
Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Edinburgh, Edinburgh, City of, United Kingdom
1. Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
Step inside an old Victorian camera and enjoy a live, interactive panoramic view of Edinburgh. Explore illusion rooms and try out magic tricks.
- Live View: Experience the city through a giant camera lens.
- Illusion Rooms: Get tricked by mind-bending optical illusions.
- Hands-on Experience: Try out magic tricks and create your own illusions.
2. The Secret Tattoo Museum
Explore the history of tattooing through a unique collection spanning over a century.
- Rare Pieces: See pieces from famous tattoo artists and celebrity tattoos.
- Interactive Displays: Learn about the history, culture, and art of tattooing.
- Temporary Tattoo Stations: Try temporary tattoos to remember your experience.
3. Underground Vaults
Discover the dark history of Edinburgh's underground vaults and explore the haunting stories.
- Historical Tours: Learn about the city's past, including crime and punishment.
- Paranormal Experiences: Join ghost tours for a spine-tingling experience.
- Live Performances: Experience live theatre performances in the underground setting.
4. The Museum of Childhood
Relive your childhood or discover how kids lived in the past at this unique museum.
- Historical Toys: See toys from over the centuries and their historical significance.
- Interactive Exhibits: Try out traditional games and activities for kids.
- Storytelling Sessions: Join storytelling sessions to immerse yourself in childhood tales.
5. The Surgeons' Hall Museums
Step inside the world of medical history and explore the strange and unusual stories.
- Medical Artifacts: See tools and instruments used by surgeons through the ages.
- Gross Anatomy Gallery: Get up close with real human specimens and models.
- Historical Case Studies: Learn about famous cases and surgical innovations throughout history.
6. The Bennachie Stone
Visit a piece of Scotland's ancient history on Princes Street Gardens.
- Ancient Symbol: See the mysterious symbol known as the Bennachie Stone.
- Scottish History: Learn about its connection to Scottish folklore and history.
- Central Location: Find this unusual attraction right in the heart of Edinburgh.
7. The Scotch Whisky Experience
Learn about Scotland's national drink and sample a variety of whiskies.
- Whisky Tasting: Taste whiskies from different regions and learn their characteristics.
- Interactive Exhibits: Discover the history, production, and culture of Scotch whisky.
- Personalized Bottle: Create your own custom bottle to take home as a souvenir.
8. Greyfriars Bobby Statue and Kirkyard
Visit the grave of Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal dog who guarded his master's grave for years.
- Historical Tale: Learn about the heartwarming story of loyalty and friendship.
- Graveyard Exploration: Explore the medieval graveyard and its notable tombs.
- Scottish Legends: Discover other tales connected to Greyfriars Kirkyard, like that of William Wallace.
9. The Real Mary King's Close
Explore an underground street and the lives of its former residents.
- Hidden History: Learn about life in the city during the 17th century.
- Ghost Tours: Join ghost tours for a spooky experience.
- Authentic Settings: Explore rooms and spaces preserved just as they were in the 17th century.
10. The Museum on the Mound
Learn about Scotland's financial history and interact with interactive exhibits.
- Interactive Exhibits: Try your hand at managing Scotland's economy in the simulation.
- Historical Artifacts: See coins, banknotes, and other financial artifacts from Scotland's past.
- Informative Films: Watch short films to understand key historical events and concepts.
11. The Scottish National Portrait Gallery
Discover the stories of Scotland's most influential figures through their portraits.
- Historical Figures: See portraits of famous Scots like Mary, Queen of Scots and Robert Burns.
- Modern Artists: Explore contemporary Scottish art and artists.
- Temporary Exhibits: Check out temporary exhibitions showcasing new or lesser-known figures.
12. The National Museum of Scotland
Explore the history and culture of Scotland, as well as other parts of the world.
- World Cultures: Discover artifacts from various cultures across the globe.
- Scottish History: Learn about Scotland's history, including science, technology, and natural history.
- Interactive Exhibits: Try your hand at interactive exhibits to learn in a fun way.
13. The National War Museum
Learn about Scotland's role in world conflicts and the impact of war on society.
- Military History: Discover Scotland's military history, including battles and campaigns.
- Interactive Displays: Try out interactive exhibits to immerse yourself in the experience.
- Memorial Tributes: Honor those who served and paid the ultimate sacrifice.
14. The People's Story Museum
Explore the lives and stories of Edinburgh's working-class people throughout history.
- Historical Stories: Learn about the challenges faced by ordinary people in Scotland.
- Interactive Displays: Try your hand at activities to immerse yourself in the experience.
- Social Change: Discover how social change impacted Edinburgh's working class and learn about current social issues.