I already have a bumper list of things to do in Sligo, but I thought it was time to put together something specifically for those of you visiting with kids. I know every child is different and what one loves, another might not -but hopefully this will give you a few ideas to get you started. As always, do check opening times before heading off, as some places are seasonal.
To stay up to date with seasonal events, please visit The Heart of Sligo Facebook group.
Talk to the animals
There are a number of animal adventures for all the family to enjoy. Quarryfield Farm Experience, walk alpacas and meet the animals on this working farm – summer time only. Walk a sheep in Sligo! Not just any sheep – but very cute Valais Blacknose Sheep. Prebooking essential: https://walkingtrips.ie/ Read my dedicated post here.
Atlantic Sheepdogs, this whole experience is just brilliant and great for all ages. Atlantic Way Alpaca Farm, walk an alpaca and meet the other animals. Also on the border of Sligo and Leitrim you’ll find Glencar Alpacas, photo above, a stunning location overlooking Glencar Lake. Full blog post about Glencar Alpacas. Close by is Knockvicar Alpacas, visit the farm, feed the alpacas, or take one for a walk.
Also check out The Donkey Sanctuary in Castlebaldwin. Open to visitors – April to October. Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays 10.00am – 4.00pm.
All other times by appointment please. Find out more on the website, and read my longer blog post here.
Saddle up
For something a little different, why not try horse riding?
There are several stables in the area offering lessons and treks suitable for beginners and more experienced riders alike. It’s a great way to get outdoors and see the countryside from a different perspective. Check out Iceford Stables in Enniscrone, Lough Gara Stables, and Lough Bo Equestrian.
Playgrounds, parks and simple fun
Sometimes the simplest things are the best.
Sligo has a great selection of playgrounds, and there’s even a handy Playground Passport you can download or pick up locally. It’s a fun way to explore different spots across the county—and keep the kids entertained along the way. Find out more and download your free copy: https://sligo.ie/sligos-playground-passport/
Libraries also regularly host children’s events (just remember to book in advance), which can be a lovely low-key option. https://sligolibrary.ie/events/
A little bit of history
If you fancy mixing fun with a bit of learning, there are some fantastic historical sites to explore.
From ancient tombs to abbeys and castles, there’s plenty to spark curious minds. Even a short visit can turn into an adventure when you let the kids explore and imagine what life was like long ago. The OPW sites in Sligo: Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery and Sligo Abbey. There’s Parkes Castle, just over the Sligo border in Leitrim. There’s also Sligo County Museum in Sligo town.
Take to the Water
If your crew enjoys being active, there are lots of water-based activities to try.
Surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking—you name it, Sligo has it. There are lessons available for kids, so even beginners can get involved safely.. The National Surf Centre is home to some of the Strandhill Surf Companies. Strandhill Surf School also run children’s surf lessons. Go stand up paddling with Harbour SUP. Wild Wet Adventures also run stand up paddling, kayaking, and canoeing sessions.
Step back in time at Sligo Folk Park. This really is not to be missed and is the perfect place to visit on a rainy day too. The cafe there is pretty special too. Read my longer blog post here: https://magnumlady.com/2021/07/03/sligo-folk-park-revisited/
Rainy day saviours
Let’s be honest- this is Ireland, so it’s always good to have a backup plan.
Indoor play centres are a lifesaver when the weather turns. The kids can burn off some energy while you grab a coffee (win-win). The ImagiNation is a colourful pretend play village for children, upstairs in Henry Lyons, Sligo. Explore mini play zones like the café, supermarket & vets. Imaginative screen free fun! Times and booking: https://www.theimagination.ie/
Five Star Fun is located in Grange, and Funny Bones is in Collooney, and they have the Vertigo climbing wall too. The kids can have fun, while the parents relax (or relax as much as you can in a play centre!)
Another solid option is stepping back in time at Sligo Folk Park – perfect for a relaxed wander and enjoyable for all ages. The cafe there is pretty special too. Read my longer blog post here: https://magnumlady.com/2021/07/03/sligo-folk-park-revisited/
Watch a movie.
Sligo Omniplex is a ten screen cinema in the heart of Sligo town. Check them out here.
The Art Deco in Ballymote host a Family Film Club on Sunday: https://www.hawkswell.com/whats-on/shows/art-deco
Close by is Eclipse Cinema in Bundoran, they have special offers, a directors lounge, and more.
There’s also bowling, amusements and a funfair in Bundoran.
Beach days
You can’t come to Sligo and not go to the beach.
