Laugardalur

Laugardalur is among Reykjavík’s premier destinations for family fun and outdoor activity. Located just east of the city centre, the neighbourhood is home to Iceland’s largest swimming pool, a beautiful botanical garden, museums, and the city’s main sports facilities. Families can meet animals at the petting zoo, go ice skating, or explore green spaces year-round. With its walkable mix of nature, wellness and culture, Laugardalur offers a full day’s worth of experiences for locals and visitors alike, especially those travelling with children or looking to get active in the city.

Top attractions

Laugardalur Family Park and Zoo in Reykjavík

Family Fun

Laugardalur is one of Reykjavík’s most family-friendly areas, with attractions for all ages. The Reykjavík Family Park and Zoo is home to a collection of farm animals, local wildlife (think reindeer, seals and arctic foxes) and a few more exotic creatures, plus amusement-park rides during the summer months and plenty of playground and picnic areas. Nearby, Skautahöllin is the city’s indoor ice-skating rink, offering open sessions and rentals for both first-time skaters and pros. Laugardalslaug is Reykjavík’s largest swimming pool, featuring water slides, multiple hot tubs, a steam room, and 50-metre lanes for serious swimmers. Together, these attractions make Laugardalur a prime destination for family outings or a full day of play.

Gardens & Galleries

Beyond the playgrounds and pools, Laugardalur is rich in culture and creative inspiration. Reykjavík's Botanical Garden (Grasagarðurinn) showcases over 3,000 species of plants in a peaceful setting that’s free to visit year-round. It’s especially beautiful in summer, when the garden café opens and the park fills with birdsong. Art lovers will enjoy nearby Ásmundarsafn, a museum dedicated to the works of sculptor Ásmundur Sveinsson, whose modernist pieces are displayed both indoors and in the surrounding sculpture garden. A short walk away, the Sigurjón Ólafsson Museum offers insight into another influential Icelandic sculptor, with exhibitions in a house built by the artist himself. These cultural gems add depth and creativity to the neighbourhood's outdoor offerings.

City Camping

There's a wide array of quality hotels in the neighbourhood, and Laugardalur is also home to Reykjavík Campsite, a well-equipped and centrally located base for travellers looking to experience the capital on a budget or with a sense of adventure. Open in summer, the eco-friendly campsite offers showers, laundry facilities, bike rentals, and access to public transport. It's just steps away from the swimming pool, zoo, and botanical gardens, making it ideal for families or backpackers who want to be close to nature while staying in the city.

A Sporting Hub

Laugardalur is the beating heart of sports in Reykjavík, housing the city's largest athletic facilities and stadiums. The Laugardalsvöllur national stadium hosts Iceland’s national football matches, as well as major concerts and events. Surrounding the stadium are training fields, a running track, tennis courts, and a multi-sport indoor arena. Whether you're attending a game, competing in a tournament, or just jogging through the park, Laugardalur offers top-tier facilities in a lush, park-like setting.