12 Fun Family Activities: Things To Do With Kids In Vienna

Vienna may be known for its grand opera houses, ornate palaces, and classical music, but it's also a wonderful city for families seeking fun and adventure. If you're wondering what to do with your kids in Vienna, we've got you covered. From visiting world-class museums to exploring parks and gardens, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. Here are 12 of the best fun family activities to do in Vienna that will create unforgettable memories.

Visit Schönbrunn Palace and gardens

When traveling to Vienna with kids, one of the must-see attractions on the itinerary is Schönbrunn Palace and gardens. Visiting this spectacular palace complex is a fun and educational experience for families that gives insight into the grandeur of imperial Vienna.

Schönbrunn Palace was once the summer residence of the Habsburg dynasty, and the palace is a testament to royal grandeur, featuring lavish apartments, opulent decor, and rich history. During your visit, your family can explore the palace's ceremonial rooms, the private apartments of Empress Maria Theresa, and the impressive Great Gallery, where many important events such as congress meetings and ballroom dances took place.

After touring the palace, take a stroll through the magnificent gardens surrounding the property. The park features a maze, a palm house, and a zoo that houses over 700 different animal species, including giant pandas, polar bears, and orangutans. The children will definitely have a great time exploring and learning about the different animals living at Schönbrunn.

One of the most popular attractions in the palace complex is the Gloriette, which offers stunning views of Vienna and the palace below. Take your time to climb up the hill to the Gloriette and enjoy the breathtaking view with your kids.

For younger kids, the gardens offer a delightful playground area with sandpits, slides, and various playing equipment that will ensure they have a great time. As you enjoy the outdoors, you and your family can also visit the imperial carriage museum, which displays the carriages used by the Empress.

For the ultimate Schönbrunn experience, we recommend taking one of the guided tours that are available. These tours provide a personalized, in-depth experience of the palace and the gardens, and are specifically tailored for families with kids. The tours are interactive and offer a variety of activities for the children to engage in as they learn more about the palace's history.

In conclusion, a visit to Schönbrunn Palace and gardens is not only a fun and educational activity for kids while in Vienna, but it’s a great opportunity to share some moments together while exploring the magnificent palace and gardens of the Habsburg dynasty. It is a great way to add a fun and exciting twist to your family’s vacation to Vienna.

Explore the interactive exhibits at the ZOOM Children's Museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	ZOOM Kindermuseum
Type	Children's museum in Vienna, Austria
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 1,253
Address	Museumsplatz 1, 1070 Wien, Austria
Phone	+43 1 5247908
Hours	Monday - Closed Tuesday - opens at 8:30 AM and closes at 4 PM Wednesday - opens at 8:30 AM and closes at 4 PM Thursday_feast_of_corpus_christi - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4:30 PM Friday - opens at 8:30 AM and closes at 4 PM Saturday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4:30 PM Sunday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4:30 PM
Profiles

If you're planning a family trip to Vienna, you may be wondering what you can do with your kids that's both fun and educational. One great activity to try is visiting the ZOOM Children's Museum. With interactive exhibits, creative workshops and exciting activities, it offers an engaging and exciting experience for children of all ages.

Located in Vienna's popular Museumsquartier, the ZOOM Children's Museum is a great destination for families with kids aged between 6 months and 14 years old. It offers a wide range of exhibits designed to spark kids' imaginations and encourage them to learn through play and exploration.

One popular exhibit at the ZOOM Children's Museum is the "Mine, Yours, Ours" exhibit. Here, kids learn all about the concept of sharing and explore different ways to divide a given resource among themselves. Through hands-on activities like weighing, sorting, and dividing objects, kids learn important social skills such as cooperation and fairness.

Another exhibit that's sure to excite kids is "I Move Therefore I Am." This exhibit features a range of interactive elements designed to encourage physical activity and healthy movement. Kids can climb, jump, balance, and crawl through different obstacles and challenges, helping them to develop their motor skills and improve their overall fitness.

Other popular exhibits at the ZOOM Children's Museum include the "BauBox," which challenges kids to build and construct complex structures using a variety of materials, and the "Sound Lab," where children can experiment with different sound effects and create their own music.

In addition to its interactive exhibits, the ZOOM Children's Museum also offers a range of creative workshops and activities for kids and families. These include arts and crafts, storytelling sessions, and scientific experiments. The museum also hosts regular events, such as family concerts and holiday celebrations, making it a great year-round destination for families visiting Vienna.

