Stockholm is a fantastic destination for families, offering a wide range of kid-friendly activities and attractions that both children and adults will enjoy. From hands-on museums to outdoor adventures, there’s something for every family to experience in this beautiful city. Whether you’re visiting during the summer or winter, Stockholm is packed with fun, educational, and interactive spots that will keep the whole family entertained. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the best family-friendly attractions in Stockholm.
1. Junibacken – A Fairytale World for Kids
One of the most popular attractions for families in Stockholm is Junibacken, a magical children’s museum located on the island of Djurgården. It’s dedicated to Swedish children’s literature, especially the works of Astrid Lindgren, the beloved author of Pippi Longstocking.
Junibacken offers an interactive experience where kids can immerse themselves in the world of Lindgren’s stories. The museum features a storybook train ride that takes you through scenes from her famous tales, as well as play areas where children can explore and let their imaginations run wild.
- Why it’s great: The museum is perfect for younger children who love interactive play, storytelling, and creative activities.
- Tip: Plan your visit for the morning to avoid crowds, and don’t miss the fantastic café that serves kid-friendly meals and Swedish treats.
2. Skansen – The World’s Oldest Open-Air Museum
Skansen is a must-visit for families visiting Stockholm. It’s the world’s first open-air museum and also doubles as a zoo, offering a blend of Swedish history and wildlife. Located on Djurgården, Skansen is like stepping into a living history book, with over 150 traditional Swedish buildings to explore.
Kids will love the Children’s Zoo, where they can meet farm animals like goats, sheep, and pigs. The park is also home to Nordic animals such as wolves, moose, and bears, which are a big hit with children of all ages. During winter, Skansen also hosts a traditional Christmas market, offering an unforgettable family experience.
- Why it’s great: The combination of history, animals, and fun events make Skansen a perfect spot for both learning and play.
- Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as Skansen is large and requires a fair amount of walking. Don’t forget to bring a stroller for younger kids.
3. Gröna Lund – Stockholm’s Amusement Park
For families who love excitement, Gröna Lund is Stockholm’s historic amusement park located right by the water on Djurgården. It’s the ideal destination for thrill-seekers and families with older kids, offering roller coasters, swings, and plenty of rides designed just for children.
Gröna Lund also hosts live music events and performances, making it a lively place to visit during the summer. For younger children, there are gentle carousels, funhouses, and kid-sized roller coasters that will keep them entertained.
- Why it’s great: It’s full of fun rides and games for both young children and older kids, making it a great spot for families of all ages.
- Tip: Visit during the daytime if you have younger kids, as it tends to get busier in the evening.
4. Tekniska Museet – The Museum of Technology
If your kids are curious about science and technology, the Museum of Technology (Tekniska Museet) is a fantastic place to visit. This hands-on museum is designed to spark creativity and imagination, with interactive exhibits that allow children to learn about technology, space, and innovation.
One of the main attractions is MegaMind, an interactive zone where kids can explore their creativity through digital art, sound, and motion-based activities. There are also exhibitions focused on robotics, space exploration, and video games, making it a hit with children and teens alike.
- Why it’s great: The museum’s interactive exhibits keep kids engaged while they learn about science and technology.
- Tip: Make sure to check out the museum’s special events and temporary exhibits, which often feature family-friendly activities.
5. Vasa Museum – Discover a Real 17th-Century Ship
The Vasa Museum is one of Stockholm’s most famous attractions, and it’s also an exciting place for kids. Home to the Vasa, a 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage, the museum is packed with fascinating history. Children will be amazed by the size of the ship, which is beautifully preserved and displayed in a massive indoor space.
The museum also offers guided tours and exhibits that are kid-friendly, including models and interactive displays that teach visitors about the ship’s history and life in the 1600s.
- Why it’s great: The sheer size of the ship and the engaging exhibits make it a fun and educational experience for families.
- Tip: The Vasa Museum is indoors, making it a great option for rainy or cold days.
6. Tom Tits Experiment – A Science Adventure for Kids
Located just outside Stockholm, in the town of Södertälje, Tom Tits Experiment is one of Sweden’s largest science centers and is perfect for a full day of fun. This interactive museum is designed for kids to experiment and play while learning about science and technology.
The exhibits cover everything from physics and biology to chemistry and engineering, and many of them are hands-on. Kids can explore the outdoor play area during warmer months or dive into exciting indoor experiments year-round.
- Why it’s great: It’s a fun, interactive experience where children can learn by doing, making it a perfect day trip for families.
- Tip: Set aside plenty of time for your visit, as there’s a lot to see and do at Tom Tits.
7. Fjärilshuset – The Butterfly House and Haga Ocean
For a more tranquil family outing, head to Fjärilshuset, also known as the Butterfly House. Located in Hagaparken, this indoor tropical garden is home to hundreds of butterflies that freely flutter around visitors. It’s a calming and magical experience for children who will love spotting the colorful butterflies.
Fjärilshuset also features the Haga Ocean, a large aquarium where kids can see tropical fish, including sharks and rays. The combination of butterflies and marine life makes this a unique and relaxing attraction for families.
- Why it’s great: It’s a peaceful, nature-based attraction that’s perfect for younger children who enjoy animals.
- Tip: Visit in the morning for a quieter experience, and enjoy a picnic in Hagaparken after your visit.
8. Boat Tours in the Archipelago
Stockholm’s archipelago is a stunning natural wonder made up of thousands of islands, and exploring it by boat is a must-do activity for families. Several companies offer family-friendly boat tours, ranging from short trips around the islands to full-day excursions.
Children will love spotting wildlife, such as seabirds and seals, while parents can relax and enjoy the scenic views. Many tours provide onboard snacks and drinks, making the journey comfortable and enjoyable for all ages.
- Why it’s great: It’s a relaxing way to see Stockholm from the water while keeping kids entertained with the beautiful surroundings.
- Tip: Choose a shorter tour if you’re traveling with younger children to ensure they stay engaged.
Conclusion
Stockholm is a fantastic city for families, offering a wide range of kid-friendly attractions and activities. Whether you’re visiting museums, playing in parks, or exploring the archipelago by boat, there’s no shortage of things to do with kids in Stockholm. With this guide, your family is sure to have an unforgettable time exploring the best of what this vibrant city has to offer.
