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A trip to the City Ground does not have to be all about the football, with Nottingham offering plenty of attractions for supporters looking to make the most of their visit.
Whether you're arriving early for a match, travelling with family or staying in the city for a full weekend, there are plenty of things to explore within easy reach of Forest's home.
From football history and medieval caves to grand country houses and competitive activities, there is something for almost every type of visitor.
FootballGroundGuide takes a look at seven of the best things to do near the City Ground in 2026.
1. Explore Nottingham Castle
Around a 30-minute walk from the City Ground, Nottingham Castle is one of the city's most famous landmarks and a worthwhile addition to any football weekend.
The castle occupies an impressive natural position on Castle Rock, with 40-metre cliffs overlooking the surrounding area. Its long history and connection to the legendary Robin Hood make it particularly appealing to visitors wanting to learn more about Nottingham.
The castle is also close to the city centre, so it can easily be combined with other attractions, shops and places to eat.
Location: Lenton Road, Nottingham, NG1 6EL.
2. Pay Tribute to Brian Clough
Football fans visiting Nottingham should make time to see the Brian Clough statue in Old Market Square.
Clough is one of the most important figures in Nottingham Forest's history, guiding the Tricky Trees to consecutive European Cup triumphs in 1979 and 1980 among a remarkable collection of achievements.
The statue provides a great photo opportunity for Forest supporters and is particularly fitting for anyone visiting the City Ground for the first time.
Location: Old Market Square, Nottingham, NG1 2DT.
3. Visit Trent Bridge Cricket Ground
You don't have to go far from the City Ground to find another historic sporting venue.
Trent Bridge, home of Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club, sits directly opposite the Forest stadium across the River Trent. The ground has a long association with English cricket and regularly hosts domestic and international fixtures.
Even if there isn't a game taking place during your visit, its location makes it an easy stop for sports fans who want to see two major Nottingham venues in one trip.
Location: West Bridgford, Nottingham, NG2 6AG.
4. Go Underground at the City of Caves
Nottingham has a fascinating secret beneath its streets, with the City of Caves forming the largest network of caves in the UK.
Dating back centuries, the caves have served a variety of purposes over the years, including storage, homes and hideouts. Guided tours take visitors underground while explaining how the unusual network developed and its role in Nottingham's history.
It is a particularly good choice for families, with the combination of history and exploration making it feel more like an adventure than a traditional museum visit.
Location: Nottingham, NG1 1HF.
5. Visit Wollaton Hall and Park
For supporters wanting to escape the city centre, Wollaton Hall and Park offers an impressive combination of architecture, history and open space.
The Grade I-listed Elizabethan mansion sits within around 500 acres of parkland and is surrounded by picturesque grounds where visitors can walk and explore.
Film fans may also recognise Wollaton Hall as Wayne Manor in The Dark Knight Rises, adding another reason to visit the striking building.
Location: 24 Cambridge Road, Wollaton, Nottingham, NG8 2AE.
6. Discover Crime and Punishment at the National Justice Museum
History buffs can explore a darker side of Nottingham at the National Justice Museum.
Based inside the Grade II-listed Shire Hall, the museum explores the history of crime, punishment and social justice through exhibitions and historic courtroom and prison spaces.
Its central location makes it straightforward to include as part of a wider day exploring Nottingham, particularly if you want something different from the city's more conventional tourist attractions.
Location: High Pavement, Nottingham, NG1 1HN.
7. Challenge Your Mates at Arrowsmiths
If you're travelling with friends and want something competitive to do after the football, Arrowsmiths at O'Neill's offers an easy way to settle a few scores.
The venue features interactive dartboards that handle the scoring, allowing groups to concentrate on hitting the targets rather than doing the maths. There are also pizzas, small plates, cocktails and pints available.
With sessions starting from around £4 per person for 60 minutes, it can be a relatively inexpensive option for a post-match night out in Nottingham.
Location: 8-9 Beastmarket Hill, Nottingham, NG1 6FB.