About Laugardalur
Laugardalur (literally “Hot Spring Valley”) is a large valley and recreation area about 3 km east of downtown Reykjavík . Its name comes from the former “wash pools” – until 1930 local women did laundry in geothermal pools here . Today Laugardalur is Reykjavík’s most popular outdoor space , prized for its sheltered greenery, gardens and miles of bike/walking paths. The valley has been developed intensively for sports and family recreation . It contains nearly every major athletic facility in the city: the national Laugardalsvöllur football stadium (with an athletics track), the multi-hall Laugardalshöll indoor arena , the large Laugardalslaug geothermal swimming pool, an ice-skating rink, and the Reykjavik Botanical Gardens. In the center of the valley is Reykjavík’s Family Park & Zoo, a year-round attraction housing Icelandic farm animals and native wildlife (reindeer, seals, foxes, etc.) . Visitors can walk among petting zoos, playgrounds and carnival rides. Laugardalur even hosts Reykjavík’s main campsite, underscoring its role as a gathering place for locals and tourists alike .
Among its signature features is a bronze memorial statue (“Laundrywoman”, 1958) honoring the women who washed clothes in the valley’s hot pools . This blend of history and greenery gives Laugardalur special charm. Even without major events, the valley feels alive: you might see joggers on the trails, children playing in fields, or the outdoor pools and ice rink lit at dusk. In short, Laugardalur is a unique venue where natural beauty, local history and modern facilities all come together.
Events and Programming
Laugardalur hosts a wide variety of events. The outdoor Laugardalsvöllur stadium is Iceland’s national football venue – it hosts league games, cup finals and international matches . It also serves track & field meets once the running track was added in 1992. The Laugardalshöll indoor arena is Iceland’s premier indoor sports and events center : it holds basketball, handball, volleyball, indoor athletics, trade shows and other events year-round. Over the decades Laugardalshöll has seen iconic moments, from the historic Fischer–Spassky chess match in 1972 to the 1995 World Handball Championships , and countless major concerts by international artists (e.g. Led Zeppelin, David Bowie) when it was Iceland’s only large concert hall .
Music events are also common. In summer, Laugardalur has often been a festival site. From 2014–2019 it hosted the annual Secret Solstice festival under the midnight sun (past lineups included acts like Radiohead and Die Antwoord) . In 2025 Laugardalur was announced as the new site for the LÓA Music & Street Food Festival on June 21, with international stars such as Jamie xx, De La Soul and Mobb Deep and many Icelandic bands . (This festival was later cancelled, but it shows the kind of high-profile programming the valley attracts.) Besides festivals, concerts by visiting artists are held at Laugardalshöll – for example, Björk performed three sold-out shows there in June 2023 and Sigur Rós held a homecoming concert in November 2022 . Local and touring acts often draw crowds in the arena or on temporary stages in the park.
The Family Park & Zoo has its own schedule of programs. Animal feedings and demonstrations happen daily (e.g. reindeer are fed at 10:30am, seals at 11:00am, foxes at 11:30am and so on during visiting hours) . In summer the adjacent children’s amusement area opens for rides and water attractions (guests have even reported inflatable “zorbing” balls in a shallow pool) . Periodically the city also holds public events here – for instance, community fairs, sports tournaments, and holiday celebrations can turn the open fields of Laugardalur into west-end plazas for gatherings. In all, Laugardalur’s programming ranges from a quiet park outing to major concerts and sporting spectacles, making it a versatile venue.
Tickets and Booking
Ticketing depends on the event. For the Park & Zoo itself, you pay at the entrance. Children 0–5 get in free; ages 6–12 cost about 1,170 ISK and anyone 13 or older about 1,700 ISK . Passes for multiple visits are available: a single annual pass costs around 17,000 ISK , and family or clip-card packages are sold as well. NOTE: Prices are set by the city and may change, so check the latest rates before visiting.
For sporting events and concerts, tickets are typically sold through official channels (the venue box office, the team/organizer, or licensed outlets). It’s important to buy tickets early, as popular shows can sell out. For example, tickets for the 2025 LÓA festival went on sale at noon on May 1 and were expected to move fast. Large events often announce sale dates weeks or months in advance. Some have presales (for fanclub or newsletter subscribers) followed by a general public sale. At the door on event day, there may be a limited number of tickets if not sold out, but this is risky – one should not rely on last-minute availability during peak season.
