Autumn break in Oslo with kids

Øvre Slottsgate 3, 0157 Oslo

Free workshop in the Winter Garden at Sentralen every Saturday and Sunday, 11am-4pm: drawing, painting, glue, Duplo, a reading corner and rotating guest activities (storytelling, art, woodwork and more). Best for children aged 2-6, but everyone is welcome.

Frederiks gate 2, 0164 Oslo

In this museum, the whole family can get up close to the world's only preserved Viking helmet and real Egyptian mummies, along with artefacts from antiquity and the Middle Ages and a large coin collection. Everyone under 18 enters free.

Rolf Hofmos gate 4, 0655 Oslo

Ice cream bar/gelateria with handmade ice cream from local, natural ingredients, considered one of Oslo's best ice cream spots. Has a small play area for children.

Smalvollveien 34, 0667 Oslo

Indoor go-kart track at Alnabru with its own track for children from age 5 and faster cars for older kids and adults. Popular for birthday parties, and you can drive whatever the weather, all year round.

Brynjulf Bulls plass 3, 0250 Oslo

In 'Urskogen Silva', children can create their own fantasy creature and watch it come to life digitally, while the Fairy Tale Room lets the youngest meet familiar storybook characters. Children aged 2-17 enter free (ticket required).

Wergelandsveien 29, 0167 Oslo

Free children's room (Sjeherasad) on the first floor, open to everyone on Mondays from 10am to 2pm outside the school holidays. You can browse the books, climb the climbing frame and jump in the cushion amphitheatre. Litteraturhuset also has a regular children's programme with films, book readings and more, and welcomes kindergarten groups in the mornings.

Vulkan 13, 0178 Oslo

Indoor climbing and bouldering centre by Mathallen at Vulkan, run by Kolsås Klatreklubb, with three climbing walls and 26 top-rope stations. Centrally located, and a nice place to try climbing with slightly older children.

Bygning 62, Akershus festning, 0015 Oslo

A free military-history museum at Akershus Fortress, with tanks, cannons and uniforms many children find exciting. Children can climb into a real tank, follow the development from Viking swords to fighter jets, and try a shooter simulator. For the youngest there's a discovery trail with an activity booklet.

Vollsveien 13H, 1366 Lysaker

Climbing centre with dedicated children's rooms for children aged 2-10: a room with auto-belay for harness climbing, and a bouldering room with rope-free climbing for the youngest. No booking or experience required. Also offers climbing groups for ages 7-9, 10-13 and 13-18, plus climbing camps during school holidays.

Nobels gate 32, 0268 Oslo

The artist's own studio and home by Frognerparken, where you see how the sculptures in the Vigeland Park came to be - plaster models, drawings and tools in large, light halls. The museum has family Sundays and workshops where children can model in clay themselves. Lovely to combine with a walk in the adjacent park.

Oskar Braatens gate 35, 0474 Oslo

Children's singing with dinner after kindergarten hours, just like at Sofienberg - for children and parents in the Torshov/Lilleborg area. A simple gathering with song, movement and a shared meal, hosted by Torshov and Lilleborg parish.

Kirsten Flagstads plass 1, 0150 Oslo

Dedicated children's tours of the Opera House, focused on experience rather than facts. They are scheduled alongside family activities, including Saturdays with Lørdagssang, so check the programme before you go. Note: strollers are not allowed on the tour.

Plogveien 22, 0681 Oslo

Pool facility in Manglerud with a 25-metre pool, a training/therapy pool, jacuzzi, sauna, a dedicated children's pool and a 51-metre-long slide (swimming ability required). Diving boards at 1, 3 and 5 metres.

Museumsveien 10, 0287 Oslo

On the historic farmstead, children can feed animals, try old-fashioned toys, ride the popular tractor 'Gråtass' and run freely around the large open-air museum area with over 160 old buildings from all over the country, including the stave church from Gol. Everyone under 18 enters free.

Stavangergata 28, 0467 Oslo

Indoor skate hall of 2,300 square metres with street, bowl, micro ramp and a full-size vert. Helmets and skateboards are lent out at no extra cost and are included in the ticket, so you can turn up empty-handed. At weekends the hall is reserved for family skating from 11am to 1pm, set up for families with children. Otherwise it is open Monday to Friday 2pm-10pm and Saturday and Sunday 11am-8pm, with courses on Tuesdays and Thursdays outside the holidays, and dedicated skateboard camps in the autumn, winter and summer breaks. Under-18s pay less than adults. Only skateboarding is allowed in the hall. Check current hours and prices on the website.

