’ve got more than one child across different ages, this is a win-win.
Bonus: they run toddler-only sessions, as well as disability-friendly and adults-only sessions too!
Top Tips:
- Book ahead during school holidays – sessions sell out fast.
- You’ll need grip socks – they’re available for sale on-site if you forget.
- The on-site café (Café Nation) is comfy and does decent food and drinks.
👧 Ages: 2–13+
💷 Price: ~£12 per session
🌦️ Perfect for: Energetic kids, all-weather fun, parties
🧗 Clip ‘n Climb at Kelvin Hall – Climbing With a Twist
📍 Address: 1445 Argyle Street, Glasgow G3 8AW
🔗 glasgowlife.org.uk
🚇 Nearest Subway: Kelvinhall Station (2-minute walk)
This is indoor climbing made fun and safe for children. Clip ‘n Climb at Kelvin Hall offers a variety of colourful climbing walls and challenges – each one designed to help kids build confidence, balance, and problem-solving skills.
There’s even a Leap of Faith tower if you’ve got a daredevil in your group (minimum height: 120cm). And if you have younger kids, the Kelvin Hall Mini Soft Play is right next door, so you can split up if needed.
Top Tips:
- Trainers or climbing shoes are required – no sandals or Crocs.
- Book in advance to guarantee a slot, especially at weekends.
- Grab a drink at the café while the kids climb.
👧 Ages: 4+ (Leap of Faith is 7+)
💷 Prices: £10–£13 per session
🌧️ Perfect for: Rainy days, birthdays, confident climbers
🌳 Kelvingrove Park & Play Park – Open Space in the City
📍 Address: Park Terrace, Glasgow G3 6BY
🔗 Kelvingrove Park Info
🚇 Nearest Subway: Kelvinhall Station (5-minute walk)
Right next to the Kelvingrove Museum is this gem of a park. It’s big enough for kids to run free but close enough to the city to feel accessible. There’s an excellent adventure play area, numerous paths for scooters and bikes, and ample space for a picnic. When the museum gets too much, or the kids need to run it off — this is where we head.
It’s an excellent spot for a break between sightseeing stops and is especially perfect for younger children who need short bursts of fun.
Top Tips:
- Bring a blanket and pick up takeaway from the nearby cafés for an easy picnic.
- Don’t forget the scooters – there’s plenty of smooth space to zoom.
- Combine this with a visit to Kelvingrove Art Gallery for a whole afternoon.
👧 Ages: All
💷 Free
🌤️ Perfect for: Sunny afternoons, nature breaks between venues
🐄 Pollok Country Park – Highland Cows & Woodland Wanders
📍 Address: 2060 Pollokshaws Road, Glasgow G43 1AT
🔗 Pollok Park Info
🚇 Nearest Subway: No direct station; use Pollokshaws West (train) or buses from the city
Pollok Country Park is the largest park in Glasgow and an absolute must if you’re staying for more than a couple of days. It’s home to the famous Highland cows, scenic walking trails, and ample space for picnics, running, scooting, or exploring. Pack wellies if it’s been raining!
There’s also a woodland play area, cycling routes, and the Burrell Collection (more on that next) tucked within its grounds.
Top Tips:
- Look out for the cow fields – they’re a highlight!
- Bring bikes or scooters if you’re local – there are excellent trails.
- Toilets, café and maps are available at the Visitor Centre.
👧 Ages: All
💷 Free
🌿 Perfect for Nature walks, outdoor play, family chill days
🏛️ The Burrell Collection – Bright, Beautiful & Family-Friendly
📍 Address: Pollok Country Park, Glasgow G43 1AT
🚇 Nearest Subway: See Pollok Country Park entry (bus/train access)
Recently renovated and light-filled, The Burrell Collection is an art and history museum designed with families in mind. The layout is easy to navigate with prams, and there are plenty of child-friendly signs and exhibits. Kids can enjoy treasure hunts, themed trails, and interactive digital elements.
Even if you think your children “aren’t museum kids,” this one surprises you. The open, airy feel helps — and there’s loads of space to take breaks without pressure.
Top Tips:
- Ask for a kids’ trail map at the front desk – it’s a great way to keep them engaged.
- The café overlooks the park – perfect for a quiet coffee with a view.
- Combine with a woodland walk in Pollok Park.
👧 Ages: 5+ (or younger with trail map support)
💷 Free
🏛️ Perfect for: Calm cultural time after energetic park play
🧠 The Hunterian Museum – Science & Curiosity for Older Kids
📍 Address: University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8QQ
🔗 Hunterian Museum
🚇 Nearest Subway: Hillhead Station (8-minute walk)
Tucked inside the University of Glasgow, this one is best suited for tweens and teens or any young person with a curiosity for fossils, Roman artefacts, and weird science. You’ll find a collection of ancient coins, anatomical models, and even a preserved brain (yes, really!). It’s quirky, fascinating, and best explored in bite-sized sections.
