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If you’re thinking of going to Dublin, you’ll find it to be a wonderful place to visit with kids. The old city has many attractions that will keep adults and children alike engaged with history and captivated by natural beauty. Let’s learn more about some of the places that make Dublin fun.
1) The Leprechaun Museum
While the most recognised Irish casino brands in the area offer plenty of entertainment for adults, where can you go with younger kids that is engaging, fun, and not too serious? The Leprechaun Museum offers a glimpse at Irish history through the eyes of the mischievous men of the forest, as told by Celtic lore. There are many spaces where your kids can get their energy out through movement, and the museum’s exhibits will encourage them to have fun and experience Ireland as though they were as small as a leprechaun.
However, the biggest attraction here comes through storytelling. Tour guides are readily available to weave together tales of Irish legends that will keep the young ones entertained and relaxed. Your kids (and you as well, if you’re game) will also get the chance to make a drawing. Who doesn’t like art for the fridge?
2) Dublin Castle
Ireland is known for its stunning architecture, and Dublin Castle is a prime example. The castle, believed to have been built in the 13th century on a Viking settlement, is a testament to Ireland’s rich history. The expansive estate allows your kids to roam freely, especially in the gardens surrounding the main buildings. We recommend taking a family tour guided by experts who can bring the castle’s history to life with engaging stories about the royalty and administration that once thrived within its walls.
There are unique historical rooms to explore, including the Throne Rome, which previously served as the focal point of royal ceremonies in Dublin. You won’t be bored here.
3) Viking Splash
Most common tours involve walking, a bus, or a boat. How about a tour that combines a boat and a bus? Viking Splash takes you on a tour of Dublin and the rivers around the area with a brightly coloured amphibious vehicle that feels at home in water and on land. Kids will love this because of the unique experience of riding in an unusual vehicle and learning history, all while adorning a Viking helmet. Although there are various do’s and don’ts when visiting Dublin with kids that you should consider, this one is definitely a do.
4) St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Your kids may find the architecture and stained glass within St. Patrick’s Cathedral fascinating. At the very least, they can glimpse centuries-old instruments like a pipe organ and even hear them played. Young ones will find the ancient church cool, as it is one of the last buildings standing from mediaeval Dublin. Its history dates back to 450 and was officially founded in 1191!
5) The Ark
The Ark is a cultural performance centre in Dublin that focuses on kids. The centre also hosts workshops for visitors, live theatre performances like “The Adventures of Pinocchio,” and dance festivals. Stop in for a variety of art classes and to experience something new and get messy.
6) St. Stephen’s Green
While some of our favoured places offer the hustle and bustle of downtown Dublin, you could choose to escape into the urban oasis known as St. Stephen’s Green. The Green is a large park with beautiful stone craftsmanship on the bridge and flowery walkways that provide an overall feeling of relaxation. Grab some fresh foods on the way in and have a slow lunch in the grass while the kids climb through the playground.
7) Phoenix Park and Dublin Zoo
Phoenix Park is more than a park. Within it, you’ll find Dublin Zoo, too! The park is one of the largest enclosed outdoor public spaces in any European city. Phoenix began in the 1660s as a royal deer hunting ground and continues to be home to wild deer to this day. Along with the larger presence of Dublin Zoo, your kids will have the opportunity to see deer in a natural habitat while also seeing a much larger variety of animals like sea lions, red pandas, orangutans, and much more.
8) Powerscourt Estate
The historic home of Powerscourt Estate will have the young ones intrigued by Irish history with its old architecture. But one of the most captivating parts of the acreage Powerscourt is located behind the home: Ireland’s highest waterfall. At 121 metres, the waterfall and surrounding foliage are largely unscathed and have become a popular site for filming historical dramas like the History Channel’s Vikings. It also offers many walking trails, so you’ll want to spend all day here and relax!
9) Bay Cruises
As a coastal city, Dublin is a great place to take a boat ride. Venture into Dublin Bay on a big, comfortable boat to seek out local wildlife and picturesque scenes of Ireland’s rocky coasts. You’ll often be able to find cruises with meals and tour guides to tell you what you are taking in, too.
10) Dublinia
Consider Dublinia a living history of when Irish and Viking history crossed paths. Dublinia does an exceptional job of presenting what we know about the Viking presence in Ireland and how Scandinavians influenced northern Europe while making it fun and appropriate for a younger age. You can also explore a model mediaeval Irish village and learn about Irish cooking and games.
Conclusion
Exploring all that Dublin offers will be plenty of fun for you and your family. The vibrant museums in the city help people of all ages understand history while enjoying some Irish legends.