Nordmarka

A traditional café in the middle of Nordmarka, and one of the classic destinations for Oslo families. The walk follows good forest roads from Sognsvann or Kikut, and many push a pram the whole way. The café is known for its home baking, and for many children that is precisely the point of the trip: something to walk towards. In winter the ski trails pass the door. There is no street address, as it sits in the forest; use a map or the marked trails.

Hyttegata 3, 3616 Kongsberg

A mine train 2.3 kilometres into the mountain, then 342 metres below ground in what was Norway's largest silver mine. The journey in is in open carriages and children are given helmets. It stays cool year-round, around six degrees, so bring a jumper even in July. For many children the train itself is the highlight, and the mix of darkness, echoes and a story about people who worked here for 335 years leaves a mark. About an hour and a half from Oslo.

Øvre Slottsgate 3, 0157 Oslo

Movement- and dance-based activity for parents and children aged 1-3 and 3-6, developed further from the Babydans concept. The session lasts about 45 minutes, requires no experience, and trains coordination, balance and strength through play with an adult. Held about once a month, free tickets via Tix.no - check sentralen.no for the next date.

Karl Fossums vei 1, 0984 Oslo

A free, open meeting place for families run by the Red Cross, at Nedre Fossum farm, Karl Fossums vei 1. Open to all families on Wednesdays 4:30-7:30pm and Sundays noon-3pm, no registration needed. In summer there's a varied program including storytelling, science shows, first-aid courses for kids, animal visits, a chess tournament, painting and dance workshops, plus free weekly outings to places like Tusenfryd, Tøyenbadet pool, Oslo climbing park and Marienlyst mini-golf.

Urtegata 50, 0187 Oslo

A free, open meeting place for families run by the Red Cross, at Urtegata 50 in Grønland. Open to all families on Mondays and Thursdays, 4:30-7:30pm (with separate days for single parents), and Saturdays noon-3pm, no registration needed. In summer there's a varied program including pottery, science shows, animal visits, dance, theatre and first-aid courses for kids, plus free weekly outings to places like Tusenfryd, Ekeberg petting zoo, Oslo climbing park, Tøyenbadet pool and Marienlyst mini-golf. Run in partnership with the MARTE network centre for single parents.

Sars' gate 1, 0562 Oslo

An interactive museum about climate and nature in the Botanical Garden at Tøyen, made for children and youth to understand and experience, not just read. The exhibition uses light, sound and activities to show how the climate works and what we can do. Right outside lies the whole garden, free to wander.

Kongeveien 5, 0787 Oslo

Skiforeningen's ski courses for children, focused on the joy of skiing, play and mastery rather than competition. Weekend courses run over five Saturdays or Sundays, and the youngest from age three can take part together with an adult, while weekday courses run during the day through nurseries and schools. Courses are held at ski school venues in and around Oslo, including Holmenkollen and Sørkedalen. Membership gives a discount on the course fee.

Gardeveien 15, 0369 Oslo

In the old tram hall from 1913, the family can get up close to historic trams and metro cars, or try being a driver in the simulator inside the Holmenkollen line car. Open Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday 11am-3pm.

Jordalgata 1, 0657 Oslo

One of Norway's largest skateparks: 2,200 square metres of concrete by Jordal sports park, opened in 2022. The elements are laid out for different skill levels, so beginners find gentle ledges while the more advanced have plenty to work on. LED lighting means it can be used once the evenings get dark. Free and open around the clock.

Strandpromenaden 2, 0252 Oslo

A contemporary-art museum out on Tjuvholmen, in a landmark building by Renzo Piano surrounded by a sculpture park by the fjord. The art is often big, strange and playful - easy for children to be fascinated by - and the museum runs family workshops on weekends. The city beach and outdoor sculptures are free to explore.

Helgesens gate 90, 0563 Oslo

New pool facility in Tøyen with its own children's pool (32 degrees), a warm jacuzzi and an outdoor pool open year-round. The children's area has fountains and is designed for calm play and bathing for the youngest.

Sam Eydes vei 13, 1081 Oslo

The City of Oslo's free visitor farm in Groruddalen, between Furuset and Lindeberg, with cows, calves, heifers, sheep, lambs, goats, kids, pigs, chickens, turkeys, geese and rabbits. Open to the public 11am-3pm on weekdays and at weekends. A calm farm experience where children can get close to both large and small animals.

Rosenholmveien 11, 1252 Oslo

Farm and environment centre in Holmlia with an activity programme for children and youth built around horses and horse activities, animal care and gardening. A green breathing space in the city where children learn to look after animals and grow things through the season.

