Best Things to Do in Glasgow with Kids: 48 Hour Itinerary

Planning a family trip to Scotland’s largest city? Glasgow is a vibrant, family-friendly destination packed with exciting attractions for both adults and children. There are so many things to do in Glasgow with kids, from exploring ancient history to hands-on science.

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Is Glasgow good for families? Absolutely! The city prides itself on its world-class museums, many of which are free, and its fantastic green spaces.

If you’re wondering how many days do you need to visit Glasgow with kids? We recommend at least two days to truly experience the best of what the city has to offer. This itinerary focuses on making the most of your time, ensuring you hit all the must-see spots and enjoy some delicious meals along the way.

Tips for Getting Around Glasgow with Kids

Navigating a new city with little ones can sometimes be a challenge, but what is the best way to get around Glasgow with kids? Fortunately, the city is very family-friendly, with several easy and efficient transport options. (P.S. Don’t forget your UK Rain Gear!)

• Walking: Glasgow’s city center is laid out in a logical grid pattern, making it very walkable. Many of the main attractions are close together, so it’s easy to stroll from one to the next and take in the architecture.
  • Are you literally strolling around Glasgow? Check out the Best Travel Strollers for Europe – they’re all cobblestone approved!
• The Subway: For a fun and speedy experience, hop on the Glasgow Subway. Its circular route makes it impossible to get lost! It connects key areas like the city center, the West End (home to Kelvingrove), and the South Side.
• Buses: Glasgow has an extensive and reliable bus network. You should also consider a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, which offers unlimited travel and can be a cost-effective choice for a family.
• Taxis & Ride-shares: When little legs are tired after a long day of exploring, taxis and ride-share services are readily available and can take you directly to your accommodation or dinner spot.

Day 1: Culture, History, and Green Spaces

Kick off your Glasgow family attractions adventure with a mix of art, history, and a breath of fresh air.

• Morning: Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. This is one of the best free things to do in Glasgow with kids! Kids love the hanging Spitfire plane and dinosaur exhibits.
• Lunch: Ubiquitous Chip or Stereo Cafe Bar in the West End. Both offer relaxed, kid-friendly dining.
• Afternoon: Pollok Country Park. A great free escape to see Highland cows (coos) and let kids run at the play areas. You can also check out the free Burrell Collection.
• Dinner: Paesano Pizza. A lively and delicious spot for authentic pizza that’s always a hit with families.

Make sure you’ve packed comfortable shoes for all the walking! Check out our full Family UK Packing List for everything else you’ll need.

Day 2: Science, Ships, and City Views

Get ready for a day of interactive learning and maritime history, hitting more of the top things to do in Glasgow with kids.

Are there any free museums in Glasgow for kids? Several! As you can see from this itinerary, Glasgow excels in its free offerings, with the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Riverside Museum, and Pollok Country Park being prime examples. This makes it an incredibly budget-friendly destination for families in the UK.

• Morning: The Glasgow Science Centre. Packed with hands-on, interactive exhibits that make science fun. Don’t forget their IMAX cinema and planetarium!
• Lunch: Cafe Zest or grab a quick bite by the River Clyde.
• Afternoon: Riverside Museum & The Tall Ship. Explore a vast free collection of vintage vehicles before boarding the historic Tall Ship Glenlee.
• Dinner: Daft Friday’s or Bread Meats Bread. Both are great options for a family-friendly meal to wrap up your time in Glasgow with kids.

If you have little ones, a compact travel stroller will be a lifesaver for navigating the city and these large attractions.

If You Have More Time: Beyond the 2-Day Itinerary

While two days is a fantastic start, if you have more time, Glasgow and its surroundings have even more to offer! Consider these options to extend your family adventure:

The Duke of Wellington Statue

Head to Royal Exchange Square to see Glasgow’s most famous landmark. The equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington has long been a quirky city symbol, with a traffic cone placed on his head by locals. It’s a quick, fun stop that kids will find hilarious.

