Dublin with Kids: the best family-friendly attractions and things to do
Planning a family trip can feel like a big task, but Dublin makes it easy and exciting! There are so many fun things to do in Dublin with kids, from expansive green parks to interactive museums where little ones can meet Vikings and hear stories about mischievous leprechauns.
The best part? Dublin is super family-friendly! The food is simple and delicious (even for picky eaters), and there are lively pubs where kids can enjoy music and dancing while parents relax with a pint of Guinness. With so many things to do in Dublin with kids, you’ll never run out of fun activities to enjoy together.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the best kid-friendly places to visit, along with helpful tips to make your trip smooth and stress-free. Let’s jump in!
Table of Contents
Why Dublin is a great destination for families with children
Now, you might ask, “Why choose Dublin for our family holiday?” Here’s why:
Warm and welcoming: Dubliners are famously friendly and always ready with a smile. You’ll quickly feel at home in this lively city.
A perfect blend of fun and learning: Whether it’s a hands-on museum or a day out at the zoo, Dublin offers a wonderful mix of education and entertainment.
Lots of outdoor fun: With its parks and open spaces, there’s always a spot for a picnic or a play, and lots of other fun things to do in Dublin with kids.
A flexible way to explore: Ready for the best part? Hop on a Dublin bus hop-on hop-off bus tour and explore at your own pace! (Kids love it!)
Whether you’ve got a whole week, or only a weekend in Dublin, you’ll find plenty to do with your family.
Top things to see and do in Dublin if you’re travelling with children
Let’s break it down. Here are the top spots that will make your kids jump for joy!
If you’re planning a family holiday, there is a huge variety of things to do in Dublin with kids that will keep them engaged and active.
1. Dublin Zoo – a must-visit for animal lovers
Dublin Zoo is a fun and friendly place where you can see animals from all over the world. It’s set in Dublin’s beautiful Phoenix Park and covers 28 hectares, giving plenty of space for its 400+ animals to live in nature-like homes.
Why Visit?
- Dublin Zoo is an exciting place that kids love because it mixes fun with learning in a magical way.
- The new Zoorassic Trail, featuring life-like, moving dinosaurs, sparks everyone’s imagination while the hands-on Family Farm gives kids a chance to get up close with friendly farm animals.
How to Get There:
Use our fun and convenient Dublin hop-on hop-off bus, which will take you right to the doorstep of Phoenix Park! (Red Route, Stop – 12)
Top tips:
- Visit during quieter times: Go early or on a weekday to explore hidden trails and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Use the live webcams: Check out the zoo’s live animal webcams before your visit for extra excitement and to plan your route.
- Explore the Nocturnal House: Look for interactive signs and details in the Nocturnal House, where rare night-time creatures are showcased.
Explore family-friendly areas: Don’t miss the Family Farm and interactive exhibits that kids love.
2. Natural History Museum – The ‘Dead Zoo’ of Dublin
The Natural History Museum in Dublin, often called the “Dead Zoo,” is a really cool place to explore nature’s past. Even though it might sound a bit spooky because it shows animals that aren’t alive, it’s actually full of amazing things to see and learn about.
Filled with stuffed animals and intriguing exhibits, it’s a fun and family-friendly way to tell nature’s story.
Why Visit?
- Instead of seeing live animals, you explore a fascinating collection of real preserved creatures, skeletons and fossils that show how animals lived long ago.
- Best of all, it’s free to visit, making it an ideal spot for families, students, or anyone curious about nature’s wonders.
How to Get There:
To get to the Natural History Museum in Dublin,hop on the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off bus. Hop off at stop number 28 (Merrion Square) on the red route and it’s a short, pleasant 5-minute walk.
Top tips:
- This museum is completely free, so you can keep both your wallet and your kids happy!
- Ideal for children, 5 and up; if your little ones are younger, a quick tour might suffice before you head off to a nearby park for some playtime.
3. The National Botanic Gardens – A Green Escape for Families
The National Botanic Gardens is a peaceful escape from the city, filled with vibrant flowers, towering trees and beautiful Victorian glasshouses.
It’s home to over 15,000 plant species, including some rare and exotic ones you won’t see anywhere else in Ireland.
Kids will love spotting colourful butterflies, playful squirrels and unusual plants that look like they’re straight out of a fairy tale. Plus, with plenty of open space, it’s the perfect spot to let your flock run around and explore.
Why Visit?
- With its magical glasshouses, rare plants and winding pathways, the gardens feel like a hidden world waiting to be explored.
- It’s a peaceful yet exciting place where nature and adventure come together.
How to Get There:
The National Botanic Gardens are slightly outside the city, at Glasnevin, Dublin 9.
Top tips:
- Budget-friendly fun – Admission is completely free, making it a great stop to balance out those pricier attractions.
- Best for kids 5+ – Younger kids will enjoy the open space but might tire quickly—bring snacks and plan a shorter visit.
- Visit on a sunny day – Dublin’s weather can be unpredictable, but the gardens truly shine when the sun is out. Bring a light jacket just in case.
