Want to know how to keep your little ones happy while in Dublin? Then read this guide and get some ideas of what to see and where to go with the family while in Dublin.
Dublin is a fantastic city and when it comes to children’s attractions, Dublin really has it all. So if you find yourself in Dublin with kids on a rainy afternoon, don’t panic - there’s more than enough in this city to keep them entertained!
1.Dublin Zoo
The kids are sure to love a visit to Dublin Zoo, Ireland’s biggest zoo and home to more than 235 species of animal and birds. Kids will be enthralled by the ’World of Cats,’ ‘World of Primates,’ ‘Fringes of the Arctic,’ ‘African Plains,’ ‘Birds,’ ‘Reptiles,’ and ‘Plants.’ They can also visit the ‘City Farm,’ where they’ll see pigs, cows, donkeys, goats and sheep.
The zoo is located at the edge of the city in the Phoenix Park and can be easily accessed via the number 10 bus from O’Connell Street in the city centre.
For more see the official Dublin Zoo website.
2.Viking Splash Tours
Who knew that something educational could be so much fun?! Learn about Dublin’s history and sights on board the “Ducks” World War II vehicle, and the ‘Viking’ tour guides will keep you entertained for about 75 minutes. Part of this tour is staged in the water around the newly developed Grand Canal.
The tours depart from St. Stephen’s Green North and Bull Alley (beside St. Patrick’s Cathedral).
For more visit the Viking Splash website.
3.Sea Safari
For the ultimate sea adventure, take the family on an exciting sea safari and discover some of Ireland’s unique marine sealife, birds, and wildlife. The inflatable boat will take you around Dublin Bay and along the coastline on a high-speed, action-packed adventure. (Suitable for kids aged 8+)
For more click here.
4.Dublin City Libraries
Forget the dreary image of dusty books - Dublin City’s libraries offer everything from art classes to storytelling, book clubs, and author visits. For a free resource that will open your child’s mind to new worlds, check out Dublin City Libraries
5.Dublinia
Dublinia has become one of Dublin’s top family attractions. A great place for a day out, it succeeds in combining fun with discovery about life in the medieval city and the world of the Vikings. Kids of all ages will enjoy interacting with the exhibition. See the Dublinia website for further details.
6.The Ark
This cultural centre for children in Dublin’s Temple Bar offers a comprehensive programme of events for kids, with activities ranging from visual art to music, theatre, and architecture. Catering for children between the ages of 3 and 14, it offers cultural stimulation that engages all of your child’s senses. For a program of events and more see The Ark website.
7.Malahide Castle
This is one of the top attractions in Dublin and makes a fantastic day out for all the family. Children of all ages will enjoy the Fry Model Railway, an extensive working miniature rail display from the 1920s-1930s. Guided tours of the castle are available, and there is a large modern playground adjacent to the castle.
Located in Malahide, for more info see Malahide Castle.
8.The National Aquatic Centre
This is the perfect place to take the kids when it’s raining (which is a pretty common occurrence in Ireland). Located in Blanchardstown, the National Aquatic Centre is one of Europe’s biggest indoor water parks. Head to the Aquazone for lots of family fun on some of the biggest and best water slides, such as the Dark Hole Ride, the Green Giant Ride, the Wave Pool and the Lazy River. Children under 8 will enjoy hours of fun on the Pirate Ship.
To access the National Aquatic Centre, get the 38 or 38A bus from Hawkins Street in the city centre.
For more see the National Aquatic website.
9.The Lambert Puppet Theatre
Based in Monkstown, Dublin, the Lambert Puppet Theatre is the only puppet theatre in Ireland. It is sure to have the children glued to their seats with enchanting fairy tales and magical stories performed by the Lamberts’ famous puppets. Family performances take place most weekends of the year, with shows including such perennial favourites as The Three Billy Goats Gruff, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Little Red Riding Hood.
The easiest way to reach the theatre is via the DART (train) to Monkstown.
For more see the Lambert Puppet Theatre website.
10.Croke Park GAA Museum
Take a tour of the museum and discover the absorbing history of the Gaelic Athletic Association and its sporting heroes. See where the teams prepare, sit in the auditorium, and access all areas of this impressive stadium. Tours take an hour and take place everyday except on match days.
From June 2012, viewers can combine adventure, stunning views and extreme highs from 17 storeys up. Experience Dublin from the roof of one of the world’s most remarkable stadiums.
For more info see the Croke Park GAA Museum website.
If that isn’t enough to keep the kids occupied during their stay in Dublin, you could always take them bowling , horse riding , go-karting or to one of several play and activity centres throughout the city - including Fitzone in Clontarf and Leopardstown.
Weather permitting, the Phoenix Park is a kids’ paradise. Explore the playgrounds, feed the ducks, or enjoy a picnic on the grass. As Dublin is located on the coast, you’re never too far from a beach, so if it’s a sunny day, hop on the DART (train) and head out to such coastal towns and villages as Malahide, Howth, and Portmarnock.
If you wish to book accommodation, GoIreland.com offers a wide range of Dublin hotels , bed and breakfasts , self-catering and guesthouses.
Hope this gives you some idea of what to get up to in Dublin with the kids. If you can recommend other activities, attractions or events for children, why not share them with us by writing in the comment box below.
