Best Things to Do In Dundee
Discover the vibrant tapestry of culture and history with the ultimate guide to the best things to do in Dundee.
Dundee: Verdant Works
What is it?
A restored jute mill offering insights into Dundee's industrial past.
Why you should go?
Verdant Works transports visitors back to the height of Dundee's jute industry, providing a vital connection to the city's social and economic heritage. The audio-guided tour introduces the roaring machines and the lives of mill workers, offering an evocative look into the conditions of industrial life. Recognized as a part of Scotland's national industrial museum, Verdant Works is a must-see in terms of things to do in Dundee for history enthusiasts and visitors looking to understand the city’s developmental fabric.
Dundee: Broughty Ferry Castle
What is it?
A 15th-century coastal fortress with a rich military history.
Why you should go?
Broughty Ferry Castle stands guard over the mouth of the River Tay, its walls echoing tales of battle and bravado. This picturesque historical attraction offers stunning sea views and a museum housing exhibitions on local history, ecology, and armaments. The audio concerns you might hear include the struggle for control over this strategic fortification which has been both Scottish and English through the tumultuous past. Its presence on the list of places to visit in Dundee adds a touch of martial legacy to the city's diverse cultural offerings.
Dundee: Discovery Point
What is it?
An award-winning attraction focusing on polar exploration and maritime heritage.
Why you should go?
Discovery Point is the proud home of the aforementioned RRS Discovery, the Antarctic expedition ship. Beyond just observing the vessel, this interactive centre provides gripping accounts of courageous explorers and their challenging expeditions, complete with audio narratives that enhance the sensory experience. It ranks highly as an educational and inspiring thing to see in Dundee, making it an ideal destination for families and anyone fascinated by the extremes of human adventure.
Dundee: Mills Observatory
What is it?
Britain's first purpose-built public astronomical observatory.
Why you should go?
Set atop Balgay Hill, the Mills Observatory invites the curious to gaze upon the stars and planets. It's equipped with a telescope for public use, alongside exhibits that explain celestial phenomena, making it among the unique Dundee activities. The observatory often hosts talks and events, offering a deep dive into the mysteries of the universe. For those wondering what to do in Dundee after dark, a visit here promises an enlightening experience under the night sky.
Dundee: The Howff
What is it?
A historically significant cemetery with remarkable gravestones and monuments.
Why you should go?
A place of rest since the 16th century, The Howff is noteworthy for its exceptional and often elaborate carved stones, representing one of the best collections of tombstones in Scotland. The burial ground is replete with the history of Dundee's prominent citizens and their stories, with an audio guide often providing context to the iconography and inscriptions. Visitors interested in genealogy, local history or just looking for peaceful contemplation amongst the echoes of the past will find The Howff a compelling inclusion on the list of best Dundee tours.
Dundee: The RRS Discovery
What is it?
A historic ship and museum chronicling Antarctic expeditions.
Why you should go?
Standing at the revitalized waterfront, the RRS Discovery offers a window into the heroic age of polar exploration. Visitors can board the actual ship used by Scott and Shackleton, now a centerpiece of Dundee's attractions. The accompanying museum provides immersive exhibits, detailing the harrowing voyages through frozen landscapes. The tales of endurance and scientific triumph combined with the interactive displays make for an enlightening experience that's both educational and one of the top things to do in Dundee.
Dundee: V&A Dundee
What is it?
Scotland's design museum and a beacon of innovation.
Why you should go?
The V&A Dundee is not just a museum; it's a landmark symbolizing Dundee's creative resurgence. Its striking architecture sets the stage for a host of galleries inside, which celebrate design's ability to transform and enhance lives. The collections range from historical Scottish design triumphs to groundbreaking contemporary works. A visit here, supplemented by insightful audio tours, ranks among the best things to do in Dundee for anyone interested in the creative process and its impact on society.
Dundee: Dundee Law
What is it?
An extinct volcanic peak offering spectacular city vistas.
Why you should go?
The Dundee Law is a natural beacon to all visitors, promising unparalleled views of the city and the River Tay. The journey to the summit is a rewarding hike that unveils the history of the area, once a prehistoric fort. An audio guide enhances the ascend, with stories of what to do in Dundee unraveling with each step. This visit not only entices with scenic beauty but also stands as a testament to Dundee's geological and historical significance, making it a key feature in Dundee activities.
Dundee: McManus Galleries
What is it?
A stunning Victorian museum and art gallery complex.
Why you should go?
Set in a Gothic-revival building, McManus Galleries is a treasure trove of Dundee's history and culture. Visitors can explore eight distinct galleries that sprawl over two floors, showcasing fine art, ancient artifacts, and natural history specimens. Engaging audio tours breathe life into the stories behind each exhibit. The diversity of the collections makes it one of the top things to see in Dundee, inviting tourists to delve into a rich narrative that spans millions of years.
Dundee: University of Dundee Botanic Gardens
What is it?
An extensive collection of plants in a tranquil setting.
Why you should go?
Nestled near the banks of the River Tay, the Botanic Gardens present a lush, peaceful escape from urban life. With an impressive variety of plant species from around the world, themed gardens, and a large pond, the setting is idyllic. The accompanying audio tour provides information on plant biology and conservation efforts, enriching the visitor experience. As one of the enjoyable and educational Dundee excursions, the gardens offer a space for relaxation and learning amidst nature's bounty.
