Aarhus Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Aarhus
This itinerary balances cost-effective outdoor fun with enriching ticketed experiences that cater to children aged 3-12. Many museums in Aarhus offer free admission for children under 18, providing excellent value. Remember to check opening hours directly with attractions closer to the date, as some may have adjusted schedules in early January. Public transport in Aarhus is excellent and often stroller-friendly, with many attractions offering parking.
Friday Evening - Kids' Discovery & Play
Friday, January 2Dokk1 Playtime
Head to Dokk1, Aarhus's main library and cultural center, for an engaging evening.
It features sprawling indoor play areas with interactive exhibits, creative workshops, and plenty of space for children to explore. Kids can build LEGO creations in the 'Build the Change' workshop, get cozy in the 'Observatory', jump into fun in the 'Play Box', or crawl into reading caves.
Dokk1 is a fantastic, free indoor option perfect for winding down after a busy week. It's suitable for all ages, with dedicated areas for younger children and activities for older kids. There are ample bathrooms and excellent stroller access. A café is available on-site for light refreshments.
Dokk1 is centrally located at the harbor, easily accessible by public transport (buses) or a short walk from the city center. Parking is available in the underground car park (paid).
Family Dinner
Enjoy an early, casual family dinner at a budget-friendly restaurant in the city center or near Dokk1.
Look for eateries with dedicated children's menus or options like pizza, pasta, or traditional Danish 'smørrebrød' (open sandwiches) that kids often enjoy.
Aarhus has many restaurants that cater to families. Look for places with high chairs and space for strollers. Early dining ensures kids are well-fed before bedtime. Many places offer kid-sized portions. Consider options at Aarhus Central Food Market (although it closes around 7 PM on Fridays, check exact hours).
Restaurants in the city center are easily walkable from Dokk1. Public transport is readily available.
Saturday - History & Nature Adventure
Saturday, January 3Moesgaard Museum Explore
Embark on a journey through history at Moesgaard Museum, known for its engaging and interactive exhibitions on prehistory and anthropology.
Children can become 'Researchers for a Day' in the Moesgaard Junior lab, filled with archaeological tasks and games, or meet the fascinating Grauballe Man. The Viking Age exhibition also offers interactive stories and authentic finds.
This museum is highly recommended for families. Children aged 0-17 have FREE admission. The interactive exhibits are designed to keep kids aged 6-12 engaged, but there are elements for younger ones too. The museum has excellent facilities, including restrooms, baby changing facilities, and a café with child-friendly food options.
Moesgaard Museum is located south of Aarhus and is accessible by bus (e.g., line 18 from Aarhus city center). Free parking is available on site.
Picnic & Playground
After exploring Moesgaard, enjoy a picnic lunch in the beautiful natural surroundings of the museum or head to a nearby park like Mindeparken.
Mindeparken is expansive, perfect for ball games, and features an open playground area with swings and climbing frames, offering views of Aarhus Bay.
Mindeparken is ideal for energetic kids to run around and burn off steam. It has bathrooms and plenty of open space. Pack a budget-friendly lunch or grab some snacks from the museum cafe. Remember warm clothing in January.
Mindeparken is a short drive or bus ride from Moesgaard Museum. Free parking is available at Mindeparken.
Deer Park Visit
Visit Marselisborg Deer Park, a unique opportunity for children to get up close with deer roaming freely.
Bring carrots or apples to feed the gentle creatures by hand. The park offers scenic trails and ample open spaces for exploration.
This is a wonderful free outdoor activity that kids absolutely love. Suitable for all ages. Dress warmly for a winter walk. Public restrooms are available. Stroller-friendly paths.
Located in the southern part of Aarhus, close to Mindeparken. Accessible by bus or car with free parking.
Indoor Play Fun
For a dose of indoor energy, head to Leo's Legeland, a large indoor playground with a wide range of activities including ball pits, pirate ships, trampolines, and slides, suitable for various age groups.
A great option, especially for a colder January afternoon. Kids aged 3-12 will love the variety of equipment. Parents must accompany children and often need socks too. There's a cafe for snacks and drinks.
Located north of the city center. Accessible by car (free parking) or bus.
Sunday - Culture & Creativity
Sunday, January 4Old Town Exploration
Step back in time at Den Gamle By (The Old Town), an open-air museum where you can experience Danish urban life from the 17th to the 20th century.
Wander through historic streets, visit old shops, homes, and even a school. During winter, they often have special family activities like lantern making or traditional baking workshops (details for Jan 2026 will be released closer to date).
Den Gamle By is a fantastic interactive history lesson for kids. Many houses are open to walk through, and there are often costumed interpreters. Restrooms and cafes/bakeries are available. Children under 18 are generally free.
Centrally located, easily accessible by public transport or a 15-20 minute walk from the city center. Paid parking is available.
Art & Play
Visit ARoS Aarhus Art Museum, where art meets the sky.
While famous for 'Your Rainbow Panorama', ARoS also offers dedicated family programs at ARoS Public Engagement on Level 3, including creative workshops, drawing, and giant jigsaw puzzles inspired by artworks. Children can explore and create their own art exhibition concepts.
ARoS is a vibrant museum that makes art accessible for children. Children under 18 have free admission. Restrooms and a cafe/restaurant are available. This is an excellent indoor option for any weather.
Located in the city center, easily walkable or a short bus ride. Paid parking is available nearby.
Botanical Garden Stroll
Enjoy a relaxed stroll through the Botanical Garden, a beautiful green oasis featuring various plant collections and thematic beds.
The Tropical Houses (Væksthusene) offer a warm escape, showcasing plants from four different climate zones and often include activities for children. There is also a large playground with a zipline and water experiences.
Free admission to both the garden and the Tropical Houses. This is a perfect, low-key way to end the weekend, allowing kids some final outdoor play or a warm indoor experience. The cafe offers snacks. Restrooms available.
Located close to Den Gamle By, accessible by foot, bike, or public transport. Paid parking is available.
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