Pilestredet (bakgården), Bygning I, 0164 Oslo

Cosy little indoor play room at Tullinløkka (Pilestredet 27) in the city centre, for children aged 0-6 with dedicated zones for the youngest, climbing tubes, slides, a ball room and books. Self-service: you book a slot and let yourself in with the Mikrolekeriet app. Warm floors inside and good stroller space outside - a great refuge on rainy days.

Akershus festning, 0015 Oslo

The old fortress and castle on a rise by the fjord are free to wander, with ramparts, cannons, cobblestones and uniformed guards. Children can run on the lawns, look out over the harbour and pretend to defend the city. A living piece of Oslo history out in the open air, in the middle of the centre.

Bygdøynesveien 36, 0286 Oslo

The exhibitions on the Kon-Tiki and Ra rafts have their own stories made for children, following the crab Johannes and the monkey Safi through Thor Heyerdahl's expeditions. Compact and easy to visit with small children.

Snøfonna 5, 1470 Lørenskog

Norway's only indoor ski centre, open all year with snow and around minus two degrees. There are alpine slopes for all levels, a snowboard and freestyle park, a cross-country loop and a dedicated beginner area with a conveyor belt. For the youngest, SNØborgen is built for children aged three to ten, with climbing, snow tunnels and ice slides, and the ski school takes children year-round. Note: located in Lørenskog, not Oslo municipality, but easy to reach by shuttle bus from Lørenskog station.

Bygdøy allé, 0287 Oslo

The King's farm on Bygdøy, with grazing cows, sheep and its own pony stable children can visit, in the middle of a large, open cultural landscape. Families can wander the farm lanes, see the animals and bring a picnic, and in summer there's pony riding and farm activities. A quiet, rural breathing space just minutes from the centre.

Nedre Slottsgate 8, 0157 Oslo

Modern indoor play room for children aged 0-6 with pretend play, climbing areas, a reading corner and a café. Also hosts postpartum-exercise meetups, courses and birthday parties.

Lille Frøens vei 4, 0369 Oslo

The world's first museum dedicated to art made by children, in a small house at Frøen. Here hang drawings, paintings and sculptures made by children from all over the world, with creative workshops and rooms for play and expression. Note: the museum has limited opening hours - check barnekunst.no before you go.

Tåsenveien 26, 0853 Oslo

A workshop at Tåsen where children make their own jewellery and ceramics and learn basic techniques from scratch. The jewellery course suits ages eight and up, and children over nine can take part on their own, while younger ones join with an adult. No experience is needed, and it works well for a rainy day indoors.

Nøklevann, Østmarka, Oslo

Old smallholding in the forest by Nøklevann in Østmarka, about 1.3 km from Bøler metro station. Children can say hello to the farm animals, and the walk in pairs nicely with a swim or a picnic by the lake.

Gruegata 23A, 0652 Oslo

Specially designed for the very youngest children (0-2), with calm play areas and sensory play in a safe setting. Smaller and quieter than the Hasle location. Older siblings cannot come along. A good place to meet other parents on leave.

Myrens Verksted, Torshov, Oslo

Large climbing and bouldering hall of 2,400 sqm at Myrens Verksted, with walls up to 14 metres and its own bouldering section. Equipment rental and courses make it easy for beginners and children to get started.

Tåsenveien 2, 0462 Oslo

A food-culture centre just for children in an old farm at Geitmyra, where kids get to cook real food from scratch, grow things in the kitchen garden and learn where food comes from. They run cooking courses, holiday activities and family days in large, inviting kitchens. A tasty and slightly unusual niche in the middle of the city.

Fryds vei 25, 1407 Vinterbro

Norway's largest amusement park, about 20 km south of Oslo, with roller coasters, carousels and dedicated areas for the youngest. It is open in the summer season, and a direct bus runs from the Oslo bus terminal to the entrance.

Frognerstranda, 0273 Oslo

Two ramps on the grass between the cycle path and the sea, by the entrance to Bygdøy: a traditional ramp and a spine miniramp. They were moved here from Vika when construction of the National Museum began. A small setup, but with a fjord view and outdoor gym equipment nearby. Free and open around the clock.

Hansteens gate 1, 0253 Oslo

A ceramics workshop in Vika, close to Solli plass, with dedicated children's courses where children aged six to nine shape and decorate clay together with an adult. A calm, creative indoor activity whatever the weather, in bright premises in the city centre.

Marcus Thranes gate 4B, 0473 Oslo

A cosy indoor play room at Torshov, one of four Lille Lab branches in Oslo, focused on imaginative play for children aged 0-6. Role play, climbing areas and a reading nook, with a café on site, and they also host courses and birthday parties.

