Looking for memorable family day trips from Falun? The city is surrounded by lakes, forests, cultural landmarks and lively attractions, making it easy to plan enjoyable outings with kids in every season. Many destinations are less than an hour away, while a few longer drives lead to some of central Sweden’s best family experiences. Here are the most useful nearby attractions, along with ideas for what to do, when to visit and how to make each trip work well for the whole family.
1. Explore the Falu Mine and Mining Area
The Falu Mine is one of the most important attractions in Dalarna and an excellent first choice for family day trips from Falun. This UNESCO World Heritage Site combines history, outdoor space and hands on activities in a setting that feels adventurous rather than like a traditional museum.
Families can join a guided tour into the mine, where children can learn how copper was extracted deep underground. The temperature is cool throughout the year, so bring warm clothes even during summer. Some tours have age recommendations, making it sensible to check the schedule before arriving.
Above ground, the mining area has walking paths, historic buildings and viewpoints over the huge open pit. The museum explains the lives of miners and the importance of copper to Falun’s development. Younger kids may enjoy the stories, models and mine themed activities more than a long historical exhibition, so allow time to explore outside as well.
- Distance from central Falun: A few minutes by car
- Best for: History, outdoor exploration and school age children
- Allow: Two to four hours
- Good to know: Wear sturdy shoes and book mine tours in advance during busy periods
2. Spend a Day at Lugnet
Lugnet is close to the centre of Falun and offers enough variety for a relaxed family outing. The area is best known for its ski jumps and sports facilities, but it also has forest trails, viewpoints and seasonal activities.
In summer, families can walk or cycle around the site and follow trails through the surrounding woodland. Older children may enjoy seeing the ski jump towers and learning about the international competitions held here. During winter, Lugnet becomes a natural choice for skiing, sledding and other snow activities, depending on conditions.
The nearby swimming facilities can make the area especially useful on a rainy day. Families who want a more active itinerary can combine a swim with lunch and a short nature walk. Because Lugnet is close to town, it is also a good option when you want a simple half day rather than a long drive.
3. Visit Carl Larsson’s Home in Sundborn
A short drive from Falun takes you to Sundborn, the village associated with artist Carl Larsson and his family. Carl Larsson-gården is one of the region’s most distinctive cultural attractions, with colourful interiors, gardens and a strong connection to Swedish family life and design.
Guided tours provide access to the home and explain how Carl and Karin Larsson shaped the artistic environment there. The house may appeal most to adults, but the gardens, village setting and nearby stream give kids space to enjoy the trip too. Keep the visit balanced by allowing time for a walk rather than treating it as an indoor museum stop only.
Sundborn is particularly attractive in late spring and summer, when the gardens are at their best. Pack a picnic or look for a local café, and combine the home visit with a gentle walk through the village. This is one of the more peaceful family day trips from Falun, ideal for families who want culture without a packed schedule.
- Distance from Falun: About 15 kilometres
- Best for: Art, gardens and a calm village visit
- Allow: Three to five hours
- Good to know: Check opening dates and tour times before travelling
4. Enjoy Lake Life at Runn
Lake Runn is one of the easiest nearby attractions to reach from Falun and works well for families who prefer outdoor activities. The lake has beaches, jetties, walking routes and places for swimming during the warmer months. Several areas around the shoreline are suitable for a simple picnic day.
In summer, bring towels, sun protection and water shoes if your children like exploring shallow shorelines. You can also rent equipment in some locations, including kayaks, canoes or bicycles, although availability varies by season. A short paddle can be a memorable activity for older kids, while younger children may be happier building with stones and playing by the water.
Winter transforms Runn into a popular destination for skating when the ice is safe and officially checked. The Runn Winter Week and other local activities can add extra interest, but families should always follow local safety advice. Never assume that frozen water is safe simply because the surface looks solid.
5. Discover Science at Framtidsmuseet
Framtidsmuseet in Borlänge is one of the best choices for a rainy day trip with kids. The science centre focuses on space, technology, the human body and the future, with exhibits designed to encourage visitors to test, build and ask questions.
Children can usually spend much longer here than they expect because many displays are interactive. The museum suits a wide range of ages, although younger visitors may need help with some experiments while older children can explore more detailed science topics. Check the programme for workshops, demonstrations and holiday activities before your visit.
Plan time for a meal or snack break, as interactive museums can be tiring for younger children. Framtidsmuseet is also easy to combine with shopping or another Borlänge attraction if your family wants a full day away from Falun.
- Distance from Falun: About 25 kilometres
- Best for: Curious kids, hands on learning and wet weather
- Allow: Three to five hours
- Good to know: Opening hours and special activities change during school holidays
6. Make a Splash at Aqua Nova
Aqua Nova in Borlänge is a practical choice when the weather is uncertain or your children simply want a day of swimming. The water park includes pools, slides and areas suitable for different ages. It can be particularly useful during a rainy summer day or a cold winter weekend.
Families with babies and toddlers should check which pools and facilities are available for younger visitors. Older children may prefer the slides, while parents often appreciate having both active and quieter water areas. Bring the required swimwear and remember that popular holiday periods can be busy.
Since Aqua Nova and Framtidsmuseet are both in Borlänge, they can sometimes be combined. However, most families will find that either attraction provides enough entertainment for a full day, especially with younger kids.
7. Try Outdoor Adventures in Bjursås
Bjursås Berg & Sjö is a versatile destination north of Falun, with activities that change throughout the year. In winter, the ski area offers slopes for beginners and more experienced skiers. Ski schools and equipment rental can make it easier for families who are new to skiing.
