Westport is a charming town in County Mayo, Ireland, that offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including things to do in westport for families. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, historical sites, or just looking for a fun day out, Westport has something for everyone. Here are our top 8 picks for family activities in Westport.
Key Takeaways
- Westport House and Pirate Adventure Park offers a mix of history and fun with its pirate-themed attractions and beautiful grounds.
- Croagh Patrick provides a challenging yet rewarding hike with stunning views, perfect for adventurous families.
- The Great Western Greenway is ideal for cycling enthusiasts and offers a scenic route through the countryside.
- Westport Paddle Club is the go-to spot for water activities like paddleboarding and kayaking on the Saugatuck River.
- Saugatuck Sweets is a must-visit for families with a sweet tooth, offering a delightful selection of candies and ice creams. making it one of the top things to do in westport for families.
Westport House and Pirate Adventure Park
If you’re a fan of pirates and adventure, Westport House and Pirate Adventure Park is the perfect spot for your family. This historic estate, first built in 1650, offers a mix of history and fun. The house itself has nearly 30 rooms open to visitors, each filled with stories from the past.
The real excitement, though, is outside. The Pirate Adventure Park is packed with thrilling rides and activities. Your kids will love the Plunge Log Flume Ride and the Pirate Queen Swinging Ship. For a more relaxed experience, you can take a cruise around the grounds on the Westport House Express or paddle around the lake on swan-shaped pedalos.
The Pirate Adventure Park was voted Ireland’s Best Family Visitor Attraction, and it’s easy to see why. Open during mid-term breaks and throughout the summer, it’s a must-visit.
Don’t miss out on the Westport adventure at this beautiful 400-acre estate. Will you rise to the challenge?
Croagh Patrick
Croagh Patrick is known as the holiest mountain in Ireland. The tradition of pilgrimage to this sacred mountain goes back over 5,000 years! In 441 AD, St. Patrick climbed this mountain and fasted for forty days. The hike to the top can be tough and is not for everyone.
If you plan to hike this holy mountain, make sure to rent walking sticks from the visitor center and set aside at least 3 hours for your climb. The views from the top are breathtaking, offering a panoramic sight of the surrounding landscape and The Wild Atlantic Ocean.
If hiking isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the view of Croagh Patrick from the base. Nearby attractions like the National Famine Monument, Clew Bay Archeological Trail, and Murrisk Abbey are also worth visiting!
Great Western Greenway
If your family loves cycling, then The Great Western Greenway is a must-visit! This 42-kilometer trail stretches from Westport to Achill Island, offering stunning views of the Irish countryside. You can ride through picturesque villages, lush green landscapes, and along the shores of Clew Bay.
One of the best things about the Greenway is that you don’t have to complete the entire 42 kilometers. There are many entry points, so you can choose to do smaller sections if you prefer. The trail is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for riders of all ages and fitness levels.
- Distance: 42 kilometers
- Terrain: Mostly flat
- Suitable for: All ages and fitness levels
If you need to rent a bike, Clew Bay Bike Hire is a great option. They can also arrange a soothing kayak experience if you want to explore the waters around Clew Bay.
The Great Western Greenway is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of County Mayo while getting some exercise and fresh air.
So grab your bikes and helmets, and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure on The Great Western Greenway!
Westport Paddle Club
If you’re looking for a fun and active way to spend the day with your family, the Westport Paddle Club is a fantastic choice. Located right on the Saugatuck River, this club offers paddleboard and kayak rentals. It’s open from 9am to 6pm, seven days a week during the summer season.
The club is perfect for beginners, offering classes that teach ocean safety, boating rules, and equipment care. They even have summer camps for kids ages 7 and up. It’s a great way for kids to learn new skills and have fun on the water.
- Hours: 9am – 6pm, seven days a week (summer season)
- Location: 471 Riverside Ave., Westport, CT
- Activities: Paddleboard and kayak rentals, summer camps, beginner classes
Spending a day at the Westport Paddle Club is a wonderful way to enjoy the beauty of the Saugatuck River while staying active and learning new skills.
Don’t miss out on this gem when you’re exploring things to do in Westport with kids!
Saugatuck Sweets
No family day in Westport is complete without a trip to Saugatuck Sweets. This wondrous candy-land is located right on the Saugatuck River and is situated in a beautiful courtyard on Riverside Ave., right off of Bridge Street. Families can enjoy bags of candy and ice cream while kids work off their energy in this lovely outdoor space, all while enjoying the sunset on the river. It’s the perfect cap to a perfect day.
Longshore Ice Rink
Longshore Ice Rink is a wintertime favorite for the residents of Westport. Located inside Longshore Club Park, this outdoor rink is open from late November through early March. It’s right on the water, making it a beautiful spot to skate.
The rink offers many popular programs for children and adults who want to learn or improve their skating skills. They have private and group lessons starting for kids as young as 3 years old. There are also private parties available. All programs are designed to keep skaters enthusiastic about learning from the time they begin lessons until they reach their goals.
Sadly, the rink was closed this past season due to COVID, but it has every intention of reopening this upcoming winter.
If you’re looking for a fun and active way to spend a winter day, Longshore Ice Rink is the place to be!
Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids
Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids is a family favorite in Westport. This incredible children’s hair salon is part arcade, part barber shop, and 100% a good time! Kids can sit in a Dodge police cruiser, Barbie Jeep, Frozen Jeep, Lightning McQueen Race Car, Hummer, or Fire Engine while getting their hair cut. Older kids will love playing Xbox or PS4 on 40-inch screens or watching a favorite movie, sport, or concert event.
Sharkey’s is doing the exact same things we did when Linda & Scott Sharkey started this business back in 2001.
If you’re looking for a place where your kids can have fun while getting a haircut, Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids is the place to go. The friendly staff and fun atmosphere make it a great experience for both kids and parents.
Westport Country Playhouse
If you’re looking for a fun and educational outing, the Westport Country Playhouse is a must-visit. This non-profit theater offers a variety of programs for kids and teens. One of the most popular programs is Together at the Table, where children and their adult chaperones can enjoy dinner and a performance for just $15!
The playhouse also hosts the Conversation About the Show series. This program invites families to a casual dinner followed by a discussion about the performance, led by members of the artistic team. It’s a great way to engage with the arts and spend quality time together.
The Westport Country Playhouse is a wonderful place to introduce your kids to the magic of theater. The programs are designed to be both fun and educational, making it a perfect family outing.
Don’t miss out on this gem in Westport. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the Westport Country Playhouse offers a unique experience that your family will cherish.
Conclusion
Westport is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities that promise fun and adventure for everyone. From exploring the great outdoors at Earthplace and Sherwood Island State Park to diving into history at the Westport Museum for History and Culture, there’s something for every interest. Whether you’re paddling down the Saugatuck River, enjoying sweet treats at Saugatuck Sweets, or catching a show at the Westport Country Playhouse, your family is sure to create lasting memories. Don’t forget to check out our Connecticut events calendar for the latest happenings and more exciting activities. We hope this guide helps you make the most of your time in Westport!
