Glasgow Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Glasgow
This itinerary balances free outdoor exploration, interactive museum visits, and thrilling paid attractions to create a diverse and budget-conscious weekend for Glasgow families with children aged 3-12. We've included practical tips for transport, dining, and facilities to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone. Always check attraction websites closer to your visit for any last-minute changes to opening hours or event schedules.
Friday Evening - Festive Fun Kick-off
Friday, January 2IRN-BRU Carnival
Kick off the New Year weekend with a visit to Europe's largest indoor funfair, the IRN-BRU Carnival.
With over 75 rides and attractions, including family rides, thrill rides, and a dedicated inflatable play area for under 12s, there’s something to delight every child and adult. It's a perfect indoor option for chilly January weather.
Suitable for all ages, with specific areas for younger children (under 12s inflatable play) and rides for older kids. There are plenty of food and drink stalls available, and toilets with baby changing facilities are on-site. Expect a lively, energetic atmosphere. Duration: 2-3 hours.
The SEC Centre has ample paid parking available on-site. It's also well-served by public transport, with Exhibition Centre train station just a short walk away. Stroller access is good throughout the venue.
Early Family Dinner
Enjoy a relaxed family dinner at Sarti, a family-friendly Italian restaurant known for its authentic cuisine and children's menu.
It's a great spot to wind down after the carnival excitement, with options that kids (and adults!) will love.
Sarti offers a dedicated children's menu (for under 12s) which includes a main course (pizza or pasta), ice cream, and a selected soft drink for around £8.50. The atmosphere is welcoming to families, and staff are accommodating. Good facilities for children, including high chairs. Early timing allows for bedtimes.
Located in the city centre, easily accessible by public transport (e.g., Glasgow Central Station or various bus routes nearby). On-street parking can be challenging; nearby paid car parks are available.
Saturday - Exploration and Aquatic Wonders
Saturday, January 3Riverside Museum Visit
Spend the morning at the award-winning Riverside Museum, Scotland's museum of transport and travel.
It features fascinating exhibits for all ages, from old cars and trams to skateboards and interactive displays, including a recreated Glasgow street from the early 20th century. Entry is free.
Perfect for energetic kids, with plenty of hands-on exhibits and vehicles to explore. The museum is spacious, stroller-friendly, and has excellent facilities including toilets with baby changing and a cafe. Kids will particularly enjoy walking through the old Glasgow street and seeing the various forms of transport. Duration: 2-3 hours.
The museum has paid parking available. It's also accessible by public transport via the Partick Interchange (train, subway, bus) which is a 15-minute walk away, or by bus routes stopping nearby. The new Govan-Partick Bridge allows easy access from both sides of the Clyde.
Park Picnic & Play
Head to Kelvingrove Park for a budget-friendly picnic lunch, followed by some playtime at the children's play park.
The park offers expansive green spaces for kids to run and play, and if the weather isn't great, the nearby An Clachan Café provides indoor shelter and kid-friendly food.
Ideal for burning off energy before an afternoon activity. The play park is suitable for various ages. Toilets are available in the park or at An Clachan Café. Bring a frisbee or ball for extra fun. An Clachan Café offers sandwiches, pastries, and kid-friendly options.
Kelvingrove Park is easily accessible by public transport (Kelvinhall subway station is about a 10-minute walk). On-street parking can be found around the park, but may require payment.
SEA LIFE Loch Lomond
Embark on an underwater adventure at SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium.
Discover over 1,500 creatures across seven themed zones, including sharks, rays, and adorable otters. Kids will love the interactive rock pools where they can touch starfish and journey through the tropical ocean tunnel.
Perfect for curious minds aged 3-12. The aquarium is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible, with baby changing facilities. Plan for 1.5 - 2 hours. It's an engaging and educational experience, great for all weather conditions.
Located at Loch Lomond Shores, easily accessible by car with ample paid parking. Balloch train station is a short walk away. The journey from Glasgow city centre by car is approximately 40-50 minutes.
Pizza & Play
Enjoy an early, kid-friendly dinner at Van Winkle, a family-friendly restaurant offering American comfort food like burgers, macaroni cheese, and chicken tenders.
They have a good kids' menu to satisfy hungry adventurers.
Kids will appreciate the menu options tailored for them, ensuring a happy end to an adventurous day. The atmosphere is relaxed and accommodating for families. Offers activity packs for children.
Located in the West End, accessible by subway (Partick station) or various bus routes. On-street parking might be available nearby, or paid car parks.
Sunday - Relaxed Discovery Day
Sunday, January 4Botanic Gardens Explore
Start your Sunday with a peaceful visit to Glasgow Botanic Gardens.
Explore the impressive glasshouses, including the Kibble Palace, and wander through the extensive grounds. There's a Children's Garden aimed at encouraging interest in growing food, and self-led trails for younger children like 'Minibeasts, Birds and Trees of the Botanics'.
Free entry to the gardens and glasshouses. The glasshouses provide a warm, sheltered environment, perfect for a cooler January day. Stroller accessible paths and facilities including toilets and a tearoom are available. Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours.
Easily accessible by subway (Hillhead station, 7 min walk). On-street parking is available on Queen Margaret Drive, adjacent to the entrance, but can be limited.
Kelvingrove Museum Fun
After a morning at the Botanics, head to the iconic Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.
This 'museum of everything' boasts 22 galleries with art, natural history, and interactive displays for children. Look out for the famous floating heads and the daily organ recital at 3 PM (except Mondays).
A huge, free, and engaging space for families. Kids aged 3-12 will enjoy the dinosaur exhibits, Ancient Egypt gallery puzzles, and the 'Mini Museum' hands-on activities. Toilets and baby changing facilities are available, as well as a cafe. Duration: 2-3 hours.
Closest subway is Kelvinhall (approx. ½ mile walk). Numerous bus routes stop on Argyle Street. Paid car parking is available on-site (e.g., £4.80 for 3 hours).
Family Fun Sunday
Conclude your weekend with 'Family Fun Sundays' at The Grosvenor Cafe in Ashton Lane.
This free event offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for a light snack or an early dinner before heading home.
A perfect wind-down activity for the whole family, allowing kids to enjoy the atmosphere. The Grosvenor Cafe offers a menu of pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches suitable for children. This event is free to attend, so you only pay for food and drinks. Ends by early evening, allowing for school prep.
Ashton Lane is a pedestrianized lane. Nearest subway station is Hillhead (a 2-minute walk). Limited on-street parking in the surrounding area; nearby paid car parks are available.
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