Looking for Things to do in Waterford with Kids? You’re in the right place!
This blog post will explore various fun and exciting things to do in Waterford with kids. Waterford offers many opportunities for families to create lasting memories together, from outdoor adventures to indoor entertainment. Whether you’re interested in exploring historical sites, enjoying thrilling outdoor adventures, or engaging in educational experiences, there’s something for everyone in Ireland’s sunny southeast.
Join us as we explore Waterford’s best attractions, activities, and destinations for families with kids. If you are planning a day out, don’t forget to read my article on the best restaurants in Waterford for a list of unique places to eat. I also have a fantastic list of places that serve the best burgers in Waterford that might be of interest. Or spoil yourself with a day out with a Waterford Afternoon Tea.
Prepare for an unforgettable journey filled with laughter, learning, and family fun!
Table of Contents
Best Things to do in Waterford with Kids
Here, we have compiled a complete list of places that offer great things to do in Waterford with Kids. From outdoor activities to indoors, you will find something to suit below.
1. Cycling the Waterford Greenway
The Waterford Greenway offers an ideal adventure with many things to do in Waterford with Kids. Opened in 2017, this scenic pathway stretches 46km from vibrant Waterford City to the charming town of Dungarvan.
Whether you prefer walking or cycling, the route provides breathtaking views of the Comeragh Mountains and the tranquil River Suir. Kids will be thrilled by the eleven bridges, three viaducts, and a 400m-long tunnel!
With its lush countryside and access to the sandy beaches of the Copper Coast, the Greenway promises endless excitement for little explorers. And if you’re feeling weary, catch a bus back to Waterford from Dungarvan. It’s a day out the whole family will cherish and a highly recommended way to keep your family amused. This is at the top of our list of things to do in Waterford with kids because it’s free, outdoors, and a great way to spend valuable time with your kids.
2. Uncover the Viking past of Waterford City
Next on our list of Things to do in Waterford with Kids is the Waterford Viking Tours. The Waterford’s Viking Tours offer exciting adventures perfect for families with kids. Expert guides lead visitors back in time to the medieval and Viking eras.
Explore the award-winning Medieval Museum, the elegant Bishop’s Palace, and the historic Reginald’s Tower. Families can opt for private director/curator tours for a more personalized experience. The highlight is the ‘Epic Tour of the Viking Triangle,’ a lively walking tour filled with interactive experiences and photo opportunities.
Kids can immerse themselves in Waterford’s rich history, from Viking raids to Victorian times, with engaging guides bringing stories to life. It’s an entertaining and educational journey for the whole family!
For more information, visit the Follow The Vikings website.
3. Seaside Day in Tramore
Tramore Beach in County Waterford is a fantastic destination for families with children. With its 5km of golden sandy shores, sand dunes, and cliff walks, there’s plenty of space for kids to play and explore. The beach’s long, rolling waves are perfect for swimmers and surfers; surf lessons are available locally.
Families can also enjoy beach angling in the estuary, which has recently produced impressive catches. Tramore’s traditional seaside town feel and stunning natural beauty make it an ideal spot for a fun-filled day by the Atlantic Ocean.
The prestigious International Blue Flag has also been awarded for cleanliness and safety. It’s an ideal location for anyone looking for things to do in Waterford with Kids this summer.
4. Discover Dunmore East
Dunmore East is a perfect destination for families seeking seaside fun and adventure in County Waterford. Nestled along the stunning coastline, this charming coastal village offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Families are drawn to Dunmore East for its picturesque beauty and warm hospitality.
One of the highlights of Dunmore East is the scenic Dunmore East to Ballymacaw Cliff Walk, a 5km coastal trail dating back to the 1820s. This trail offers breathtaking views of Hook Head and the historic Lighthouse. The village boasts six sheltered coves, including famous beaches like Councillors Beach and Lawlors Beach, which are ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
Dunmore East offers 42 acres of scenic woodlands for those seeking inland exploration, perfect for leisurely strolls away from the village’s lively atmosphere. Families can also embark on a historical journey along the scenic drive from Dunmore East to Cheekpoint, discovering ancient churches, megalithic tombs, and Knights Templar castles.
With its blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and rich history, Dunmore East provides endless opportunities for family fun and memorable experiences by the sea. When looking for things to do in Waterford with Kids, Dunmore East is a great location for all.
5. Dunmore East Adventure
Moving on through our list of Things to do in Waterford with Kids, we come to Dunmore East Adventure. Dunmore Adventure in Dunmore East, County Waterford, is an exciting destination for families seeking fun and memorable outdoor experiences.
