Summer is a wonderful time in Fredrikstad and Hvaler – especially for the little ones!
There’s plenty to do for families with children. Visit the goats in the Old Town, go crab fishing at Skjærhalden or hop on a train at the Model Railway Centre.
1) Ride the train at the Old Town Model Railway Centre
The Old Town Model Railway Centre is the largest of its kind in Scandinavia, with 400 square metres of miniature trains located in the heart of Fredrikstad’s Old Town. Explore a detailed world in scale 1:87 – filled with tiny trains, cars, houses, landscapes, and lots of funny surprises. A model of the Old Town itself is also on display.
2) Take the plunge…
There are plenty of swimming spots in Fredrikstad and Hvaler. Kongstenbadet, just outside the Old Town, has a large outdoor pool complex. Prefer salt water? You’ll find many family-friendly beaches, including Foten, which offers great facilities for kids.
3) Go find a bear…
…or maybe a wolf or an owl? Bjørneløypa is a fun hiking trail for kids in the Fredrikstad forest, with animal sculptures hiding along the path. Look carefully – some birds sit high up in the trees and bears might lurk behind rocks. Can you find them all?
4) Play mini golf
Right next to the Old Town is Aktivitetsbyen Gamle Fredrikstad, home to both a full golf course and a mini golf course – shaped like a miniature version of the Old Town!
5) Where do the goats live?
The goats live near the playground in the Old Town – and they love visitors. Just don’t feed them bread. Bring some salad, carrots or oats instead. The ducks near the bridge also enjoy birdseed or sliced grapes.
6) See the city from the water
The city ferry in Fredrikstad is free – and fun for kids. Take a short boat trip from the city centre to the Old Town, or a longer ride to Gressvik.
7) Hop on and off all day
Island hopping in Hvaler is a must. Hop off at Søndre Sandøy and visit Café Oline. The island has lots of lovely swimming spots. Bring a flower guide and magnifying glass – this island has rare plants to discover. On Herføl, explore ancient glacial potholes. At the Ytre Hvaler National Park visitor centre, kids can join nature activities all summer.
8) Playful history
Visit Fredrikstad Museum in Tøihuset – a hands-on experience for all ages. At the Coastal Museum on Hvaler, kids can learn about coastal life, try traditional games, and play with old toys.
9) Watch a movie
Fredrikstad Cinema has been voted Norway’s most beautiful several years in a row.
10) Roll along the Glomma River
Glommastein is perfect for a family bike trip, with scenic stops like Roald Amundsen’s birthplace, Hans Nielsen Hauge Memorial, Hafslund Manor and Sarpsfossen waterfall.
Check out the What’s On calendar for even more summer events!
Have a great summer!