The Travel Guide to Alexandra & Clyde for Families 👪 [2024]

© James Jub - Destination Central Otago

Family Adventure Activities

Adventure can be found in a multitude of ways in Alexandra and Clyde, but one of the most popular things to do in Alexandra for families is to hit the bike trails.

Family-Friendly Cycle Trails

Two of the cycle trails here are part of the New Zealand Great Rides and riding sections of them make for a fun family outing. The Otago Central Rail Trail begins in Clyde and, while the whole thing is 152km (94 miles), the first section offers a family-friendly ride between Clyde and Chatto Creek. For families with older children, the Roxburgh Gorge Trail takes you through canyon landscape with vibrant green waters in three different sections: 10km (6 miles) is from Alexandra to Doctors Point, then get on a boat and travel 12km (7 miles) down the lake to Shingle Creek, then 12km (7 miles) to the Roxburgh Dam.

Alternatively, the 150th Anniversary River Track between Alexandra and Clyde is nothing to scoff at, following the blue waters of the Clutha River and passing abandoned mining relics on a 12km (7-mile) easy-going ride. Hire bikes, including kids’ bikes, and shuttle transport from Central Cycle Trail Co. (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor) or Bike it Now (on Viator and Tripadvisor). Learn more about the cycle trails in the 5 Best Bike Trails in Alexandra & Clyde.

Jet Boating

Whether you join them as part of the Roxburgh Gorge Trail or for one of their scenic thrill rides, Beaumont Jet is another fantastic option for families. Jump in the high-speed jet boat powered by the New Zealand invention of a jet propulsion system for a journey down the Clutha River. There are two types of tours to choose from, the Adventure Tour, which incorporated history, sightseeing and 360° spins, and the Eco Tour, taking you and your family to a special conservation island to look out for rare birds, insects and plants.

Monte Christo Raspberry Cafe

Another part of Alexandra and Clyde’s identity is its fruit and grape-growing industry, where the most family-friendly way to get involved is by picking your own raspberries at the Monte Christo Raspberry Cafe. The cafe, which specialises in berry fruit desserts, homemade scones, Southland cheese rolls, real fruit ice cream, is set in a pretty flower garden with plenty for kids to explore. Plus, there’s a family play area with mini golf, puzzle mats, giant board games, a miniature train and much more.

For more family-friendly experiences, like a 4WD safari, check out the 9 Things to Do in Alexandra & Clyde with Kids.

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All-Weather Family Activities

Alexandra has one of the driest climates in New Zealand, so needing to find a rainy day activity isn’t likely to be necessary. Nevertheless, this guide to Alexandra and Clyde for families has your back just in case you get caught in the rain.

Central Stories Museum

If you are unlucky with the weather, then at least you can rely on the small-town museum of Central Stories. Take the kids to learn about the region’s geology, early settlers, social history, gold mining, farming, orcharding, viticulture and much more!

Central Cinema

Beside the museum, you’ll find Central Cinema. This boutique cinema screens a range of mainstream, art-house, documentaries, and, of course, children’s films. Sit back in the comfortable stadium seating in a charming cinema run by volunteers.

If all else fails, you can always pop into one of the family-friendly cafes of Clyde and Alexandra. Check out recommendations in The Foodie Guide to Alexandra & Clyde.

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Free Family Activities

Complement your Alexandra and Clyde itinerary with some of the free family-friendly activities.

Jolendale Park

A must-do is visiting Jolendale Park, a six-hectare arboretum that is home to a wide variety of exotic and native trees, as well as schist outcrops, sculpted walkways and a reservoir – all making for a fun environment for kids to explore. Adjacent to the reservoir, known as Lanes Dam, is Blackmore Park and its picnicking area with a children’s playground.

Alexandra Clock and Shaky Bridge

Finally, complete your visit to Alexandra with a short climb to the Alexandra Clock! The Clock on the Hill is not only a striking timepiece but offers excellent views of Alexandra and its vibrant rivers. The steep walk only takes about 10 minutes and starts from the historic Shaky Bridge, which is another aspect of Alexandra that kids tend to love!

For more free activities for families in Alexandra, check out the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Alexandra & Clyde.