Looking for things to do in Borlänge with kids? This lively town in Dalarna combines hands on museums, swimming adventures, snowy ski days, animal encounters and easy nature outings. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or using Borlänge as a base for exploring central Sweden, families can find plenty of activities for different ages and weather conditions.
Why Borlänge is a good destination for families
Borlänge is a practical family destination because many attractions are close to the town centre, while forests, lakes and ski slopes are only a short drive away. The area also offers a useful mix of indoor and outdoor activities. On a rainy day, you can spend several hours at a science centre or swimming pool. When the weather is bright, walking trails, farms and picnic spots make it easy to enjoy the Dalarna countryside.
The town is relatively easy to explore by car, and public transport connects Borlänge with nearby places such as Falun. Families who stay in the area can therefore combine local attractions with day trips without spending every day on the road.
Best things to do in Borlänge with kids
1. Explore 2047 Science Center
One of the best family attractions in Borlänge is 2047 Science Center, an interactive science museum designed to encourage children to experiment, ask questions and solve problems. Exhibits cover themes such as the human body, technology, physics, space and the natural world.
Rather than simply looking at displays, children can usually get involved through buttons, levers, experiments and practical demonstrations. This makes the centre especially enjoyable for primary school children, although older children and adults will find plenty to explore too. Allow at least two or three hours if your family enjoys taking time with each activity.
Check the current programme before visiting, as the centre may offer temporary exhibitions, workshops or science shows during school holidays. The museum is a particularly useful choice when the weather is cold, wet or windy.
2. Spend an active day at Aqua Nova
Aqua Nova at Maserhallen is a popular choice for families who want energetic indoor fun. The facility includes swimming pools and water activities that can suit different ages and swimming abilities. Younger children can enjoy the gentler areas, while confident swimmers may prefer the slides and faster attractions.
A swimming visit works well after a day of travelling because children can burn off energy without depending on the weather. Bring swimwear, towels and any equipment your family needs, and check admission rules and opening hours in advance. Some activities may have age or height requirements, and busy holiday periods can affect access to particular pools or slides.
If you are planning several Borlänge family activities in one day, combine Aqua Nova with an easy meal nearby rather than scheduling too much afterwards. Swimming can be surprisingly tiring, especially for younger children.
3. Meet ostriches at Sahlins Struts
Sahlins Struts offers one of the more unusual family experiences near Borlänge. At this farm, children can learn about ostriches and see these tall, fast birds at close range. A farm visit gives young travellers something different from a standard playground or museum and can be a memorable stop during a road trip through Dalarna.
The farm atmosphere is relaxed, and families can often combine the animal visit with food or locally produced items, depending on the season. Ostriches are impressive animals, but they are also powerful, so follow the farm’s instructions and supervise children carefully around the enclosures.
Opening times and activities can change throughout the year. Check the official information before setting out, particularly if you are travelling outside the main summer season. This is a good activity for children who enjoy animals, farms and learning how food is produced.
4. Visit Gammelgården and discover local history
Gammelgården is an open air museum area where visitors can see traditional buildings and learn more about life in Dalarna in earlier generations. The setting offers families a gentler cultural experience, with old houses, rural surroundings and a chance to discuss how people lived before modern technology became part of everyday life.
Children may enjoy looking at the construction of the buildings, imagining life on a farm and comparing the past with their own homes. The attraction is most enjoyable when approached as a short, relaxed visit rather than a formal history lesson. Bring a snack and allow time for a walk around the surrounding area.
Some buildings and exhibitions may have seasonal opening hours. Events, craft demonstrations and special activities are more likely during the warmer months, so look at the current calendar before visiting.
5. Walk and picnic in Frostbrunnsdalen
For a simple outdoor outing, Frostbrunnsdalen offers woodland, paths and a peaceful natural setting close to Borlänge. It is a useful place to give children a break from museums, shopping and car journeys. Depending on the route and conditions, families can enjoy a short walk, look for birds and insects, and stop for a picnic.
Nature walks are among the easiest family attractions to adapt to different ages. Toddlers can explore a small section, while older children can walk further and take responsibility for spotting signs of wildlife. Wear sturdy shoes, especially after rain, and remember that forest paths may be uneven or slippery.
Swedish outdoor access comes with a responsibility to respect nature. Keep noise under control, take rubbish with you and avoid disturbing plants and animals. If you plan to use a barbecue or fire area, follow local signs and current fire safety advice.
6. Enjoy the Dalälven riverside and Torsång
The Dalälven river shapes much of the landscape around Borlänge, and a riverside outing can be a pleasant way to spend a few hours. Families can enjoy a walk, take photographs, watch boats in suitable areas or find a quiet place for a packed lunch. Torsång, a short distance from Borlänge, is particularly appealing for families who like water, countryside and historic surroundings.
Rivers and lakes require close supervision, even when the water appears calm. Keep children away from steep banks and docks unless they are with an adult, and use life jackets for boating or other water activities. A riverside visit is best combined with a clear plan for where children can safely play and where the family will eat.