Costs vary widely. A local sports match or small concert might charge only a few thousand ISK for entry, whereas major international concerts or day passes to summer festivals can run into the tens of thousands of ISK. (As a reference, a one-day ticket for Secret Solstice was in the mid-thousands of ISK.) Regardless of event, only purchase through authorized sources to avoid fraud. Keep digital or printed tickets safe, and remember that Iceland generally has a strict no-refund policy unless the event itself is cancelled. In summary: check event websites or announcements for sale dates, book early, and bring proof of purchase or ID on the day of the event.
Seating and Layout
The layout varies by venue. At Laugardalsvöllur stadium, there are two main covered stands along the sides of the field and open terraces at each end . This stadium holds about 15,000 people (seated and standing combined) . For football, the best views are from the central sections of the main stands (these give a straight-on view of the pitch). Standing terraces behind the goals are cheaper and lively but farther from the center. Note that the track surrounding the field means no seats are directly on the grass.
Inside Laugardalshöll Arena, seating is tiered around a flat main floor. The main arena (House A) can seat about 5,500 people, or up to 11,000 standing when rearranged . By default, bleacher seats wrap around most of the floor. For concerts, the floor is often left open for standing or fitted with removable seats, and the main stage is set at one end of the arena. The best spots for a show are usually front center or mid-level on the long sides, where sound and sightlines are optimal. Corner sections may have partial obstructions from railings, and end-stage seats may be farther from the performers.
The open park areas have no fixed seating except occasional benches or grass banks. For outdoor events, spectators typically stand or sit on the ground. At festivals or parties in the park, temporary seating (chairs or hay bales) is often arranged near stages. Because Laugardalur events are outdoors for the most part, plan for weather – even on a sunny day you may feel a breeze. (Indeed, one summer festival was called off in 2025 partly due to unusually cold weather .) In short, for sporting seats you’ll have numbered tickets and fixed stands, while concerts and park events are more open. Choose seats according to sightlines (close to center for sports; near the stage for concerts) to get the most enjoyment.
Getting There and Parking
Laugardalur is tucked into Reykjavík’s east side at Engjavegur 8 (104 Reykjavík). The easiest highway approach is via Suðurlandsbraut (the main ring road south), exiting toward the city center. Inside the city, paths and bike trails lead directly to Laugardalur from nearby neighborhoods. It’s about a 30-minute walk or 10-minute bike ride from the downtown Lækjartorg area. For those coming from the airport, many international buses pass within a few minutes of Laugardalur.
Buses: Several city bus routes stop at Laugardalur. In particular, buses #2, #5, #15 and #17 will drop you at the Laugardalshöll stop on Suðurlandsbraut . Bus #14 stops at the Laugardalslaug pool, and #19 at the Nordica/Hilton area – both a short walk from the park . These provide easy access from different parts of Reykjavík (for example, route 2 runs through downtown).Parking: There is ample parking around Laugardalur, and most of it is free. Large lots by the Laugardalslaug swimming pool, Laugardalsvöllur stadium and Laugardalshöll arena are open to visitors . The Family Park & Zoo shares parking with the ice rink (also free) . On weekends or event days, these lots can fill up, but additional street parking on nearby roads is usually available. Note that parking is generally unrestricted (no fees) during daytime, but double-check any signage if staying late, as some areas may require payment after midnight. A convenient drop-off/pick-up point is in front of Laugardalshöll on Engjavegur.Cabs/Rideshare: Reykjavík taxis and app-based ride services (e.g. Hreyfill, BIRNA) operate in the city. Drivers will drop you right at Laugardalshöll or the park entrance. There is no Uber in Iceland, but a taxi order line (+354 588 5522) and apps work similarly. After large events, demand is high, so booking or calling a taxi 30–60 minutes ahead of when you need to leave is wise.Walking/Cycling: Laugardalur is cyclist-friendly. Bike racks are available at main entrances. If walking from downtown, follow the Sviðaholt cycle path along the river until you reach the open fields of Laugardalur. This pleasant walk of about 3 km is signed and takes you past the outdoor pool and zoo.
