Things to do in Dublin with kids

Home to around 400 animals across 70 species, Dublin Zoo is one of Dublin's biggest family days out, right in the heart of Phoenix Park. The different habitats give the visit a natural route, from the Rainforest House and African Plains to the Asian lions and orangutans. There's also a family farm area that works particularly well for younger children. As a conservation charity, Dublin Zoo uses its income to support its conservation work around the world.

If you're booking tickets, use the official Dublin Zoo website. The zoo specifically warns visitors about unofficial ticket sellers, so it's worth checking that you're booking through dublinzoo.ie before paying.

One of Europe's largest enclosed city parks, Phoenix Park is an easy place to spend a few hours with children without needing to plan every minute. The park is home to a large herd of wild fallow deer, which can often be spotted around the Furry Glen and Glen Pond. There are also the Victorian People's Flower Gardens, a visitor centre and plenty of open space for running around. Dublin Zoo is located within the park too, making it easy to combine both in the same day.

Step back into Viking and medieval Dublin at Dublinia, right beside Christ Church Cathedral. The interactive exhibitions bring the city's past to life, but the highlight for many children is climbing the 96 steps of St Michael's Tower for the views across Dublin. At the bottom, you can explore the small exhibition before heading up, including historic maps and fire buckets.

Ireland's National Science Centre, with hands-on exhibits and activities for different ages. Younger children can explore Junior Town, while older kids can get stuck into the main science exhibits. There's also a dedicated activity area with climbing challenges and virtual reality for ages six through to adults. With changing exhibitions and activities throughout the year, it's a good option for families who want something children can actively do rather than simply look at.

Ireland's dedicated cultural centre for children, with theatre, creative activities and exhibitions designed specifically for young audiences. There's something for different ages, but the age guidance matters: an event designed for a seven-year-old may not be suitable for a toddler. Check the recommended age on each event before booking to make sure it's right for your child.

Dublin's famous "Dead Zoo" on Merrion Street is currently closed for refurbishment, with no reopening date confirmed. In the meantime, you can still see part of its collection at the Riding School in Collins Barracks, where around 1,300 specimens are being displayed on a rotating basis. Highlights include Spoticus the giraffe and the Giant Irish Deer, along with the intricate Blaschka glass models of marine life.

It's a good alternative for children who love animals and natural history — and a chance to see some of the Dead Zoo collection while the original museum remains closed.

A real working farm in the heart of Dublin, spread across 38 acres with Jersey cows, Jacob sheep, pigs, goats and donkeys. Children can see the animals up close and, at the right time of day, watch the cows being milked, giving them a chance to see where food actually comes from. There's also a six-acre walled garden to explore, with plenty of space to make a day of it.

Four colour-coded loop walks start from Howth DART station, making it easy to choose a route to suit the family. The Cliff Path Loop is the popular choice, taking you past Red Rock and towards Baily Lighthouse with views across Dublin Bay. Keep an eye out for grey seals in the water below and birds of prey overhead. And when you're finished, Howth Harbour is right there for the traditional post-walk chips.

An interactive museum telling the story of Irish emigration from the historic CHQ building on Dublin's docks. Rather than simply walking through displays, children can explore the story through interactive exhibits, games and activities. There's also an Irish Family History Centre on site, where you can research your own family tree and see whether you can trace an Irish ancestor.

See Dublin from the road and the water on a restored World War II amphibious vehicle. The tour takes you through the city centre before driving straight into the Grand Canal Basin for the final stretch on the water, passing the U2 studios along the way. Expect plenty of noise and fun along the route, including the famous Viking horn, with the full tour lasting around 75 minutes.