Fun Things To Do in Belfast for Families

Updated On: November 08, 2023 by   Sara Lynch

Are you looking for a family day out in one of the most lively cities in the U.K./Ireland? If so, keep reading this article to discover fun things to do in Belfast for families. We have created a list of the best family-friendly activities so that you can create lifelong memories to share with your loved ones. 

Whether you’re looking for something that the little ones will love doing or searching for a family-friendly activity that will get the older kids to raise their heads from their mobile phones, we have something in this article for the whole family to enjoy. 

Our Favourite Things To Do in Belfast for Families

Belfast is a great city for finding family-friendly activities, whether you want a day of easy leisure and idyll strolling or an action-packed adventure to get those competitive spirits going, there are lots of fun things to do in Belfast that will accommodate each family and their preferences. 

Belfast Zoo

Belfast Zoo is home to an amazing and versatile range of wildlife. When you visit the Zoo, you might catch a glimpse of the towering giraffes, massive elephants, pink flamingos and sleepy sloths, to name a just few of the animals that reside here. 

This is a truly memorable family activity to do in Belfast, and it’s also a great way to introduce your children to the world of nature and expose them to animals that they might have only seen in movies or t.v. shows.  

Belfast Zoo regularly holds fun days such as Halloween events and more, so it’s worth checking out their website for what’s coming up before you visit. The zoo also provides electric scooters for those with mobility issues, so you can visit the zoo with the whole family and your own little cheeky monkeys. 

Belfast Castle

Belfast Castle is like stepping into a real-life fairytale. The 12th-century castle is full of history and surrounded by stunning views that overlook Belfast Harbour. It is also within walking distance from the entrance and accessible for the whole family. 

Cavehill Country Park surrounds the Castle grounds, with Napolean’s Nose featuring at the summit of the hill. If you do decide to make the trek with your family, keep in mind that it can be challenging for little ones, so take lots of rest breaks in between and opt for a sunny day!

Prison Island

Belfast is known for its versatile weather and on the days when it’s lashing but you still want a family fun activity, Prison Island is the ideal choice! The concept is a little like Crystal Maze, in that there are different rooms, or cells if you will, that require you to complete an objective whilst working together as a team.

No two rooms are the same, and each room will require a set of different skills to complete it. From physical strength and flexibility to memory challenges and hand-eye coordination, everyone will have the opportunity to shine and show off their unique talents and ability. 

This is a family-friendly activity, suitable for ages 6 and above. You work as a team with your family and try to obtain as many points as possible. You can also try each room as many times as you like within the set time. This is one prison that you’ll look forward to seeing again.

Inflatable Park

We Are Vertigo is home to the world’s largest inflatable park, a place with lots of bouncing fun for the whole family to enjoy. The main area is suitable for ages 4+ whilst there is also a dedicated space for little bouncers aged 5 and under. 

When you visit this inflatable park, the kids will literally be bouncing off the walls! It’s one of the most fun-packed things to do in Belfast for families and an activity that is sure to tire little ones (and even adults) out. 

Ninja Course

Do you have a few competitive spirits within the family? If so, the Ninja Course is the best way to challenge and test the physical prowess of your family members whilst having jam-packed fun. 

We Are Vertigo operates the Ninja Course at Belfast Titanic Quarter. The course requires participants to balance on beams, climb obstacles, hold their body weight and even take a leap of faith. 

The Ninja Course can be challenging, but it is very rewarding once completed. It is suitable for ages 6 and above and is sure to create some fun family memories to reminisce about. Be sure to visit here for a fun physical activity and one of the most action-packed things to do in Belfast. 

Mini-Golf

The Lost City is a mini-golf venue located in Cityside-Yorkgate. It’s a great family activity and within close proximity to Belfast city centre. This particular venue is full of adventure with its jungle animals and special effects it feels like a magical escape. 

There is also an onsite Tiki-themed bar and restaurant, serving up delicious pizzas and cocktails to reward your efforts after a game. Challenge your family to a game of mini-golf, and see if any of you can score that hole-in-one!

Virtual Reality Arcade

If there are any gamers within your family, then you need to visit VR City in Cityside-Yorkgate. This takes gaming to an entirely new level, with virtual reality headsets, you can enter a totally different world and experience over 300 different games.

This cutting-edge VR technology is one of the most unique things to do in Belfast, as there aren’t many similar places to this one. You can choose from a range of activities, from roller coaster rides to racing motorbikes and defeating an army of zombies, this is an experience like no other. 

You can take on a mission with up to four players in a booth, working together as a team or on opposing sides to win. This activity is suitable for those aged 7 and above, and suitable for the whole family to enjoy.  

Cinema

Is there anything better than getting a bag full of popcorn and watching a newly released movie on the big screen? We didn’t think so! Luckily, Belfast has three cinemas within close proximity to Belfast City Centre, including:

• Odeon: Victoria Sqaure
• Cineworld: Odyssey Arena
• Movie House: Cityside-Yorkgate

Each cinema venue is family-friendly and equipped with large comfortable seating to sit back and relax in. They also all have a selection of family passes or family offers, so it’s worth checking them out before booking your tickets!

Foody things to do in Belfast for families?

The family activities listed above will have worked up an appetite, so why not treat the family to a nice meal, perhaps within the Common Market or Trademarket. Both venues have an impressive range of food stalls available, which is helpful in accommodating the most pickiest of eaters. 

Want to escape the kids and enjoy a romantic date night? If so, check out this article for 20 Amazing dates in Belfast or fun things to do in Belfast for couples.