Looking for the best things to do with kids in Edinburgh? Scotland’s capital is packed with brilliant family days out, exciting attractions, outdoor adventures and plenty of activities to keep children of all ages entertained.
Whether you’re planning a family day out, looking for something to do this weekend or searching for ideas for the school holidays, Edinburgh has something for every family. From fascinating museums and famous landmarks to parks, wildlife, hands-on attractions and rainy-day activities, there’s always somewhere new to discover.
In this Scotland4Kids guide, we’ve brought together some of the best family-friendly things to do in Edinburgh and the surrounding area, including free activities, indoor attractions, outdoor adventures and seasonal events. Whether you live locally or you’re visiting Edinburgh with the kids, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for your next family adventure.
Best Family Days Out in Edinburgh
Edinburgh has an incredible variety of family attractions, so there’s plenty to choose from whether your children love animals, history, science, outdoor adventures or something a little different.
Edinburgh Zoo
One of Edinburgh’s best-known family attractions, Edinburgh Zoo is home to animals from around the world and makes an easy choice for a full family day out.
There’s plenty to explore around the zoo, with opportunities for children to learn more about wildlife, endangered species and conservation along the way.
Allow plenty of time for your visit – there’s a lot of ground to cover!
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
Right beside Edinburgh Castle on the Royal Mile, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is a great choice if your children enjoy optical illusions and interactive experiences.
With several floors of hands-on exhibits, unusual visual effects and plenty of opportunities for funny family photographs, it’s particularly useful when the Edinburgh weather isn’t cooperating.
At the top, you can also enjoy fantastic views across the city.
Dynamic Earth
Travel through the story of planet Earth at Dynamic Earth, close to the Scottish Parliament and Holyrood Park.
The attraction explores subjects including volcanoes, oceans, glaciers, climate and the natural forces that have shaped our planet.
It’s a particularly good Edinburgh attraction for curious children who enjoy science and discovering how the world works.
National Museum of Scotland
If you’re looking for free things to do with kids in Edinburgh, the National Museum of Scotland should be high on your list.
Families can explore everything from dinosaurs and animals to science, technology, Scottish history and cultures from around the world.
It’s also an excellent rainy-day option and there’s enough to see to make repeat visits worthwhile.
Edinburgh Castle
Sitting high above the city, Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland’s most famous landmarks.
Children can explore centuries of Scottish history while discovering castle walls, cannons, royal treasures and stories of battles and kings and queens.
The views across Edinburgh are another highlight.
Free Things to Do With Kids in Edinburgh
A family day out in Edinburgh doesn’t necessarily have to cost a fortune.
There are some excellent free places to visit, particularly if you’re trying to keep the cost of the school holidays under control.
Explore the National Museum of Scotland
With so much to discover under one roof, the National Museum of Scotland is one of our favourite free family activities in Edinburgh.
You could easily spend several hours exploring, making it particularly useful when you need a budget-friendly indoor activity.
Climb Arthur’s Seat
For families with older or more energetic children, climbing Arthur’s Seat is a fantastic way to see Edinburgh from above.
The ancient volcano dominates Holyrood Park and offers impressive views across the city and beyond.
Choose a route appropriate for your children’s ages and abilities and remember that Scottish weather can change quickly.
Visit The Meadows
The Meadows provides plenty of space for children to burn off some energy without leaving the city.
Pack a picnic, bring a ball or simply enjoy a family walk through one of Edinburgh’s best-known green spaces.
Explore Princes Street Gardens
Located beneath Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street Gardens provide another easy outdoor option in the centre of Edinburgh.
They’re particularly handy if you’re combining several city-centre attractions and want somewhere to stop for a break.
Walk Along the Water of Leith
The Water of Leith walkway offers families a completely different side of Edinburgh.
Sections of the route take you through leafy parts of the city and can be a lovely option for a family walk away from the busiest tourist areas.
Indoor Activities for Kids in Edinburgh
Let’s face it – you can’t always rely on the Scottish weather!
Fortunately, there are plenty of indoor things to do with kids in Edinburgh when rain changes your plans.
Some of our favourites include:
- National Museum of Scotland
- Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
- Dynamic Earth
- Museum of Childhood
- National Galleries of Scotland
- Indoor climbing and activity centres
- Soft-play centres for younger children
- Family-friendly swimming pools
It’s always worth checking admission prices, opening times and whether advance booking is required before travelling.