Pack the buckets and spades, follow the Wild Atlantic Way signs, and take your pick, there are so many beautiful beaches to choose from. Whether it’s a quick paddle or a full day out, it’s hard to beat.
Treat stops (very important)
No day out is complete without a little treat.
Ice cream and cake is always a good idea, and there are some great spots around Sligo that are well worth a visit. Consider this your official excuse.
Make a splash!
If the sea isn’t your thing (or the weather isn’t cooperating), there are indoor swimming options too.
From pools with slides to full water parks, there’s plenty to keep kids entertained for a few hours. Ideal for burning off energy – especially on a wet day. WaterPoint is in Enniscrone (reopening in the spring/summer). They have a 65-metre flume water-slide, a separate children’s pool, a health suite with Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. https://waterpoint.ie/ Sligo Regional Sports Centre is in Sligo town, the most up to date information is on their Facebook page. Sligo Splash Swim School run swimming camps and lessons, there’s also the Splash Pool in nearby Ballaghaderreen. Nearby is Waterworld in Bundoran (reopening in the spring/summer), this is a water park that is suitable for all ages: https://waterworldbundoran.com/
Active fun
For kids who need to move, there’s no shortage of options.
Think skateparks, go-karts, crazy golf, cycling trails and more. Whether they’re into wheels, speed, or just running around, you’ll find something to suit.
There’s crazy golf, go-karts and a playground in Enniscrone. I can’t find out opening days and times, but their Facebook is here. The national mountain bike centre is in Coolaney. The route uses multiple sections of forest roads and crosses many walking trails, you will need your own mountain bikes. There is also a Pump Track in Coolaney Community Park. Get your skates on and head to Zero Gravity Skatepark. Enter the world of skateboarding, scooter riding, and rollerblading: https://www.facebook.com/zerogravityskateparksligo/
Parkrun. A 5km timed run and walk every Saturday morning, there’s one in Sligo town (Doorly Park) and one in Tubbercurry (Forest Trail). You need to register to take part but it’s free.
Outdoor adventures
Sligo is made for exploring. There are countless walks to choose from, whether you want something short and easy or a bit more adventurous. You can even turn it into a mini treasure hunt – like finding hidden gnomes in the woods. Sligo Walks has all the details. You can also climb up Knocknarea Mountain and see Queen Maeve’s final resting place. Did you know she was killed by a lump of cheese? But that’s a whole other story.
The Ballisodare Gnomes is a gorgeous short walk, with a little library too. Read the dedicated blog post for details and directions. https://magnumlady.com/2025/04/18/the-ballisodare-union-wood-walk-and-the-gnomes-of-union-wood/
Markets and local finds
If you’re around at the weekend, check out one of the local markets. They’re a lovely way to soak up the atmosphere, pick up some treats, and maybe find something a little different.
Most open from March to December (except the Sligo Farmers Market, which is all year round) – so check the dates. It’s always lovely to meet stallholders and locals and find foods and crafts that you won’t find anywhere else.
Saturday:
Beltra Country Market 10.00am – 12.30pm
The Farmers Market at the ATU Sligo 9am – 1pm.
Rathcormac Market is on from 10-3 on Saturday.
Sligo Indoor Market is on from 11am – 4pm – in The Canopy, Sligo.
Sunday:
Cliffoney Market is on the first and third Sunday of the month from 11am – 1pm.
Sligo Indoor Market is on from 11am – 4pm – in The Canopy, Sligo.
There’s a blog post dedicated to the Sligo Markets: https://magnumlady.com/2026/03/06/the-sligo-markets/
Cultural Experiences
The Model, Sligo, have regular workshops taking place for children and young people. Find out more https://www.themodel.ie/learn-and-explore/children-and-young-people/
The Hawk’s Well theatre have regular family friendly events taking place: https://www.hawkswell.com/
There really is so much to do in Sligo with kids – whether you’re here for a day, a weekend, or longer.
Nearby
Lough Key Forest Park in Roscommon – family adventures, scenic walks, boat trips, playgrounds, ZipIt, and activities for all ages! Check out their website: https://loughkey.ie/
Hopefully this has given you a few ideas to start planning your trip. And as always, if you discover somewhere new, let me know – I’m always on the lookout for the next adventure. I hope this blog post has given you a few ideas of places to bring the kids to. The blog isn’t sponsored by any business or company. If you like what I do and would like to leave me a tip, or buy me a cake, I’d be very grateful: https://ko-fi.com/magnumlady
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