Things to do in Dublin with Kids

Planning a trip to Dublin with the whole family? You will be happy to hear that there are a whole host of exciting things to do in Dublin with kids…some of which won’t even cost you a cent! We’ve done some research and put together this list of the best things to do with your little ones in Ireland’s capital city.

 

Outdoor Family Activities

If you're looking for things to do in Dublin with kids who love being outdoors you won't be stuck for options. If are lucky enough to visit Dublin when the weather is on your side, then make the most of it by enjoying some of the following outdoor activities.

 

Viking Splash Tour

Top of our list is the Viking Splash Tour! This unique tour will allow you to experience Dublin by land and by water as you buckle up in a WW2 amphibious DUKWs. Once your guide has taken you around some of Dublin’s most interesting streets, it’s then time to splash into the Grand Canal Basin for a quick sailing. Prices range from €29.00 for adults, €20.00 for children and €85.00 for a family of four. Don't miss this key attratcion when searching for things to do in Dublin with your kids this year. 

 

Dublin Zoo

Dublin Zoo is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Dublin with kids. Officially the biggest family attraction in Ireland, Dublin Zoo offers the perfect way to kill a few hours with the kids in Dublin! If you are planning to pay a visit to every animal habitat in the zoo, then you should set aside at least three hours to make your way around the vast 28 hectare site, and possibly longer if you plan to take a break for some food and refreshments. Ticket prices range from €18.25 for adults, €13.50 for children and €52.00 for a family of four.

 

Zipit Forest Adventures

If you're looking for things to do in Dublin with kids that love the outdoors then look no further than Zipit Forest adventures. Located in Tibradden Wood in Dublin, Zipit Forest Adventures is the ideal outdoor activity for the little thrill seekers in your life! Venture high into the tree tops and make your way through the many different circuits on offer including rope bridges, swinging logs, cargo nets and more. Prices range from €18.00 - €35.00 (from children to teens) with adult tickets priced at €40.00.

 

Things to do in Dublin with kids when it rains / indoor activities

It can be hard to entertain outdoor lovers on rainy days but below are some of our favourite things to do with kids in Dublin when the weather isn't on our side. 

 

Aquazone at the National Aquatic Centre

Known as Ireland’s favourite water park, Aquazone offers something for all ages water slides for the big kids and a fun-filled pirate play area for the little ones. With over 8 slides and numerous water based activities, you can look forward to hours of fun at Aquazone. Tickets priced from €16.00 for children (with children up to 3 years old free) and €18.00 for adults.

 

Seahorse Aquariums

Whether you are thinking of adding to your family of pets, or you simply want to browse the many marine species on offer, then a visit to Seahorse Aquariums in Ballymount is just what you are looking for. Your children will be mesmerised by the vast number of tanks which house hundreds of colourful fish, seahorses, crabs, coral and more. 

 

The Chocolate Warehouse

Established in 2001, The Chocolate Warehouse is the ultimate ‘chocolate wonderland’, filled with history, joy and, most importantly, chocolate! Throughout the year, The Chocolate Warehouse hosts many different seasonal workshops which will allow the whole family to get hands on and create their own chocolate masterpieces. Check the website for details and pricing on upcoming workshops. 

 

Jumpzone

A popular family attraction and the first of its kind in Europe, Jumpzone is an indoor trampoline sports park which is set within a 34,000 square foot facility. If you're looking for things to do in Dublin with toddlers then this one might not be for you. Suitable for children aged five years and older, and over one metre in height, Jumpzone features a trampoline court, warped walls, assault courses plus much more. The best part? If you're looking for things to do in Dublin that are for adults too then you can also join in the fun and enjoy the many fun-filled activities on offer. Prices start from €13.95 per hour during peak times.

 

Museums in Dublin 

 

National Wax Museum Plus

The National Wax Museum Plus is one of Dublin’s most popular attractions, offering an interactive experience for all ages. Set over three floors, visitors can look forward to meeting many familiar and famous faces, as well as exploring the Science and Discovery Room, the Hall of Fame and the famous Mirror Maze. Tickets are priced at €16.50 for adults and €11.50 for children (aged 5 - 12).

