Looking for things to do in Östersund with kids? This lively city in central Sweden is an excellent base for a family holiday, with interactive museums, swimming pools, outdoor adventures, snowy activities and easy access to Lake Storsjön. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or staying for a longer Jämtland adventure, these Östersund family activities will help you plan an enjoyable trip for children of different ages.
Explore Jamtli open-air museum
Jamtli is one of the best family attractions in Östersund and a natural starting point for a visit to the city. This large open-air museum combines historic buildings, exhibitions, gardens and hands-on activities. Children can see how people lived in Jämtland in the past, visit old farmsteads and learn about local traditions without having to sit quietly in a conventional museum.
The museum is particularly engaging in summer, when historical characters, farm animals and seasonal activities bring the site to life. Younger visitors can enjoy meeting animals and exploring outdoor play areas, while older children often become interested in the old houses, crafts and stories connected with the region.
Jamtli also has indoor exhibitions, making it a useful choice when the weather is wet or cold. Check the programme before visiting, as workshops and special events vary throughout the year. Allow at least two or three hours if you want to explore at a relaxed pace.
Visit the Nationalmuseum Jamtli
Located at Jamtli, the Nationalmuseum Jamtli presents art and design in a way that can work well for families. The exhibitions change, so there may be something new to see even if you have visited the museum before. Older children and teenagers may enjoy discussing the paintings, objects and design pieces, while parents can combine the visit with the open-air museum next door.
To make the experience more enjoyable for children, set a simple challenge such as asking them to choose their favourite artwork or find a particular colour or shape. A short museum visit followed by time outdoors usually works better than trying to see everything at once.
Spend a day at Storsjöbadet
When children need active indoor entertainment, Storsjöbadet is one of the most reliable things to do in Östersund with kids. This leisure centre has swimming facilities for different ages, making it suitable for both confident swimmers and younger children who prefer shallow water.
Families can spend several hours swimming, playing and relaxing, which makes the centre especially useful during rainy days or winter visits. Facilities and opening hours can change, so check the latest information before setting out. Bring swimwear for everyone and allow extra time for changing, particularly if you are travelling with toddlers.
Storsjöbadet is also a practical choice when you want to break up a sightseeing itinerary. A morning at a museum followed by an afternoon in the pool can give children a good balance of calm and energetic activities.
Walk along Lake Storsjön
Lake Storsjön gives Östersund much of its character, and a family walk beside the water is one of the easiest free activities in the city. The waterfront has open views, paths and places where children can stop to watch boats, birds and changing weather over the lake.
Take a relaxed walk from the city centre towards the harbour and choose a route that suits your children’s energy levels. Pack snacks and let younger children set the pace. In summer, the long daylight hours make it easy to enjoy an evening stroll, while autumn brings colourful scenery and crisp air.
Swimming in the lake may be possible at suitable beaches and designated areas during warm weather, but always check local conditions and supervise children closely. The water can remain cold even in summer.
Cross to Frösön for views and outdoor time
Frösön lies just across the water from Östersund and is an easy addition to a family itinerary. The island has walking routes, open countryside, cultural sights and viewpoints over the lake and surrounding mountains. Travelling there feels like a small adventure, even though it is close to the city.
Frösö kyrka is one of the area’s most notable landmarks. Families interested in history can visit the church and then continue outdoors for a short walk. Nearby roads and paths offer attractive views, especially on clear days.
For a more active outing, look for local trails and green spaces on Frösön. Bring sturdy shoes, water and clothing suitable for changing weather. Some paths may be uneven or muddy, so a baby carrier can be more practical than a stroller in certain areas.
Meet animals at Moose Garden
A visit to Moose Garden in nearby Orrviken is a memorable option for families who want to see one of Sweden’s most famous animals. Children can learn about moose, their habits and their role in Swedish nature. Seeing these large animals at close range can be one of the highlights of a Jämtland trip.
Moose Garden is outside central Östersund, so you will need a car or another planned form of transport. Guided visits and opening arrangements may vary with the season. Check the current timetable and book ahead if required, particularly during school holidays.
Combine the visit with a drive through the countryside around Lake Storsjön. The journey itself offers a chance to see forests, farms and open landscapes that are difficult to experience from the city centre.
Try indoor adventure activities
Östersund has several indoor activity options for families who want more than museums and swimming. Multi Challenge is known for active entertainment, with activities that can suit older children, teenagers and adults. Depending on the current programme, options may include climbing, obstacle-style challenges and other games that test balance and teamwork.
Boda Borg is another popular choice for families with older children and teenagers. Instead of following one long course, teams solve puzzles and complete physical or logical challenges in different rooms. It works best when everyone is willing to cooperate and try different approaches.
Age limits, booking rules and available activities can change, so review the details before visiting. These venues are often busiest during weekends and school holidays.
Enjoy parks and playgrounds in the city
Simple activities are often some of the most useful when travelling with children. Östersund has parks and playgrounds where younger visitors can run around between organised sightseeing stops. A playground break can prevent tired children from losing interest during a day in the city.
Badhusparken, close to the waterfront, is a pleasant place to combine playtime with a walk. Families can enjoy the outdoor space, look across Lake Storsjön and continue towards the centre for lunch or fika. Bring a ball or a small outdoor game if your children like unstructured play.
Local parks are also useful for a picnic. Swedish supermarkets and bakeries make it easy to buy bread, fruit, pastries and drinks for a simple family meal outdoors.