Situated at the water’s edge, their purpose-built Adventure Centre offers various activities catering to all ages and interests. Families can dive into thrilling water adventures like the Wibit Wipeout Water Park, windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and sailing, all in the sheltered coves of Dunmore East.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Kids can also enjoy land-based activities such as climbing a 12-meter tower, exploring adventure caves with fossils and cave paintings, and testing their archery skills in friendly competitions. Dunmore Adventure is famous for its award-winning Summer Camps and School Tours, providing kids with unforgettable experiences in a safe and supervised environment.
Parents can rest assured knowing their children are having fun, learning valuable skills, and building confidence. With experienced instructors and convenient onsite facilities, including changing rooms, hot showers, and a café overlooking the water activities, Dunmore Adventure ensures a hassle-free and enjoyable day out for the whole family.
It’s the perfect place to create lasting memories and bond over exciting adventures by the sea!
For more information, visit the Dunmore Adventure website.
6. Nire Valley Glamping
Nire Valley Glamping offers families an exciting camping experience with added comfort in the heart of County Waterford’s picturesque Nire Valley. Set amidst twelve acres of fields and woodlands, families can enjoy vintage lorry and bell tent camps alongside friendly sheep.
Kids can explore the woodland and observe wildlife like red squirrels, otters, and birds. At the same time, parents relax and take in the stunning mountain scenery.
With direct access to superb walking routes into the Comeragh Mountains and Nire Lakes, families can embark on adventurous hikes suitable for all abilities. The glamping site provides a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation, ideal for families seeking a memorable getaway.
Plus, its proximity to local attractions ensures there’s always something exciting to explore nearby. Nire Valley Glamping promises a fun-filled and hassle-free camping experience for families to cherish. Its a great place to stay for families looking for things to do in Waterford with Kids.
For more information on the best glamping spots, read my article on the Best Glamping places in Ireland.
For more information, visit the Nire Valley Glamping website.
7. Splashworld Waterford
When looking for things to do in Waterford with Kids, Splashword in Tramore has always been a hit with families across Ireland. Splashworld Waterford in Tramore, County Waterford, is an exciting destination for families seeking fun and adventure.
Since its opening in 1993, Splashworld has provided thrills and safe entertainment for all ages. Kids can experience the excitement of the wild wave machine, thrilling water slides, a bubble pool, and more. The indoor and outdoor attractions ensure fun regardless of the weather.
With family-friendly public swims, swimming lessons, and lane swimming sessions, there’s something for everyone. Parents can relax knowing their children are enjoying a safe and supervised environment.
In addition to the water attractions, Splashworld offers a fully equipped gym for fitness enthusiasts. With convenient amenities like free parking, locker facilities, and a café, families can enjoy a hassle-free experience.
Splashworld’s commitment to inclusivity, with wheelchair-friendly facilities and discounts for carer groups, ensures that every family member can enjoy the fun. Whether for a day out or a special occasion, Splashworld promises a memorable experience for the whole family.
For more information, visit the Splashworld website.
8. Waterford Suir Valley Railway
The Waterford Suir Valley Railway is a delightful attraction for families with kids. It offers a charming journey through history and nature. Located in Kilmeadan, this community heritage project brings the magic of Ireland’s rail heritage to life.
Families can hop aboard the heritage narrow gauge railway and embark on a scenic 40-minute journey along 10 kilometres of the picturesque Waterford Dungarvan line.
Kids will be thrilled to meet the Easter Bunny during the Easter Bunny Express event, where they can enjoy a fun-filled day exploring the countryside, Mount Congreve Gardens, and the enchanting Magic Wood.
During the summer, families can return to 1878 and experience the nostalgia of Ireland’s most extended Narrow-Gauge Railway, hearing the whistle blow as the train departs through the beautiful Suir Valley.
With its rich history, scenic beauty, and family-friendly events, the Suir Valley Railway promises an unforgettable adventure for families of all ages and perfect for those looking for Things to do in Waterford with Kids during the year.
For more information, visit the Suire Valley Railway website.
9. Lake Tour Stables Waterford
Lake Tour Stables, run by the Flavin family, offers an unforgettable equestrian experience for families with kids in the scenic South East of Ireland. With a superb reputation and outstanding facilities, families return year after year for adventures in horse riding. Conveniently located near Ballyscanlon and Carrigavantry lakes and Tramore Beach, riders can explore some of the region’s most beautiful landscapes.
The stables provide a range of activities suitable for all ages and skill levels, including trekking, lessons, polocrosse, polo, and even hunting adventures. Their experienced staff ensures that horses and ponies are carefully selected for their temperament, guaranteeing a safe and enjoyable experience for riders of all abilities. Whether a leisurely trek through the countryside or an exhilarating riding lesson, Lake Tour Stables offers something for every family member to enjoy together.