- Pack a picnic – There’s no café on-site, but plenty of open spaces to lay out a picnic and enjoy the fresh air.
4. Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle is a must-see spot right in the heart of the city, blending centuries of history with detailed architecture. Originally built in the 13th century on a Viking settlement, it has transformed over the years from a medieval fortress to a key government complex.
But Dublin Castle isn’t just a historic landmark; it’s a fantastic place for families and children to explore!
Why Visit?
Some parts of Dublin Castle seem made for little ones, including:
- Impressive courtyards: Kids will love imagining knights and royalty from centuries ago. Why not bring along a couple of plastic swords to reenact a battle?
- Medieval Undercroft: Head underground to check out this secret hideaway with its Viking remains and gunpowder room.
- Dubh Linn Gardens: And if all else fails, there’s plenty of outdoor space in the beautiful gardens for energetic kids to have a run around!
Getting There:
Dublin Castle has a fantastic, central location, and is a 3-minute walk from City Sightseeing bus stop 2 (Dublin Castle).
Top Tips:
- Tour Options: Choose between self-guided visits and guided tours. Open: Monday – Sunday & Bank Holidays: 09:45 – 17:45 (last admission 17:15)
- Tickets: can be booked online up to 15 days in advance.
- Accessibility: The State Apartments and other main areas are wheelchair accessible. However, some areas like the Medieval Undercroft may have limited accessibility due to stairs.
- Facilities: The castle offers restrooms, a café for light refreshments, and a gift shop with unique souvenirs.
5. Viking Splash Tours – A Fun Way to Explore Dublin
This one-of-a-kind guided tour takes you on an amphibious vehicle that travels both on land and in water, giving you a fresh perspective of the city.
You’ll cruise past iconic landmarks, including Dublin Castle, St. Stephen’s Green and the River Liffey, all while hearing fascinating stories about Dublin’s Viking past.
Why Visit?
- Viking Tour will bring the city’s history to life with colourful tales of Viking raids, Dublin’s evolution, and quirky facts that you wouldn’t hear on a typical tour.
- The combination of travel on land and water offers a memorable adventure that captures the essence of Dublin in an engaging and fun way.
How to Get There:
Just a 1-minute walk from stop 30 (St. Stephen’s Green), Viking Splash Tours couldn’t be easier to get to!
Top tips:
- Best for kids 4+ – While the tour is suitable for all ages, younger children may not fully grasp the historical stories, but they’ll definitely enjoy the boat splash and fun Viking antics.
- Dress for splashing – Be prepared for a bit of water when the tour goes into the river, so keep any valuables secure and dress accordingly.
- Book in advance – Viking Splash Tours can be very popular, especially during peak times, so booking tickets ahead of time is highly recommended.
Tips to enjoy your trip to Dublin when travelling with children
Now you’ll ask, “How do we make this trip as smooth as possible?” Here are some handy tips to ensure your family adventure is memorable and stress-free:
- Use free wi-fi – Many public areas in Dublin offer free Wi-Fi, perfect for quick map checks and staying connected.
- Carry a reusable water bottle – Refill at free stations around the city to stay hydrated and reduce waste.
- Find hidden playgrounds – Look for lesser-known playgrounds at places like St. Stephen’s Green or Phoenix Park.
- Rainy day options – Explore indoor activities like Explorium Science Centre or The Little Museum of Dublin
- Choosefamilyfriendly pubs – Some pubs, like The Woollen Mills, offer kids’ menus and play areas.
- Look for child discounts – Many attractions offer child discounts; always ask at the counter.
- Best castles in the world – There are some unbelievably stunning castles in Dublin, which are brilliant for little ones to explore.
- Plan for early mornings – Attractions are less crowded and more enjoyable early in the day, plus your kids will be fresher.
- Check for family events – Look out for local festivals, outdoor concerts, or kids’ workshops while you’re in town.
- Look out for hidden gems – Discover off-the-beaten-path spots like The Ark or St. Patrick’s Cathedral Gardens that might not be in your guidebook but are fantastic for kids.
- Pack layers for the weather – Dublin’s weather is unpredictable, so pack for both sunshine and rain (or fog!).
Make your Dublin family adventure unforgettable
Dublin is waiting to be explored. With its rich mix of culture, history, and unique experiences like the Viking Splash Tours, every corner of the city holds something exciting for families.
There’s a huge variety of things to do in Dublin with kids that’ll keep your little ones entertained and leave you with unforgettable memories.
So, grab your family, hop on our Dublin bus tour, and get ready for an adventure that’s as flexible and fun as it is unforgettable. Remember, in Dublin, the journey is just as exciting as the destination!
Happy Dublining, happy sightseeing!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer mild weather and less crowds, perfect for families.
Visit the Natural History Museum, Dublinia, or The National Wax Museum Plus for fun indoor activities
Teens will love the Guinness Storehouse, Viking Splash Tours, Trinity College, and EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum.
Dress in layers, bring a raincoat and umbrella, and have indoor options like museums ready.
Dublin’s attractions are generally stroller-friendly, though some cobbled streets may be tricky.