Best Of Reykjavík 2023: Best Place to Take the Kids

Best Place to Take the Kids

Fjölskylduland

Dugguvogur 4, 104 Reykjavík

Photo by Art Bicnick

Described as Iceland’s “first holistic Indoor Playground and Family Center in Iceland,” this one is sort of like a private members club for toddlers. Fjölskylduland is somewhat like a large indoor playground, full of stimulating activities for children 0-6 years old. If the playhouse isn’t enough to keep their attention, you can enroll them in gymnastics, or baby yoga. Because you’re never too young to align your chakras!

Runner-Up:

The Salvation Army

Suðurlandsbraut 72, 108 Reykjavík

Photo by Art Bicnick

This one took us by surprise, as it’s not openly geared towards children, but several panelists mentioned how well this space served the family folk of the 108 area. The distinctive red building was designed by Teiknistofan Tröð and opened in 2021 as the new HQ for the Salvation Army. While the overt Christian themes may be off putting to some, there is no denying the appeal of the affordable and spacious café, generous play area and arts and crafts workshops.

Newcomer:

Höfuðstöðin

Rafstöðvarvegur, 110 Reykjavík

Photo by Vidir Bjornsson

Set in the beautiful Elliðaárdalur public park, this permanent installation by artist Hrafnhildur Arnardóttir (aka Shoplifter) is not, strictly-speaking, geared towards children but our panelists said their kids find so much to love in the vibrant colours and soft textures. Plus, you can chalk that up to a culturally edifying activity, as it’s technically an art installation.

Previous Winners

2022: Húsdýragarðurinn

2021: The Maritime Museum

2020: Húsdýragarðurinn