15 best things to do in Glasgow to make the most of your day off!
Wondering how to spend your day off in Glasgow? We get it — your well-earned break should be all about relaxing, exploring, or just doing something that makes you smile.
But with so much happening in this vibrant city, figuring out where to start can feel like you’re stuck in a bit of a Glas-go-round.
Whether you’re in the mood to soak up some culture or fancy getting out in nature, we’ve got plenty of ideas to Clyde your way through an amazing day.
Keep reading to find out more!
Historical and cultural things to do in Glasgow
1. Explore diverse art collections at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Media credits: kelvingroveartgalleryandmuseum
Address: Argyle St
Contact details: +44 141 276 9599
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 10 AM – 5 PM
- Friday: 11 AM – 5 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 5 PM
Price: Free
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum has that grand Spanish baroque design. Before heading in, you’ll find the red sandstone exterior of Kelvingrove Park looking stunning against the greenery.
Inside, the museum’s layout is spacious. There were also interactive displays where kids could have a blast.
A highlight was the pipe organ recital. We timed our visit perfectly for the 2 PM performance, and the music filling the massive hall was incredible.
However, we noticed that some labels in the natural history section aren’t clear enough. A few displays left us guessing what we were looking at.
Pro tip:
The gift shops can get quite busy near closing time at 5 PM. If you’re planning to grab souvenirs, consider popping in earlier.
2. Visit the stunning medieval Glasgow Cathedral
Media credits: glasgowcathedralofficial
Address: Castle St
Contact details: +44 141 552 6891
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 10 AM – 4 PM
- Sunday: 1 PM – 4 PM
Price: Free
The crypts inside the Glasgow Cathedral were a highlight for us. Walking down into the dimly lit space to see St. Mungo’s tomb felt like uncovering a hidden piece of Glasgow’s past. You can spend a little time here if you want a peaceful atmosphere.
The stunning stained-glass windows were gorgeous too, especially the Millennium Window. It’s especially stunning in the afternoon when the light hits the glasses just right.
The Upper Chapter House felt like a little time capsule with its simple yet charming setup. Some of our teammates who are big Outlander fans were pretty excited to spot parts of the cathedral that were used in the show.
Pro tip:
The cathedral can feel quite cool inside, especially in the crypt, so make sure to bring an extra layer.
3. Enjoy some interactive displays at the Riverside Museum
Media credits: speelingmistake
Address: 100 Pointhouse Rd
Contact details: +44 141 287 2720
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 10 AM – 5 PM
- Friday: 11 AM – 5 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 5 PM
Price: Free
There was so much to see inside the Riverside Museum, including an incredible lineup of vintage cars, bicycles, and even a full-on steam locomotive. Even if you’re not really into transport history, the way they mix cool facts with personal stories makes it interesting.
The recreated Glasgow street was a real standout. It gave us a nostalgic glimpse into the city’s past with old shopfronts and a charming subway station setup.
One thing we noticed though, was that the layout felt a bit chaotic. While the Star Wars exhibits were a neat addition, they were scattered around the museum, making it hard to know if we’d seen them all.
Pro tip:
Don’t skip The Glenlee, which is docked just outside the museum. It’s free to visit and adds an extra layer to the experience. It has a play area, so It’s especially great for kids.
4. Step back in time at The Tenement House
Media credits: tenement_house_nts
Address: 145 Buccleuch St
Contact details: +44 141 333 0183
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Price: ££
The rooms inside the Tenement House are packed with personal belongings of Miss Agnes Toward, a typist who used to live there. We loved spotting details like a pot of homemade ham from 1929 and tins of liquorice powder on the bathroom shelf.
The volunteers were full of interesting stories about what life was like in a Glasgow tenement. Even though there were only four small rooms to explore, we ended up spending over an hour just soaking it all in and chatting with the staff.
Before heading out, we stopped by the gift shop. It’s small but has some thoughtful souvenirs that feel a step above the usual tourist fare.
Pro tip:
Bring an older relative along. If they have ties to Glasgow, they might share nostalgic stories that make the visit even more special.
Food and drinks in Glasgow
5. Savour modern Scottish cuisine at The Ubiquitous Chip
Media credits: ubiquitous_chip
Address: 12 Ashton Ln
Contact details: +44 141 334 5007
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Thursday: 5 PM – 12 AM
- Friday to Sunday: 12 PM – 12 AM
- Monday to Tuesday: Closed
Price: £££
The Ubiquitous Chip had a very welcoming atmosphere with its lush greenery, twinkling lights, and artistic murals setting the mood.
The tasting menu was a showstopper, with each course carefully curated to showcase local ingredients. The duck, in particular, was tender and bursting with flavour. If we had to nitpick, we’d say the cheese was served a little too cold.
They also have an impressive wine selection. We tried the prestige wine flight, and the standout for us was a silky red with velvety tannins and a hint of smokiness that lingered after each sip; it was the perfect match for our duck.