Overall, the ZOOM Children's Museum offers an immersive and engaging experience that is both fun and educational. With its interactive exhibits and exciting activities, it's sure to be a hit with kids of all ages, making it a must-visit destination for families visiting Vienna.

Take a ride on the Giant Ferris Wheel at the Prater amusement park

If you're planning to visit Vienna with your kids, one of the must-do activities is taking a ride on the Giant Ferris Wheel at the Prater amusement park. Built in 1897, the Ferris wheel has become a landmark of the city and a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike.

The Giant Ferris Wheel offers breathtaking views of Vienna from its 65-meter high observation wheel with a 20-minute ride. The enclosed cabins can seat up to 15 people. Each of these cabins is air-conditioned (a relief during hot summer days) and has seating arrangements.

Once you step inside the cabin, you can soak in the panoramic views of Vienna, including the Danube river, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the city’s beautiful skyline. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of some of Vienna's iconic landmarks. The stunning views from the Ferris wheel will take your breath away and make your family trip a memorable experience.

Besides the Ferris wheel, Prater amusement park is also home to various other attractions such as roller coasters, bumper cars, and haunted houses. The park also offers family-friendly rides and games like the chain carousel, flying swings, and bumper boats, which are worth trying out.

When you're tired and hungry, there are many food vendors throughout the park selling snacks, drinks, and meals to refuel. You will find a variety of options to suit your palate from traditional Viennese cuisine to hot dogs and ice cream, hot and cold beverages, and much more.

The Giant Ferris Wheel is open all year round from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, and it becomes even more magical in the evenings when the city lights up, and the Ferris wheel lights sparkle against the night sky. It's one of the most popular attractions in Vienna, so it's advisable to buy tickets in advance or book your tickets online to avoid the lines and the wait times.

In conclusion, a visit to Vienna wouldn't be complete without experiencing the Giant Ferris Wheel at the Prater amusement park. Your children will love the fun and excitement of the Ferris wheel and the various other attractions the park has to offer. The Vienna Ferris Wheel is a perfect day outing, making it one of the best things to do with kids in Vienna!

Have a picnic in the Volksgarten

If you're looking for things to do with your kids in Vienna that are both fun and affordable, you can't go wrong with packing a picnic and heading to the beautiful Volksgarten. This picturesque park is located in the heart of the city and is the perfect spot to enjoy a lazy afternoon with your little ones.

First things first, you'll need to pack a basket with all your picnic essentials. Don't forget to bring a blanket to sit on, plates, cups, cutlery, napkins, and some snacks and drinks to keep you all fueled up. Cheese, crackers, sandwiches or fruit salad all make great options. You can also buy some food and drinks from nearby grocery stores or grab a delicious meal from one of the nearby cafes and bistros.

Once you've got everything you need, head to the Volksgarten and find a beautiful spot to set up your picnic. There are plenty of benches and picnic tables around, but if you prefer, you can lay your blanket on the green lawn and enjoy the sunshine.

As your kids enjoy their snacks, take some time to explore the park. The Volksgarten is known for its stunning rose garden, which features over 3,000 varieties of roses in a wide range of colors and fragrances. Take a stroll through the garden and let your kids admire the beauty of the flowers. You can also visit the picturesque Austrian garden that features elaborate statues and fountains.

If you're feeling active, you can also rent a horse-drawn carriage or a bike to explore the park further. You can also play some outdoor games such as frisbee or soccer. For younger children, there is a playground with a sandpit, swings, and climbing frames.

The Volksgarten is a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the heart of Vienna that offers something for all ages. Whether you're looking for a romantic spot to relax and take in the scenery or an exciting day out with the kids, the Volksgarten has it all. So next time you're looking for things to do with your kids in Vienna, pack a picnic and head to this wonderful park for a day of fun, exploration, and relaxation.

See the animals at Tiergarten Schönbrunn zoo

If you are visiting Vienna with kids, one of the best attractions to check out is the Tiergarten Schönbrunn zoo. Located in the stunning Schönbrunn Palace grounds, this zoo is the oldest in the world and a must-visit for animal lovers of all ages.

With over 700 species to see, there is so much to explore at Tiergarten Schönbrunn. From the mighty elephants to colorful flamingos, playful giant pandas to majestic lions and tigers, there is something to delight everyone.

