12 kilometres east of Kristiansand lies Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park with things to see and do for the whole family. See for example tigers, monkies and lions, or enjoy fun rides, shows and water activities.
The Vest-Agder Museum is a historical, cultural museum and a miniature town with buildings from Kristiansand.
The museum lies in a distinctive parkland with an extensive playing area for children. Amongst other attractions is the largest collection of cacti in Norway.
In Vennesla you can travel with the Setesdalsbanen Railway. Vintage steam trains ply the eight-kilometre track from Grovane to Røyknes.
Sørlandet Art Museum has a permanent collection of Norwegian art, as well as visiting exhibitions.
Galleri Bi-Z in the centre of Kristiansand is the largest private gallery in the region with regular sales exhibitions throughout the year.
Kristiansand Cannon Museum is situated 9 kilometers southwest of Kristiansand. One of the cannons here is one of the largest existing of its type in the world. There is a large exhibition of military material in the bunkers.
55 kilometers north of Kristiansand lies the Mineralpark with exhibitions of minerals and crystals. It is possible to go through the 175-metre long passages in the rock. Some of the most attractive rock treasures are exhibited along with mining equipment from local quarries for feldspar and quartz. On the grounds there is a large area for canoeing, fishing and trips to the quarries.
The fish quay is Kristiansand’s most vigorous and inviting area, and much more than a fish market. Lively restaurants, canals and pleasure boat traffic, and of course excellent fresh fish, prawns and other shellfish make it a favourite location for both locals and visitors.
Kristiansand is a town of festivals. There is also a lot going on around the region. All year round there is always something happening, for example: