Things to do in Sligo for Families [My 20 Top Picks]
Sligo, a county known for its captivating coastlines, rugged mountains, and rich literary history, is one of the best family-friendly destinations in Ireland. From thrilling outdoor adventures to unique cultural experiences, Sligo has something for every age and interest.
I still remember my very first trip to Sligo — the sight of Benbulben rising dramatically against the Atlantic sky felt like something out of a storybook. And that’s exactly what this place is — a living story, ready for you and your family to explore.
Whether you’re planning a weekend break or a longer family holiday, here’s my carefully picked list of 20 fun things to do in Sligo for families.
Zero Gravity Skatepark
If you’ve got active kids or teens, Zero Gravity Skatepark in Sligo town is a fantastic stop. It’s the largest indoor skate centre in the North West of Ireland. From beginner-friendly ramps to advanced sections for seasoned skaters, it caters to all levels. They also offer lessons and rental gear.
Entry Fee: From €25 for lessons
Eagles Flying
A guaranteed family favourite, Eagles Flying is an award-winning raptor sanctuary and animal park in Ballymote. With over 100 birds of prey and twice-daily flying shows, it’s a thrilling and educational experience for kids and adults alike. Don’t miss the petting zoo section!
Family Ticket: €46
Vertigo Collooney
For an indoor adventure, Vertigo in Collooney is a high-energy experience. It boasts a high ropes course, hurricane simulator, climbing walls, and soft play areas for younger children.
Admission: From €3 per activity
Waterpoint Aqua Park
Waterpoint in Enniscrone is a fantastic indoor water park perfect for rainy days. With a 65-metre flume slide, inflatable obstacle course, toddler pool, and a Funzone play centre, it’s a hit for all ages.
Family Pass: €46
Fun Day Friday Deal: €12 for all activities
Happy Days Adventure Play Centre
Another excellent rainy-day option, Happy Days in Sligo town features separate play areas for toddlers and older kids, ball pits, slides, and a relaxing café for parents.
Admission: From €5 per child
The Model Art Gallery
Culture can be fun too! The Model is one of Ireland’s leading contemporary art centres, home to the famous Niland Collection including works by Jack B. Yeats. They regularly run kids’ workshops and arts camps during school holidays.
Admission: Free
Surfing at Strandhill
Known as Ireland’s Surf Coast, Sligo is a hotspot for surfers. Strandhill Surf School runs family-friendly lessons and kids’ surf camps.
Cost: Around €150 for a family session
Seaweed Baths in Enniscrone
A wonderfully unique experience for parents and older kids. Kilcullen’s Seaweed Baths offer relaxing, all-natural seaweed baths known for their skin-healing properties.
Tip: Book in advance, especially in summer.
Devil’s Chimney Waterfall
At 150 metres, Sruth in Aghaidh an Aird (The Devil’s Chimney) is Ireland’s highest waterfall. After rainfall, it’s particularly spectacular as the water blows upwards in strong winds.
Best time: After heavy rain
Entry: Free
Northwest Adventure Tours
Explore Sligo’s mountains, beaches, and woodlands by bike with Northwest Adventure Tours. They run family-friendly guided cycling and hiking trips through the county’s hidden gems.
Cost: €90 for a family tour
More details here
Boat Trip to Lough Gill
Take a peaceful boat cruise on Lough Gill, the inspiration behind W.B. Yeats’ famous poem The Lake Isle of Innisfree. It’s a serene, hour-long trip with gorgeous views and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Sligo Dark Tales Tour
For older kids who love spooky stories, Sligo Dark Tales Tour offers chilling tales of cholera epidemics, Dracula legends, and ghostly abbeys in a two-hour guided evening walk.
Glencar Waterfall
Immortalised by Yeats, Glencar Waterfall is a peaceful 50-foot cascade tucked into a lush woodland setting. It’s easily accessible via a short nature trail and perfect for a picnic stop.
Entry: Free
Visit Glencar Waterfall
Yeats Grave, Drumcliff
Visit the final resting place of Ireland’s most famous poet, W.B. Yeats, beneath the shadow of Benbulben. The tranquil site includes an old church, a craft shop, and a lovely café.
Entry: Free
The Monastic Island of Inishmurray
This ancient island monastery, with its early Christian ruins and fascinating folklore, makes for a memorable boat trip if weather allows. Boats depart from Streedagh and Mullaghmore, so check availability.
Note: Trips are weather-dependent
Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery
Older than the pyramids, Carrowmore is one of Ireland’s largest and oldest megalithic cemeteries. Guided tours make it accessible and educational for families.
Knocknarea and Queen Maeve’s Cairn
A family-friendly hike up Knocknarea Hill rewards you with panoramic views and the legendary tomb of Queen Maeve. The 40-minute climb is manageable for most older kids.
Entry: Free
The Cave of Diarmuid and Grainne
Visit this mythical hideaway linked to the tragic love story of Diarmuid and Grainne from Irish folklore. A little hike is involved, but the cave’s history makes it worthwhile.
Caving at Marble Arch Caves
Technically in Fermanagh, but a short drive from Sligo, the Marble Arch Caves are a fascinating underground network of rivers and rock formations that families will love exploring.
Sligo Food Trail
Wrap up your visit with a stop at Shell’s Café in Strandhill for brunch or seafood at Eithna’s by the Sea in Mullaghmore. The Sligo Food Trail celebrates the best local produce and artisan creations, with plenty of family-friendly dining options.
From high ropes courses to historic islands and seaweed baths to underground caves, Sligo is packed with family-friendly adventures. Whether you’re surfing the Wild Atlantic Way or wandering ancient tombs, every corner of this county tells a story.
So gather your loved ones, pack your rain jackets (just in case), and discover the magic of Sligo together.