TOP-5 tours in Dundee for first time visitors
- Explore the regenerated waterfront area and learn about the iconic RRS Discovery on a tour highlighting the best places to visit in Dundee.
- Dive into the world of design at the V&A Dundee, featuring an exclusive audio tour that showcases what to see in Dundee's creative scene.
- Meander through the Dundee Law to embrace panoramic city views while the audio guide narrates the volcanic hill's profound history as one of the fun things to do in Dundee.
- Relive history at the McManus Galleries, where an illuminating audio tour brings to life the rich stories behind the city's art and heritage collections as a not-to-miss Dundee activity.
- Stroll through the charming University of Dundee Botanic Gardens with an educational audio guide, making it one of the most serene and best Dundee excursions.
Fun things to do in Dundee with kids
The city of Dundee boasts a multitude of engaging attractions perfect for families journeying with children. For an educational adventure, the Sensation Science Centre sparks curiosity with hands-on exhibits that explore the wonders of science, making learning interactive and exciting. A close second is the Dundee Science Centre, dedicated to the younger demographic, where kids are encouraged to engage with scientific concepts through play. Another highlight for family fun is Camperdown Wildlife Centre, where children can come face-to-face with a variety of animals and learn about wildlife conservation. The audio guides available at these venues enrich the experience by adding fascinating facts and stories tailored to pique the interest of young minds. Each of these Dundee activities offers an entertaining mixture of education and recreation, ensuring that families have a memorable time while also discovering what to see in Dundee.
Things to do in Dundee with family
Embarking on a Dundee excursion with the family offers a blend of education, history, and fun. The Olympia Leisure Centre is a top destination for families, featuring swimming pools with exciting slides, guaranteed to make a splash with visitors of all ages. For a serene day out, the tranquil spaces of the University of Dundee Botanic Gardens provide a perfect setting for family picnics amidst colorful flora and fauna, along with educational opportunities about plant life. If history is more your speed, step back in time at the 15th-century Broughty Castle, offering interactive exhibits and stunning views of the River Tay. Each of these attractions in Dundee is family-friendly and promises to create lasting memories. With self-guided audio tours available, families can explore each site at their own pace, diving deeper into the stories and significance of these popular Dundee activities.
Free things to do in Dundee
Dundee, with its captivating scenery and rich cultural tapestry, offers an array of complimentary attractions suited to frugal travelers. Begin an adventure at The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum, which flaunts a stunning Gothic Revival style architecture and houses a vast collection that delves into the city's history, culture, and the arts. It is a cornerstone among the places to visit in Dundee, with no admission fee required. For nature enthusiasts, the city's well-maintained greenspaces such as the picturesque Magdalen Green provide an idyllic backdrop for leisurely strolls, picnics, and impromptu games. Lastly, step into the past by wandering through the Howff Cemetery, a historical burial ground nestled in the heart of Dundee, dating back to 1564. The inscriptions and sculptures on ancient tombstones tell a silent narrative of the city’s chronicles, completing a trio of the best things to see in Dundee that won't cost a penny.
Cheap things to do in Dundee
Dundee, known for its revitalized waterfront and cultural offerings, has a variety of attractions on offer that won’t break the bank. The Bargain Books located in The Wellgate shopping center is a haven for book lovers, providing endless hours of inexpensive entertainment. Delving into Dundee's past, The Dundee Law offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape for just a small cost of the energy to walk or drive to the top, and is especially popular at sunset. Meanwhile, wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy a visit to the Camperdown Country Park, which not only offers vast open spaces for leisurely activities but also a peek at local and exotic animals. These selections cater to those looking for what to do in Dundee on a budget, emphasizing that enriching experiences don't always come with a high price tag.
Things to do in Dundee for couples
Romantic escapes abound in Dundee, offering couples a range of experiences to forge lasting memories. The tranquil setting of the University of Dundee Botanic Gardens provides a picturesque environment for hand-in-hand strolls among vibrant displays of plant life. Here, lovebirds can enjoy a quiet picnic or simply revel in each other's company away from the hustle of city life. For those seeking cultural enrichment, the Dundee Contemporary Arts centre presents a cornucopia of visual art, cinema, and culinary delights, perfect for a date night as enlightening as it is intimate. As evening sets, the Observatory atop Balgay Hill is the ideal location for stargazing, where couples can gaze up at the mesmerizing tapestry of the night sky. Each of these Dundee activities fosters connection, conversation, and a deep appreciation for the city's charm, making them highly sought-after things to do in Dundee for couples.
Things to do in Dundee at night
Dundee's vibrant nightlife scene brings a new perspective to the city, with attractions that cater to night owls and culture seekers alike. A beacon for the evening's entertainment is the renowned Dundee Rep Theatre, where couples and groups alike can enjoy a slate of performances ranging from contemporary plays to classical productions, often followed by a relaxed drink in the theatre's bar. For a touch of academic charm mixed with social interaction, The University of Dundee's Dalhousie Building often hosts evening lectures and events that present a unique opportunity for intellectual engagement. Lastly, for a more casual yet equally memorable experience, a stroll along the Riverside Esplanade presents spectacular views of the Tay Rail Bridge illuminated against the night sky, a stunning sight that complements the serene sound of the river's current—an ideal conclusion to a day of Dundee tours.