There’s no shortage of things to do with kids in Galway, so we’ve narrowed it down for you. Here’s our MyKidsTime top 10 things to do with kids in Galway, covering both the city and the county — listed in no particular order!
#1. Coole Park
Entry to Coole Park is free, and it makes for a lovely day out for the whole family.
There are nature walks through the forest along marked trails of different lengths, a walled garden that’s perfect for a picnic, deer in an enclosure, and plenty of literary history — be sure to visit the Autograph Tree in the walled garden to spot some very famous signatures.
There’s a tea room and information centre on site, and kids will enjoy playing Hunt the Thimble and learning about Lady Gregory’s grandchildren.
Related: OPW Free Days on Wednesdays
#2. River Bank Walk & City Museum
Visit Galway City Museum, which is free to enter and offers great views of the Claddagh from the upper floors.
On your way to or from the museum, follow the river bank walk that takes you along by the River Corrib (keep the river on your left) up to the Galway Cathedral, which is well worth a look inside.
Even if you’re not religious, the kids will be impressed by the height of the vaulted ceiling, the huge stained glass windows and the enormous organ over the main door.
#3. Corrib Princess
Hop aboard the Corrib Princess, which departs from Woodquay in the city centre and tours the River Corrib and Lough Corrib.
See Galway from the water as you pass the university on the left and head up towards the ruin at Menlo on the right.
Watch out for nesting swans or salmon swimming by — or just sit back and watch the world go by.
#4. Galway Playgrounds
Galway has dozens of great playgrounds for children of all ages.
If you’re in the city centre, pay a visit to Millennium Park near the Cathedral. There’s a skateboarding area for older kids and two separate playground areas for younger ones.
The little ones love the train for climbing on and around, and the speakers that let kids “talk” to each other from different parts of the playground are always a hit.
Related: Galway Playgrounds
#5. Portumna
Spend the day in Portumna, where you can combine a visit to the castle with the playground and a walk in the forest park.
Portumna Castle and Gardens has a small entry fee. The castle itself is fairly bare inside, but the gardens are great for kids to run around in, and the playground is right nearby.
Then head out to Portumna Forest Park, a lovely spot with trails and walks, toilets, and seasonal bike hire. There’s access to the lake for a walk along the water’s edge — keep an eye out for deer in the forest.
Related: Coillte Forest Parks for Families
#6. Salthill Promenade
Join visitors and locals alike for a stroll along the Prom at Salthill. Find your own way, or follow one of our three fun Family Trails.
There are several beaches to choose from, the diving board at Blackrock, views across to Clare, and of course the time-honoured tradition of “kicking the wall” at the end of the prom.
Visit Galway Atlantaquaria for some hands-on time with the fish, then head to the nearby playground, which has good equipment for a range of ages.
Related: Great Family Walks That Galway Families Enjoy
#7. Renville Park
Fly a kite at Renville Park in Oranmore and stop by the great playground in the old castle orchard.
This lovely park has a path from the car park through the woods that’s great for bikes and buggies. Tucked away in the woods is a walled garden home to a playground that’s sheltered even on the windiest days — and there’s often a coffee or ice cream vendor nearby if you need a little refreshment.
A walk through the woods can take in a nature trail and a bit of exploring, and afterwards you can go beachcombing along the rocky shore.
Related: Best Outdoor Spots for Families in Galway
#8. Connemara National Park
Located in the heart of Connemara, Connemara National Park is well worth the drive.
Admission to the park is free, and there’s plenty to see and explore: an exhibition on the Connemara landscape, an audio-visual show, Connemara ponies, indoor and outdoor picnic areas, nature trails, the Diamond Hill walks, a tea room, and an excellent playground on the grounds.
Special events, including children’s activities, guided walks and evening talks, are organised throughout the year.
#9. Athenry
With a restored castle, a playground and a ruined monastery all within 100 yards of each other, it’s well worth the quick trip on the motorway to Athenry.
This lovely old market town has plenty of history, and the castle is well worth a visit — the “toilet” inside is a reliable source of amusement for kids of all ages.
After tiring themselves out in the playground, they can dress up in medieval costume and try their hand at archery at the Athenry Heritage Centre.
#10. Galway Beaches
As a coastal county, Galway has no shortage of beautiful beaches.
Whether it’s a city beach like Salthill or somewhere quieter and more remote in Connemara, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Find a road that runs along the sea and keep driving — it won’t be long before you find a beach you like.
Related: Top Galway Beaches
Do you have a favourite place to go with kids in Galway? Share it in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best free things to do with kids in Galway?
Several of Galway’s best family days out cost nothing to enter, including Coole Park, Galway City Museum, and Connemara National Park. Playgrounds across the city and county, such as Millennium Park and Renville Park, are also free to use.
Is Galway good for a family day out with young children?
Yes. Galway has a good mix of easy, buggy-friendly options such as the Salthill Promenade, Renville Park, and the river bank walk, alongside slightly more adventurous days out like Connemara National Park or a boat trip on the Corrib Princess.
What’s a good rainy-day option for families in Galway?
Galway City Museum and Galway Atlantaquaria both offer indoor activities, and Galway Cathedral is worth a visit regardless of the weather.
Are there good beaches near Galway city for kids?
Yes — Salthill is the closest and most popular option, with a mix of beaches, a diving board at Blackrock, and a nearby playground. Further afield, Connemara has quieter, more remote beaches worth the drive.
More Family Days Out in Galway
- Galway Playgrounds
- Best Outdoor Spots for Families in Galway
- Top Galway Beaches
- Great Family Walks That Galway Families Enjoy
Never Miss a Family Day Out
Want more ideas like this? Sign up for the MyKidsTime newsletter for weekly family activity ideas, days out, and things to do with kids near you — straight to your inbox.
