Looking for things to do in Vimmerby with kids? This small town in Småland is one of Sweden’s best destinations for a family holiday, especially for children who love stories, animals, nature and outdoor adventures. Vimmerby is closely connected with author Astrid Lindgren, and the surrounding countryside is filled with places that inspired her books. From meeting Pippi Longstocking at Astrid Lindgren’s World to visiting the real locations connected with The Children of Noisy Village, these Vimmerby family activities make it easy to create a memorable trip at a relaxed pace.
1. Spend a day at Astrid Lindgren’s World
Astrid Lindgren’s World is the biggest and most famous of the family attractions in Vimmerby. This open air story park brings scenes and characters from Astrid Lindgren’s books to life, with theatres, play areas, houses and natural spaces designed for children to explore.
Instead of traditional amusement park rides, the focus is on storytelling and imaginative play. Children can meet Pippi Longstocking, Emil of Lönneberga, Karlsson-on-the-Roof, Ronja the Robber’s Daughter and other beloved characters. Actors perform several shows during the day, often in Swedish, but the visual storytelling, music and action are easy for visitors from other countries to enjoy.
Young children usually love Pippi’s Villa Villekulla, where they can climb, play and discover colourful details. Older children may prefer the more adventurous settings connected with Ronja or the mischievous world of Emil. Allow a full day if possible. The park is large, and rushing between performances can make the experience less enjoyable.
Tips for visiting Astrid Lindgren’s World
- Check the opening dates and performance schedule before travelling, as the park is mainly open during the warmer months.
- Buy tickets online when available, particularly during Swedish school holidays.
- Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen and rainwear. Much of the park is outdoors.
- Plan a quiet break during the afternoon, since smaller children can become tired after several shows.
- Look for the daily programme at the entrance so you can choose performances that suit your children’s ages.
2. Explore Astrid Lindgren’s Näs
Astrid Lindgren’s Näs is located close to central Vimmerby and offers a more personal introduction to the author’s life. Astrid Lindgren was born in Vimmerby in 1907, and Näs includes the farm where she grew up, exhibitions, gardens and spaces dedicated to her writing.
The main exhibition explains how Astrid Lindgren’s childhood, family and surroundings influenced her books. Some displays are especially interesting for adults, while children can enjoy the interactive elements and the chance to see the landscape behind the stories. The childhood home is usually visited as part of a guided tour, so check the timetable before arriving.
The gardens are a good place to slow down after the exhibition. There are paths, plants and open areas where children can move around while parents take in the setting. A visit to Näs works well as a half day activity and can be combined with lunch in town or a walk through central Vimmerby.
3. Visit the real locations from The Children of Noisy Village
One of the most charming things to do in Vimmerby with kids is to visit Sevedstorp, the village that inspired the setting for The Children of Noisy Village. The red wooden houses and rural surroundings give families a chance to step into the world of Lisa, Lasse and Bosse.
Sevedstorp is a short drive from Vimmerby. It is not a large theme park, and that is part of its appeal. Children can see the traditional village setting, while adults may recognise details from the film adaptations and illustrations. Keep expectations realistic because this is a quiet countryside visit rather than a full day attraction.
Families can also visit Katthult, near Mariannelund, which is associated with the films about Emil of Lönneberga. The farm buildings and landscape are instantly recognisable to fans. Since these are working or privately managed locations, visitors should respect signs, property boundaries and any access rules.
4. Discover film history at Filmbyn Småland
Filmbyn Småland in Mariannelund is a great choice for families interested in Astrid Lindgren’s films and Swedish movie history. The centre includes exhibitions about productions such as Emil of Lönneberga and The Children of Noisy Village, with costumes, props, photographs and behind the scenes information.
Children can learn how film sets are created and how actors, directors and costume designers work together. The displays are more hands on than a traditional museum, so the visit can appeal even to children who do not usually enjoy exhibitions. Filmbyn is a useful activity on a rainy day or as part of a drive through the countryside east of Vimmerby.
Combine it with Katthult if your family enjoys the Emil stories. Mariannelund also has places to stop for refreshments, although opening times can vary outside the main summer season.
5. Meet moose at Virum Moose Park
Sweden’s largest wild animal is a highlight for many visitors, and Virum Moose Park offers families the chance to see moose at close range. The park is located in the countryside outside Vimmerby and offers guided tours where visitors learn about moose behaviour, food and life in the Swedish forest.
The animals are usually the main attraction, but the experience also gives children a better understanding of local nature. Depending on the tour, visitors may have the opportunity to feed the moose under supervision. This is a good activity for children who enjoy animals and for families looking for something different from museums and story parks.
Book ahead during the busy summer period. Tours run at specific times, and the outdoor setting means that suitable shoes and weatherproof clothing are useful. Check the latest information before travelling because schedules and arrangements can change during the year.
6. Enjoy swimming and outdoor play
Vimmerby is surrounded by lakes, forests and countryside, so a family holiday does not need to be filled with ticketed attractions. On a warm day, look for a local swimming spot or travel a short distance to one of the area’s lakes. Swedish bathing places often have simple facilities, such as a small beach, jetty, changing area or grassy space for picnics.
Always check local signs and supervise children closely, especially at natural swimming areas. Water temperatures can remain cool even in summer, and some beaches may not have lifeguards. Pack towels, a picnic and an extra layer for the journey home.
For a lower key afternoon, visit a playground in or around Vimmerby. A playground break can be surprisingly useful after a morning at a museum or park, giving children time to run freely without following a schedule.
