Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, is a city that offers something for everyone. From outdoor adventures in the stunning Arctic wilderness to cultural attractions and festive events, there is no shortage of things to do in Rovaniemi. Here are the 10 best things to do in Rovaniemi with kids while visiting this charming city:
1. Meet Santa Claus
There is no way you are going to Rovaniemi without meeting Santa Claus. Your Finland travel with kids is not complete without visiting Santa Claus Village, just outside Rovaniemi. Here, you can visit Santa Claus’ office, meet the man himself, and even send a letter from the official Santa Claus post office. The other official places to meet Santa are visiting his home cavern in SantaPark and the Santa Claus Secret Forest – Joulukka.
We decided to skip SantaPark as Santa Claus Village was a bit redundant. However, we went for the more private and exclusive Santa Claus Secret Forest, which was one of the most special and magical experiences we ever had. Dream of Joulukka is their flagship program that immersed us into another world. This is one of our most recommended things to do in Rovaniemi with kids!
2. Go on a husky safari
Rovaniemi is the perfect place to experience the thrill of a husky safari. These tours take you through the stunning Arctic wilderness, where you can see the Northern Lights, visit reindeer farms, and even stay overnight in a traditional Finnish cottage.
The Husky Park near Santa Claus Village is Rovaniemi’s go-to provider of husky rides. You can choose between 500 m., 1 km., and 3 km. rides. You also get the chance to play with the huskies. It’s one of the most fun things to do in Rovaniemi with kids.
3. Take a reindeer sleigh ride
What could be more quintessentially Finnish than a reindeer sleigh ride? These tours take you through the beautiful Arctic landscape and offer the opportunity to learn about the important role that reindeer play in the culture of Finnish Lapland.
The most convenient place to go on a reindeer sleigh ride is Santa Claus Reindeer, which is inside Santa Claus Village. They offer a 3 km. ride that will take you through a snowy forest. Or you can join their daytime or Northern Lights program that will take you further away to the wilderness.
4. See the Northern Lights
Rovaniemi is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, and there are several tours available that will take you to the best viewing spots. Be sure to bring your camera, as the Northern Lights are a truly awe-inspiring sight.
You have a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights between August and April, late at night, and as far from the city as possible. In Rovaniemi, two good spots are the Arctic Garden behind the Arktikum museum and on top of Ounasvaara fell.
5. Visit museums
Rovaniemi is home to world-class museums, including the Arktikum Science Center, where you can learn about the history of Finnish Lapland and the indigenous Sámi culture.; the Rovaniemi Art Museum., which features the works of local artists and touring exhibitions from around the world; and the Science Centre Pilke, which allows you to explore current forest issues. If you want more educational things to do in Rovaniemi with kids, make sure you visit at least the iconic Arktikum.
6. Play at Snowman World
Kids of all ages will love playing at Snowman World, inside Santa Claus Village. There are ice and snow slides, where your kids can slide down the hills with a sledge, rubber tube, or slider. There’s an ice-skating rink as well.
7. Stay at an ice hotel or glass igloo
One of the most unique things to do in Rovaniemi with kids is sleep in an ice hotel or glass igloo. The Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos is one of the biggest snow hotels in the world. You can stay in one of the ice-carved rooms at freezing temperatures. You have to wear warm clothes obviously and you get a sleeping bag over a soft mattress.
If that’s too much for you, you can stay at one of their glass-roofed igloos, where you can sleep beneath the starry skies and the Northern Lights. Either option is expensive, but it could be worth it since it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
8. Go skiing and other winter sports
Rovaniemi is not top of mind for skiing. But if you’re not going further up in Lapland to one of the best ski resorts, you might as well go skiing at Ounasvaaran Hiihtokeskus Oy, a ski resort in Rovaniemi. Your family can ski downhill or snowboard, enroll in ski school, or go tobogganing.
9. Feed reindeer, alpacas, llamas, sheep, and goats
Do your kids love animals? They can see and feed reindeer, llamas, alpacas, horses, bunnies, sheep, goats, and more at Elf’s Farmyard, located in Santa Claus Village. You can also walk or hike with the reindeer or alpacas.
10. Take a tour of the city
Rovaniemi is a city with a rich history and culture. It’s not the prettiest, but you’ll be remiss if you just stick to Santa Claus Village. Several tours will take you to the city’s most important landmarks and points of interest, such as the historic Rovaniemi Church, the Aalvar Alto-designed Rovaniemi City Library, and the iconic Lumberjack’s Candle Bridge. There’s also Angry Birds Park, which kids will enjoy if you visit in summer, spring, or fall.
No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find plenty of things to do in Rovaniemi. From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, this city has something for everyone.