Pro tip:
Since The Ubiquitous Chip gets busy, especially on weekends, booking ahead is a smart move.
6. Try out some malt whiskeys at The Pot Still
Media credits: thepotstill
Address: 154 Hope St
Contact details: +44 141 333 0980
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 11 AM – 12 AM
Price: ££
The Pot Still has that classic pub charm, with its old-school decor, high ceilings, and a cosy mezzanine that adds a bit of warmth to the buzz of the bar below. The vibe was friendly, and the staff had an impressive knack for making everyone feel welcome.
When it came to whisky, the options felt endless. With over 700 bottles lining the shelves, we were a bit overwhelmed. It’s a good thing the staff guided us through some great choices. They asked about our preferences, whether we liked something smoky, sweet, or spicy.
The Glasgow 1770 Original ended up being our favourite for its smooth yet bold character. Plus, pairing it with a crisp Magners Irish cider balanced things beautifully.
Pro tip:
While whisky is the star of this pub, their rotating cask ales are well worth trying, especially if you’re after something different or lighter.
7. Dine in style at The Gannett
Media credits: thegannetgla
Address: 1155 Argyle St, Finnieston
Contact details: +44 141 204 2081
Operating hours:
- Wednesday: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
- Thursday to Saturday: 12 PM – 2 PM, 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
- Sunday to Tuesday: Closed
Price: £££
We opted for the tasting menu with wine pairings in The Gannett. The canapes kicked things off beautifully — delicate, flavourful, and a perfect teaser for what followed. The oysters were incredibly fresh with that perfect mix of briny goodness and a little zing of citrus.
One of us also had a wine pairing with his lamb dish. The rich, tender meat was paired beautifully with the deep, earthy red wine that brought everything together.
We also loved how they had mocktails for those who didn’t want to drink but still enjoyed sipping with us.
The staff took time to explain the dish, and their knowledge of the wine pairings added another layer of appreciation to the meal.
Pro tip:
We recommend coming to The Gannett Hungry. The tasting menu is generous, and you’ll want to leave room to enjoy every bite.
8. Sip some cocktails at the Blue Dog
Media credits: bluedogglasgow
Address: 151 W George St
Contact details: +44 141 229 1712
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 4 PM – 3 AM
- Friday to Sunday: 1 PM – 3 AM
- Monday: Closed
Price: ££
Blue Dog felt like stalking straight into a jazz bar in New York. The warm lighting, leather booths, and exposed bricked walls created a cosy yet cool vibe.
We lucked out with seats right by the baby grand piano, and the pianist was amazing. He plays beautifully and even takes requests.
The cocktails were just as good. The espresso martini was rich and smooth, and the Negroni hit that perfect balance. When we asked for some fun gin-based drinks, the bartenders whipped up a couple of surprises that were absolutely delicious.
We also tried their charcuterie and cocktail deal, which gave us four different cocktails to sample. The barman was great about switching things up if we weren’t sure about one, which was a nice touch.
Pro tip:
Bring cash for tips. The pianist is super talented, and if they play your requests, a tip goes a long way in showing appreciation.
Entertaining things to do in Glasgow
9. Dance your night away at the Sub Club
Media credits: subclub87
Address: 22 Jamaica St
Contact details:
Operating hours:
- Friday to Saturday: 11 PM – 4 AM
- Sunday to Thursday: Closed
Price: ££
As soon as we stepped into Sub Club, we immediately felt the bass vibrating through the floor, thanks to their famous bodysonic dancefloor. It was a unique experience since we were not just hearing the music but also feeling it.
If you’re into house and techno, this place is a must-visit. The sound system is powerful yet crystal clear, making every beat hit perfectly.
Drinks were on the pricier side, but we didn’t mind since they were really good. There were no troublemakers, which we realised was probably down to the bouncers who were friendly but always did the job.
Pro tip:
Check their schedule beforehand. The bouncers often ask what event you’re attending to filter out anyone who’s not really there for the music. If you’re hitting Subculture or another big night, mention it at the door.
10. Enjoy some punch lines at The Stand Comedy Club
Media credits: thestandglasgow
Address: 333 Woodlands Rd
Contact details: +44 141 212 3389
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Price: ££
The Stand Comedy Club is tucked away in a cosy basement setting with an intimate atmosphere. We grabbed tickets for a Friday night show and were blown away by the lineup: four fantastic acts plus a hilarious compere, all for just £15.
Arriving early is a smart move since the venue fills up fast. Even with a decent spot, things still felt a bit snug. If you’re not a fan of close quarters, it’s worth getting in as early as possible.
There were some hecklers, but both the comedians and the crowd handled them brilliantly.