One of the newest attractions is the new polar exhibit which recently opened in 2020. At the Arctic Adventure area, visitors can get up close and personal with polar bears, Arctic foxes, reindeer, and wolves. Kids can also learn about the effects of climate change and how it's affecting the polar regions.

Other popular exhibits include the rainforest house, where you can observe tropical birds, monkeys, and reptiles in their natural habitat, and the aquarium area, where kids can marvel at marine life such as sharks, rays, and colorful fish.

The zoo also offers many interactive experiences, including feeding the sea lions and penguins, taking pony rides, and learning from the many educational programs available. There is even a petting zoo where kids can get up close and personal with small animals like goats and rabbits.

If you are visiting in the warmer months, be sure to take a stroll through the gardens surrounding the zoo, which are filled with picturesque walking paths, fountains, and beautiful flower beds. You can even pack a picnic and enjoy lunch on one of the many grassy areas.

When planning your trip to Tiergarten Schönbrunn, keep in mind that it can get crowded during peak tourist season. Therefore, it's best to book your tickets online beforehand and arrive early to avoid the crowds. Also, keep in mind that the zoo covers a large area, so comfortable walking shoes are essential.

Overall, visiting the Tiergarten Schönbrunn zoo is a fun and educational experience for families with kids of all ages. You will make many unforgettable memories and learn about the diversity of animals that live in different parts of the world. So don't miss the chance to visit this beautiful zoo when you're in Vienna with your little ones.

Learn about history at the Haus der Geschichte museum

Vienna is a great destination for families with kids who are interested in history. The city has many museums and attractions that cater to children of all ages. One of the most popular places to visit with kids in Vienna is the Haus der Geschichte museum, which is located in the heart of the city.

The Haus der Geschichte museum is a fascinating place to visit with children as it provides a fun and interactive way to learn about Austria's turbulent past. The museum is dedicated to the history of Austria from World War I to the present day. It houses a vast collection of historical artifacts, photographs, and multimedia exhibits that allow visitors to learn and experience history in a unique and engaging way.

One of the highlights of the museum is the interactive multimedia exhibit that allows visitors to experience history firsthand. This exhibit includes a variety of activities, such as virtual reality simulations, 3D projections, and interactive displays, that allow visitors to step into the shoes of historical protagonists and experience events that shaped the history of Austria.

Another popular exhibit at the museum is the collection of historic artifacts that showcases significant events and figures of Austrian history. Visitors can see original documents, objects, clothing, and other memorabilia that belonged to famous Austrians, such as Empress Sisi, Mozart, and Gustav Klimt.

Moreover, the museum also offers workshops and guided tours for children, which allow them to learn about history in a fun and engaging way. These workshops range from making historical crafts to learning about people, events, and places that shaped Austrian history.

In conclusion, the Haus der Geschichte museum is a must-visit attraction for families looking to learn about history during their visit to Vienna. The state-of-the-art multimedia exhibits, fascinating collections, and engaging workshops are sure to keep visitors of all ages entertained and enlightened. With so much to see and learn, this is a great place to spend a fun-filled day with kids in Vienna.

Watch a performance at the Marionette Theater

Vienna is a beautiful city with plenty of fun things to do, especially with kids. One such activity that is sure to delight both the young and old is watching a performance at the Marionette Theater.

Located in the heart of Vienna's city center, the Marionette Theater is a unique cultural attraction that has been entertaining visitors for over a century. The theater itself is one of the oldest in Austria and is known for its intricate, hand-crafted marionettes that are expertly manipulated by skilled puppeteers.

Watching a performance at this theater is a truly magical experience that transports you into a world of make-believe and wonder. The performances are typically based on classic fairy tales and operas, with shows ranging from Mozart's "The Magic Flute" to Hans Christian Andersen's "The Little Mermaid."

Children especially love watching the marionettes come to life on stage, and the theater offers a variety of performances for all ages. There are shows specifically designed for young children that are shorter and lighter in tone, as well as more complex productions that are perfect for older kids and adults.

In addition to watching the performances, visitors can also take a behind-the-scenes tour of the theater to learn more about the marionettes and the art of puppetry. You can see how the puppets are made, how they are operated, and learn about the history of the theater itself.