Inside the Venue
Here are some tips on what to expect once you are inside Laugardalur’s facilities:
Entry & Security: Most events require showing your ticket or pass at an entry gate. At sports games and concerts this often involves a ticket scan and sometimes bag inspection or metal detector. Allow extra time to queue into large events, especially in bad weather (be prepared for rain or cool temperatures even in summer). The indoor arena and stadium are brightly lit; there are no unlit corridors except emergency exits. Ushers in the stands will help guide you to your seat or section.Food & Drink: Concession stands sell snacks and beverages. You can usually get coffee, soda, beer and hot food (hot dogs, sandwiches, fries) at cafeterias inside Laugardalshöll or kiosks at the stadium. Famous local stands (e.g. the Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur hot dog stand) often appear at major events . If visiting the Park & Zoo, note that you may bring your own picnic or barbecue food: the park provides electric grills free of charge for visitors who bring food . This makes the zoo park popular for family cookouts. In general, outside alcoholic beverages are not allowed at sports or concert events (beer and wine are sold at the venue).Restrooms & Services: Restroom facilities are plentiful. You’ll find toilets (including wheelchair-accessible stalls) on every level of Laugardalshöll and in the graffiti-free promenades of Laugardalsvöllur. Baby changing tables are available. The park and pool have clean toilets in heated buildings. There is no luggage check or cloakroom, so carry only what you need. ATMs are sometimes present at arena concourses or hotel lobbies; credit/debit cards are widely accepted at all stands, cafes and shops, so cash is only needed for small purchases or tip jar.Seating & Audience: The audience at Laugardalur events is usually friendly and diverse. Families with children are common at daytime events and in the zoo park. Sports fans and concertgoers tend to dress casually (jeans, jackets, team jerseys). Wildlife in the zoo is easily viewable from ground level. Remember that there is no reserved seating in general admission areas; follow the event map to find your spot. If particularly sensitive to noise or height, consider wearing earplugs or sitting mid-stand. And of course, dress warmly or carry a waterproof layer – the valley can be surprisingly cool because of winds or rain .
Nearby Amenities
Laugardalur is surrounded by useful amenities:
Restaurants and Cafés: A few minutes’ walk will take you to several dining spots. Within the park, there is a café selling hot dogs and coffee. Just outside on Suðurlandsbraut, the Krúska Café (with healthy food and coffee) is popular among locals. The Hilton Reykjavík Nordica hotel, about 5 minutes’ walk away, has the Vox Brasserie for higher-end dining. The Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Natura (also nearby) has a scenic restaurant overlooking Esja mountain. For more variety, the Kringlan Mall is 3 km west (buses and taxis serve it), offering fast food, Asian eateries and Icelandic chains like Subway.Hotels: Several hotels lie within a short distance. The Icelandair Hotel Natura and Saga Hotel Reykjavík are on Suðurlandsbraut by the eastern park entrance. The Hilton Nordica and Radisson Blu Saga (in downtown Reykjavík) are a short drive or 30-min walk north. Staying at any of these keeps you within easy reach of Laugardalur. Booking a room that faces Laugardalur offers park views and is convenient for late-night events.Others: There is an indoor café at the Laugardalslaug pool for quick snacks and coffee. Vending machines with drinks are found in the arena concourse. The Family Park gift shop sells basic souvenirs and snacks. Restroom lockers are available at the pool if you are going for a swim or shower. Note: Reykjavik’s free city-wide Wi-Fi is not consistently available here; however, mobile phone coverage is excellent throughout the valley.Arrival Tips: For most events, gates open about 60 minutes before start time. If you arrive very early, consider warming up at Laugardalslaug (open year-round ) or exploring the botanical garden. It’s often wise to grab a coffee or snack beforehand. After dark, Reykjavik’s main bus lines stop around midnight – if an event ends late, plan a taxi or check if a night bus is running. Trust your own instincts and arrive with extra time so you aren’t rushing when the venue fills up.
What Makes This Venue Special
Laugardalur’s personality comes from its unique mix of natural setting, history and community. Unlike a typical city stadium, the valley feels like an outdoor amphitheatre – surrounded by hills, it has a cozy vibe even under large crowds. The scenery is striking: lush grass, mountains in the distance, and even in winter the floodlit pool and ice rink add a sparkling magic. Public art and history are woven in too: the Ásmundur Sveinsson “Laundrywoman” sculpture stands near the old pool area , and signs tell of the valley’s past as the city’s communal laundry site.
