Dublin for Kids

Dublin Zoo

60 acres of Phoenix Bar on the northside of city centre is Dublin Zoo. The focus of the zoo is raising species that are threatened by extinction. For younger children there is a ‘city farm’ and for all ages a recently completed African section featuring giraffes, rhinos and hippos.

The Gaiety Theatre

Check the listings for what’s on at the Gaiety Theater. Just off Grafton Street, this old-style playhouse frequently has performances for children.

Croke Park

Two Irish sports have frequent matches at Croke Park, Gaelic Football and Hurling. Some brief research into the rules beforehand will help the kids to understand this spectacle of a sporting event.

The Irish Pub

Some Americans may find it strange the amount of children they will see in the pub during the day and early afternoon. This is a normal sight in Irish culture, as the pub is often a meeting place for friends and family, to have an afternoon Sunday roast and listen to music. Don’t be shy to bring your kids into the pub for some live Irish music.

Killiney Hill

If your kids have a sugar rush, a good hike is sure to calm them down again. Killiney Hill offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area, all while getting the kids out of the city for a few hours. Pack a picnic and make a day out of it.

Kilmainham Gaol

If you’re going to bring your kids to one museum during a trip to Dublin, than it must be a tour of Kilmainham Jail. Even if the historical accounts from the tour guide lose their interest (and it is fascinating material) than the old building, well-preserved, is sure to provide entertainment and a glimpse into the past of Ireland.