Dublin takes kids' entertainment seriously. It's no coincidence that it's home to Europe's largest city park and Europe's first cultural centre dedicated to children. This Travellers' Choice: Best of the Best award-winning city has a wealth of entertainment for children of all ages. Plus, it's compact: you won't have to spend your entire trip moving from one attraction to another with a grumbling toddler nearby. Read on for a kid-friendly, parent-approved itinerary around Ireland's capital .
Experience culture with your whole family, regardless of age
And now for the kids’ arts centre. It might sound too good to be true, but it’s real and as fun as you can imagine. All of the activities at The Ark are geared towards kids, from live music throughout the day to art installations where young guests aren’t just allowed to touch the exhibits – they’re encouraged to do so. You can book theatre performances in advance at the kids’ theatre or just drop in for one of the (free) creative workshops.
Meet a Viking (and be sure to take a photo)
Travellers say:
''We travelled with children aged 5 and 9 and spent two hours [in Dublinia] on a pleasant morning. ...There are lots of visual models and scenery - they brought the story to life for our youngest."
Relax in the very center of the city...
At the southern end of Grafton Street is St Stephen's Green . This grassy area is perfect for a picnic, and in the centre of the park there is an enclosed play area that is popular with young children. For a more sophisticated meal, try the upmarket Fallon & Byrne food court or order a takeaway from one of Dublin's best sandwich shops.
...or just escape the city
With walking trails and always accessible hills and ravines, the Dublin Mountains are a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. There are plenty of well-marked walks, including kid-friendly ones, and the views over Dublin Bay and beyond are worth the effort. There are car parks in the mountain woodlands, including Tibradden Wood, home to Zipit Dublin . A ropes course for children aged 7 and up takes them on an adventure to the treetops, with views of Ireland’s Eye.
Travellers say:
"We left the car in the free car park at Ticknock Woods and walked up the slopes to Fairy Castle, the highest point in the Dublin Mountains. It was an easy climb, suitable for children, lasting 1-2 hours... and was rewarded with fantastic views over the city and surrounding countryside. "
Let the kids be kids and have fun
For more nature, head to Phoenix Park , west of the city centre. It's Europe's largest enclosed park, covering 1,750 acres, where you can watch a herd of wild deer, visit a nearly 300-year-old military fort or explore the children's playground near the Visitor Centre. Entry is free, but you'll need to buy a ticket to also visit Dublin Zoo , nestled in the greenery on the park's north-eastern edge.
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