There’s no city quite like Glasgow when it comes to mixing raw energy with friendly vibes. From the grit of the Barras to the elegance of the West End, this place is built for getting out and about. Whether you’re exploring Kelvingrove for the first time or you’ve been up and down Byres Road a hundred times, there’s always something new to discover. With
Groupon deals, vouchers, and discounts available across the city, you can dive into everything from outdoor adventures to live shows—without stretching your budget.
Get Active in the City and Beyond
Glasgow’s outdoor scene offers more than just parks and pavements. It’s a city built for movement—on foot, on water, or two wheels. Start your morning with a cycle along the Clyde Walkway, or paddleboard past historic shipyards on the River Clyde. In the north, Pinkston Watersports brings adrenaline to the city centre, while TCA’s climbing gym in Portman Street is a favourite for year-round indoor sessions. If you’re based in the Southside, weekend hikes from Queen’s Park to Cathkin Braes offer peaceful views and fresh air, just minutes from home. Want to try something new? You’ll often find
great local activity vouchers that make it easier to book:
- Kayaking and paddleboarding at Pinkston or Clyde-side spots
- Group bootcamps and fitness classes in Kelvingrove or Pollok Park
- Urban climbing, trampolining, or bouldering in Maryhill and beyond
Culture You Don’t Have to Look For
Glasgow’s culture isn’t reserved for galleries and museums—it’s in street murals, basement venues, and unexpected corners. The Centre for Contemporary Arts (CCA) on Sauchiehall Street offers experimental exhibitions and live events year-round, while Tramway in Pollokshields transforms a former tram depot into a stage for theatre, music, and visual art. Even the GoMA in Royal Exchange Square surprises with rotating displays of local and international talent. If you’re planning a cultural day out, make use of:
Glasgow makes creativity accessible—whether you’ve got ten pounds or none at all.
Weekends That Don’t Feel Like Repeats
Saturday mornings at the Barras. Street food in Finnieston. Late-night sets at SWG3. Glasgow’s weekend rhythm is both reliable and ever-changing. If you’ve got a few free hours, there’s always a festival, market, or live performance happening somewhere nearby. Many of the best events are pop-up or short-run, so staying spontaneous often pays off. For a weekend well spent:
- Explore Glasgow festivals and local events around Queen’s Park or Kelvingrove
- Drop by pop-up food halls like Big Feed or Dockyard Social
- Check listings for secret gigs or community performances in the West End
It’s not about doing something big—it’s about doing something new.
Family-Friendly (Without Feeling Forced)
Glasgow does well at balancing grown-up fun with kid-friendly days out. The Science Centre on Pacific Quay is a favourite for hands-on exploration, while the Riverside Museum keeps everyone entertained with vintage cars, trams, and a recreated cobbled street. For outdoor downtime, Pollok Park and Tollcross Park offer animals, bike trails, and wide-open space. You’ll also find useful
cinema discounts across the city—from IMAX screenings to local cinemas in Silverburn, The Forge, and Glasgow Fort.
See the City in a New Light
Even if you think you know Glasgow, it has layers. You just need to know where to look. Book a walking tour that follows the mural trail, explore the Necropolis by lantern on a night-time history tour, or take the Forth & Clyde Canal route from Maryhill to Port Dundas for a peaceful glide through the city's quieter corners. Try something a little off-route with:
- Guided sightseeing deals and historic food tours
- Distillery tastings in the East End and whisky experiences in Merchant City
- Interactive escape games in the city centre or west end
These are the types of days you remember—unexpected, immersive, and just a little different.