Outdoor Things to Do With Kids in Edinburgh
When the sun does make an appearance, Edinburgh is a fantastic city to explore outdoors.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
The Royal Botanic Garden provides families with acres of beautiful gardens to explore just a short distance from Edinburgh city centre.
It’s a lovely option for a slower-paced family afternoon and gives children plenty of opportunities to discover plants and nature.
Holyrood Park
Holyrood Park feels remarkably wild considering its location beside the city centre.
Families can walk, explore and enjoy views across Edinburgh, with Arthur’s Seat providing the biggest adventure for those ready for the climb.
Portobello Beach
Yes, Edinburgh has a beach!
Portobello is only a few miles from the city centre and is a great option when you’re looking for a family day out that doesn’t involve another attraction.
Walk along the promenade, play on the sand, grab an ice cream or simply enjoy some time beside the sea.
Cramond
Cramond is another lovely destination for families looking to escape the busy city centre.
Enjoy a walk beside the water, explore the village or, when conditions allow, walk across the causeway towards Cramond Island.
Important: Always check the Cramond Island tide times before crossing the causeway. The route is covered by the sea at high tide.
Things to Do With Toddlers in Edinburgh
Visiting Edinburgh with younger children?
You don’t need to tackle every major tourist attraction.
Simple activities such as exploring the museum, visiting a park, taking a bus journey through the city or spending a morning at Portobello can be just as successful with toddlers.
Good options to consider include:
- National Museum of Scotland
- Edinburgh Zoo
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
- Portobello Beach
- The Meadows
- Local soft-play centres
- Swimming
- Family sessions at Edinburgh museums and libraries
Keep an eye on Scotland4Kids for upcoming toddler and preschool events in Edinburgh.
Things to Do in Edinburgh During the School Holidays
Edinburgh becomes particularly busy with family activities during the Scottish school holidays.
You’ll often find special exhibitions, children’s workshops, theatre performances, trails, outdoor activities and family events taking place across the city.
We recommend planning ahead for:
February Half-Term
Look out for indoor attractions, museum activities and special family events during the February break.
Easter Holidays
Easter brings everything from Easter egg hunts and outdoor trails to springtime events at attractions across Edinburgh and the Lothians.
Summer Holidays
With longer days and hopefully better weather, summer is perfect for exploring Edinburgh’s parks, beaches and outdoor attractions.
It’s also festival season, bringing an enormous programme of entertainment to the city.
October Holidays
Halloween events, pumpkin activities, autumn trails and family attractions make October an exciting time to explore Edinburgh with children.
Christmas
Edinburgh is particularly magical in the run-up to Christmas, with festive events, lights, markets and family entertainment appearing across the city.
Check Scotland4Kids regularly for our latest Edinburgh school holiday and seasonal event guides.
Things to Do With Kids Near Edinburgh
Don’t limit yourself to the city itself.
Edinburgh’s location makes it easy to explore family attractions throughout the Lothians and surrounding areas.
Depending on how far you want to travel, you’ll find country parks, beaches, castles, wildlife attractions, museums and outdoor adventures within reach of the capital.
Places worth exploring include East Lothian, West Lothian and Midlothian, giving families even more options for weekend and school-holiday adventures.
What’s On for Kids in Edinburgh This Weekend?
Looking for something happening right now?
Edinburgh has family events taking place throughout the year, from children’s theatre and museum activities to festivals, workshops, seasonal celebrations and special events at major attractions.
Because events change every week, check the latest Scotland4Kids Edinburgh events and what’s-on listings before making your plans.
Planning a Family Day Out in Edinburgh
A little preparation can make exploring Edinburgh with children much easier.
Check attraction opening times and ticket availability before leaving home, particularly during weekends and school holidays. Edinburgh city centre can become extremely busy during major events and festivals, so advance booking can be worthwhile.
If you’re visiting several attractions in one day, think about their locations too. Grouping nearby attractions together can save tired little legs – and tired parents!
And because this is Scotland, having an indoor backup plan is rarely a bad idea.
Discover More Family Days Out in Scotland
Edinburgh is just the beginning.
From castles and wildlife parks to beaches, museums, adventure centres and incredible outdoor experiences, there are hundreds of places to discover with children across Scotland.
Explore the Scotland4Kids Family Days Out in Scotland guide for even more inspiration for your next adventure.
And don’t forget to check Scotland4Kids regularly for the latest family events, school holiday activities, competitions and things to do with kids across Scotland.