Things to do in Ballymena

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Glenarm featuring a coastal town and general coastal views
Glenarm featuring general coastal views, a beach and a coastal town
Glenariff Forest Park which includes a river or creek and forest scenes
Glenarm featuring food and dining out
Glenarm featuring a bridge and a river or creek

Ballymena Attractions

Smaller cities have a charm about them you just don't find in their larger counterparts. Look up all the fun things to see and do in Ballymena before you head away so you can squeeze the most out of your break. You'll soon learn that bigger isn't necessarily better!

Find out what makes Ballymena tick with some of the most popular tours & day trips. Check out our top {24 fun activities in Ballymena fun activities in Ballymena}, and book with confidence knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.

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What to do in Ballymena

Free Things to Do in Ballymena

They say the best things in life are free. Check out the following around Ballymena:

Cranny Falls

- Simply being close to the water will leave you feeling refreshed and calm.

Millennium Riverside Walk

- It's easy to feel connected with Mother Nature at this awe-inspiring place.

Things to Do in Ballymena with Kids

There are plenty of awesome experiences in Ballymena that the entire gang will enjoy. Here are a few of the best family friendly experiences around.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Ballymena? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Ballymena

Glenarm Castle showing a park, heritage architecture and chateau or palace

Glenarm Castle

4.5/5(4 reviews)

The Earls of Antrim have called it home for 400 years and its spectacular walled garden is one of Ireland’s oldest, and at one time it was almost burned to the ground, it is said on account of a fire being kept permanently burning to warm up a featherless parrot. Glenarm Castle is truly one of a kind.

Glenarm Castle
Glenariff Forest Park which includes a river or creek, forests and a cascade

Glenariff Forest Park

5/5(7 reviews)

If you love getting back to nature, then a visit to Glenariff Forest Park, which was formed by glaciers during the Ice Age, will not disappoint. This majestic park, covering over 1,000 hectares of mature woodland, conservation areas and shimmering lake, is immensely popular with walkers, horse-riders, caravanners and campers.

Glenariff Forest Park

Slemish Mountain

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Slemish Mountain during your travels in Ballymena. While in this family-friendly area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Slemish Mountain

Cushendun Beach

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Cushendun Beach during your travels in Cushendun? Discover the countryside while you're in the area.

Cushendun Beach

Red Bay Castle

Learn about the local history of Cushendall with a stop at Red Bay Castle. Wander the seaside in this quaint area.

Red Bay Castle

Cranny Falls

5/5(1 review)

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Cranny Falls during your travels in Ballymena. While in this quaint area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Cranny Falls

Lurig Mountain

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Lurig Mountain during your travels in Ballymena. Stroll along the seaside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Lurig Mountain

Ossian's Grave

Learn about the local history of Glenaan when you take a trip to Ossian's Grave. While in this quaint area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Ossian's Grave

Galgorm Castle Golf Club

Enjoy a round of golf in Ballymena at Galgorm Castle Golf Club. Stroll along the seaside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Galgorm Castle Golf Club

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Ballymena

Mussenden Temple featuring general coastal views

Coleraine

Photo by Jason Mark

Carnlough

Ballycastle which includes general coastal views and tranquil scenes

Ballycastle

Photo by Lawrence Mc Cann

Ballyclare

Photo by Lawrence Mc Cann

Antrim

The Dark Hedges featuring a park

Ballymoney

Photo by Our Global Adventure

Cushendun

Glenarm which includes a bay or harbor

Glenarm

Frequently asked questions

Is Ballymena worth visiting?
Known for its markets and history, finding awesome things to do in Ballymena is easy. Don't forget to add Cranny Falls to your itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Ballymena?
After you've checked off popular attractions like Cranny Falls and ECOS Environmental Centre, spend some time discovering the retail and food options in Ballymena.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ballymena?
The top tourist attraction in Ballymena is Cranny Falls, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Ballymena?
Book a getaway in Ballymena for three days and you'll have plenty of time to tick off its leading sights and experience the local way of life. For the chance to see attractions in nearby areas and venture away from the tourist trail, consider sticking around for a week or more.
What are some activities to do in Ballymena with kids?
If you're looking for tours and attractions for all ages, take a look at these terrific ideas for what to do in Ballymena with kids.

What to do in Ballymena for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or outdoor explorer, there's a range of things to do in Ballymena for adults.
Are there free things to do in Ballymena?
From relaxing in parks to wandering around hip neighborhoods, it's easy to find free things to do in Ballymena. If you're in need of ideas, ask a local tour guide for recommendations. ECOS Environmental Centre is a great spot for anyone wanting to save on their travel adventures.