A perfect family day in Elliðaárdalur

Spend the Perfect Family Day in Elliðaárdalur

Elliðaárdalur is a charming city area on the eastern edge of Reykjavík that offers a delightful blend of history and nature, making it an ideal destination for a family day out. With its lush landscapes, cultural attractions, and fun activities, Elliðaárdalur provides a perfect escape for tourists exploring beyond the city centre. Here’s a guide to spending a memorable family day in Elliðaárdalur.

Start the Day at Árbæjarlaug

Kick off your family day in Árbær with a refreshing swim at Árbæjarlaug, a popular geothermal swimming pool. The facility boasts a variety of pools, including a heated outdoor pool, hot tubs, and a children’s pool equipped with water slides and play areas. It’s a great way to start the day, allowing both kids and adults to relax and enjoy the warm waters. The pool’s facilities also include a sauna and steam room, providing a perfect opportunity for the whole family to unwind before embarking on the day’s adventures​.

Explore Árbær Open Air Museum

After a morning swim, head to the Árbær Open Air Museum, a fascinating site that offers a glimpse into Icelandic history and culture. The museum consists of over 20 preserved buildings that recreate a traditional Icelandic village, complete with homes, a church, and a farm. This living museum is educational and highly interactive, making it a favourite among families. Kids will love exploring the old buildings and learning about Icelandic life in the past, while parents will appreciate the rich cultural insights.

Árbær Open Air Museum in Reykjavík photo Gunnar Freyr Gunnarsson

Step Into a Colourful Wonderland at Höfuðstöðin

For a magical, family-friendly experience, visit Höfuðstöðin, where you can step into the vibrant world of Shoplifter (Hrafnhildur Arnardóttir), who has exhibited at the Venice Biennale and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York. Shoplifter is known for her playful use of colour and texture and at Höfuðstöðin, families can wander through neon-colored tunnels and touch flowing hair-like sculptures. It’s a place designed to spark imagination, joy, and creativity. After soaking in the colours, relax at the on-site café with a light lunch and coffee.

Pro Tip: This exhibition is a dream for Instagram-worthy photos—every corner is bursting with color and creativity! 

Enjoy the great outdoors at Elliðaárdalur

After lunch, take a short drive to Elliðaárdalur, a picturesque valley that offers a variety of outdoor activities for families. This scenic area is known for its beautiful landscapes, including rivers, waterfalls, and lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for hiking and nature walks. The valley is crisscrossed with trails suitable for all ages and abilities, allowing you to explore the area at your own pace. The valley is also excellent for birdwatching and picnicking, offering plenty of open spaces where families can relax and enjoy the natural surroundings​.

Elliðaárdalur photo Gunnar Freyr Gunnarsson

Discover Elliðaárstöð

While exploring Elliðaárdalur, don’t miss a visit to Elliðaárstöð, a new destination in the heart of Reykjavík where you can learn about energy, resources and nature in a fun and playful environment. Elliðaárstöð Power Station is one of the most beautiful buildings in Reykjavík and an important source of the history of electricity in Iceland.

Relax by Elliðavatn

Conclude your family day in Elliðaárdalur with a visit to Elliðavatn, a tranquil lake located just a short distance from Elliðaárdalur. The lake’s serene setting provides a perfect backdrop for a leisurely afternoon. Families can enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake, enjoy the beautiful views, or simply relax by the water’s edge. The river and lake are popular angling spots for catching Arctic char, salmon and brown trout.

Elliðaárdalur offers a perfect mix of relaxation, education, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for a family day out in Reykjavík. From the refreshing waters of Árbæjarlaug and the rich history of the Open Air Museum to the natural beauty of Elliðaárdalur and Elliðavatn, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether exploring Icelandic heritage or immersing yourself in nature, a day spent in Elliðaárdalur promises unforgettable memories for the whole family.

What to do in Elliðaárdalur

Höfuðstöðin - The Home of Chromo Sapiens
Elliðaárdalur
Árbæjarlaug pool
Elliðavatn lake
Elliðaárstöð
Árbær Open Air Museum

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