Start our adventure in Belfast with places that combine learning with entertainment, offering families unforgettable learning experiences.

1. the W5 interactive science center W5, located at The Odyssey, 2 Queens Quay, is a true paradise for little explorers. It's a place where learning becomes a fascinating adventure for the whole family. With an impressive rating of 4.6 out of 5, W5 offers a plethora of interactive exhibits and experiences in various fields of science and technology. Children can experiment with sounds, colors, electricity or avionics. For the little ones, there are special areas such as a model train track builder and a full-size play car. W5 is a place where you can spend up to four hours without being bored for a moment. An added bonus is the beautiful views of the harbor that can be enjoyed from the complex's windows.

2. Ulster Museum - a journey through history and art Located at Belfast BT9 5AB, Ulster Museum is another place that will delight the whole family. With a rating of 4.7 out of 5, the museum offers a fascinating journey through different eras and fields of knowledge. Here you'll find displays on Renaissance and modern art, natural history, chemistry, physics, as well as regional history. For children, there is a special room where they can learn about the world of insects and animals by touching exhibits such as bones or insects embedded in crystals. The Ulster Museum is a place where there is something for everyone, and the variety of exhibits makes it possible to spend a whole day here.

3. CS Lewis Square - a literary adventure CS Lewis Square, located at 402 Newtownards Rd, is a place that will take you to the magical world of 'The Chronicles of Narnia'. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5, this square is ideal for families who love literature and want to combine an outdoor stroll with exploring Belfast's cultural heritage. The square features statues of characters from C.S. Lewis' novels, making the place not only visually appealing, but also educational. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to the works of the famous writer and ignite their love of literature.

Each of the sites offers unique experiences, combining education with entertainment. W5 impresses with its interactivity and modernity, the Ulster Museum impresses with the diversity of its collections, and CS Lewis Square takes you into a world of imagination. All of these attractions are easily accessible and accommodate families with children of all ages. Remember that prices and opening hours can change, so it's always a good idea to check the official websites for up-to-date information before visiting.

Belfast isn't just about museums and science centers. The city also offers great opportunities for communing with nature and active outdoor recreation. Here are three more non-obvious attractions that will delight the whole family:

4. Cave Hill Country Park - an adventure in nature Cave Hill Country Park, located off Antrim Rd, is a true gem for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. With an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5, the park offers a variety of walking and trekking trails of varying difficulty. It's the perfect place for families who enjoy a challenge and want to take in breathtaking views of Belfast and the bay. On sunny days you can even see the Scottish coast! The park is also famous for its caves that can be explored, which adds an element of adventure to a family outing. The park also has a playground for the little ones, making it the perfect place for a day trip.

5. Botanic Gardens - an oasis of calm in the heart of the city Botanic Gardens, located on College Park Ave, is a place where you can take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. With a rating of 4.6 out of 5, Botanic Gardens offers a peaceful space for relaxation and nature education. Children will be delighted by the abundance of colorful flowers and variety of plants. It's the perfect place for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll. The gardens are also home to many species of birds, which can be an added attraction for little nature watchers. Its proximity to the city center makes the Botanic Gardens the perfect place to take a break while exploring Belfast.

6. Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park - a paradise for rose lovers Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, located at Belfast BT17 9LA, is another green gem of Belfast. With a rating of 4.7 out of 5, the park is best known for its impressive collection of roses from around the world. It's the perfect place for families who appreciate the beauty of nature and a quiet getaway. The park offers extensive walking areas, children's playgrounds and scenic picnic spots. The central rosarium with benches is the perfect place to stop and enjoy the scent of flowers. The park is especially beautiful during the rose blooming season, but offers attractions all year round.

Comparing these three green Belfast attractions:

• Cave Hill Country Park is ideal for families who like to be active and seek adventure. It offers the most diverse terrain and the best views of the city.
• Botanic Gardens is an excellent choice for families with young children or those who prefer a quieter getaway. It is closest to the city center, making it easy to combine a visit with other attractions.
• Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park features a unique collection of roses and is a top choice for gardening enthusiasts. It offers the most space for picnicking and relaxation.

All three parks are free, making them attractive options for families traveling on a tight budget. It's worth remembering that the appeal of these places can change depending on the season, so it's worth checking what seasonal attractions are currently available before visiting. Regardless of your choice, each of these destinations offers a unique opportunity to spend time in nature in the heart of a vibrant city.

Belfast is a city rich in history and culture that offers fascinating experiences for the whole family. Here are the final two non-obvious attractions that will help you explore the heritage of this fascinating city:

7. Belfast City Hall - the heart of the city Belfast City Hall, located in Donegall Square N, is not only the seat of the city government, but also a great tourist attraction. With a rating of 4.6 out of 5, City Hall offers free guided tours, which are an excellent opportunity to learn about Belfast's history in an accessible and interesting way. The impressive early 20th century building is stunning in its architecture, and the surrounding gardens are the perfect place for a family picnic or relaxing after a tour. Tours are led by experienced guides who can tell the city's history in an entertaining and engaging way, ensuring that even the youngest tourists will not be bored.

8 Titanic Belfast - a trip back in time Titanic Belfast, located at 1 Olympic Wy, is a modern museum dedicated to the history of Belfast's famous ship and shipbuilding industry. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5, this place offers an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Interactive exhibits, special effects and a wealth of information make the story of the Titanic come alive before our eyes. The museum is especially recommended for older children and teens, who can appreciate the depth of the history on display. Inside, there is a mini railroad, which is an additional attraction for the little ones. It is worth reserving at least 2 hours to thoroughly explore all the exhibits.

Comparison of the last two attractions:

1. accessibility:
   • Belfast City Hall: Free entry, guided tours also free.
   • Titanic Belfast: Paid entrance (about £25 per adult), but offers much more interactive exhibits.

2 Tour Time:

• Belfast City Hall: Approximately 1 hour for a guided tour.
• Titanic Belfast: 2 hours minimum, but you can spend up to 4 hours to see everything thoroughly.

3 Topics:

• Belfast City Hall: General history of the city and its development.
• Titanic Belfast: Focused on the history of the Titanic and the shipbuilding industry.

4. Children's Attraction:
   • Belfast City Hall: More suitable for older children interested in history.
   • Titanic Belfast: Offers more interactive elements that may interest younger children.

5 Location:

• Belfast City Hall: Right in the center of the city, easily connected to other attractions.
• Titanic Belfast: Located in the shipyard district, a little further from the center, but easily accessible by public transportation.

Both of these attractions offer a unique look at Belfast's history, but in a very different way. Belfast City Hall is an excellent choice for families who want to learn about the city's overall history and enjoy the beautiful architecture. Titanic Belfast, on the other hand, is a more immersive experience, ideal for families who want to explore a specific aspect of the city's history in a more interactive way.

All in all, Belfast offers an incredible variety of attractions for families, from interactive science museums to scenic parks to fascinating history museums. Each of these attractions has its own unique character and offers something different, so a weekend in Belfast can be full of a variety of experiences. Whether your family prefers active outdoor recreation or more educational museum visits, Belfast has something to offer for everyone. Remember to check current opening hours and ticket prices before you go, as they can change seasonally.