Memorable events have cemented Laugardalur’s legend. Fans still recall intense night games and concerts here. For instance, during Sigur Rós’s 2022 Reykjavík shows at Laugardalshöll, the band’s frontman marveled that the Northern Lights “embroidered” the sky above the arena – calling it “the most beautiful performance” of his life . Athletes and spectators remember championship nights under the floodlights. Musicians appreciate that a big stage in Laugardalur means reaching many Icelanders (and tourists) in one place. The sports facilities have historic pedigree (decades of national finals), and the park continues local traditions of family outings, all lending a special aura.
On a daily basis, locals treat Laugardalur almost like a giant backyard park. It’s common to see people having picnics, walking dogs (outside zoo gates), or of course visiting the popular zoo and pool. This friendly, low-key atmosphere – alongside the ability to host world-class events – is why performers and audiences love it. Whether you’re kayaking on the pool, cheering in the stands, or listening to a band under the midnight sun, Laugardalur feels quintessentially Icelandic. It’s where Reykjavík’s nature meets its culture, making it a one-of-a-kind venue in town.
Visitor Tips and Information
– Weather & Clothing: Iceland’s weather changes quickly, even in summer. Dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket. Event staff recommend warmer clothes for evening events: one Icelandic news report noted a summer festival was derailed by an “unusually cold” early-June forecast . Sunglasses and sunscreen can still be handy in long daylight, while a beanie and gloves are wise at dusk.
– Age and Restrictions: Laugardalur is family-friendly. Kids under 6 enter the Family Park & Zoo free . Rollercoasters and playgrounds there suit children up to about age 12 . Adult supervision is required on rides. Concerts and sports events are generally open to all ages unless otherwise advertised (some late-night shows may be 18+). The venues are mostly wheelchair accessible (ramps, elevators at Laugardalshöll; paved paths throughout). However, some grassy or uneven areas in the park may be tricky for strollers or wheelchairs after rain.
– Prohibited Items: The park and arenas bar pets (service animals excepted) and wheeled vehicles. In the Park & Zoo, no dogs, bikes, scooters or skateboards are allowed inside . At events, large backpacks or hard plastic bottles may be disallowed – typically only small bags and personal cameras are OK. Expect a brief security check. Smoking and vaping are not allowed indoors by law, and smoking is discouraged even outside when animals are present.
– What to Bring: Essential items include your ticket or pass (paper or mobile), photo ID (some events may check age or identity), a credit/debit card or Icelandic cash (cards are accepted almost everywhere). Even if you don’t plan to use the pool, bringing swimwear can add fun – the public pool with hot tubs is on site. Don’t forget a power adapter for electronics (Iceland uses European plugs, 230V). A small daypack or bag for your extras is helpful.
– Food and Drink: At Götubitinn stands you’ll find the famous Icelandic hot dog, but you can also pack a picnic. The park provides electric grills for free , so you may bring raw food to cook. Ice cream and soda machines dot the arena concourses. Tipping is not customary in Iceland; service staff are paid salaried wages. Always recycle – blue bins are common for plastics and cups.
– Arrival Time: Plan to arrive significantly before your event start. Most gates open 30–60 minutes prior. If you arrive extra early (especially on a weekend), the Laugardalslaug pool is open and inviting (hours fall to 10am–5pm in winter, 10am–6pm in summer ). Even 15 minutes can mean the difference between a smooth entry or rushing through crowds.
– Navigation: Signage in Iceland is generally in English as well as Icelandic. Maps and directional signs at Laugardalur will point you to the arena (“Laugardalshöll”) or the pool (“Laugardalslaug”) and park. If lost, venue staff and security are helpful. For late-night departures, Reykjavik operates night buses on some routes; check the City’s public transit site or ask staff. Otherwise, a book-ahead taxi or ride-share is best for late-night travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours and ticket prices for Laugardalur’s Park & Zoo?
The Reykjavik Family Park & Zoo in Laugardalur is open daily year-round, typically 10am–5pm in winter (Sept–May) and 10am–6pm in summer . Admission is free for children under 6. Kids ages 6–12 pay around 1,170 ISK and visitors 13 and older about 1,700 ISK . Seniors and disabled visitors enter free. Note that prices can change annually, so check the current rates on arrival.
How do I buy tickets or passes for events at Laugardalur?