Tickets to the Marionette Theater can be purchased in advance or at the door, and prices are quite reasonable. The theater recommends booking ahead of time, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure that you get to see the performance you want.

Overall, watching a performance at the Marionette Theater is an absolute must-do when visiting Vienna with kids. It is a unique cultural experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on both children and adults alike.

Play in the fountains at the Museumsquartier

Vienna is a fantastic city to visit with kids. With several family-friendly attractions and activities, there's no shortage of things to do when traveling with children. Fountains seem to be a fun way to entertain the children, both educational and playful. One of the best fountain parks in Vienna is located at Museumsquartier. Here are a few reasons why you should visit this park with your children and let them play in the fountains.

The Museumsquartier fountain park has various water features that offer children unique experiences. It has various themed sections that represent the different stages of water, from rain, rivulets, torrents, and rivers, all the way to the ocean, allowing kids to learn about water as they play. There are also numerous water jets scattered throughout the space, where children can run and splash in the water on a hot day.

The park's centerpiece fountain is an excellent attraction for both young and old. The structure is like a Venetian water garden, with archways and waterfalls providing an enjoyable environment that is perfect for photography and relaxation. It also emits a fine mist around the area, which provides a refreshing vibe to visitors sitting on the benches nearby.

Children can also take a break from playing in the water by exploring a kid-friendly area with life-sized sculptures of colorful playthings. Here, children can run, climb, and jump on oversized building blocks and have fun with their friends.

The Museumsquartier park is the perfect place to introduce children to interactive and artistic spaces. The park is home to numerous museums with kid-friendly exhibits, providing opportunities to learn about science, history, and art in a fun and engaging way.

In conclusion, the Museumsquartier fountain park is one of the exciting things to do with kids in Vienna. It offers unique water features and sculptures, which spark children's imagination and encourage their sense of adventure. So if you're visiting Vienna with your kids, be sure to check out this beautiful park – and don't forget to bring your swimming gear.

Rent bikes and ride along the Donaukanal

Vienna is a bustling city full of history, culture, and entertainment. For parents with kids in tow, finding the right activities for everyone can be a challenge. One exciting way to explore Vienna is to rent bikes and ride along the Donaukanal. Here are some tips and ideas to make your bike trip unforgettable.

Renting a bike in Vienna is easy and affordable. There are bike rental shops located throughout the city, and some offer kids' bikes and child seats. It's also possible to rent electric bikes if you want to save your energy for the ride itself. Make sure to pick up a bike lock, a map, and some snacks for the journey.

Once you have your bikes and gear, head to the Donaukanal. This river channel runs through the heart of Vienna and offers stunning views of the city's architecture and greenery. You can start your ride at one of several points along the canal, such as Stadtpark or Spittelau.

As you ride, there are several sights to see and activities to enjoy. For instance, you can stop by the Danube Canal Beach, where there's a sandy beach and sun loungers for relaxing. You can also take a break at one of the many cafes and restaurants that line the canal. Here, you'll find a range of culinary options, from Austrian and Italian to Turkish and Syrian cuisine.

Kids will love the interactive playgrounds along the canal, such as the Ankeruhr playground, which features a giant clock and a water play area. For older children, there's the Skatepark Wurstelprater, where they can try out their skateboarding skills. For a more laid-back experience, visit one of the canal's many parks, where you can have a picnic or let the kids run free.

As you ride along the Donaukanal, you'll also encounter several bridges that offer interesting views of the city. The most famous of these is the Schwedenbrücke, which has a dedicated bike lane and is named after the Swedish troops who helped Vienna during a war in the 17th century. Another noteworthy bridge is the Friedensbrücke, which means "peace bridge" and offers a lovely view of the Danube River.

In conclusion, renting bikes and riding along the Donaukanal is a great way to spend a day with kids in Vienna. The canal offers a variety of sights and activities that will keep everyone entertained, from playgrounds and cafes to parks and bridges. With some planning and preparation, you can make your bike trip safe, fun, and memorable for the whole family.

See the artworks and sculptures at Belvedere Palace

When it comes to things to do with kids in Vienna, there are countless options to choose from. But if you're looking to combine culture and entertainment, Belvedere Palace is a must-visit destination. Here, you and your little ones can discover an impressive collection of artworks and sculptures while enjoying the majestic beauty of one of Vienna's most iconic landmarks.

