Things to Do on the Silver Coast With Kids – Unique Attractions & Local Favorites
Planning a family trip to Portugal? If you’re exploring the beautiful central coast, you’ll love this list of fun and unique things to do on the Silver Coast with kids. From interactive museums to quirky miniature villages, the region is packed with adventures that both children and adults will enjoy.
That’s why I decided to round up 15+ new places to visit on the Silver Coast with kids — a fresh, updated list for families who want to discover hidden gems, explore the outdoors, and enjoy unforgettable experiences without driving too far.
Whether you’re staying in Nazaré, Caldas da Rainha, or Lourinhã, there are plenty of things to do on the Silver Coast with kids within a short drive.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this list has something for every age and interest.
Family-Friendly Attractions: Top Things to Do on the Silver Coast With Kids
🏰 1. Dino Parque (Lourinhã)
Yes, it’s well known — but if you haven’t gone recently, Dino Parque has been expanding! This outdoor dinosaur museum and park is a dream come true for dino-loving kids. Plus, the shaded walking trails make it manageable even on warmer days. I’ll write up a detailed blog post on Dino Parque soon.
🦁 2. Bacalhôa Buddha Eden (Bombarral)
Not your average park — Buddha Eden is a peaceful open-air museum with giant statues, pagodas, koi ponds, and lush gardens. Kids love the train ride around the grounds and all the space to roam freely. There are little trains you can take for a whole tour. It’s quite a bit of walking so bring your sun hat and stamina if not taking the trains. (they make frequent stops where you hop on and off)
🌿 3. Parque Verde da Várzea (Torres Vedras)
A surprisingly big and very well-kept urban park — perfect for biking, walking, or enjoying the modern playground. There’s a skatepark, basketball courts, and paddle boats on the river (available seasonally).
🐴 4. Quinta Pedagógica de Várzea (Torres Vedras)
Not far from the park above is this educational farm, where kids can meet donkeys, goats, chickens, and even peacocks. There are activities and workshops on weekends — and it’s completely free to enter!
🧗 5. Serra de Montejunto (Cadaval)
For nature-loving families, this mountain range offers hiking trails, breathtaking views, and even caves to explore. Pack a picnic and bring sturdy shoes — the weather can be chillier up here.
Indoor Things to Do on the Silver Coast With Kids
🦖 6. Museu da Lourinhã (Lourinhã)
This underrated gem is perfect for dino-loving kids and curious grown-ups. The museum features real dinosaur fossils discovered in the region, engaging exhibits on local history, and a fun kids’ area. It’s small enough for toddlers to enjoy without being overwhelming, but still fascinating for older children. Bonus: you’re in the “dinosaur capital” of Portugal, so it ties in perfectly with local outdoor fossil trails.
🧱 7. Brickopolis (Lourinhã)
Recently added to the Guinness World Records – this indoor LEGO-inspired play center is a newer addition and a total win for families with younger children. Think creative play areas, obstacle courses, and building zones that keep little ones engaged for hours — especially great on rainy or too-hot days. They also offer birthday parties and themed events.
🍃 8. Ecopista do Dão (Viseu – for a day trip)
Not exactly Silver Coast, but close enough for a weekend day trip. This is one of the most beautiful cycling paths in Portugal, built on an old railway line. Rent bikes or scooters and enjoy a gentle, scenic ride.
🛶 9. Óbidos Lagoon Kayaking & Paddleboarding
The calm waters of Lagoa de Óbidos are perfect for introducing kids to paddle sports. Rentals are available near Foz do Arelho, and the peaceful setting is ideal for beginners.
🎨 10. Museu José Malhoa (Caldas da Rainha)
For older kids who enjoy art (I’ve taken my 3 year old as well), this small museum inside Dom Carlos Park is worth a visit. Afterward, grab ice cream and enjoy the duck pond and large playground nearby.
I’ve written a full blog post on the Museum – Read it here!
🍯 11. Quinta dos Loridos Honey Farm (near Bombarral)
A lesser-known spot with bees, honey tastings, and short nature trails. The farm sometimes offers kid-friendly tours and craft workshops, especially in spring.
🛝 12. Parque dos Monges (Alcobaça)
This theme park offers medieval-themed activities, ziplining, animal zones, and even canoe rides. It’s not open year-round, so check the schedule before planning a visit.
🥾 13. Trails Around Salir do Porto
Less crowded than other coastal hikes, the trails around Salir do Porto offer beautiful views of the bay, dunes, and cliffs — plus a giant sand dune kids love climbing. Perfect for an afternoon adventure.
🏡 14. Aldeia Museu José Franco (Mafra)
Step into a miniature version of a traditional Portuguese village at this charming open-air museum created by potter José Franco. Kids will love peeking inside tiny homes, shops, a schoolhouse, and even a working windmill—all designed to show what rural life in Portugal used to be like. There’s also a bakery on site where you can grab a warm pão com chouriço. It’s a magical, interactive stop for families and makes for great photos too.
🌸 15. Tapada Nacional de Mafra (Mafra)
Also a bit outside the core Silver Coast but worth including. This forest park has hiking trails, a deer reserve, a fun miniature train ride, and even falconry shows on weekends.
💡 Bonus Ideas
- Local weekly markets (Caldas da Rainha, Lourinhã) – for fresh produce and little surprises.
- Sunset at Praia do Porto das Barcas – usually less crowded and great for tide pool exploration.
- Visit a local library – many now have family reading corners and even bilingual book events.
Tips for Exploring the Silver Coast with Kids
- Pack layers – coastal weather can change quickly, even in spring or early summer.
- Bring snacks and water – not every destination has a café nearby.
- Use Google Maps reviews – many of these places are local gems that don’t show up in traditional tourist guides.
- Be flexible – sometimes the best memories happen at the random beach you stumbled onto or the village café with no name but delicious pastries.
Final Thoughts
Raising a family on the Silver Coast has been such a gift — and part of that joy comes from discovering all these incredible places right on our doorstep. Whether you’re planning a weekend adventure or just want to get out for a few hours, I hope this updated list of things to do on the Silver Coast with kids helps spark some fresh ideas for your next outing.
And if you’ve discovered a hidden gem of your own, I’d love to hear about it — share in the comments or send me a message. We’re always looking for our next family mini-adventure.
With so many things to do on the Silver Coast with kids, your family is sure to make lifelong memories.
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