For more information, visit the Lake Tour Stables website.
10. Surfing in Tramore
Surfing in Tramore with Tramore Surf School offers an exciting and family-friendly adventure on the sunny beaches of County Waterford. Located on the beach, the school provides a fun and safe environment for all ages to experience the addictive thrill of surfing. Their team of enthusiastic instructors, fully qualified and passionate about surfing, ensures every surfer feels supported and encouraged, from groms to grannies.
Tramore Surf School caters to families with kids by offering private and public lessons tailored to individual needs and experience levels. Whether it’s a one-to-one lesson or a group hangout, families can enjoy bonding over the waves and making unforgettable memories together.
Surfing builds confidence and camaraderie and provides a fantastic way to meet new people and have fun in the water. With Tramore Surf School, families can catch waves, make friends, and create lasting experiences in the beautiful surroundings of Tramore Beach.
For more information, visit the Tramore Surf School website.
11. Ardmore Open Farm and Mini Zoo
Ardmore Open Farm and Mini Zoo is the perfect destination for families with kids, offering an unforgettable day of fun and learning. Located near the seaside village of Ardmore in County Waterford, this facility provides visitors a unique opportunity to interact with various exotic and farm animals. With dedicated petting times throughout the day, kids and adults can get up close and personal with reptiles, furry friends, birds, and more.
Spread across 22 acres overlooking Whiting Bay, Ardmore Open Farm and Mini Zoo boasts a diverse range of animals worldwide. In addition to animal encounters, families can enjoy various activities, including playgrounds, indoor play centres, go-kart tracks, soccer pitches, mazes, and more.
With full restaurant facilities offering delicious meals and homemade treats, Ardmore Open Farm and Mini Zoo ensure the whole family a day of excitement and enjoyment.
For more information, visit the Ardmore Open Farm website.
12. Activate Activity Centre Waterford
Activate Activity Centre in Waterford offers an exhilarating indoor experience for families with kids, ensuring fun and excitement for all ages. Since its establishment in December 2015, Activate has been dedicated to keeping kids active and entertained while indoors.
With a wide range of activities, including interactive ten-pin bowling, soft play areas, thrilling climbing walls, and laser wars, there’s something to suit every taste and skill level. Families can enjoy delicious, family-friendly food and freshly brewed coffee at the centre’s cafe.
For soccer enthusiasts, there’s an inflatable soccer arena perfect for parties or casual games. Activate also boasts cutting-edge physical gaming technology, providing visitors a unique and immersive experience.
With its diverse range of activities and state-of-the-art facilities, Activate Activity Centre promises an unforgettable day of fun and adventure for families in Waterford.
For more information, visit the Activate Activity Centre website.
13. Waterford Medieval Museum
The Waterford Medieval Museum offers families an immersive journey into the rich history of medieval Ireland. Located in Ireland’s only purpose-built medieval museum, visitors can explore two medieval chambers—the 13th-century Choristers’ Hall and the 15th-century Mayor’s Wine Vault.
As families return, they’ll be amazed by treasures like the Great Charter Roll and magnificent 15th-century cloth-of-gold church vestments. Kids can marvel at the oldest view of an Irish city in the Van Der Hagen painting. At the same time, historical documents like the Minute Books of Waterford Corporation provide fascinating insights.
With interactive exhibits and engaging displays, the museum brings medieval Waterford to life for visitors of all ages. Families can enjoy learning together about the city’s past, from the Walled City depicted on the Great Charter Roll to the remarkable medieval vestments crafted from Italian silk. The Waterford Medieval Museum promises an educational and memorable experience for families exploring Ireland’s medieval heritage.
For more information, visit the Waterford Medieval Museum website.
14. Waterford County Museum
The Waterford County Museum in Dungarvan, Ireland, offers families a captivating journey into local history. Free admission and open hours from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. warmly welcome visitors of all ages, Monday to Friday.
Run by the Waterford County Museum Society, the museum showcases the rich heritage of Dungarvan and West Waterford through engaging displays and educational panels. Families can explore the area’s fascinating past, from its medieval origins to more recent times.
Kids can marvel at artefacts, learn about historical events, and discover the stories of local figures. The museum’s interactive exhibits and educational programs make learning fun for children and adults. With its focus on preserving and promoting local history, the Waterford County Museum offers families a memorable and enriching experience that brings the past to life.
For more information, visit the Waterford Museum website.
15. Designer Minds Waterford
Designer Minds in Waterford offers an exciting learning experience for children curious about science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). It’s perfect for kids who love exploring, creating, and experimenting. With hands-on challenges and various equipment, such as robots, microscopes, LEGO®, and more, children dive into a world of discovery.
