Welcome to your ultimate guide to family-friendly activities in Waterford! Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a day trip, Waterford offers a variety of exciting and engaging experiences for families of all ages. From outdoor adventures to cultural explorations, there's something for everyone.
Family Dining at The Tower Hotel
Make your winter getaway special with a festive family dining experience at The Tower Hotel in Waterford. The hotel’s restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a holiday menu designed with families in mind, featuring locally sourced ingredients and traditional Irish flavors. Enjoy dishes that celebrate the season while the kids relish a welcoming environment. With attentive service and charming decorations, dining at The Tower Hotel promises a memorable occasion for the whole family. Visit Here to enquire today.
Winterval
Ireland's largest Christmas festival, Winterval offers a month of festive fun with markets, light displays, and activities for all ages. Kids will love Santa's grotto, train rides, and the holiday carnival.
Location: Just a 7 minute walk from the hotel
Waterford Suir Valley Railway - Santa Express
Hop aboard the Santa Express for a magical holiday ride with festive lights, music, and a visit from Santa himself.
Location: Just a 17minute drive from the hotel
Mount Congreve Gardens
Follow the seasonal trail in these beautiful gardens, with winter displays and interactive elements for families.
Location: Just a 10 minute drive from the hotel
Waterford Greenway
Explore the winter landscapes along this 46-kilometer trail, ideal for family walks or bike rides.
Location: Just a 7 minute drive from the hotel
Theatre Royal – Winter Performances
Catch holiday family shows, from pantomimes to Christmas concerts, for a festive theater experience.
Location: Just a 6 minute walk from the hotel
Christchurch Cathedral
Visit this historic site for a peaceful, family-friendly look into Waterford’s rich history.
Location: Just a 7 minute walk from the hotel
Escape Rooms
Waterford's escape rooms are the perfect way to bring the family together for a fun and mentally stimulating adventure. These interactive games require teamwork, problem-solving, and quick thinking as you race against the clock to solve puzzles and escape from themed rooms.
Location: Just a 10 minute walk or 4 minute drive from the hotel.
Activate
Waterford City's newest family recreation centre features a children's soft play area, bowling, rock climbing, a 3D cinema, and a café.
Location: Just an 8 minute drive from the hotel.
Parks and Playgrounds
Enjoy Waterford's open spaces like the People’s Park, Waterford Nature Park, and community-based parks such as Wyse Park. Tramore's All Aboard Inclusion Play Park is perfect for disabled and able-bodied children to play together.
Petting Zoos & Farms
Visit Copper Coast Mini Farm, Busy Barn, Sallyfort Mini Farm, and Ardmore Pet Farm for family-friendly farm experiences.
Museums and Visitor Attractions
Explore Waterford’s history at Reginald's Tower, Medieval Museum, and Bishop's Palace. Don't miss the House of Waterford Crystal for a factory tour and shopping.
Location: Just a 5 minute walk from the hotel.
Tramore
Just 12km south of Waterford City, Tramore offers a 5km sandy beach, surf schools, an inclusion park/playground, Splashworld water park, and indoor activities like Pirates Adventure.
Location: Just an 18 minute drive from the hotel.