It’s also a great way to experience the university’s stunning cloisters, which were the inspiration for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films.
Top Tips:
- It is ideal for children interested in history, medicine, or science.
- Pop into the university café for a warm drink afterwards.
- It is best suited for kids aged 8+ who can walk and absorb information at their own pace.
👧 Ages: 8+
💷 Free
🎓 Perfect for Curious kids, rainy-day detours
🌴 The People’s Palace & Winter Gardens – Glasgow’s Story in One Place
📍 Address: Glasgow Green, Templeton Street, G40 1AT
🔗 People’s Palace
🚇 Nearest Subway: No direct subway – 15-minute walk from St. Enoch
This museum tells the social history of Glasgow – how people lived, worked, and played in decades past. It’s more fun than it sounds! There are reconstructions of old homes, workplaces, and leisure scenes that older children can explore. The adjacent Winter Gardens are filled with exotic plants under glass and make a peaceful spot for parents to sit while the kids explore.
There’s also a small outdoor play area just outside, and Glasgow Green is perfect for a picnic or scooter ride if the weather behaves.
Top Tips:
- Keep expectations modest for very young children – it’s more about stories than play.
- Great for a calm afternoon paired with a stroll in the park.
- Check out the Glasshouse café for hot chocolate and snacks.
👧 Ages: 5+
💷 Free
🌿 Perfect for History, gardens, quiet time
👮 Glasgow Police Museum – A Niche but Fun Stop
📍 Address: 30 Bell Street, Glasgow G1 1LG
🚇 Nearest Subway: St. Enoch (10-minute walk)
A tiny little museum packed with old uniforms, police memorabilia, and true crime stories. While not a full-day activity, it’s an easy 30–60 min indoor stop, especially if you’re wandering around the city centre on a rainy day.
Honestly, it wasn’t our favourite with the kids – more for older children or adults with a love of history. But it’s free and interesting, and the staff are lovely and happy to answer questions.
Top Tips:
- It is best visited as part of a walking day in the Merchant City area.
- Pair it with lunch nearby and a walk along the Clyde.
👧 Ages: 7+
💷 Free
🚔 Perfect for Short visits, funny facts
🏟️ Rangers Museum at Ibrox Stadium – A Must for Football Fans
📍 Address: Edmiston House, 150 Edmiston Drive, Glasgow G51 2XD
🔗 Rangers Museum & Tours
🚇 Nearest Subway: Ibrox Station (2-minute walk)
This is a must for football fans of all ages! A visit to the Rangers Museum is a must-see. Located in Edmiston House on the Ibrox Stadium campus, the museum offers an insight into the 150-year history of the Rangers Football Club.
Explore the collection of memorabilia, from iconic trophies legendary jerseys to and interactive exhibits where you can build your dream team.
The museum is self-guided, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
After your visit, stop by the on-site café for refreshments and browse the club shop for official merchandise.
Top Tips:
- Book tickets in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
- Combine your museum visit with a stadium tour for a comprehensive experience.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible and operates as a cashless venue.
👧 Ages: 6+
💷 Price: From £13.50 per person
⚽ Perfect for: Football fans and sports history enthusiasts
🏫 Scotland Street School Museum – A Journey Through Educational History
📍 Address: 225 Scotland Street, Glasgow G5 8QB
🔗 Scotland Street School Museum
🚇 Nearest Subway: Shields Road Station (2-minute walk)
Designed by the renowned Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the Scotland Street School Museum offers a look into the history of education in Scotland. Explore classrooms from different eras.
Interactive exhibits and activities engage children, making it an entertaining stop for families.
Top Tips:
- Participate in the hands-on activities to enhance the learning experience.
- Check the museum’s schedule for special events and workshops.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Glasgow Science Centre.
👧 Ages: 5+
💷 Free
📚 Perfect for: History buffs and curious minds
🎭 Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre – Mechanical Marvels in Motion
📍 Address: Trongate 103, Glasgow G1 5HD
🚇 Nearest Subway: St. Enoch Station (10-minute walk)
Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre presents a very unique blend of art and engineering through moving sculptures. These intricate machines come to life telling stories with some darker themes, so please check the age guidelines.
The theatre offers scheduled shows, so we recommend booking in advance.
Top Tips:
- Arrive early to get the best seating.
- Some performances may be more suitable for older children due to their themes.
- Combine this with a visit to the nearby People’s Palace for a full day of cultural exploration.