The Red Raw nights on Tuesdays are a steal at just £2, and they’re a brilliant way to see fresh talent before they make it big. The bar also had a solid selection of drinks, including a house lager, which also had a reasonable price, especially for a city venue.
Pro tip:
If you’d rather avoid becoming part of the act, don’t sit too close to the stage. Comedians at The Stand are known for their sharp wit and love of audience interaction, especially with those seated front and centre.
11. Have fun with science at the Glasgow Science Centre
Media credits: glasgowsciencecentre
Address: 50 Pacific Quay
Contact details: +44 141 420 5000
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Friday: 10 AM – 3 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
- Monday to Tuesday: Closed
Price: ££
We spent five hours exploring the Glasgow Science Centre, and we could’ve stayed longer. The interactive exhibits spread across the three floors were packed with hands-on fun, including puzzles, illusions, and creative building stations.
The planetarium show, Gazing at the Stars, was a definite highlight for us. The presenter’s mix of humour and knowledge made it engaging, and it was fascinating to see the night sky unfold above us. There’s also an IMAX cinema that shows both 2D and 3D shows.
We’d also highly recommend trying the flight simulator. It’s £30 but totally worth it since it’s incredibly realistic and offers a lot of thrill, especially for aviation fans.
The cafe also had plenty of options and was reasonably priced.
Pro tip:
Pick either the IMAX or the planetarium for your visit. Trying to fit both in one day can feel a bit rushed.
12. Stretch those limbs at the Glasgow Climbing Centre
Media credits: glasgow_climbing_centre
Address: 534 Paisley Rd W
Contact details: +44 141 427 9550
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10 AM – 10 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 9 AM – 6 PM
Price: ££
Set inside a converted 19th-century church, the Glasgow Climbing Centre has an atmosphere that blends history with adventure. The stained glass windows and wooden beams make climbing here feel surprisingly grand, like scaling the walls of an old castle.
The routes in the top-roped climbs kept us entertained for hours since they had beginner-friendly and challenging options. There’s also a bouldering area in the basement. The mix of routes, including crack climbs and some tricky overhangs, offered a solid workout.
The staff were also super helpful and always on hand to offer tips or encouragement. They made sure everyone felt comfortable, especially the younger climbers.
Pro tip:
After your climbing session, grab some food at the Balcony Cafe. The view of the climbing walls from the cafe adds to the experience, though it’s worth noting that getting up there involves a spiral staircase which could be a problem for those with mobility challenges.
Outdoor things to do in Glasgow
13. Relax amidst the diverse plant collection at Glasgow Botanic Gardens
Media credits: travel_hike_one_mile_at_a_time
Address: 730 Great Western Rd
Contact details: +44 141 276 1614
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 3:45 PM
Price: £
Visiting Glasgow Botanic Garden feels like a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets. There were vibrant flower beds and towering trees which created a stunning display of colour.
The Kibble Palace inside was a beautiful Victorian glasshouse filled with ferns, delicate orchids, and marble statues that added an elegant touch. The koi pond there also gave the place a calm, serene vibe.
We also stopped at one of the outdoor picnic spots to enjoy our packed lunch, though there’s also a tea room and a food truck near the entrance for those looking to grab a bite on-site.
Pro tip:The gardens are home to curious squirrels that often approach visitors, so keep an eye out for them. Kids will love spotting these playful creatures darting around.
14. Have a picnic at the Victoria Park
Media credits: cieeglasgow
Address: Victoria Park
Contact details: +44 141 959 9087
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Price: Free
Victoria Park offers a fantastic spot for a laid-back outdoor experience, especially for families and dog walkers.
The fossilized trees in The Fossil Grove were all incredibly well-preserved, even though they’ve been there for over 300 million years. There were also ducks, swans, and other birds in the pond area which made the ambience peaceful.
The playground was also a hit for families. There’s plenty to keep kids entertained, from slides and climbing frames to a pirate ship that seemed to be the go-to for adventure seekers.
Pro tip:
It’s a good idea to wear sturdy shoes. While most of the paths are smooth and ideal for walking or cycling, some areas can get muddy or have puddles, especially after rain.
15. Spend a day trailing around Cathkin Braes Country Park
Media credits: kelvin_kabs
Address: 39A Cathkin Rd
Contact details: +44 141 287 5064
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Price: Free
Exploring Cathkin Braes Country Park is a fantastic mix of adventure and relaxation. The views alone here made the visit worthwhile since it gave us an incredible panoramic look over the city and beyond. We even spotted Ben Lomond in the distance!
There are mountain biking trails with pump tracks and blue routes that are more manageable and fun with just the right amount of challenge.
The ancient woodlands are also nice for a laid-back stroll. The beech trees were stunning, especially with the light filtering through the leaves. A small burn also widened into a pool where many dogs splashed around.
Pro tip:
The main car park can fill up quickly, especially on sunny weekends. Arrive early so you’ll have a better chance of finding a spot.