Located in the heart of the city, Belvedere Palace is a historic complex that consists of two magnificent palaces, several gardens, and numerous exhibition spaces. One of the most remarkable aspects of this site is its artwork collection, which features an impressive variety of paintings, sculptures, and other artistic creations from different eras.

If your kids are into art, they'll love exploring the various exhibitions at Belvedere Palace. The Upper Belvedere, for example, is dedicated to the art of the Baroque and Romantic periods, while the Lower Belvedere features an extensive collection of medieval and Renaissance art. Meanwhile, the Orangery showcases temporary exhibitions of contemporary and modern art from both Austrian and international artists.

Along with its rich artistic heritage, Belvedere Palace also boasts stunning gardens that are just as impressive as the artworks themselves. The palace gardens feature several water fountains, sculptures, and beautiful floral arrangements that provide a tranquil space for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery.

If your kids are active and enjoy spending time outdoors, they'll love running around and exploring the different sections of the gardens. You can start by walking down the main avenue, lined with magnificent trees and elegant statues, before heading to the French garden, which features beautifully trimmed hedges and patterned flowerbeds.

At the end of your visit to Belvedere Palace, make sure to stop by the Palace Café for a delicious slice of Sachertorte – one of Vienna's most famous desserts. With its beautiful surroundings and rich cultural heritage, Belvedere Palace is a unique and memorable experience for everyone, young and old alike.

Swim at the Donaustadt Beach

Vienna is a beautiful city with endless possibilities for family-friendly activities. One of the fun things to do with kids in Vienna is to take a swim at the Donaustadt Beach.

Situated in the Donaustadt district, this open-air beach serves as a perfect place to enjoy the sun, sand, water, and fresh air with your little ones. The beach is located on a small island on the Danube River, which can be accessed by car, subway, or bus.

This location is particularly popular among families during the summer months, as the beach stays open from June until September. It is an ideal spot for splashing, playing, sunbathing, and picnicking.

The Donaustadt beach is fully equipped with facilities like changing rooms, showers, restrooms, and lockers to ensure maximum convenience. Additionally, there are a variety of dining options available if you want to grab a quick snack or enjoy a full meal.

There are many activities that children can enjoy while visiting Donaustadt Beach. Kids can build sandcastles, search for seashells, or chase each other around on the sandy shore. On hot days, the refreshing waters of the Danube River are a popular spot for swimming or jumping off a paddleboat. The beach also offers kids the opportunity to try out water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and windsurfing.

In conclusion, the Donaustadt Beach is a great place to spend some quality time with your family. It's the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend a relaxing day soaking up the sun and enjoying the water. With its stunning surroundings and numerous on-site amenities, the beach is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Vienna with kids.

Take a boat ride on the Danube River

Vienna is known for its rich history and culture, but it can also be a great destination for families with children. If you’re looking for a fun and memorable activity to do with the kids, consider taking a boat ride on the Danube River. Here’s why:

Experience the beauty of Vienna from a different perspective

Vienna is home to several beautiful and iconic landmarks, such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace. But when you’re on a boat on the Danube River, you get to see them from a different angle. You’ll be able to see the city skyline and its famous landmarks from the water, which can be a very picturesque sight.

Enjoy a relaxing and peaceful ride

A boat ride on the Danube River can be a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the city. You’ll be able to enjoy the scenery and fresh air while cruising along the river. It can be a great way to unwind and relax, and it’s something that children of all ages can appreciate.

Learn about the history and culture of the Danube River

The Danube River is not only a beautiful natural wonder, but it also has a fascinating history and culture. Taking a boat ride can be an opportunity to learn more about the river, its importance in Vienna’s history, and its role in European trade and industry. Some boat tours also offer commentary or guides who can provide interesting and informative facts about the river and its surroundings.

Try different activities on the boat

Some boat tours offer additional activities that can be fun for kids, such as music or dancing. Some boats have cafes or restaurants on board, where you can enjoy a snack or meal while taking in the views. Some tours even offer the chance to go swimming in the Danube River or play games on the boat’s deck. Be sure to check with the tour company to see what activities are available.

Overall, a boat ride on the Danube River can be a wonderful experience for families with children. It’s a chance to see Vienna from a different perspective, relax and unwind, learn about the river’s history and culture, and try different activities on board. So if you’re looking for something to do with the kids in Vienna, consider taking a boat ride on the Danube River – it’s an adventure you won’t forget!

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