👧 Ages: 8+
💷 Price: Varies by performance
🎨 Perfect for: Art lovers and those seeking something different
⚽ Hampden Park & Scottish Football Museum – Explore Scotland’s Football Heritage
📍 Address: Hampden Park, Letherby Drive, Glasgow G42 9BA
🚇 Nearest Subway: Mount Florida Station (10-minute walk)
Dive into the rich history of Scottish football at the Scottish Football Museum, located within Hampden Park, Scotland’s national stadium.
The museum houses an extensive collection of memorabilia, including the world’s oldest football, historic kits, and trophies.
Guided tours of Hampden Park give you behind-the-scenes access to the stadium, including changing rooms, tunnel, and pitchside. It’s an unforgettable experience for football fans, and Kimi loved it!
Top Tips:
- Check the schedule for match days, as tours may be limited.
- The museum offers interactive exhibits suitable for children.
- Combine this with a visit to nearby Queen’s Park for outdoor play.
👧 Ages: 6+
💷 Price: Museum entry from £8; stadium tours additional
🏟️ Perfect for: Football enthusiasts and sports history fans
🎳 Hollywood Bowl & Soft Play at Silverburn – Fun for the Whole Family
📍 Address: Silverburn Shopping Centre, Barrhead Road, Glasgow G53 6AG
🔗 Hollywood Bowl Silverburn
🚇 Nearest Subway: No direct subway; accessible by bus
Silverburn Shopping Centre offers a range of family-friendly activities, including Hollywood Bowl for ten-pin bowling and a dedicated soft play area for younger children.
A great standby option for a day of indoor fun, especially during changeable weather.
The centre also features a variety of food options stores, making it a convenient destination for a full-day outing.
Top Tips:
- Book bowling lanes in advance, especially on weekends.
- Check for family deals and special offers.
- The soft play area is suitable for children aged 10 and under.
👧 Ages: All
💷 Price: Varies by activity
🎳 Perfect for All-weather entertainment and family outings
🏨 Where We Stayed: Premier Inn at Buchanan Galleries
📍 Address: 141 West Nile Street, Glasgow G1 2RN
🔗 Premier Inn Glasgow City Centre (Buchanan Galleries)
🚇 Nearest Subway: Buchanan Street Station (2-minute walk)
We’ve stayed in a few different parts of Glasgow, but this Premier Inn at Buchanan Galleries was by far our favourite yet. Honestly, it ticked every single box. The location is unbeatable – you’re literally in the heart of the city centre, just a short walk to George Square, Sauchiehall Street, and the subway. But what stood out was how safe, calm, and welcoming it felt, especially when travelling with the kids.
Reception is on the second floor, and you need your room card to access any guest floors, which gives us extra peace of mind. The staff were lovely and always happy to help – plus the breakfast was fab (those pancakes!). Eliza especially loved helping herself to the buffet!
Why We Loved It:
- Clean, modern rooms with comfy beds and blackout curtains
- It is super quiet, considering it’s in the city centre
- Direct access to the subway, shops, restaurants, and cinema
- Incredible value for families – especially with kids under 16 eating free
🎟️ Bonus: We also snuck in a chilled night at the Odeon Luxe Cinema next door – the reclining chairs were a hit after a long day exploring!
🍴 Where We Ate: Meat and Bread – Kid-Approved & Full of Flavour
📍 Address: 14 John Street, Glasgow G1 1JQ
This place was so good we went twice. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly spot right off George Square, and we loved how everything was super fresh and fast. The kids devoured the grilled cheese toasties and fries while I tucked into their Korean-style chicken sandwich.
It’s casual enough for noisy kids but still a lovely space for adults, too. The service was friendly and fast (essential when you’ve got hangry little ones).
Family Faves:
- Grilled cheese + tomato soup combo
- Chicken tenders and hand-cut chips
- Brownie dessert and milkshakes
🌟 Top Tip: They do takeaway – ideal if you’re staying at the Premier Inn nearby.
🚆 Bonus Day Trip: Dundee – Just 90 Minutes Away
📍 Travel Time: ~90 mins by train from Glasgow Queen Street Station
🔗 Visit Dundee
Since we were in Glasgow for the week, we decided to hop over to Dundee for a bit of a change of scenery – and it was worth it. The kids were obsessed with the V&A Dundee, which has some brilliant interactive design exhibits, and we also explored the Discovery Point museum, where you can climb aboard Captain Scott’s Antarctic ship.
It’s easy to reach on a direct train, and the walk from the station to the waterfront attractions is flat and pram-friendly. You’ll find plenty of cafés and green space nearby too.
Top Dundee Highlights:
- 🚢 Discovery Point & RRS Discovery
- 🎨 V&A Dundee
- 🍕 Mozza Pizza for lunch – kids loved designing their own
👧 Ages: All
💷 Train: Around £15–£25 return depending on advance booking
🌊 Perfect for: A mix of culture, sea air, and adventure