Cardiff, the capital of Wales, is a fantastic city to explore and is packed with history, culture and great food. It is also the perfect destination for families, and there is plenty to see and do all year round that is free of charge. All of the places mentioned in this post are within easy reach of public transport.
This is one of the more well-known free attractions in the city and for good reason, with an array of galleries to explore, from contemporary art to dinosaurs, Monet to Mammoths, there is something for everyone. This has always been a firm favourite with my kids, and it's both interactive and informative.
2. Cardiff Story Museum, The Hayes
Another favourite of ours and not to be mistaken for the National Museum, Cardiff Story is smaller but very engaging and is a wonderful museum that tells the story of the city and the people who live and work within it. My son loves the interactive city planner board and the downstairs hub, which has books and toys.
3. Bute Park
We are so lucky to have a large and beautiful green space to explore right in the heart of the city. Perfect for a picnic or a wander along the river. There are a variety of walks and trails throughout the park that are free and fun. Whether you are with a family or by yourself, explore the 130 acres of the park, taking in the Gorsedd Stones, the Sculpture trail and the Nature Playground. There is also a visitors centre as well as the secret garden cafe, which is next door.
4. The Senedd, Pierhead St, Cardiff Bay
The home of the Welsh Parliament is open to everyone 6 days a week. You can take a free guided tour or simply have a wander around the exhibitions. They also have a cafe and play area for children with toys and a Senedd explorer trail. You can also book a free place to sit in on a Plenary or Committee meeting.
5. Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve
A small but beautiful wetlands reserve only a stone's throw from the vibrant Cardiff Bay but truly feels like a tranquil haven and hidden gem with it's stunning boardwalk that stretches out across the water. A lovely place to take a moment to connect with nature and kids will love spotting the different birdlife and doing the Wetlands Wildlife Explorer trail.
6. Cardiff Barrage Children's Playground
The barrage is the perfect place for a longer stroll or a scoot that kids will also enjoy and offers up beautiful views across Cardiff Bay. In the middle, you will find the fantastic pirate-themed children's playground with it's ships to climb, swings, roundabouts and cargo nets as well as lots and lots of sand, this is always a hit with my boys.
7. The Pierhead Building, Cardiff Bay
Built in 1897, this Grade I building is stunning both inside and out and offers up exhibitions and space to learn about the history of Cardiff Bay and docks. I have visited this iconic building a few times and definitely recommend checking it out.
8. Cardiff Central Library, The Hayes
Cardiff Central Library is more than just a library. It is a modern cultural venue and a community centrepiece, with well-lit open plan floors and spectacular views of the city and the childrens floor is fantastic, offering a calm space away from the busy city. There are toys, reading nooks and of course plenty of books.
9. Cardiff Bay Barrage Skatepark
A large free concrete skatepark plaza right in the middle of the bay barrage. Perfect for all ages although it goes without saying, please wear helmets and safety gear and for beginners it's best to come before midday when it's a little quieter.
10. Parc Mackenzie
A small nature based play park just behind the National Museum Cardiff that offers up balance beams, climbing frames, cargo nets and animal sculptures. Built in honour of Millicent Mackenzie, Wales' first female university professor.
Whether you are visiting Cardiff for the first time or are a resident, these are some great free options to enjoy the city. There are also plenty of hotels in and around Cardiff and Cardiff Bay as well as short train ride between the city and the bay, making both places accessible without the need of a car.
