Lille Weekend Activities & Things to Do

Museum Golden Hunt

Kick off the weekend with an engaging family activity at the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille.

Part of their 'Vive les vacances!' program running until January 4th, 'Musée amusant: Épopée Dorée' invites children on a fun search-and-find mission for golden objects throughout the museum. It’s an interactive way to explore art and history together.

Perfect for children aged 3-12, this activity encourages observation and discovery. The museum is stroller accessible, and restrooms are available. Allow approximately 2-2.5 hours for the activity and exploration. Under 12s get free entry, making it very budget-friendly for families.

Vieux-Lille Stroll & Treats

After your museum visit, take a leisurely early evening stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of Vieux-Lille (Old Lille). Admire the Flemish-influenced architecture, browse the adorable shops, and soak in the festive atmosphere. Treat the family to delicious local specialties like crispy waffles (gaufres fourrées) or 'Merveilleux' from a local patisserie for a sweet start to the weekend.

This free activity is great for winding down. Kids will enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the sweet treats. Many shops are accessible with strollers, and public restrooms can be found in various cafes or public facilities. Choose an early dinner at a family-friendly restaurant with kids' menus to ensure an early bedtime.

Nausicaá Sea Center Trip

Embark on an exciting day trip to Nausicaá, the National Sea Center in Boulogne-sur-Mer, renowned as one of Europe's largest aquariums.

It's an immersive marine center featuring giant aquariums, including a reproduction of Malpelo Island, where your family can discover over 1,600 species from manta rays to hammerhead sharks. The 4.5-hour visit includes educational activities, animal feeding sessions, and quizzes, offering a captivating and educational experience for all ages.

This is a full-day adventure, highly engaging for kids with its vast displays and interactive elements. Restaurants and picnic areas are available on-site. The center is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Children will especially love the submarine tunnel and the diverse marine life.

Aquarium Lunch Break

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch break within Nausicaá.

The center offers several dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants, providing convenient choices for hungry adventurers. This allows for a relaxed pause before continuing to explore the wonders of the ocean.

Kid-friendly menus and seating are available. It’s a good opportunity to recharge and discuss the incredible sea creatures seen so far. Remember to check for packed lunch options or consider their cafes for quick, affordable meals.

Return & Lille Playground

After returning to Lille, let the kids burn off any remaining energy at the Jardin des Enfants playground within the Parc de la Citadelle.

This free municipal playground is open all year and offers a variety of play facilities, including spring riders for little ones and a castle for older children. Adults can relax on benches while supervising.

This is a fantastic free option, perfect for energetic children before dinner. The playground is fully accessible and has benches for parents. Restrooms are available in the wider park area.

Relaxed Family Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed family dinner in a neighborhood restaurant in Lille.

Look for places offering kid-friendly menus or delicious local specialties like 'carbonnade flamande' or 'potjevleesch' that even children might enjoy in smaller portions. Early dining ensures kids get enough rest after a busy day.

Many restaurants cater to families. Look for options with a casual atmosphere and a good children's menu. Check reviews online for kid-friendly recommendations.

Wazemmes Market Stroll

Start Sunday morning with a visit to the vibrant Wazemmes Market (Marché de Wazemmes), one of Lille's most famous.

Enjoy the lively atmosphere, browse local produce, crafts, and perhaps pick up some affordable treats for a picnic or snacks. It's a great cultural experience for the whole family, offering a glimpse into local life.

This is a free activity for browsing, with options to purchase affordable snacks or ingredients for a picnic. Kids will enjoy the sights, sounds, and colors of the market. It's a vibrant, bustling place but stroller-friendly in most areas. Restrooms are usually available in nearby cafes.

Museum of Illusions

Dive into a world of visual tricks and fascinating puzzles at the Museum of Illusions Lille.

This exciting ticketed attraction offers captivating installations and spellbinding exhibits that teach the science behind optical illusions in a fun, interactive way. Kids will love posing for photos in illusion rooms where they appear to float, shrink, or stand upside down.

Highly interactive and engaging for all ages, particularly 3-12. It's an excellent indoor option, perfect for any weather. Restrooms are available. Allow 1.5-2 hours for the visit.

Indoor Play Fun

For a final burst of energy and guaranteed fun, head to You Kids Park, an indoor play center accessible for children from 6 months to 12 years.

This park offers over 100m² of secure play space with obstacle courses, ball fountains, and slides, perfect for active kids. It’s an ideal option, especially if the weather is chilly or rainy.

Kids will love the variety of active play options. Adults typically have free or reduced entry when accompanying children. Restrooms and seating for parents are available. Allow 1.5-2 hours of play. Remember socks are usually required.