Much to tourists’ surprise, Dublin is not just a city of alcohol and parties. There are plenty of amazing family-friendly places to go with the kids for a nice day in Dublin Town!
In this post, we will show you the best ways to have fun with the entire family, no matter what it is you’re into. Dublin has plenty of fantastic activities that the kids are sure to enjoy, along with a plethora of informational and educational delights for the kids to learn from, museums for the whole family to enjoy, and, of course, ways to take in Dublin’s beautiful scenery while staying active.
Top Kid-Friendly Attractions:
National Wax Museum:
The National Wax Museum is a classic Dublin staple. There are sections of the museum on Irish writers, famous scientists, statues of celebrities and even a section dedicated to Father Ted, so whoever you choose to go with, The National Wax Museum will have something for everyone.
Croke Park:
Croke Park is known by, I would say, everyone in Ireland, but what some people might not know is that not only does this stadium host the very best GAA matches, it also has its very own museum of GAA history and memorabilia. The stadium also offers a tour of its skyline for those with nerves of steel.
World Of Illusion:
World of Illusion is, as its name suggests, a world of illusion. They have over 70 different optical illusions for you and the children to enjoy. But much like many of the spots on this list, World of Illusion is not just for the children, their illusions are complex, interesting and entertaining for all ages.
Savoy Cinema:
If you and the family want a cinema day, then you can’t go wrong with the Savoy. They are the oldest operational cinema in all of Dublin, so they know their way around a film.
Gaiety Theatre:
The Gaiety Theatre has brought plays and pantos to entire families for generations since its opening in 1871. If it’s live entertainment you’re looking for, then it’s impossible to go wrong with the Gaiety.
The Ark:
The Ark is a venue dedicated to bringing top-notch programmes to anyone from ages 2-12, They frequently host summer camps and events perfect for children to learn and socialise.
Silver Works:
Silver Works is a business that helps people learn to create jewellery. While their courses are mostly only for those aged 16 and above, they also offer summer camps for anyone aged 10-17 years old.
Irish Rock N Roll Museum:
If you and your children love music, then the Rock’ N Roll Museum is perfect for you, with music studios for you to create songs in, memorabilia from some of the most well-known Rock stars and a museum with an extensive history of the building and the bands that played there, this museum is perfect all music lovers!
Outdoor Activities:
Shaka Bike Shop:
Shaka Bike Shop don’t just sell bikes, they also rent them. Which is perfect if you want to spend a day cycling around Dublin and seeing all the sights. They also rent children’s electric bikes, so you won’t have to worry about whether the bike will be too big.
Viking Splash Tour:
The Viking Splash tour is one of the most iconic attractions in all of Dublin, and rightfully so. The Viking Splash Tour has no target age, everyone is sure to enjoy the history, scenery and uniqueness of this renowned tour.
Trinity:
Trinity is not just the home of The Book of Kells or international students, but a beautiful campus filled to the brim with history, beauty and lively energy. Whether you’re looking for a nice long walk or just a sit-down while you eat some lunch, Trinity is there to house the experience.
City kayaking:
City Kayaking is the only way to legally get into the River Liffey. They have guided tours where you will learn the amazing history of the River, from its importance in Ireland’s current trading to its trade dating back to the Vikings. And you’ll also learn all about the bridges that cross its calm waters. City Kayaking also offer musical journeys that will be serenaded by some of Ireland’s best performers.
Educational Experiences:
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum:
EPIC museum has brought a vibrant new feel to Irish history, which, as we all know, can be bleak at times. Their tour guides explain what it means to be Irish, the history of our language, our culture and our very being, all while being fun, light-hearted and educational.
The National Leprechaun Museum:
Dive into the world of Irish folklore at The National Leprechaun Museum, from ancient Irish traditions to the history of the leprechauns themselves, this museum is a dream come true for anyone interested in Irish culture.
National Museum Of Ireland:
Being someone who has visited this museum many a time as a kid and an adult, I can say for sure that this museum simply never gets old. There’s a plethora of history and information about each of the animals. And to top it all off, it’s free! Note: As of the writing of this article, the National Museum of Ireland is temporarily closed for construction, but it plans to open once more soon.
Kilmainham Gaol:
This jail is a key figure in Irish history and has been refurbished into the museum it is today. If Irish history is already important to your family or you’d like to learn more about it, Kilmainham Gaol is only a stone’s throw away!
GPO Museum:
The GPO is one of Ireland’s most famous buildings, for its vital role in the war for independence. We can’t truly describe the rich history and importance that this building holds, but the tours here are sure to answer questions you may have about this iconic post office.
Archbishop Marsh Library:
The Archbishop March Library was Ireland’s first public library ever. More recently, it has become a site of incredible history and the perfect place to bring the family to learn more about Ireland’s ancient story.
The Custom House:
Chances are, if you look out on Dublin’s skyline, you’ll see The Custom House. But few know you can go inside it! They offer tours for people of all ages from 5 and beyond, Their tour guides give a wonderful description of the history of this building and some of the history of Ireland.
Shopping:
Art and Hobby:
The common misconception of Art and Hobby is that it’s a store only for kids. While they do have an assortment of toys and trinkets for children like LEGO and colourful school supplies, they also have a seemingly endless amount of professional-quality art supplies, top-tier office supplies, and multiple thousand-piece jigsaw puzzles. The moral of the story is that if you are into arts and or hobbies, this shop is tailor-made for you, no matter your age.
Games Workshop/Warhammer:
Games Workshop has the most extensive collection of all things Warhammer, from figurines to paints to their very own complex and intricate board games to play with your figurines. If you are a fan of Warhammer, then Games Workshop has everything you could want.
Smyths Toys:
Smyths Toys is a classic among children and adults alike, so whether you’re getting something for the kids ( if they were well behaved) or a little something for yourself, Smyths Toys will hook you up with top-quality toys and trinkets.
Hodges Figgis:
If you want your kids off their screens or if they just like a good read, Hodges Figgis on Dawson Street has a range of books like you’ve never seen before.
The Lego Store:
You just can’t go wrong with a bit of LEGO. Fun, challenging, iconic, and eclectic, there’s no shortage of possibilities with LEGO, so if you are as big a fan of LEGO as I am, why not head into the store and pick out a few sets for when you get home?
The Silly Shop:
The Silly Shop sell anything from gag gifts to fun prank toys and a wide range of Halloween costumes, which makes it a perfect shop to get something for the kids.
Family Friendly Dining:
Eddie Rockets:
Once again, I can attest to the joy that having an Eddie Rockets meal with my parents gave me. And once again, Eddie Rockets is not only for the kids, but for the family. This American diner-style restaurant can be found all around town.
Sunbear Gelato:
I can’t think of a food that kids and adults alike love more than ice cream. Sunbear has flavours for all kinds of palates, picky or not, you’ll find a new favourite flavour here.
Milano:
We think that kids and Italy have it right with their love of pizza, Milano’s on Dawson Street seems to agree too! With pizzas galore, whether you’re in the mood for a flat Roman pizza or a classic pepperoni, you and the kids will find something to your liking at Milano’s.
Captain Americas:
Captain Americas first brought the traditional American hamburger to Ireland in 1971 and has been serving up delicious American classics ever since. Located on Grafton Street, Captain Americas is a classic family meal spot for many Dubs and tourists alike.
Whether you are a family of four or a family of fourteen, we hope you have a fantastic day out in the heart of Dublin City, filled with memories and moments that you will cherish for a long time to come. Whether you’re visiting Dublin on a holiday for a few weeks or you have lived in Dublin your whole life, there’s truly no better place for your family than Dublin.