Aastatunet 12 A og B, 0988 Oslo

New municipal pool complex at Stovner, the most extensive one in Groruddalen. Six pools: a 25-metre competition pool (2 metres deep, 28 degrees), a diving pool with 1 and 3 metre boards (3.6 metres deep, 28 degrees), a teaching pool with an adjustable floor (32 degrees), a family pool (1.6 metres deep, 32 degrees) and a children's pool from 30 to 60 centimetres deep (32 degrees). There is also a water slide, a jacuzzi, a hot tub and a cold plunge. The slide is open Monday to Friday 11am-7pm and Saturday and Sunday 10am-5pm, and the minimum age for it is 7. Children must be over 10 and able to swim to bathe on their own, and entry is free for children under 3. The pool is now in operation, with a café on site and opening hours published week by week, so check the city's page before you go.

Stordamveien 47, 0671 Oslo

A beginner-friendly trail loop in wooded terrain with a firm woodchip surface and a few boardwalks to cross. The trail comes in two parts: an easy, fairly flat loop through the trees, or the newer extension with sharper turns, steep mounds and a couple of rollers. A playground, barbecue spots and a ball court are right next to it.

Vestlys plass 1, 0150 Oslo

Oslo's new main library by the Opera has a whole children's floor on the second level, with books, cushions, play nooks, workshops and a regular children's programme. Most things are free (paper and materials are charged at cost), and you can stay as long as you like - perfect on a rainy day. The building itself is an experience, with views toward the fjord and the Opera.

Kirkeveien 34, 0266 Oslo

Puppet theatre in a small red house in Frognerparken, next to the Frogner tennis courts. The shows are made for different age groups, from «Molefonkens ballong» for the youngest (ages 2-4) via «Molefonken» (ages 1-6) to the puppet cabaret «Den magiske kiste» (ages 3-8). Several shows are followed by a workshop where children make their own theatre puppet.

Sonja Henies vei 31, 1311 Høvikodden

In the dedicated children's workshop 'Labben', kids can draw and freely explore shape, colour and materials, inspired by the exhibitions. Staffed by museum educators on Sundays and during school holidays, with family tours of current exhibitions every Sunday. Children under 18 enter free. Note: located in Bærum, not Oslo municipality.

Vulkan 1, 0182 Oslo

Norway's national stage for dance, with a regular programme of dance performances for children of all ages - from baby dance for the youngest to interactive shows for older children. Also hosts Family Days with baby dance, contact play, creative dance workshops and children's performances.

St. Olavs gate 2, 0165 Oslo

Small animal park in the middle of central Oslo with over 100 animals: snakes, geckos, lizards, frog species, tarantulas, a dwarf crocodile, monkeys, turtles and fish.

Veitvetveien 8, 0596 Oslo

A free, open meeting place for families run by the Red Cross, at Veitvetveien 8 (Veitvet centre, 3rd floor). Open to all families on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays 4:30-7:30pm, and Saturdays noon-3pm for outings, no registration needed. Wednesdays also feature Norwegian language classes 5-7pm with light refreshments. Families can join free weekly summer outings, including to Tusenfryd, Frognerseteren, the Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology, Ekeberg petting zoo, Oslo climbing park and Jumpyard.

Halvdan Svartes gate 58, 0266 Oslo

The city museum in the old Frogner manor in the middle of Frognerparken tells Oslo's story across 1,000 years. Children and young people up to and including age 25 get in free, adults pay, and the first Thursday of every month is free for everyone. Children meet models, old objects and changing exhibitions, and outside lie the whole park and playground. A calm cultural stop that's easy with small children.

Rathkes gate 18, 0558 Oslo

Children's singing with dinner after kindergarten hours - play and singing fun, with separate groups for the youngest and slightly older children. A low-threshold gathering in Paulus and Sofienberg parish where families meet for song, rhythm and a simple meal.

Ivan Bjørndalsgate 28, 0472 Oslo

Norway's largest improv theatre, with its own theatre bar and outdoor seating. Has regular Saturday shows for children at 1pm, both on the main stage and on the intimate stage. The children's shows are usually recommended from age 5-6. The programme changes through the season, so check what is playing and the recommended age.

Plogveien 22, 0681 Oslo

A cycling park by Manglerud swimming pool where children practise cycling skills on tracks of varying difficulty, built for learning, mastery and the joy of cycling. Suitable from balance-bike age and up, and free. In winter a ski track is prepared on the wide main loop. Skate park and swimming pool right next door.