During summer, the landscape around Bjursås is suited to hiking, cycling, swimming and other outdoor activities. The combination of hills and water gives the area a holiday atmosphere without requiring a long journey. Check the seasonal activity list before setting off because not every facility operates throughout the year.
Bjursås is a good option for families who want something more active than sightseeing. Allow extra time for changing clothes, preparing food and taking breaks, especially if you are travelling with small children. A packed lunch can be useful, although cafés may be open during busier periods.
8. Plan a Beach Day at Leksand Sommarland
Leksand Sommarland is one of the most popular summer attractions in the region and a strong option for family day trips from Falun during the school holidays. The park has water slides, pools, rides and activities for different age groups.
Younger children can enjoy shallow water areas and smaller rides, while older kids may want to spend most of the day on the larger slides. The park is extensive, so agree on a meeting place if family members want to do different activities. Bring swimwear, towels, sun protection and dry clothes for the journey home.
This destination is busiest on warm weekends. Arriving near opening time can make it easier to find a good place to leave your belongings and enjoy popular rides before queues grow. Check the official calendar because the park is seasonal and opening dates vary from year to year.
- Distance from Falun: Around 55 kilometres
- Best for: Summer fun, water activities and energetic kids
- Allow: A full day
- Good to know: Bring extra clothes and expect a busy atmosphere in July
9. Walk Through Säterdalen
Säterdalen nature reserve offers a refreshing change of pace, with woodland, ravines, streams and walking trails. The valley is a good destination for families who want nature rather than organised entertainment. Some paths are easy, while others include uneven ground, steps or slopes.
Children often enjoy looking for bridges, insects, birds and signs of wildlife along the trails. Turn the walk into a simple nature hunt by asking kids to spot different leaves, sounds or colours. Bring snacks and water because facilities may be limited outside the main visitor areas.
Wear shoes that can handle mud, particularly after rain. A baby carrier may be more practical than a stroller on some paths. Säterdalen is attractive in late spring, summer and early autumn, while icy conditions can make some routes unsuitable in winter.
10. Meet Animals at Orsa Rovdjurspark
Orsa Rovdjurspark, also known as Orsa Predator Park, is a longer day trip but can be worthwhile for families with children who love animals. The park has focused on northern species such as bears, wolves, lynx and other wildlife associated with the Nordic region.
The hilly setting means you should expect a fair amount of walking. Comfortable shoes, snacks and a realistic plan are important, especially with younger children. Read the information boards and allow time at viewing areas rather than rushing from one enclosure to the next.
Because the drive from Falun is longer than to many other destinations on this list, check opening hours carefully and leave early. The park may not suit toddlers who tire quickly, but older kids often find the animals and conservation information very engaging.
11. Visit Naturum Dalarna in Siljansnäs
Naturum Dalarna in Siljansnäs introduces visitors to the landscape, geology and wildlife of the region. The centre sits near scenic outdoor areas and viewpoints, making it possible to combine a short educational visit with a walk in nature.
Kids can learn how the landscape around Lake Siljan was shaped and discover which animals live in Dalarna’s forests and wetlands. The exhibitions are most enjoyable when paired with time outdoors, so bring clothing suitable for changing weather.
The Siljansnäs area is especially appealing in summer and early autumn. Families can bring a picnic and make the visit part of a wider tour around Lake Siljan. Since the trip takes longer than a visit to nearby Falun attractions, it works best when you plan several stops rather than driving only to the visitor centre.
12. Spend a Day at Romme Alpin
Romme Alpin, near Borlänge, is a popular winter destination for families who want to ski without travelling all the way to the mountains in northern Sweden. The resort has slopes for beginners and more advanced skiers, plus ski school and equipment rental.
Families new to skiing should book lessons and rental equipment early during school holidays. Beginner areas can become busy, so a weekday visit may be more relaxed if your schedule allows it. Dress children in warm layers and plan regular breaks indoors, as a full day on snow can be demanding.
Romme Alpin is one of the most practical winter family day trips from Falun because the drive is manageable and the resort offers services designed for day visitors. Always check snow conditions, lift operations and road conditions before leaving.
How to choose the best family day trip from Falun
The best destination depends on your children’s ages, the weather and how much travel your family enjoys. For a short outing, choose the Falu Mine, Lugnet, Lake Runn or Sundborn. For a rainy day, Framtidsmuseet and Aqua Nova are reliable options. Leksand Sommarland suits a full summer day, while Romme Alpin and Bjursås are natural choices for winter activities.
- For toddlers: Lake Runn, Sundborn, Lugnet and easy nature walks
- For primary school children: The Falu Mine, Framtidsmuseet, Leksand Sommarland and animal parks
- For active families: Bjursås, Romme Alpin, Lake Runn and Säterdalen
- For culture lovers: The Falu Mine, Carl Larsson-gården and Dalarnas Museum
- For unpredictable weather: Framtidsmuseet, Aqua Nova and indoor museum visits
Practical tips for travelling with kids
Check opening hours, seasonal schedules and booking requirements before setting off. Several attractions operate with shorter hours outside summer, and some popular activities sell out during school holidays. Swedish school holidays and warm weekends can also make nearby attractions much busier than expected.
Pack snacks, refillable water bottles and spare clothes, particularly when visiting lakes, water parks or outdoor activity centres. A lightweight rain jacket is useful in every season. If you are driving, download directions in advance because mobile coverage can vary in forested areas.
Do not try to fit too many stops into one day. Children usually enjoy one main attraction followed by a relaxed meal or short walk more than a rushed itinerary. With Falun as your base, you can return to many of these places in different seasons and experience them in a completely new way.