When you think family travel what’s the first place you think of?  Okay, probably not Helsinki, Finland.  But maybe it should be.  This fantastic city has all manner of great attractions for kids.  So pack up, head north and be prepared to be dazzled.

1.  The Island Fortress of Suomenlinna

I’ve already waxed poetic about Suomenlinna.  This old stone fortress is  a short ferry ride from the Helsinki harbor – and is just a wonderful place to explore, climb and run amok.  You’ll love the island’s rich history.  Your kid will love throwing rocks into the ocean from the rocky ramparts of this medieval fortress.

2.  Korkeasaari (otherwise known as the Helsinki Zoo)

The Finns call it Korkeasaari.  But you can just call it the zoo.  And this zoo is a fantastic little island in the Helsinki archipelago where you can check out all kinds of lions, tigers and bears.  One of the best things about Korkeasaari is its commitment to conservation.  It’s all about protecting endangered animal and plant species.  But it’s also just a wonderful place to have a walk, check out some animals and let the kids burn off some energy.

3.  A boat ride along the harbor

There’s nothing like a boat ride!  And at the harbor, there are all manner of companies that will offer you a few hour boat tour of the archipelago.  Check out the many islands that make up Helsinki – and, if chilly, all have a cup of cocoa while you do it.

4.  Seurasaari Open-Air Museum

Curious what Finland might have looked a few hundred years ago?  Visit the Seurasaari.  This open-air museum has relocated old houses and buildings from all over the country so you can check out what life was like for the Finns over the past few hundred years.

5.  Sea Life Helsinki

Who doesn’t love an aquarium?  (If there is such a person, I don’t want to know about it – because I love an aquarium).  And Sea Life Helsinki highlights some of the fantastic sea life from the area as well as around the world.  But to add a little excitement, the aquarium is adjacent to Linnanmaki Amusement Park.  You can check out the aquarium and then head on over to ride the roller coaster.  Win/win all around!

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