The program focuses on making learning fun and interactive, without any tests or grades. Kids engage in science experiments, technology projects, engineering challenges, and creative design activities. From rocket science to building bridges and exploring augmented reality, Designer Minds sparks curiosity and creativity in children.
For families in Waterford, Designer Minds offers a unique opportunity for kids to learn, grow, and develop essential skills in a supportive and stimulating environment. It’s a place where children can unleash their imagination and explore the wonders of STEAM subjects.
For more information, visit the Designer Minds website.
16. Junior Einsteins Science Club
Junior Einsteins Science Club in Waterford offers exciting STEM education for children in a fun and engaging way. Led by passionate educators, they aim to nurture children’s curiosity and creativity while inspiring them to explore the wonders of science and technology.
Kids get to wear lab coats and goggles as they dive into hands-on experiments and outdoor activities, fostering personal confidence and self-esteem. Early on, children develop critical thinking skills and a love for science through interactive learning experiences like slime-making, rocket races, and marine biology exploration.
The club’s founder, Tracey-Jane, brings over a decade of STEM education experience to ignite a lifelong passion for learning in every Junior Einstein. With a focus on learning through fun, Junior Einsteins Science Club ensures that children in Waterford embark on an exciting journey of discovery and scientific exploration.
For more information, visit the Junior Einstein Science Club website.
17. Explore The Copper Coast
Exploring the Copper Coast is an adventure for the whole family. This UNESCO Global Geopark, located along the stunning County Waterford coastline, offers 25 kilometres of scenic beauty and geological wonders. Named after 19th-century copper mines, it boasts scalloped beaches, rocky headlands, and hidden coves waiting to be discovered.
Families can journey through time as they learn about oceans, volcanoes, deserts, and ice sheets that shaped the landscape. With its visitor centre and educational resources, the Copper Coast Geopark provides interactive experiences for children to engage with geology and nature.
From Kilfasarry Beach to Stradbally, families can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and beachcombing. The Geopark’s holistic approach to conservation and education ensures that families enjoy their visit and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
18. Copper Coast Mini Farm
Welcome to Copper Coast Mini Farm! Located in Fenor, Co Waterford, just a short drive from Tramore, this family-run farm sprawls across 7 acres, offering a delightful experience for visitors of all ages. There’s plenty to see and interact with over 100 animals, including alpacas, llamas, deer, ponies, goats, sheep, cattle, and even Mossy the pig.
Kids can enjoy the large Sand Barn filled with ride-on tractors and play equipment, while toddlers can have a blast in the Soft Play area of the Play Barn. The farm features a spacious playground and a thrilling Go-Kart Track for older children. After working up an appetite, visitors can indulge in delicious homemade treats and freshly brewed beverages at the Copper Kettle Tearooms.
Copper Coast Mini Farm prides itself on being autism-friendly. It offers safe, secure spaces, helpful staff, and a welcoming family environment.
For more information, visit the Copper Coast Mini Farm website.
19. Aura Leisure Centres
Aura Leisure Centre in Youghal is a top choice for fitness enthusiasts and families. With a 25-meter swimming pool, gym facilities, and various group exercise classes, it caters to all fitness levels and interests. Whether you’re looking to swim laps, lift weights, or join a cardio class, Aura has something for everyone.
Their experienced personal trainers help members create customized workout plans to meet their fitness goals. The gym has cardio machines, weightlifting areas, and free weights from beginners to advanced athletes.
Families can enjoy fun-filled swim sessions together, while children can benefit from swim lessons and lane coaching to improve their skills.
With convenient pay-as-you-go options and inclusive membership packages, Aura Leisure Centre ensures accessibility for all. Their InBody scanner service offers personalized body composition analysis to guide members’ fitness journey.
For more information, visit the Aura Leisure Centre website.
Things to do in Waterford with Kids
As our exploration of family-friendly activities in Waterford comes to a close, it’s clear that this vibrant city offers many adventures for kids of all ages. From discovering the rich history of the Medieval Museum to getting up close and personal with animals at the Copper Coast Mini Farm, there’s no shortage of excitement to be found.
Whether splashing in the waves at Tramore Beach, unleashing creativity at Designer Minds, or learning about science at Junior Einsteins Science Club, every experience promises laughter, learning, and cherished family moments.
As you plan your next trip to Waterford, keep these unforgettable activities in mind and prepare for an adventure that will captivate the hearts and imaginations of your little ones.
With its unique blend of history, nature, and entertainment, Waterford shines as a premier destination for families seeking unforgettable experiences.