7. Take a family walk in the Småland countryside
Walking is one of the simplest Vimmerby family activities, and the area offers plenty of peaceful routes through woodland and farmland. Choose a short trail suitable for your children’s ages rather than planning an ambitious hike. Forest paths can be uneven, especially after rain, so sturdy shoes are recommended.
Make the walk more engaging with a simple nature challenge. Children can look for pine cones, animal tracks, different types of moss or signs of birds. The Swedish right of public access allows people to enjoy nature responsibly, but families should stay on marked paths where requested, avoid disturbing wildlife and leave no rubbish behind.
A walk can also be combined with a picnic. Bring food from a supermarket or bakery in Vimmerby and find a suitable rest area. Many children remember an outdoor lunch just as fondly as a formal restaurant meal.
8. Explore central Vimmerby
Central Vimmerby is compact and easy to explore on foot. Stroll through the old streets, look at the traditional wooden buildings and stop for a Swedish fika with coffee, juice, buns or cake. A short town walk is a pleasant way to fill an hour between larger activities.
Families can look for statues and references connected with Astrid Lindgren’s characters. The town centre also has shops, restaurants and supermarkets, which makes it convenient for collecting snacks, packed lunches and practical items for a day outdoors.
Do not expect a large city centre with constant entertainment. Vimmerby’s appeal is its small scale and its connection with stories and countryside. Children often appreciate having time to browse, play and enjoy an ice cream without moving on to the next scheduled attraction.
9. Visit the Vimmerby area by bicycle
Cycling can be a good way to see more of the countryside, particularly for families with older children. Some accommodation providers rent bicycles, and local roads or quieter lanes can lead to farms, lakes and villages outside the town. Ask locally about routes that are suitable for your family’s experience and traffic comfort.
Families with younger children should choose a short route and confirm whether bikes, child seats or trailers are available before booking. Bring water, snacks and a repair kit, and remember that weather can change quickly. Cycling is best treated as a flexible day activity rather than a race to visit as many places as possible.
10. Plan a rainy day in Vimmerby
Summer weather in Småland can be changeable, so it helps to have a list of indoor or partly covered options. Filmbyn Småland, Astrid Lindgren’s Näs and local museums can all work when rain makes a long outdoor visit less appealing. A café stop, library visit or indoor play session may also give younger children a welcome break.
If you are visiting Astrid Lindgren’s World in uncertain weather, pack waterproof clothing rather than relying on a clear forecast. Many of the park’s experiences continue in light rain, and being prepared can save a family day from becoming uncomfortable. For heavier rain, check whether the attractions have indoor exhibitions, cafés or sheltered activities available.
How many days do you need in Vimmerby?
A weekend is enough for a quick introduction, but three or four days allows families to enjoy the area without rushing. On a two day trip, spend one full day at Astrid Lindgren’s World and use the other day for Astrid Lindgren’s Näs, central Vimmerby and either a moose visit or a countryside excursion.
With more time, add Sevedstorp, Katthult and Filmbyn Småland, along with a swimming afternoon or nature walk. The best itinerary depends on your children’s ages and interests. A preschooler may prefer one major attraction followed by free play, while school age children may enjoy several shorter stops.
Where to stay with children
Staying in Vimmerby makes it easy to reach most attractions by car and gives your family access to shops and restaurants. Hotels and guesthouses in town can be convenient for short breaks, while holiday cottages and campsites offer more space for families who want to cook and spend evenings outdoors.
When choosing accommodation, check the distance to Astrid Lindgren’s World, whether breakfast is included and whether there is a kitchen or laundry facility. A playground, garden or swimming area can make a significant difference when travelling with younger children. If you plan to visit rural attractions, a car is generally the easiest option.
Practical tips for a family trip
- Visit during the main season if meeting characters and seeing scheduled performances is important, but book accommodation well in advance.
- Use the official websites of each attraction for current prices, opening dates and booking information.
- Carry snacks and refillable water bottles, especially on outdoor excursion days.
- Bring layers and rainwear. Småland weather can change during the day.
- Allow extra travel time on smaller rural roads between Vimmerby and nearby villages.
- Make sure children have comfortable shoes because many attractions involve walking and outdoor play.
- Keep a flexible plan. A quiet lake afternoon may be better than adding another busy attraction when children are tired.
Getting to Vimmerby
Vimmerby is in the province of Småland in southern Sweden. Many international visitors travel via Stockholm, Gothenburg or Malmö and continue by train, bus or rental car. A car is particularly useful if you want to visit Katthult, Sevedstorp, Virum Moose Park and Filmbyn Småland, since these places are spread across the countryside.
Train connections are available, but routes and travel times vary. Check current timetables before booking accommodation and confirm how you will reach attractions outside the town. If you travel without a car, prioritise activities within Vimmerby and ask your accommodation provider about local transport or taxi options for selected day trips.
Why Vimmerby works so well for a family holiday
Vimmerby combines a strong sense of place with activities that suit different ages. Children can play inside familiar stories, meet animals, swim in a lake, explore a forest and learn about Swedish culture without long journeys between every experience. Adults get a slower holiday centred on books, nature and small town life.
The most rewarding things to do in Vimmerby with kids are not limited to the biggest attractions. A visit to Astrid Lindgren’s World may be the highlight, but the surrounding villages, simple picnics and outdoor discoveries help make the whole trip feel special. Plan a few key activities, leave room for rest and let your family enjoy Vimmerby’s stories at its own pace.