Curator’s statement
I wanted to take my son on a mother/son trip to a place that would blow his mind. Iceland is so special, strange and exciting all at once. Geysers, volcanos, waterfalls, geothermal swimming pools and the summer sun that never sets make for a memorable trip.
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Where to stay in Iceland
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Things to do in Iceland
Blue Lagoon: It is touristy for sure, but worth it. I recommend going first thing in the morning, right after you land. It is very close to the airport and a great way to combat jet lag.
Rent a car: Driving yourself is so much more "adventurous" and quite easy in Iceland in summer.
Laugarvatn Fontana: Plan ahead so you can learn how they bake bread in the ground with a tasting afterwards.
Snowmobiling on a glacier: Scary at first, but so thrilling and beautiful. The best was stopping on the top of the glacier for a snowball fight.
ATV black sand beach tour: This was my son's favorite activity. We drove through rivers and eventually to a super cool wrecked airplane.
RIB speedboat tour: You're on an island, so you will want to get on a boat at some point. Skip the whale watching tours and go on a speedboat trip instead.
Gulfoss & Geysir: A fantastic waterfall and geyser that are within a few minutes from each other and an easy trip together. Also some gift shops and snack bars here.
Hot springs: Iceland is full of natural hot springs. Keep your swimsuit in your car for a spontaneous dip.
Hiking: Since the sun sets around midnight in July, you can take a 9pm hike after dinner.
Horseback riding: The horses in Iceland are gorgeous and have a special gait that feels like you are flying.
Places to eat & drink in Iceland
The food in Iceland is not in line with the taste palette of a kid. My son was amused by the fermented shark and lamb penis on the menu but obviously wouldn't touch it with a ten-foot pole. Here are a few of the places we both liked and hotel breakfast was a great idea here too.
Reykjavik Fish Restaurant: Fish and chips with fun sauces.
Freidheimar: Tomato restaurant and greenhouse with all-you-can-eat tomato soup and bread. Such a great experience and our favorite meal.
Braud & Co: Can't go wrong with carbs for kids, especially the cinnamon rolls.
Baejarins: Famous hot dog cart in Reykjavik. There will be a line....just get in it.
Corner Market: Load up on strange candy and snacks for the car and try to guess what they are before you try them. Hint: mostly licorice.
Olverk Pizza / Brewery — because Pizza is always a good idea.
Need to know
Some activities are restricted by age. Some of the adventure tours require kids to be over eight years, kayaking 14 and snorkeling between tectonic plates at least 17.
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Wendy Wallace
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