Event tickets (for sports matches, concerts or festivals) should be purchased through official sellers or event organizers. For example, large festival tickets have fixed sale dates; in 2025, LÓA festival tickets went on sale from May 1 . Check announcements from the venue or event page for exact sales information. The Park & Zoo itself sells entry and season passes on site. We recommend buying early from the listed vendor, as last-minute sales typically aren’t guaranteed.
What bus lines serve Laugardalur, and is there parking available?
Several city buses reach Laugardalur. In particular, routes #2, #5, #15 and #17 stop at “Laugardalshöll” on Suðurlandsbraut . Bus #14 stops at the Laugardalslaug pool entrance, and #19 at the nearby NH Nordica/Hilton plaza . Driving is easy: follow Suðurlandsbraut or Kringlumýrarbraut, then Engjavegur into the valley. Free parking is available in large lots adjacent to the pool, stadium and arena , and at the ice rink by the Family Park . No first-come shuttle is needed as thousands of spaces are shared by all venues.
Are Laugardalur’s venues indoor or outdoor?
Laugardalur has both. The Laugardalshöll arena is a fully indoor hall for sports and concerts. The main stadium (Laugardalsvöllur) and the park fields are open-air . Outdoor events (festivals, family days) take place on the grass in Laugardalur. If your event is outdoors, prepare for weather changes. Outdoor festival organizers sometimes have contingency plans, but generally events continue rain or shine unless the forecast is extreme.
Is Laugardalur accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
Yes, most of Laugardalur is wheelchair- and stroller-friendly. Paved walkways connect the pool, zoo, arena and stadium, and ramps/elevators inside Laugardalshöll accommodate wheelchairs. The Family Park & Zoo paths are fairly flat . However, if ground is wet or snow-covered, some grassy areas can be slippery. Accessible (unisex) restrooms are available in all major venues. If you need assistance, venue staff can help guide you to lifts and accessible entrances.
What facilities (food, restrooms, etc.) are available inside?
Food and drink stands are plentiful. At sporting or pop events you’ll find hot dog and sandwich kiosks, coffee and soft drinks, and beer/wine tables. Inside the Park & Zoo area, the city’s famous Bæjarins Beztu skillet (hot dog stand) serves snacks . You can also bring picnic food: the park provides free electric grills . Restrooms are located throughout: in the arena concourse, stadium concourses, and near the park entrance. Family restrooms and changing tables are provided. There is no coat check at venues, so travel light and secure valuables. For ATM or Wi-Fi, credit cards work nearly everywhere – don’t worry about carrying a lot of cash.
Can I bring food, drinks or pets into the park?
You are welcome to bring your own picnic or grillable food to enjoy in the Park & Zoo – in fact, they encourage it (electric BBQ grills are provided for guests) . You may also purchase snacks at the park’s hot dog and coffee stands. However, pets (even well-behaved dogs) are not allowed inside the Family Park or the indoor venues . People also cannot ride bikes or scooters in the park areas. Outside food beyond snacks and water is usually discouraged at sporting events and concerts, and outside alcohol is banned at arenas, so plan accordingly.
What seating should I choose for a football match or concert?
For football games at Laugardalsvöllur, central seats along the length of the stadium (East or West stands) offer the best view of the pitch and goals. For concerts on the field, seats or standing areas closest to the stage provide the clearest sightline. In the Laugardalshöll arena, front-center seats or floor standing (if available) are ideal for music events – the acoustics and video screens are optimized there. If you prefer a cozy vantage, mid-level rows on the long sides are great for any event. Try to avoid back-corner seats or rows directly behind a speaker tower, where view/sound might be obstructed.
Are there age or dress restrictions at Laugardalur events?
There is generally no strict dress code – casual attire is normal. However, Iceland is on the cool side, so bring warm layers (long sleeves, hats) even in summer. Closed-toe shoes are safer if you’ll be walking in fields. For age: the Family Park & Zoo is family-oriented (no skirt/dress restrictions). Children under 6 get in free . Indoor sporting events and festivals accept all ages unless otherwise noted. Some late-night concerts might be 18+ (organizers will state this in advance). Always check the specific event policy for any age limits or VIP dress requirements (very rare).
Is smoking allowed in Laugardalur?
No. Icelandic law prohibits smoking in all indoor public spaces, including Laugardalshöll arena and indoor areas of the park. Even outdoors, smoking is discouraged around the animal enclosures and playgrounds. If you must smoke or vape, step well away from other patrons – venues will have clearly marked smoking zones outside, typically near main exits.
