Travelling with Your Family in North Karelia

Start Your Adventure

VK-Harri-Tarvainen-childrenrunning.jpg (1)

Things to do for All Seasons

“Mommy, is there nothing to do?” North Karelia has. Visit the farmyard to pet the animals or go to a sausage sizzle. The exciting atmosphere of an escape room game is fun even when it rains. Museums, mines, climbing and jumping – here you will find things to do for the whole family during the summer, and the time will pass like at grandma’s!

My Furry Friends

The lovely animal yards in North Karelia are a favorite destination for families with children. And you don't always have to go to the country - Sinkkola Farm Animal Yard in Joensuu brings a country atmosphere to the shadows of apartment buildings.

You can play with your furry friends at Kitee Zoo, PikkuKili and Saarila, among others. Many animal parks also offer kiosk treats to make the day of the excursion more fun. Read more about animal parks below.

Activities in case of rain

Rainy days are a great excuse to play inside. Would you like to dive into the tropical heat, swim in a spa or have an adventure in an indoor playground?

These destinations are sure to be favorites for the whole family, rain or shine:

VK-Harri-Tarvainen-childrenfishing.jpg (1)

Nature Attractions for the Whole Family

Exploring the local highlights

In the Joensuu city centre area, you can also find many excursion destinations suitable for families with children. On the Kuhasalo nature trail, you can admire the Pyhäselä lake landscape while grilling sausages, in Noljakka you can watch birds and cows grazing in the summer, the Repokallio trails take you deep into the primeval forest, and on the Utra Islands you can also go to the campfire with a stroller.

Outokumpu is special because of the Outokumpu Wilderness and Nature Centre, which has its own fish oasis for children. The region is full of shorter nature trails suitable for families with children and exciting destinations such as the Koli Pirunkirkko Church.

Let's Go Swim!

The Best Beaches on a Map

Saimaa, Pielinen, Höytiäinen and many other lakes and small ponds in the area offer wonderful swimming spots. Did you know that in the Joensuu city center alone there are nine different beaches, many of which are well suited for children's swimming?

Uimaan! - Beaches of North Karelia on a map Joensuu Region Beaches Lappis Water Park in Ilosaari

Kuva: Vanha Kaivos / Outokummun kaupunki

More tips!

Enjoy the Outdoors while playing Frisbee Golf

You can also experience the Old Mine from a different perspective by playing frisbee golf. The full 18-hole course is located right next to the magnificent mining environment of Old Mine. The course, maintained by the Okun Frisbeegolf Association, is approximately two kilometers long.

The Best Mini Golf Courses Around the Region

Mini golf is a relaxing pastime for the whole family. The activity can be enjoyed as a day trip or as part of your accommodation.

Street Train in the center of Joensuu

Take a ride on the Jippo street train to explore Joensuu's most famous attractions. Departures from Monday to Saturday from the city center stop every hour between 1.6.– 11.8.2026.

Outokumpu Frisbee Golf Minigolf at Joensuun Kuntokeidas Minigolf at Camping Karvio Jippo Street Train in Joensuu