Bergensveien 2E, 0963 Oslo

Self-service indoor play area for children aged 0-6 at Grorud shopping centre, with climbing frames and a ball pit for older kids and a separate area with wall games and a ball pit for the youngest. Play sessions are booked in advance (max 15 families/60 people at a time), and you let yourself in with a code sent by SMS. Changing room with free diapers downstairs.

Sars' gate 1, 0562 Oslo

A free, lush garden at Tøyen with thousands of plants, ponds, a fragrant systematic collection and plenty of room to wander and run. For children it's like a calm, green oasis in the middle of the city - bring a blanket and a picnic. The Palm House and Victoria House with tropical plants charge a small entry, the rest is free year round.

Ekebergveien 103, 1178 Oslo

Two 18-hole mini golf courses with waterfalls, rivers and bridges, centrally located on Ekeberg, 36 holes in all. They host birthday parties for children aged 7 to 16. Café on site. The courses open by Easter, and they may close early in heavy rain.

Skedsmogata 23, 0655 Oslo

Organic children's farm two minutes from Ensjø metro station, run by volunteers. Free entry to sheep, donkeys, hens and other animals, with the farm open a few hours on Thursdays and Sundays in season. Note: it closes for the summer (weeks 26-33) while the animals graze in the forest, reopening in week 34. Check their Facebook page before visiting.

Grini Næringspark 8, 1361 Østerås

Same concept as the Ulsrud branch: climbing frame, ball pit, tunnels, trampolines and slides. On Wednesdays entry is free for children aged 0-23 months (with an adult) - register with Leo's Family.

Sars' gate 1, 0562 Oslo

Here children can meet dinosaur skeletons and animals from all over the world, then run free in the Botanical Garden right outside. Guided tours for children on weekends in autumn and winter. Children under 6 enter free.

Bøkkerveien 4, 0579 Oslo

The largest Lille Lab location, with plenty of room to play, a café, events and birthday celebrations for children aged 0-6. Soft play zones and a dedicated area for the very youngest make it a safe indoor option year round.

Trygve Lies plass 1, 1051 Oslo

Municipal swimming pool at Furuset shopping centre, right by the metro. The children's pool is large by Oslo standards: 10 metres long, 4 metres wide and 90 centimetres deep, deep enough for older children to practise in but shallow enough to stand up in. The main pool is 25 metres and 0.80 to 1.85 metres deep. Both are kept at 28 degrees. Sauna on weekdays 2.30-7pm and at weekends 10am-4pm. Lockers need your own padlock. Children must be over 12 and able to swim to bathe on their own, and one swimming-capable adult in the water may look after up to two children.

Hausmanns gate 28, 0182 Oslo

Knøttekino is tailored for children aged 2-5 with lowered sound and lighting, shorter films, and screening rooms furnished with sofas, blankets and cushions. Babykino is set up for breastfeeding, bottle-feeding and nappy changes, with low volume and dimmed lights - room for crying, cuddling and babbling.

Holtegata 15, 0259 Oslo

Family programme with dinner and activities. After dinner, the youngest can join baby singing while older children can take part in the church's choir school.

Sandakerveien 24C, 0473 Oslo

Indoor play area for children aged 1-12 with slides, trampolines, ball pits, obstacle courses and a bike track. Free for adults. Café on site.

Ekebergveien 99, 1181 Oslo

Petting farm on Ekebergsletta, ten minutes from the city centre, with over 100 animals roaming free or in a fenced area you can enter: horses, cows, goats, sheep, pigs, rabbits, geese, chickens and peacocks. Also offers horseback and pony riding. Open all year.

Kirsten Flagstads plass 1, 0150 Oslo

Children aged four to seven sing, dance and play their way through a current opera or ballet performance at the Opera House in Bjørvika. A playful introduction to the performing arts made for the youngest, and an affordable first experience at 50 kr.

Dronningens gate 16, 0152 Oslo

The Cinematheque in the city centre screens classic and new children's films every weekend - 1pm for the youngest and 3pm a family film for slightly older children. A cheaper, calmer alternative to the big cinema, with films curated for kids.

Bølerlia 3D, 0691 Oslo

Municipal swimming pool right by Bøler shopping centre, with a single 25-metre pool from 0.9 to 1.8 metres deep. The water is kept at 32 degrees, warmer than most of the other municipal halls, which makes up for there being no separate children's pool, slide or diving board here. Sauna on weekdays from 12.30pm, and the pool closes half an hour after the ticket office. Children must be over 12 and able to swim to bathe on their own; younger children and non-swimmers must be under the continuous supervision of a swimming-capable adult over 18. The hall closes for a few weeks each summer, so check the municipality's opening hours before you go.