Go cycling around Östersund
Östersund and the surrounding area offer opportunities for family cycling, particularly during the warmer months. A bicycle can make it easier to move between the centre, the waterfront and nearby green spaces. Choose routes that match your children’s confidence, and remember that distances may feel longer when cycling with younger riders.
Some families prefer to rent bicycles locally, while others bring their own. Ask the rental provider about child seats, trailers and helmets. Weather can change quickly, so pack a light waterproof layer even on a sunny morning.
If your children are not ready for a long ride, use cycling as a way to explore one small area rather than planning a full-day excursion. Stop regularly for water, snacks and views of the lake.
Find winter activities for the whole family
Winter transforms Östersund into a playground for snow-loving families. Depending on snow conditions, you can try sledding, cross-country skiing, ice skating and winter walks. The city has a strong connection with winter sports, and local facilities often provide options for beginners as well as experienced visitors.
Cross-country skiing can be a good family activity because children can start with short, gentle routes. Beginners may benefit from a lesson or equipment rental before heading out. Dress in layers, protect hands and feet, and plan a warm indoor break afterwards.
Downhill skiing is available at local slopes such as Gustavsbergsbacken when conditions allow. It can be convenient for families who want to try skiing without travelling far from the city. Check snow conditions, lift operation and lesson availability in advance.
Ice skating may also be possible at outdoor rinks or indoor facilities, depending on the season. Ask locally about skate hire and current opening times. Winter days can be short, so plan outdoor activities around daylight and leave flexibility for weather changes.
Visit Teknikland for hands-on learning
Families interested in machines, transport and technology can consider Teknikland, located outside Östersund. The museum focuses on technical history and often appeals to children who enjoy vehicles, engineering and interactive displays. It can be a good alternative when you want an educational activity that feels practical and visual.
Because Teknikland is outside the centre and seasonal opening times may apply, check the current schedule before travelling. The museum can work well as part of a wider day trip in the surrounding countryside.
Explore nature at Andersön
Andersön nature reserve is a rewarding destination for families who enjoy forests, rocky shores and simple outdoor exploration. The island and its surroundings provide opportunities for short walks, picnics and wildlife spotting. Children can look for birds, insects, berries and unusual shapes in the rocks while adults enjoy the peaceful landscape.
Bring food and drinks, as services may be limited compared with the city. Wear shoes suitable for uneven ground and pack extra clothes for children. In warmer weather, families may enjoy a swim at a suitable shoreline, but always assess the conditions and supervise children closely.
Andersön is best for families who are comfortable organising their own day outdoors. Keep the plan flexible and choose a short route if younger children are likely to tire quickly.
Look for birds and wildlife near Östersund
The wetlands and open landscapes around Östersund can be excellent for casual wildlife watching. Tysjöarna, north of the city, is known for birdlife and offers a chance to experience quieter nature close to town. Children do not need specialist equipment to enjoy the area. A pair of binoculars, a small notebook and a simple wildlife checklist can make the visit more engaging.
Visit in suitable weather and follow local guidance on paths and protected areas. Quiet observation is part of the experience, so this outing may work best with children who enjoy taking their time.
Plan a family-friendly fika
Fika is an easy way to add a distinctly Swedish experience to your trip. Östersund has cafés where families can stop for buns, cakes, sandwiches and hot drinks. A café break gives children time to rest and parents a chance to plan the next activity.
Look for cafés with enough space for a stroller or choose takeaway treats for a picnic beside the lake. Families with allergies should ask about ingredients, as recipes and labelling can vary. Swedish supermarkets also offer convenient snacks for day trips, including fruit, yoghurt and crispbread.
How to plan Östersund family activities
- Mix indoor and outdoor plans so a change in weather does not ruin the day.
- Check seasonal opening hours, especially for museums, wildlife centres and outdoor attractions.
- Book popular activities in advance during summer, weekends and school holidays.
- Choose one main attraction each day and leave time for playgrounds, snacks and unexpected stops.
- Pack layers and waterproof clothing, even during the warmer months.
- Use public transport for central activities, but consider a car for Frösön, Moose Garden, Teknikland and nature reserves.
- Ask accommodation staff or local tourist information about current events and family attractions.
Where to stay with children in Östersund
Staying near the city centre makes it easier to reach cafés, the waterfront, parks and several museums on foot. This can be helpful for families who prefer short journeys between activities. Accommodation with breakfast, a kitchenette or family rooms can also make daily routines simpler.
If you plan to spend more time outdoors, staying slightly outside the centre may provide easier parking and quicker access to Frösön or nearby nature areas. Wherever you stay, check transport options before booking and consider how easily you can return for an afternoon rest.
A simple three-day family itinerary
For a first visit, begin with Jamtli and the Nationalmuseum Jamtli. After lunch, take a walk through the city centre and along the waterfront. This gives the family a gentle introduction to Östersund without too much travel.
On the second day, choose Storsjöbadet or an indoor activity such as Boda Borg or Multi Challenge. If the weather is pleasant, replace part of the indoor plan with a visit to Frösön, a picnic or a lakeside walk.
Use the third day for an outing beyond the city. Moose Garden, Teknikland or Andersön can each provide a different kind of experience. In winter, choose skiing, sledding or skating instead, depending on snow and ice conditions.
With its compact centre, accessible nature and wide range of seasonal activities, Östersund makes it easy to create a family holiday that is active without feeling rushed. From museums and swimming to moose, lakeside walks and snowy adventures, the city offers plenty of memorable ways to spend time together.