A “Treasure Hunt” at Glasgow Cathedral & Necropolis

A short walk from the city centre, these sites offer a glimpse into medieval history. The Glasgow Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Across the bridge, the Glasgow Necropolis is a Victorian-era cemetery with beautiful monuments and a hilltop viewpoint. Frame it as a “treasure hunt” to find the most interesting tombstones and enjoy the great city views from the top.

A Unique Experience at Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre

For a truly one-of-a-kind indoor activity, check out the Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre. This hidden gem features hundreds of bizarre, moving sculptures and carved figures, synchronized to music and light. It’s a mesmerizing and unforgettable experience, perfect for a rainy afternoon.

A Day Trip to Loch Lomond

For a dose of quintessential Scottish nature, take a day trip to Loch Lomond, The Trossachs National Park and Stirling Castle. The journey itself is beautiful, and there are many family-friendly activities, from boat cruises to gentle lakeside walks.

If you’re looking for more, check out our Scottish Highlands Family Road Trip Itinerary to see the best of the Highlands!

P.S. Glasgow is an optional end to our magical Ultimate 14-Day Harry Potter UK Family Tour!

Where to Stay in Glasgow with Kids

Finding the right family-friendly accommodation is key to a stress-free trip.

• Premier Inn Glasgow City Centre South: A reliable and highly-rated budget option. Premier Inn hotels are known for their family-friendly rooms and consistent quality, providing a comfortable and affordable stay. Book on Trip.com.
• Village Hotel Glasgow: A wonderful midrange choice for families, this hotel features an on-site pool, which is a great way for kids to burn off their last bits of energy. It’s located near the city center and offers excellent amenities for a relaxing stay. Book on Trip.com.
• voco Grand Central Glasgow by IHG: For a touch of luxury, this historic hotel is located right in Glasgow’s Central Station. Its stunning architecture and exceptional service provide an elegant end to your magical journey, with easy transport links to the airport. Book on Trip.com.

Sustainability & Budget-Friendly Travel in Glasgow

Glasgow is a city that naturally leans toward sustainable and budget-friendly family travel, making it an excellent choice for a trip. By making a few mindful choices, you can enjoy a fantastic vacation while keeping costs down.

• Free Museums: Glasgow is famous for its incredible collection of free-entry museums and galleries. This itinerary includes several of them, proving that you can have a day packed with culture and fun without spending a dime on tickets.
• Pack a Picnic: To save money and reduce waste from pre-packaged food, visit a local grocery store or market to stock up on sandwiches and snacks. All of the parks mentioned in this itinerary—Pollok Country Park and Glasgow Green—are perfect spots for a budget-friendly picnic.
• Embrace Public Transport: As mentioned earlier, using the city’s robust public transport system is not only a fantastic way to navigate but also a sustainable alternative to renting a car. It reduces your carbon footprint and helps you connect with the city like a local.

Wrapping it up

We hope this 2-day itinerary helps you plan an incredible family adventure in Glasgow! As you can see, there are tons of things to do in Glasgow with kids, with fun and affordable activities that cater to all ages and interests. Its welcoming atmosphere, coupled with its fantastic array of museums, green spaces, and delicious food, truly makes it an exceptional destination.

Whether you’re interested in the history at Kelvingrove, excited by the interactive exhibits at the Science Centre, or simply enjoying a relaxing walk in Pollok Country Park, Glasgow offers a blend of education and entertainment that few cities can match. So, pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable trip to Scotland’s vibrant cultural heart.

Did you find this itinerary helpful? Please share this post with any friends and family planning a trip to Scotland!

Protecting your UK vacation

The United Kingdom, a country of grand history and vibrant culture, promises unforgettable family adventures. Yet, like any grand journey, unexpected events can arise.

From unpredictable UK weather to the worry of lost luggage or sudden illness (especially with toddlers), make sure you protect your family vacation by getting travel insurance.

I personally use Arch RoamRight for all my travel, and recommend all my clients use the same. Get your personalized quote here!

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