Bispegata, 0192 Oslo

A park in Gamle Oslo built over the ruins of the medieval city, with remains of old churches and a royal manor and a large reflecting pool. Children can clamber on the ruins, splash by the water in summer and hear about Oslo as the city looked 800 years ago. Free and open around the clock, with plenty of room to play.

Bygdøynesveien 37, 0286 Oslo

The museum invites children into the exhibition 'Oppdag havet' ('Discover the Ocean'), where they can, among other things, explore a submarine simulator, and on weekends children aged 4-12 can build their own boat in the popular boat workshop. All children enter free.

Børsteveien 13, 0585 Oslo

Combined café and play room for children aged 0-6, where the play room is a separate zone with its own entrance, built around a wooden play structure. They host children's birthday parties and family gatherings. Closed on Tuesdays.

Ammerudgrenda, 0959 Oslo

Oslo's first pumptrack, built in 2020 by the cycling club LilloVelo together with the municipality. The off-road cycling track is made so children and young people can try it without equipment or sign-up, and the lighting means it can be used year round. Free and open to all.

Seterbråtveien 4, 1271 Oslo

Oslo's first asphalt pump track, in the middle of Bjørndal sports park. You ride a bike, skateboard or scooter through rollers and berms without pedalling, and the track suits beginners and experienced riders alike. Free and open to everyone, with artificial turf pitches, tennis courts and street basket in the same park.

Olaf Helsets vei 5, 0694 Oslo

One of Norway's largest climbing centres, with lead and top-rope climbing across several floors, a strength training room, a dedicated children's area and 20 auto-belay devices.

Rosenholmveien 22, 1252 Oslo

Large indoor trampoline park with dedicated Minisprett sessions for the youngest (0-6) together with an adult, in addition to regular jumping for the whole family. Check current opening hours in the booking system on the website.

Cecilie Thoresens vei 17, 1153 Oslo

A pedagogical indoor play centre for children up to age 6 at Lambertseter shopping centre, up the glass stairs by Partyland. 500 square metres divided into zones inspired by the continents, with climbing, a slide, a ball pit and role play, plus animals and environments from around the world. Designed for the youngest, with a good overview for adults. Booking is recommended, and there are memberships and birthday parties. Open weekdays 9am-7pm and weekends 8am-8pm.

Utmarkveien 4, 0689 Oslo

A concrete park right beside Bøler school, with a skate area plus play and training equipment. Alongside bowls, stairs, rails and ledges there is a long ramp for scooters and BMX, and good space for the youngest to practise cycling. A short walk from Bøler metro station.

Holmlia senter vei 34, 1255 Oslo

Municipal swimming pool at Holmlia with a 25-metre pool from 0.9 to 1.8 metres deep and a small splash pool of 2.15 x 2.15 metres and 30 centimetres deep. Both are kept at 28 degrees. Sauna, and changing rooms with lockers. Pram parking is set aside outside the ticket office, and the hall has two accessible changing rooms and a pool hoist operated by staff. Children must be over 12 and able to swim to bathe on their own, and one swimming-capable adult in the water may look after up to two children.

Kolstadgata 1, 0652 Oslo

A library only for children aged 10 to 15 - no adults allowed in. Biblo Tøyen is an imaginative universe with workshops, games, an old truck and tram to hang out in, and loads of books, where the young people themselves are in charge. Completely free, and a unique space unlike anywhere else.

John G. Mattesons vei 4, 0687 Oslo

Indoor climbing frame, ball pit, tunnels, trampolines and slides for children aged 0-12 (and 0-16 in the older section). Café on site. On Wednesdays entry is free for children aged 0-23 months (with an adult) - register with Leo's Family.

Torshovgata 33, 0476 Oslo

Popular puppet theatre in the old tram depot (Trikkestallen) at Torshov, run by Oslo Nye Teater/Égal Teater. The intimate shows suit the youngest children well, and the short running time makes it a great first theatre experience. NB: Oslo Nye has decided to close the Trikkestallen stage, the puppet theatre is moving to Centralteatret and the main stage, so check the venue on oslonye.no before you go.

Langbølgen 24, 1155 Oslo

Swimming pool at Lambertseter run by Lambertseter Swimming Club, with public swimming and a swim school. Hosts pool birthday parties on Saturdays: one hour in the pool with a dedicated activity leader running games and relays, and one hour for changing and food in a private room. Recommended from age 7, and the children must be confident in the water - otherwise one adult per five children must join them in the pool. Bring your own food; the pool lends out a hot-dog cooker and sets the table.

