As a new year comes, we can often say to ourselves that this is 'our year' and to make the most of every opportunity.
Why not make a resolution to fall in love with our capital city and explore everything we have to offer that makes Belfast one of the best places in the world (or so we think!)
Here are 23 things to get up to in 2023:
Read more: 27 big gigs in Belfast to look forward to in 2023
1. Go to see a concert
Northern Ireland has no shortage of world-class acts, exciting festivals and local talents coming to a stage near you in 2023.
Expect to see big names like Lewis Capaldi, The Killers and Lizzo taking to the stage at the likes of the SSE Arena, Belsonic and dance events like AVA and EMERGE.
2. Visit the Titanic Museum
A world-leading, technologically brilliant modern attraction, the Titanic Museum is your gateway to Belfast's industrial history. There's a good reason why it's become the go-to spot to take tourists and visitors.
While you're there, you can also visit HMS Caroline, the last surviving ship of the Battle of Jutland in 1916 - the largest naval battle ever fought.
3. Take a Black Taxi tour
Another one that many visitors, tourists and locals put on their 'must-do' list. Black Taxi Tours offer an up-close-and-personal look at Northern Ireland's troubled history, often told from drivers who were eye-witnesses or even participants in its past.
4. Go out for a meal
The food scene In Belfast continues to grow from strength to strength, there is no shortage of fantastic restaurants littered around the city to enjoy on a night out. From Michelin Star spots to exciting street food venues to traditional pub grub, there is something for everyone waiting to eat their way around the area.
5. Ride the alpine coaster at Colin Glen
Nestled in the heart of West Belfast, Colin Glen is considered one of the city's best-kept secrets.
The woodlands area contains a state-of-the-art sports park; The Black Bull Run - Ireland’s first Alpine Coaster and River Rapid; Ireland’s longest Zipline; Ireland's only official Gruffalo Trail, and much more.
6. Go for a hike
Jutting out over north Belfast, Cavehill offers a perfect short hike, with spectacular views of Belfast, Belfast Lough, and even Scotland in the distance.
Another excellent short hike within the city of Belfast, Divis Mountain stands a bit taller than Cavehill and offers unique views - with the likes of Lough Neagh, Tyrone, North Antrim and even (on a good day) Donegal all being visible from parts of the walk.
7. Visit Belfast Zoo
Situated on the slopes of Cavehill Country Park, Belfast Zoo is a 55-acre site and is home to more than 130 species.
Aside from being the perfect place for a family trip, the zoo also carries out vital conservation work, both in Northern Ireland and around the world.
8. Explore the Lagan on a Hyrdobike
Explore the Belfast Waterways with the Belfast Hydrobikes by Lights.
This is a new and unique water experience where you really will see Belfast and the River Lagan from a completely different perspective.
9. Try your hand at an escape room
Themed escape rooms have become a fixture in the country like never before.
Belfast boasts some excellent escape rooms throughout the city. In the city centre alone, you'll find places like the Game of Thrones Escape Room, Timescape, and Forbidden Quest all at your doorstep.
10. Go for a freshwater swim
If cold water swimming is your New Year's resolution (or even if it's not) feel the benefits of an ice-cold dunk to kick-start your day.
Helens Bay - while not technically in Belfast - is a great local spot to take a running jump into the sea.
11. Play a round of 10-pin bowling
Feed your competitive side in 2023 with a round or two of 10-pin bowling with your family and friends.
The new Hollywood Bowl at the Odyssey complex has been a highly popular spot since opening last year and also has a great range of food and drink options available.
12. Take part in a walking tour
Be welcomed to the capital of Northern Ireland with a walking tour bound to make you fall in love with Belfast all over again.
With many different types of tours available - explore the food and drink scene, history, street art or the macabre past with some of the most informative local guides in the game.
13. Go to the Cathedral Quarter for a pint
Cobbled roads, street art everywhere and bursting at the seams with bars, the Cathedral Quarter has become the home for nightlife in Belfast.
You can't go wrong with any of the bars and clubs in this area for a creamy pint or your favourite gin and tonic.
14. Visit the Ulster Museum
Bursting with exhibitions bringing history, art and science to life, the Ulster Museum has long been beloved by adults and kids alike.
The museum has a constant rotation of science and cultural exhibitions, as well as an excellent exhibition marking 100 years since Northern Ireland came into existence. The perfect place to start getting to grips with this place.
15. Check out Let's Go Hyrdo
Your one-stop shop for adventurers and lovers of water activities, Let's Go Hydro is an impressive outdoor attraction that includes an inflatable floating obstacle course, a socially distanced Drive-In Movie experience, and a restaurant and cafe.
You can even stay overnight at the resort’s Glampsite. With 40 glamping pods to choose from, including a Boat House and Floating Lake.
16. Watch a Belfast Giants Ice Hockey game
Belfast is home to the Giants Ice Hockey team who continue to prove themselves as a major name in the UK.
Whether you know much about the sport or not, everyone agrees that watching the Belfast Giants at the SSE Arena is a night out in itself - atmosphere and craic is guaranteed.
17. Play a round of minigolf
Another unbeatable activity if you want to have fun.
Belfast boasts some great mini-golf spots, including the incredible Lost City Adventure Golf in Yorkgate, and the outdoor mini-golfing course in Dundonald.
18. Go to a comedy club
The Northern Irish comedy scene is absolutely bursting with talent at the moment and as more and more of your local favourites venture into the world of podcasts and skits, there has never been a better time to get down and see them live.
The Empire Laughs Back, Lavery's Comedy Club and The Queen's Comedy Club at the new Mandella Hall are only a few to check out.
19. Visit Crumlin Road Gaol
The Crumlin Road Gaol is a 19th-century Grade A listed jail in north Belfast.
A tour of this historic building will allow you to experience all aspects of the Gaol - from the tunnel linking the courthouse on the other side of the Crumlin Road to the hanging cell, Governor's office, hospital and graveyard.
20. Head for a walk in one of Belfast's amazing parks
Nothing clears the head better than a nice walk to get some fresh air - why not rediscover the beauty of Belfast by taking a dander in some of the city's parks and greenways?
Whether you are trying to get the steps in or just want a light stroll to walk, even with the rain, the city has no shortage of beautiful places to stretch the legs.
21. Head into the city centre for a shopping trip
Even with the difficulties of the pandemic, Belfast city centre continues to be a bustling place for shopping.
Niche local shops like Born & Bred, plenty of high street brands on Royal Avenue, and beautiful modern shopping centres like Victoria Square have all helped keep life in the place.
22. Go to St George's Market
One of the best markets in the UK and Ireland and the last surviving Victorian covered market in Belfast, St George's Market is where you'll want to spend a weekend morning or afternoon.
Local delicacies, craft and artworks, local singers, and a bustling atmosphere awaits you.
23. See a show at one of Belfast's theatres
Whether you love musicals, gritty dramas or local laughs - there is always something to watch in Belfast.
Brilliant venues such as the Grand Opera House, the MAC and the Lyric are home to groundbreaking performances every week.
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