Top 10 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions
Welcome to Dundee, a city brimming with captivating history, vibrant culture, and an array of must-visit tourist attractions. Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or simply exploring the city’s highlights, Dundee offers a wealth of experiences for visitors. We’re two locals, Louise & Stewart, who run DD Tours, and if you’re a visitor to the city, or even a local looking for something fun to do at the weekend, here are the top 10 must-see attractions that will make your visit to Dundee truly unforgettable.
1. Discovery Point: Embark on an Antarctic Adventure
At Discovery Point, immerse yourself in the captivating world of exploration aboard the RRS Discovery. Discover the gripping tales of Captain Scott and his crew as you journey through interactive exhibits, reliving their Antarctic expedition. Heading aboard this historic ship you’ll see and feel what it would be like to be out at sea in such close confined quarters.
https://www.rrsdiscovery.co.uk/
2. Dundee Contemporary Arts (DCA): A Hub of Artistic Inspiration
Indulge your artistic senses at DCA, a dynamic cultural hub showcasing contemporary art exhibitions, thought-provoking films, and live performances. Immerse yourself in the vibrant creative atmosphere that makes Dundee’s art scene truly exceptional. With a range of exhibitions and films from arthouse to big blockbusters visit their website for up to date what’s on info.
3. Scaling Dundee Law: A Panoramic Vista of the City
Climb Dundee Law, an ancient hill formed by volacnic rock, for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Capture stunning photographs, take in the fresh air, and marvel at the beauty and history that unfolds before you. At the top you’ll find more about the history, – central to Dundee’s defences for thousands of years, the Law was used as Iron Age hillfort and prehistoric graves dating to about 1500 BC have been uncovered on its slopes. Roman pottery dating from the 1st century AD has also been discovered.
4. Verdant Works Jute Museum: Unveiling Dundee’s Industrial Legacy
Step back in time at the Verdant Works Jute Museum and explore Dundee’s industrial heritage. Engage with interactive exhibits and immerse yourself in the story of the jute industry, discovering the city’s pivotal role in this once-thriving trade. The museum tells the tale of how the people of Dundee lived, worked and their struggles as Juteopolis thrived and the city became more overcrowded and filled with smog, living conditions plummeted.
https://www.verdantworks.co.uk/
5. The McManus Galleries: A Fusion of Art and History
Delve into Dundee’s rich heritage at the McManus Galleries, a stunning Victorian building housing an eclectic collection of art, history, and natural science exhibits. Uncover rare artefacts, captivating stories, and immersive displays that bring Dundee’s past to life. Our favourite is the display of Dundee’s city centre in the 1800s, where you can see all the old buildings and streets, and of course, the Tay Whale skeleton!
6. Dundee Science Centre: Igniting Curiosity and Discovery
Experience the wonders of science at the Dundee Science Centre, a place that sparks curiosity and fuels exploration. Engage in interactive exhibits, conduct captivating experiments, and ignite your passion for knowledge. (Fun fact: both of us, Stewart and Louise, worked here when we were students back when it first opened!)
https://www.dundeesciencecentre.org.uk/
7. The Vibrant V&A Dundee: Celebrating Design and Creativity
Immerse yourself in the architectural marvel of V&A Dundee, Scotland’s first design museum. Explore captivating exhibitions that celebrate design in all its forms, from fashion to furniture, and be inspired by the innovative displays that showcase Dundee’s creative spirit. The current exhibition all about Tartan is our absolute favourite so far, but be warned you will want a whole new tartan wardrobe after visiting!
8. HMS Unicorn: Step Aboard a Historic Naval Treasure
Discover the history of seafaring at HMS Unicorn, a magnificent historic frigate ship docked in Dundee. Explore the decks, admire the preserved details, and uncover the fascinating maritime stories that echo through its corridors. HMS Unicorn is nearly 200 years old and is one of the world’s most remarkable historic ships, the oldest in Scotland and one of the 6 oldest in the world!
https://www.frigateunicorn.org/
9. Broughty Castle Museum: A Gateway to Coastal History
Travel back in time at Broughty Castle Museum, an imposing fortress nestled by the sea, now a free museum detailing its centuries of history, and of the historic village of Broughty Ferry. Traverse the ancient walls, soak in the coastal views, and delve into the tales of battles and sieges that shaped Dundee’s history.
https://www.leisureandculturedundee.com/culture/broughty-castle
10. Dark Dundee Tours: Unmasking the City’s Intriguing Secrets
Ah, we had to include ourselves on this list! Embark on a captivating journey with DD Tours, revealing the hidden and mysterious side of the city. Delve into the dark tales of Dundee’s past, exploring its secrets and experiencing a unique perspective on the city’s history.
Dundee truly offers a diverse range of things to do and must-visit tourist attractions that will leave you captivated and inspired. From immersive historical experiences to vibrant art scenes, and panoramic vistas to interactive museums, there’s something for everyone in this ancient city. Explore Dundee’s rich cultural tapestry, uncover its captivating stories, and create lasting memories. Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the extraordinary appeal of Dundee’s top attractions. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery in this remarkable city.