Edvard Munchs plass 1, 0194 Oslo

MUNCH has a broad children's programme: sensory painting for the very youngest, 'Barnas kunstdag' (Children's Art Day) for 3-8-year-olds almost every Sunday, and workshops during school holidays for slightly older children. Strollers are not allowed inside the exhibitions, but baby carriers can be borrowed.

Sandviksveien 130, 1365 Blommenholm

Art and culture house in a historic villa from 1890 by the sea in Sandvika. The main offering for children is Sanseloftet, a 400 sqm sensory experience spread across nine rooms with colours, scents and light, made for children aged 3-12 (adults only enter accompanied by a child). Creative workshops are also held on weekends, and children's birthday parties can be arranged. Open Tuesday-Sunday 11am-4pm. Note: located in Bærum, not Oslo municipality.

Lundveien 3, 1900 Fetsund

A log-driving museum and wetland centre where the Glomma meets Øyeren, about forty minutes from Oslo. Timber was floated and sorted here with booms until 1985, and the site stands as it was, with jetties, boats and buildings to walk between. The mix of open-air industrial history and wetland birdlife works for both younger and older children, and much of it is outdoors.

Møllergata 24, 0179 Oslo

Indoor laser tag in the middle of the city centre, with a multi-level maze, plus paintball, an obstacle course and sumo wrestling. An action-packed indoor option that suits birthday parties and slightly older children.

Konows gate 1-3, 0192 Oslo

Indoor parkour hall with obstacles, sprung flooring and climbing elements. Offers parkour courses for children and youth aged 3-16 across several levels, free training sessions for families, birthday parties and holiday camps.

Anne-Cath. Vestlys plass 1, 0150 Oslo

Deichman puts on plays, storytelling sessions and children's films for slightly older kids at several of its 22 branches in Oslo. Check the programme at your local library.

Kompveien 1031, 1925 Blaker

A visitor farm with many different animals: deer, horses, ponies, sheep, goats, rabbits, guinea pigs, pigs, chickens, peacocks, llamas, alpacas, donkeys and exotic birds. Also offers pony rides, climbing courses, nature playgrounds, high jumping and a forest trail. Open mainly on weekends and select weekdays, with themed events like Easter and Halloween. Note: located in Blaker (Aurskog-Høland/Fetsund area), about a 30-minute drive from Oslo.

Møllergata 12, 0179 Oslo

Indoor 18-hole mini golf integrated into a bar with a camping theme, near Youngstorget. A nice daytime activity on weekends (opens at noon Saturday and Sunday), but becomes more of a beer-and-drinks venue later in the evening - 20-year age limit applies after 7pm.

Skoglistubben 21, 1470 Lørenskog

Large indoor entertainment centre (formerly Megafun, now part of the Skyland chain) with trampolines, a multi-storey play area, a laser play zone, 6D cinema and a wind tunnel. Suitable for all ages and popular for birthday parties. Note: located in Lørenskog, not Oslo municipality.

Kjelsåsveien 143, 0491 Oslo

Voted Oslo's most fun museum for children, with over 100 interactive installations where kids can create a tornado, play a laser harp, drive a mini train and try VR covering transport, science, medicine and industrial history. SkaperLab for children/youth aged 12-16 with programming, music and 3D printing.

Holmenkollveien 200, 0791 Oslo

The last stop on the Holmenkollen line is the very gateway to Nordmarka, with a grand view over Oslo, the venerable café and easy walks straight into the forest. In winter it's the starting point for sledding in Korketrekkeren and floodlit trails; in summer berries, swimming in forest tarns and stroller walks. Free to be here - take the line all the way up.

Stortingsgata 28, 0161 Oslo

Storytime and author visits one or two Saturdays a month (except summer), best for children aged 3-6. Everyone gets a bun after the reading.

Havnegata 4, 1441 Drøbak

The only aquarium in eastern Norway, down by the harbour in Drøbak. More than 50 tanks from 30 litres to a 25,000-litre pool, with a children's tunnel, a jellyfish tank and a touch pool where children can handle creatures from the fjord. Small enough for a two-year-old to manage, and concrete enough to hold an eight-year-old. Drøbak makes a good day out in itself, with the Christmas house and the boat to Oscarsborg within walking distance.

Flere steder i Oslo

Norwegian pop-up literature project creating interactive theatre experiences for children aged 0-11 (individual shows are often aimed at ages 3-9), where children explore familiar stories through listening, play, movement and creating. Includes storytelling theatre, games tied to the story, creative workshops and a pop-up bookshop. Has staged shows such as Peter Pan, The Gruffalo and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. No fixed address - performs at various venues in Oslo, including Sentralen, Det Andre Teatret, Deichman Bjørvika and Tøyen (Vaterland/MiniØya).

