Explore the Best Family-Fun Things in Dublin for Your Kids
- The Kick Team
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
Exploring Dublin with children, offers a rich mix of history, nature, and fun things that appeals to all ages. Whether your family enjoys outdoor adventures, interactive museums, or cultural experiences, this region has plenty to offer. This guide highlights the best spots where parents and kids can enjoy quality time together, with activities tailored to different age groups.
Dublin Zoo – A Day with Wildlife for All Ages
Located in Phoenix Park, Dublin Zoo is one of the oldest and most popular zoos in Europe. It offers a fantastic opportunity for children to learn about animals from around the world while enjoying a day outdoors.
For toddlers and preschoolers: The Family Farm area lets little ones get close to farm animals like goats and sheep. The petting zoo encourages gentle interaction and sensory play.
For school-age children: The African Savanna exhibit features giraffes, zebras, and rhinos in a recreated natural habitat. Interactive talks and feeding sessions engage kids in animal care and conservation.
For parents: The zoo has picnic areas and cafes, making it easy to relax while keeping an eye on the kids. Educational panels provide interesting facts about species and environmental efforts.
Dublin Zoo is wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly, making it convenient for families with young children.
Imaginosity – Dublin Children’s Museum
Imaginosity is a creative space designed specifically for children up to 9 years old. It encourages hands-on learning through play, art, and science.
Activities: Kids can explore a mini city, build with blocks, experiment with light and shadows, or engage in storytelling sessions.
Age suitability: Ideal for toddlers to early primary school children, with zones tailored to different developmental stages.
Parent involvement: Parents can join in the activities or relax in the café while watching their children play safely.
This museum is perfect for rainy days or when you want a break from outdoor sightseeing.
National Aquatic Centre – Fun and Fitness for Older Kids
For families with energetic children aged 6 and above, the National Aquatic Centre in Blanchardstown offers a thrilling water experience.
Features: Wave pools, water slides, and a lazy river provide hours of entertainment.
Swimming lessons: The centre offers beginner to advanced swimming classes, ideal for kids wanting to improve their skills.
Facilities: Changing rooms and family-friendly amenities make visits hassle-free.
Swimming here combines fun with physical activity, a great way to burn off energy after sightseeing.
Glendalough – Nature and History in Wicklow Mountains
Just south of Dublin, Glendalough is a stunning valley known for its monastic ruins and scenic walking trails. It’s a great spot for families who enjoy nature and history.
For younger children: Short, flat trails around the lakes are perfect for little legs and strollers.
For older kids: More challenging hikes lead to viewpoints and waterfalls, offering a sense of adventure.
Educational value: The visitor centre provides information about the early Christian settlement and local wildlife.
Pack a picnic and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, where children can explore safely in nature.
Emerald Park – Theme Park and Zoo in Meath
Emerald Park formerly known as Tayto Park combines thrilling rides with a zoo, making it a unique destination for families.
Rides: There are gentle rides for toddlers and more exciting roller coasters for older children and teens.
Zoo: The animal section includes wolves, monkeys, and birds of prey, with daily shows and feeding times.
Food and facilities: Multiple dining options and picnic areas cater to families’ needs.
This park offers a full day of entertainment, balancing excitement with educational animal encounters.
Malahide Castle and Gardens – History and Outdoor Play
Malahide Castle, located just north of Dublin city, is a historic site surrounded by beautiful gardens and playgrounds.
Castle tours: Older children interested in history will enjoy guided tours that bring the castle’s stories to life.
Gardens: The extensive grounds are perfect for running around, with themed gardens and a butterfly house.
Play areas: A large playground offers safe fun for younger children.
The castle hosts seasonal events and workshops, adding variety to visits.
The Ark – Arts and Theatre for Children in Dublin
The Ark is a cultural centre dedicated to children’s arts, offering performances, workshops, and exhibitions.
Age range: Programs cater to children from toddlers to teenagers.
Activities: Theatre shows, music sessions, and creative workshops encourage children to express themselves.
Parent engagement: Parents can attend performances or participate in family workshops.
This venue is ideal for families looking to introduce children to the arts in an interactive way.
Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park – Outdoor Learning in Kildare
Lullymore Park offers a mix of nature trails, playgrounds, and heritage exhibits that appeal to families.
For young children: The playground and pet farm provide hands-on fun.
For older kids: Nature trails and bogland walks introduce children to local ecology.
Educational programs: Workshops on traditional crafts and wildlife run regularly.
This park is a great choice for families wanting a blend of outdoor activity and learning.
Newbridge Silverware Visitor Centre – Craft and Creativity
In Newbridge, the Silverware Visitor Centre offers a unique experience where families can see craftsmanship in action.
Demonstrations: Watch artisans create silverware and jewelry.
Workshops: Children can participate in craft sessions, making their own souvenirs.
Museum: Displays showcase the history of silverware production in Ireland.
This stop combines culture, creativity, and hands-on fun for older children and parents.
Beaches and Coastal Walks in Wicklow and Dublin
The coastline around Dublin and Wicklow offers family-friendly beaches and scenic walks.
Portmarnock Beach: Wide sandy beach with shallow waters, ideal for toddlers and families.
Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk: A safe, paved path with stunning views, suitable for older children who enjoy walking.
Dalkey and Killiney Beaches: Smaller beaches with rock pools and picnic spots.
These locations provide a refreshing break from city sightseeing and opportunities for outdoor play.
The Museum of Curiosities
Explore Dublin's most unusual adventure featuring eerie objects, strange artefacts and spooky history.
Unique collection of rare and unusual artefacts
Explore interactive exhibits that engage your sense of wonder and curiosity
Learn fascinating stories and histories behind each curious item
Fun and educational family experience
Dream Point Experience - Interactive Dream World
Discover the Land of Dreams as you venture through the Dream Point realm.
Explore a unique and magical display in each room
Stroll through the inflatable forests or the pink balloon room - Ireland's biggest ball pit
Plenty photo opportunities throughout the surreal sets
Unlock your inner artist in the Glow Corridor
End on a sweet note at the Dream Café
Children 0-2 go free
World Of Illusion
Discover more than 70 illusions and interactive exhibits that will challenge your perception, featuring a gravity-defying room, infinity mirrors, and a vortex tunnel.
Interactive Fun - become part of the illusions
Mind-bending experiences - infinity mirrors & optical illusions
Great photo opportunities
Great Family Fun in the heart of Dublin city centre
Ideal for groups - Great Hen Party activity!
Wheelchair accessible!
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