 

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

Voted Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction three times in a row at the World Travel Awards (2019, 2020, 2021), EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum is perfect for those looking for things to do in Dublin with kids who love history. It's a fully interactive museum which brings Irish history to life. Browse the many exhibitions and stories and discover why 10 million people left Ireland and what impact they made all around the world. Tickets are priced from €17.50 for adults and €8.50 for children (aged 6 - 12).
 

National Museum of Ireland - Natural History

For those stuck for ideas on what to do with kids in Dublin when it's raining the National museum of Ireland is a go to choice for many. Affectionately known amongst locals as the ‘Dead Zoo’, The National Museum of Ireland - Natural History is home to over 10,000 preserved animal specimens which are a sight to behold. Both educational and fascinating, The Natural History Museum offers the perfect mix for an unforgettable family activity in Dublin. Admission is free. 

 

Free things to do Dublin with kids 

If you're looking for things to do in Dublin which are free then you'll love our list of walks and beaches.

 

Walks in Dublin 

 

Malahide Castle and Gardens Fairy Trail

Malahide Castle and Gardens Fairy Trail is 1.8km of pure magic set in the beautiful woodlands of Malahide Castle. With fairy houses, sculptures and lots of hidden treats for children to uncover, this fairy trail will leave little ones mesmerised.

 

St Stephens Green

St Stephen’s Green park offers a peaceful oasis within Dublin city. Walk the beautiful pathways which are dotted with sculptures, sit by the fountains, visit the playground  or admire the ducks and swans that call this historic park their home. 

 

Iveagh Gardens

For those looking to save money and find free things to do in Dublin with kids, the Iveagh Gardens is a perfect choice. With a history dating back over 300 years, the Iveagh Gardens in Dublin’s city centre feature numerous lawns, floral displays, rockeries and fountains. Children will love entering the beautifully set yew maze and trying to work their way through it.
 

Marley Park

Located on Dublin’s southside, Marley Park offers so much to keep children entertained, including a large playground, beautiful woodlands, playing pitches and a miniature railway which operates every Saturday during the summer months (weather permitting).

 

Corkagh Park

Corkagh Park is a relatively new park in Dublin, but what it lacks in history, it makes up for in family friendly activities! Featuring a cycle track, a playground, fishing lakes and a fairy trail, Corkagh Park offers hours of things to do in Dublin for all the family.

 

Dublin Beaches

Dublin offers some of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland. If you're looking for free things to do in Dublin with the kids look no further than Dublin's sandy shores. 

 

Seapoint Beach

If you're looking for free things to do in Dublin with kids who love to swim then seapoint beach provides hours of fun. Located outside Dun Laoghaire, Seapoint is a popular location amongst Dublin’s sea swimmers, thanks to its toilets and shower facilities, and the accessible rails which provide support upon entering the water.

 

Sandycove Beach

Home to the famous Forty Foot, Sandycove Beach is located close to the James Joyce Tower and Museum. Sandycove Beach is a popular spot with families thanks to its shallow waters.

 

Sandymount Strand 

Sandymount Strand promenade is located in the southside suburb of Sandymount and boasts beautiful views of Dun Laoghaire, Dublin Bay and Poolbeg. Enjoy an extra long stroll by heading away from the promenade and venturing down the pier towards Poolbeg Lighthouse.

 

Dollymount Strand

Situated on Bull Island on Dublin’s northside, Dollymount Strand is a five kilometre stretch of beach and sand dunes and offers an idyllic escape from the city centre. Keep an eye out for grey seals and harbour seals that are known to frequent an area of Bull Island known as ‘the point’. 

 

Things to do with a toddler in Dublin

If you're looking for things to do in Dublin with toddlers you'll love Airfiels and Funky Monkeys 

 

Airfield

For a family activity that toddlers will love, head to Airfield in Dundrum, which is Dublin’s only urban working farm and gardens. Collect freshly laid eggs, watch the cows being milked or get up close and personal with the many other farm yard animals. Tickets are €12.00 for adults and €6.50 for children (aged 4 - 17 years).

 

Funky Monkeys

Located in Citywest, Clarehall and Dundrum, Funky Monkeys is a ‘jungle of fun’ for children aged eight years and under. With soft play areas, slides and cargo nets, Funky Monkeys offers the perfect environment for parents to relax, while their children explore and play. Prices range from €3.00 to €9.00 for 90 minutes play, depending on the age of the child.
 

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