Autumn activities for families with children

Autumn is colourful and beautiful. Here are some great tips for fun-filled autumn days for families with children in Østfold!

1) Visit a water park

At Østfoldbadet in Askim and Superland at the Quality Hotel in Sarpsborg, children can splash about in large water parks with diving boards, water slides and pools of all shapes and sizes. It’s the perfect place for the little ones to burn off some energy – and adults are more than welcome to join in the fun too! If you’re in need of some relaxation, there’s a spa area and a café where you can take a break and recharge.

2) A day at an activity centre

INSPIRIA Science Centre is a hands-on experience centre with fascinating themed exhibitions, a planetarium and a large outdoor activity park. The whole family can explore, experience and learn about the world of science.

At Svev Trampoline Park in Sarpsborg or Sprett Trampoline Park in Askim, children can let loose and bounce to energetic music.

Funplays in Sarpsborg and Leo's lekeland in Fredrikstad are indoor play centres that are pure paradise for both the young and the young at heart.

3) Explore a fortress or a fort

At Fredriksten Fortress in Halden, there are many exciting areas for children to explore. Outside Fredriksten Kro there’s a large playground for the youngest visitors, and inside the fortress grounds both children and adults can go on adventures in historic surroundings.

Høytorp Fort in Mysen is a popular destination in Inner Østfold, with scenic walking and cycling trails and viewpoints overlooking the town. There are over 40 buildings on site, housing restaurants, second-hand shops, handicrafts and more.

Why not visit Barnas Gamleby (The Children’s Old Town) in Fredrikstad during the autumn holidays? There’s something for children of all ages here – say hello to goats and hens, and visit the exhibition Østfold at War 1939–45 at Fredrikstad Museum.

4) Outdoor adventures

If you’re after outdoor adventures filled with action and excitement, the area around the Halden Canal is perfect. Here you can try canoeing and cycling with the kids. There are also excellent opportunities for overnight stays in tents, hammocks and shelters.

Along the Ancient Trail (Oldtidsruta) in Østfold, you’ll find burial mounds, stone circles, hillforts and impressive rock carvings that offer a glimpse into the everyday lives and beliefs of ancient peoples.

5) Learn something new at a museum

The museums in Østfold offer a wide range of child-friendly activities – visit the many departments of Østfoldmuseene and let the youngest members of the family discover something new this autumn.

You can find information about all the museums, including contact details and opening hours, on the Østfoldmuseene website.

6) Meet the animals on a farm

The Funny Farm is a charming visitor farm that’s open at weekends throughout the autumn. Here children can ride on a mini tractor and get up close to adorable mini pigs, hens, rabbits, Peking ducks, cats, a clever Shetland pony, beautiful peacocks, friendly goats, sociable dogs and magnificent horses.

At Vestre Knolden Visitor Farm, families can enjoy the cosy farmyard atmosphere and meet a wide variety of animals. From 1 October, the farm is open for visits on Saturdays and Sundays.

At Alpakkagaarden Østre Kjærnes, you can join a guided walk with lovely alpacas through beautiful natural surroundings. Please note that you must be at least 12 years old to hire an alpaca (younger children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian).

7) Climb through the treetops

Klatring på Grensen is one of Scandinavia’s largest climbing parks, where both children and adults can climb high and low among the trees. The park features over 230 elements across 20 exciting courses, five different Tarzan jumps and plenty of zip lines. The focus is on fun, challenge and achievement for all ages.