Rosenkrantz' gate 11, 0159 Oslo

Interactive illusion museum right by Karl Johan, with sensory challenges and optical illusions that captivate both children and adults. Separate children's tickets from age 4 and free entry for those under 3.

Bogstad Gård, Sørkedalen, Oslo

Organic, Debio-certified visitor farm by Bogstadvannet, run by the City of Oslo. Children can meet cattle, horses, sheep, goats, rabbits, turkeys and hens, and the area around the farm is great for a walk and a picnic by the lake. Free entry. The visitor barn is open Tuesday to Friday 12-16 and the last Sunday of the month 11-16, but from mid-May to mid-October it is closed because the animals are out grazing around the farm. The farm has a minimum age of 3.

Kongeveien 5, 0787 Oslo

The world's oldest ski museum sits inside the ski jump itself at Holmenkollen, with 4,000 years of skiing history, polar gear and a ski simulator where children can 'ski' downhill and jump. The same ticket takes you up the jump tower, 64 metres above ground, with a 360-degree view over all of Oslo. In summer there's a zip line from the top.

Bygdøynesveien 39, 0286 Oslo

The polar-ship museum at Bygdøy where children can board the Fram itself, the strongest wooden ship ever built, and explore three floors of polar history. A new 4D simulator takes you on a polar voyage, and the whole experience lets children climb, peek and discover. Bus 30 or the ferry from City Hall pier.

Bogstadveien 26 / Holmboes gate 1, 0355 Oslo

Indoor playground in Majorstuen designed specifically for babies and toddlers, with soft play areas and sensory play. Only for children aged 0-24 months, and older siblings cannot join. A café for the grown-ups and a safe, enclosed setting make it a popular meeting spot during parental leave.

Karl Fossums vei 1, 0984 Oslo

A meeting place for parents and families with children aged 0-18 in the Stovner district, based in a white house and red barn at Nedre Fossum farm. Offers a free "Babytreff" baby meetup for parents with infants (0-10 months) every Monday, noon-3pm, in partnership with a local open kindergarten, "Naboprat" - free drop-in sessions on topics like language development, sleep and seasonal activities - plus family events with the Red Cross Family Centre roughly once a month.

Bygning 21, Akershus festning, 0015 Oslo

A museum about the Norwegian resistance during the Second World War, in an old stone house at Akershus Fortress. The exhibition tells powerful stories of sabotage, underground newspapers and everyday courage, best suited to older children learning about the war at school. Combine it with a walk around the fortress itself.

Brynjulf Bulls plass 1, 0250 Oslo

The museum about the Nobel Peace Prize by the City Hall square, with glowing, modern exhibitions and stories of peace laureates from around the world. It's more sensory and visual than an ordinary museum, and the centre runs family tours and workshops. Best for older children, but the room of glowing 'laureates' fascinates most.

Kirsten Flagstads plass 1, 0150 Oslo

The Opera House in Bjørvika is built so you can walk straight up onto the roof - the sloping marble surfaces rise from the ground to the top, and it's free. Children love running up and down the slopes, and from the top you have a wide view over the fjord, the city and the boats. Bring good shoes; the marble can be slippery when wet.

Kongsveien 23, 0193 Oslo

Sculpture park with over 40 artworks and panoramic views over Oslo, free and open around the clock all year. For families: the Hakkespettene activity house with art workshops, a small climbing park with balance elements and a low zip line, plus a sensory wall and animal-spotting tasks inside the museum (separate opening hours). The park has sloping terrain with paths and some gravel/uneven ground in places.

Romsås Senter 1, 0970 Oslo

Municipal swimming pool at Romsås shopping centre, and the city pool best set up for the youngest: the splash pool is 4 x 3 metres, half a metre deep and kept at 33 degrees, with a small slide, an umbrella fountain and a side shower. The main pool is 25 metres and 32 degrees. Sauna and changing rooms with lockers - bring your own padlock. The accessible changing rooms have baby changing tables. Children must be over 12 and able to swim to bathe on their own, and one swimming-capable adult in the water may look after up to two children. Check the opening hours before you go, the hall closes for a few weeks in summer.

Veitvetveien 8, 0596 Oslo

Norway's largest bowling hall with 26 lanes, plus billiards, an arcade and a restaurant. Child-friendly lanes with bumper rails and lighter balls mean even the youngest can join in the bowling.