Are you looking for free things to do in Dundee this Valentine’s weekend? On Saturday 14th February 2026, the BGCP Comic Con Takeover returns to the Wellgate Shopping Centre for a massive pop-up event.
But once you’ve raided the stalls for Funko Pops and met the cosplayers, how do you fill the rest of your day without spending a fortune?
Dundee is the birthplace of Scottish comics (The Beano, The Dandy) and the home of Grand Theft Auto. It is the perfect city for a “Geek Day Out.”
Here is your guide to the best family days out in Dundee, including hidden gaming bars, comic statues, and the best lunch spots near the city centre.
The “Comic City” Statue Walk
You can’t visit the home of DC Thomson without paying respects to the legends. The city is full of bronze statues that are perfect for your Instagram feed.
- Desperate Dan (High Street): Just a 2-minute walk from the Wellgate, this massive bronze statue of the Dandy icon is the city’s most famous landmark.
- Oor Wullie (The McManus): Sitting on his bucket outside the gallery. A mandatory selfie spot.
- The Lemmings (Seabraes): A hidden gem on Perth Road celebrating the game created by DMA Design (now Rockstar North) right here in the city.
Visit the V&A Dundee & RRS Discovery
This is the #1 searched location in the city for a reason. Even if you don’t buy a ticket for an exhibition, walking around the exterior of the V&A Dundee is an experience in itself.
- The View: The building looks like an Imperial Star Destroyer docked on the River Tay.
- RRS Discovery: Right next door is Captain Scott’s famous Antarctic ship. It’s a stunning backdrop for cosplay photos.
The Geek Shopping Survival Guide
Looking for gaming merch or manga? Here are the essential stops on the Dundee high street:
- Warhammer (Commercial Street): The hub for wargaming and painting.
- Highlander Games (Annfield Road): The true “Gaming Hub” of Dundee. Essential for Magic: The Gathering and board game fans.
- HMV (Murraygate): The go-to spot for pop culture merch, graphic novels, and Japanese snacks.
- Waterstones (Commercial Street): Features a massive Manga and Graphic Novel section downstairs.
Best Places to Eat in Dundee City Centre
Avoid the chains and try these independent favourites that are popular with locals:
- The Bach (Meadowside): A quirky, Kiwi-run café near The McManus. Famous for incredible burgers, brunch, and coffee.
- Bird & Bear (Whitehall Crescent): A steampunk-inspired bar/restaurant with hanging birdcages and copper pipes. Great food and very “aesthetic.”
- Dr. Noodles (Nethergate): The ultimate cheap eat. Massive boxes of noodles perfect for refueling after the con.
The After-Con Quest: Gaming Bars & Cafés
If you are making a night of it, try these interactive venues:
- Cake or Dice (Commercial Street): A dedicated Board Game Café. Grab a milkshake and pick from over 500 games. Perfect for a chilled “Geek Date.”
- Top Dog (South Ward Road): Competitive socialising with Augmented Reality Darts and pool tables.
- Draffens (The Secret Speakeasy): A hidden 1920s bar down an alleyway (Couttie’s Wynd) with no sign. Finding it is a quest in itself!
More Free Family Fun
If you have time to kill, check out these free local attractions:
- The McManus Art Gallery: A gothic building that looks like Hogwarts, packed with history. Free entry.
- Dundee Science Centre: A fantastic interactive spot for kids (ticketed, but worth checking for events).
- Dundee Law: If you have the energy, climb the Law for the best panoramic view of the city and the Tay.
Event Details
- Event: BGCP Comic Con: Wellgate Takeover
- Date: Saturday 14th February 2026
- Location: Wellgate Shopping Centre, Dundee
- Entry: FREE
Join us for the ultimate Geek Day Out in the coolest little city in Scotland.