Local services
If you have children, the question always arises as to how we can spend time meaningfully. If you’re in Debrecen, Hungary with your little ones, you’re in luck! There are plenty of family-friendly activities available to keep everyone entertained. In addition to the Aquaticum Strand and Debrecen Zoo, there are other places worth visiting with your kids. Let’s dive in!
Zsuzsi Railway: Zsuzsi, the oldest narrow-gauge railway in Hungary, offers a unique and memorable travel experience. The cute little steam locomotive pulls small railway carriages to the terminus of Hármahegyalja, which is surrounded by beautiful forests. The area has hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a fish pond. The Nature House and Observatory, as well as the Forest School, which offers wildlife conservation classes, are also popular attractions. It’s a perfect destination for those who love nature and outdoor activities. See more: https://www.zsuzsivasut.hu/
Sziget-kék Playground: Debrecen’s newest playground, “Sziget-kék”, opened in July 2022 amidst the cool shades of the Great Forest (Nagyerdő). The 58,000 square metre playground has 78 different games and attractions, including an adventure tower with a giant slide and tree-top obstacle course that offers an exciting challenge for older kids. The playground was inspired by the fairytale of writer Magda Szabó, and it features amenities such as an observation tower, a play tower, and a mini-city for younger kids. Children can have fun in giant sandpits, ride toy cars, climb trees, and go on winding slides and floating climbing frames. The mini-city also has a road safety course for kids to learn about road safety. The 4-season building is a community space that will host a range of events, making Island Blue a lively hub for locals and visitors alike. See more: Szigetkék – Tematikus Játszópark Debrecen (szigetkek.eu)
NagyKaLand Playhouse: I recently stumbled upon this amazing new playhouse in the city and I just had to share it with you. It’s been getting rave reviews on Google and from other sources, so you know it’s legit. This place is HUGE, spanning a whopping 1500 square meters.
Inside, there’s a three-story maze that covers 500 square meters. Can you imagine the fun your kids would have there? They’ve got everything from slides to a spider tower, a climbing volcano, and even an obstacle course. It’s like a dream come true! And here’s the best part – on those gloomy rainy days when the kids are bored and driving you crazy, this playhouse is a lifesaver. It’s the perfect indoor venue for playtime. But here’s a little secret – on sunny days, you might want to keep this gem to yourself. It’s so popular that it can get pretty crowded. Debrecen is known for being family-friendly and welcoming, so it’s definitely worth considering for your next family outing. Trust me, you won’t regret it! It can be reached from Leiningen utca by bus line 18Y, from Monostorpályi út by bus line 18. See more: Bemutatkozás – NAGYkaLAND Játszóház Debrecen (nagykalandjatszohaz.hu)
Agora Science Centre: Have you ever played music with lightning or ridden a bike two meters in the air? Agora Science Centre is a modern playground where anyone can discover how fascinating and entertaining natural science is. Children and adults can try special interactive games, be part of spectacular experiments, and enjoy educational programs. Visitors can also explore the Botanical Garden with the help of a fun quiz. It’s about time to enjoy the little wonders of our everyday life! See more: Agóra – Tudományos Élményközpont (agoradebrecen.hu)
Water Tower: I recently visited this amazing water tower and I just had to share my experience with you. As you approach from the stadium, you’ll be greeted by a captivating fountain pool that will surely mesmerize your little ones. With its fine mist and powerful jets shooting up to 40 meters high, it’s a delight for the whole family. And guess what? There’s even a shallow pool with stepping stones for the little ones to paddle and have some aquatic fun!
But that’s not all. The water tower itself is the real highlight. It offers an exciting climb above the tree line, and trust me, it’s totally worth it. The staircase wraps around the tower’s circumference, making it manageable for children. Just a heads up, taller adults might need to watch out for low ceiling heights in some areas, but don’t worry, they’re clearly marked.
Once you reach the summit, get ready to be blown away by the panoramic views of the city. It’s absolutely breathtaking! And if you look down, you’ll see a beautifully designed water park that might just tempt you to pay it a visit next.
Now, here’s the cherry on top. After the exhilarating climb down, head over to the bar for a refreshing drink. You deserve it after all that physical exertion! Oh, and did I mention that the water tower also turns into a lively music venue in the evenings? How cool is that? During the day, you might even stumble upon some art installations in the basement, and private events are held in different areas.
And for all you adventure seekers out there, the central column of the water tower doubles as a climbing wall. You can test your skills with the guidance of instructors and have a safe yet adrenaline-pumping experience.
So there you have it, folks. The water tower is an absolute must-visit for a fun-filled day with the family. Make sure to bring your swimsuits, climbing shoes, and a sense of adventure. Happy exploring! See more: Víztorony (nagyerdeiviztorony.hu)
Debrecen is a vibrant city with plenty to offer families seeking fun and adventure. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, immersing yourselves in culture and art, or simply enjoying quality time together, Debrecen has something for everyone. So pack your bags, gather your little ones, and embark on an unforgettable family adventure in Debrecen.
