Discover the best family experiences in the Raahe region: museums, the archipelago, events, and playgrounds create a diverse whole that offers new adventures for both schoolchildren and toddlers all year round.
Among Raahe’s museums, the Crown Granary Museum is especially popular with families. Its most famous treasure is the world’s oldest diving suit, Old Gentleman, which fascinates visitors of all ages. The museum also offers plenty of hands-on experiences for children: stroke Mrs. Seal Harmastus, try on a heavy diver’s helmet, test your strength by lifting weights with pulleys, or join in the construction play at the ancient giant’s church site. The smallest visitors can even help Arvo Lataus the elf find his missing buttons!
Throughout the year, Raahe Event House and Raahe Theatre present a wide range of performances, including shows for children. The stages host everything from children’s theatre to concerts, while Kinosalonki Sofia invites families to enjoy atmospheric children’s film screenings. A rich programme of events livens up the city year-round, offering cultural experiences for the whole family.
The Raahe Archipelago is a fascinating destination in every season. In summer, it can be reached by private boat or archipelago transports, while in winter the islands are accessible across the ice on skis or by snowbus. The islands of Iso-Kraaseli and Tasku offer sights and adventures for all ages. Their pookis—unlit beacons built in the 1800s—tell the story of the region’s maritime history. On Iso-Kraaseli, families can even spend the night in a historic pilot station, once used to guide ships safely in and out of the harbours.
In Pattijoki, Matti Lepistö’s Sculpture Park is a one-of-a-kind experience in Finland. The park features more than 300 concrete sculptures depicting people, animals, and imaginative figures. For children, it is an inspiring setting where art comes alive and stories spring to mind.
From Sandy Shores to Pools
The beaches of the Raahe region offer a wide variety of coastal landscapes. At Pikkulahti Beach you can enjoy a refreshing swim while admiring the historic wooden houses along Rantakatu. At Pyhäluoto Beach, swimmers step into the sea from smooth coastal rocks. Tauvo’s long sandy shore invites you to sink your toes into the warm sand and inspires children to build endless sandcastles. There are also swimming spots along the riversides and inland ponds, so families have plenty of options to choose from.
On rainy days or when the weather is cool, families head to Kuntokeidas Vesipekka, where spa-level facilities welcome visitors of all ages. The children’s pools and water slides are favourites among the youngest swimmers, while seasonal activities such as Wibit obstacle track weeks, water discos, and candlelight swims bring extra excitement throughout the year.
Outdoor Activities for Kids and Thrill Seekers
Siikajoki’s Hietamaa recreation center offers much more than just swimming. Families can enjoy frisbee golf, beach volleyball, and a variety of playgrounds. Children are drawn to the climbing frames and the Supernova carousel, while the family’s thrill seekers can test their speed on the go-kart track.
Raahe’s Children’s Traffic Park opens its gates in June and July, welcoming young drivers. With 21 pedal cars, a play area, a carousel, and a sandbox, it guarantees fun for kids of many ages. The park can even be booked for private events such as birthday parties.
Raahe boasts no fewer than 33 maintained playgrounds. In addition, the yards of schools and daycare centres are open to children outside school hours. The playgrounds offer safe and versatile equipment, from swings and slides to climbing frames and parkour tracks.
In summer, a popular mini golf course operates behind Kuntokeidas Vesipekka, where children under seven play for free.
Dining and Accommodation with the Family
In the heart of Old Town Raahe, Trade House of Lang is known not only for its history but also for its delightful treats. The café’s cakes and the summer ice cream bar are guaranteed favourites among children. For family-friendly dining, Raahen Hovi and Pancho Villa both offer menus with plenty of options for younger guests. Those bringing their own picnic can enjoy it by the flowing waters of Pyhäjoki’s Hourunkoski Riverside Park.
For accommodation, Trade House of Lang and Raahen Hovi provide comfortable stays for families with children. Those seeking privacy can book Katariina’s Chamber, a charming small apartment with a bedroom, kitchen, living room, and bathroom.
In Siikajoki, Törmälä Farm offers an unforgettable experience: a night in a tentsile, a tree tent that combines a hammock and a traditional tent. It’s a memorable adventure for both kids and adults alike! Another unique option is a sheep vacation: book a cottage at Kurikka Sheep Farm and spend your vacation surrounded by friendly sheep to pet and feed.
For those travelling by motorhome, excellent campsites can be found in both Raahe and Pyhäjoki. By the seaside, Lohenpyrstö is especially popular with families. The site features a modern playground, a pedal car track, and summertime children’s activities. In Pyhäjoki, Kielo Camp offers a beautiful island setting with a trampoline, playground, and toy box to keep the little ones entertained.