7. Go skiing at Romme Alpin
In winter, Romme Alpin is one of the most popular attractions near Borlänge for families who want to ski or snowboard. The resort has slopes for different levels, including areas suitable for beginners. Families can book lessons, hire equipment and spend a full day outdoors in the snow.
Beginners should consider arranging ski school in advance, particularly during school holidays. A lesson can help children feel comfortable with equipment and basic techniques before they tackle longer slopes. Younger children may also appreciate a shorter first session rather than a full day on the mountain.
Pack warm, waterproof clothing, spare gloves and snacks. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, and children often need regular breaks. Check snow conditions, lift operations and the resort’s current family services before travelling.
8. Try cross country skiing and winter walks
Families do not need to be expert downhill skiers to enjoy winter around Borlänge. Cross country skiing, sledging and snowy walks are other ways to experience the season. Local trails and recreation areas may offer routes suitable for beginners, although conditions and prepared tracks vary from year to year.
If your children have never tried cross country skiing, hire equipment locally or ask a ski centre about beginner areas. Start with a short route and focus on staying warm and having fun. A thermos of hot chocolate can make a winter outing much more appealing to younger children.
Always check the forecast and trail information before leaving. Daylight hours are limited in winter, so plan to return well before dark unless you are familiar with the route and have suitable lighting.
9. Take a family bike ride
Borlänge and the surrounding countryside offer opportunities for cycling on roads, paths and quieter routes. A bike ride can be a good way to see more of the area without committing to a demanding hike. Families with younger children can choose a short, mostly flat route, while older children may be ready for a longer countryside ride.
Bring helmets, water and a basic repair kit, and choose a route that matches the least experienced cyclist in your group. Some paths may be shared with walkers, so ride carefully and give others plenty of space. If you are hiring bikes, ask the rental provider about child seats, trailers and suitable family routes.
A cycling outing works well with a picnic stop. Pack food in small containers and plan a destination where children can safely take a break rather than expecting them to ride continuously.
10. Visit the playgrounds and parks
Sometimes the best things to do in Borlänge with kids are free and uncomplicated. A playground visit can provide valuable downtime between larger attractions. Local parks give children space to climb, run and play while adults take a break.
Playgrounds can also help families manage different energy levels. One child may want to spend hours at a museum, while another needs to move around after a long journey. Search for nearby playgrounds using a local map or ask your accommodation for current recommendations, since equipment and facilities can change.
During warmer months, bring a picnic blanket and snacks. In colder weather, keep the visit shorter and combine it with an indoor attraction nearby.
Easy family day trips from Borlänge
Falun and the Falu Mine
Falun is close to Borlänge and makes an easy day trip for families. The Falu Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage site with exhibitions and guided experiences that explain the importance of mining in the region. Some underground tours have age restrictions or may not suit very young children, so check the conditions before booking.
The mine area also provides outdoor space and historical buildings to explore. Families can pair the visit with a walk in Falun or a stop at another local museum, depending on how much time the children have.
Lake Runn and summer water activities
Lake Runn, between Borlänge and Falun, is a popular place for summer recreation. Depending on the location and season, families may find swimming areas, beaches, boating opportunities and places for a picnic. The lake is also known for winter activities when the ice is safe and conditions allow.
Never assume that ice is safe simply because other people are nearby. Follow local safety information and use approved activities or guided experiences. In summer, supervise children closely around the water and bring sun protection, drinking water and dry clothes.
Practical tips for a family visit to Borlänge
- Check opening hours before travelling. Museums, farms and swimming facilities often use different schedules during school holidays and the off season.
- Plan one main attraction per day for younger children. Add a playground, café or short walk rather than filling every hour with organised activities.
- Pack layers. Dalarna weather can change quickly, and a waterproof outer layer is useful for both city walks and outdoor excursions.
- Carry snacks and water. Family friendly cafés are available, but children may need food between planned stops.
- Book ski lessons, equipment and popular holiday activities early, particularly during Swedish school breaks.
- Use a child carrier or sturdy pushchair if you are planning woodland walks. Some natural paths are unsuitable for small wheels.
- Ask attractions about family tickets, age limits and accessibility before visiting. Rules can vary between activities.
- Allow extra travel time in winter. Snow, ice and limited daylight can affect roads and outdoor plans.
How to plan a two day family itinerary
For a first day, start with 2047 Science Center so children can enjoy an interactive indoor experience while they are fresh. Have lunch in Borlänge, then choose a playground or a short walk. If everyone still has energy, finish the day with a visit to Aqua Nova.
On the second day, choose an outdoor activity based on the season. In summer, visit Sahlins Struts or Torsång and add a picnic by the water. In winter, spend the day at Romme Alpin or try a short snow activity closer to town. Families interested in local culture can replace the outdoor plan with Gammelgården or a day trip to the Falu Mine.
The best Borlänge family activities are those that leave room for flexibility. A child may need a quiet afternoon after an exciting morning, and weather can change the best plan. Keep a few indoor and outdoor options available so your family can enjoy the town in every season.