I often get asked by family, friends, and other parents at the school gates; “isn’t Copenhagen just for adults?” Well, after regularly visiting the Danish capital for the best part of a decade, I can honestly say there’s no better place to take the kids.
For new-borns, toddlers, tweens and teens, Copenhagen is a holiday destination designed with the needs and interests of children (as well as their parents for that matter) well and truly in mind.
So, after returning home from our latest holiday with a head full of very happy memories, I thought what better way to inspire others than by telling you more about my favourite family friendly Copenhagen attractions.
Tivoli Gardens
It goes without saying that Tivoli is a must as well as the most beautiful amusement park you will ever visit, thanks to the gardens, rides, restaurants and musical performances it has on offer.
For the youngest family members there’s Rasmus Klump’s world to explore, as well as classic carousels, boat rides and vintage cars, plus the Camel Trail is a dedicated smaller rollercoaster just for kids which is sure to provide lots of excitement.
The Blue Planet
Den Blå Planet, is the National Aquarium of Denmark. From its whirlpool inspired architecture, thousands of fish, through to watching the super cute resident sea otters eat their lunch The Blue Planet is always a great place to mix fun with factual experiences.
There is also a walk-through tropical rainforest filled with exotic birds, plants and butterflies, the chance to get up close with hammerhead sharks and rays, as well as a great bistro and playground with views out over the Sound.
The Danish Architecture Center (DAC)
From its striking base at BLOX on Copenhagen’s harbourside, the DAC is the perfect place to introduce the kids to architecture. With insightful and inspiring exhibitions, over the past few years we’ve discovered more about renowned studios such as BIG, taken part in an interactive art installation by Olafur Eliasson and recently sat inside a Lunar space module.
The DAC also has a fantastic free playground with trampolines, slides, and a climbing tunnel plus a kid-friendly café on the top floor with magnificent city views for you to soak up over a much-needed cup of coffee.
Copenhagen Zoo
I don’t think I’ll ever forget seeing the giant pandas at Copenhagen Zoo for the first time blissfully sunbathing in their Bjarke Ingels designed enclosure, or watching the elephants sauntering around their Norman Foster designed home. Safe to say even the animals in Copenhagen benefit from great architecture.
With more than 4,000 fascinating animals to learn more about and set in 11 hectares of parkland situated alongside the picturesque Frederiksberg Gardens you’re in for a great day out.
Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
Founded in 1888 by brewer Carl Jacobsen, this show-stopping museum is a place I’d recommend visiting no matter how old you are.
From its awe-inspiring winter garden filled with majestic palms and marble statues, the Department of Antiquities housing collections of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman art through to the Modern Department showcasing paintings and sculptures by the greatest names in 19th and 20th century art, I could quite happily spend several days exploring this very special place.
Five more recommendations a little further afield:
Experimentarium
Located 15 minutes north of Copenhagen City Centre in Hellerup, Experimentarium is Copenhagen’s science museum. Set over three floors, it offers hours of fun for the entire family, bringing science to life through hands-on exploration.
Ordrupgaard Museum
Originally built as a private residence, Ordrupgaard specialises in French Impressionism and Danish art. With additional exhibition spaces designed by Zaha Hadid and Snøhetta, and a surrounding park filled with sculptures and Finn Juhl’s world-famous house, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
Located in North Sealand with panoramic views of the Sound, the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art is one of Denmark’s most popular attractions. Taking you on a journey of creativity from 1945 to now, there is even a Children’s Wing dedicated to younger visitors as well as over 60 sculptures in the surrounding parkland to discover.
Ragnarock
Take a trip through the history of modern music at Ragnarok in Roskilde. At this unique musical experience you will learn more about the impact pop, rock and youth culture had on Danish society and the wider world, as well as learn a new dance move or two.
Camp Adventure
See nature from a different perspective by following the 900-metre-long boardwalk through the forest and up into the treetops. Standing 45 metres tall, the viewing platform at the top of the Forest Tower at Camp Adventure sits 135 metres above sea level and provides an experience you will never forget.
another top Tip
Children under the age of 12 enter most Copenhagen attractions for free or at a highly reduced price. Also, they can travel on the metro, s-trains, buses, and water buses free of charge when accompanied by a paying adult.
I hope this guide to family friendly Copenhagen will inspire your next holiday. Please do let me know of any more recommendations as I will certainly be heading back soon.
All images by Nicola Capper.
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