The Family Friendly Guide to Dublin
Last updated Mar 31, 2025
Whether you’re planning a short city break or an extended stay with your family, you’ve picked the right place! Dublin’s vibrant history, welcoming locals and wide array of activities to choose from make it a fantastic destination for families. Whether you’re exploring the city’s Viking past, great parks or interactive museums, Dublin offers a trove of experiences for both parents and children alike.
Dublin Zoo & Phoenix Park
To kick things off we’re starting in Dublin Zoo. Located in Phoenix Park, Dublin Zoo is one of the oldest and most popular zoos in Europe. Housing an impressive range of animals from around the world from lions, elephants and penguins. The zoo also offers interactive experiences and educational programs suitable for kids. During the winter months, families shouldn't miss out on the enchanting experience of Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo!
Address: Phoenix Park, Dublin 8, D08 AC98
Opening Hours: Every Day 9:30am-4:30pm
Phone Number: +353 (1) 474 8900
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If visiting Dublin Zoo, it is also worth spending time in the surrounding area, Phoenix Park. This is one of the largest urban parks in Europe and has a big playground with tons of climbing walls, slides and swings. Additionally, there is large open space for family picnics, where you might also catch sight of some deer.
Address: The Whitefields, Dublin, D08 KDC4
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone Number: +353 1821 30 21
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Viking Splash and Dublina
Undoubtedly, one of the most exciting ways to see Dublin’s history is Viking Splash. Offering a unique sightseeing experience on both land and water on a World War II amphibious vehicle, kids can dress up in Viking hats and play the role of Viking for the day.
Address: Unit 5, Knockmitten Lane, Dublin, D12 HD68
Opening Hours: Every Day 10:00 am- 5:30pm
Phone Number: +353 (1) 224 3852
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Staying with the Viking theme, Dublinia is an immersive museum that brings the city’s Viking and Medieval history to life. The museum also has interactive exhibits allowing children to dress up in period costumes, explore a Viking house, and learn about medieval life.
Address: Dublin 8, D08 V529
Opening Hours Every Day 10:00 am- 5:30pm
Phone Number: +353 (1) 679 4611
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St Stephen's Green
Right in Dublin City Centre, St Stephens Green is a great place for a family picnic. The park boasts playgrounds, duck ponds and is a great spot for children to run around. St Stephen’s Green also stands as a historical landmark of Dublin City, having witnessed four centuries of history. It features some important historical figures and monuments such as Fusiliers and O Donovan Rossa, Robert and Arthur Guinness, Pulhamite Rockwork and Yeats memorial.
Address: St Stephens Green Park, Dublin 2
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 8am-6pm, Sun 10am-6pm
Phone Number: +353 (1) 475 7816
Butlers Factory Tour
Located just 6km from the city centre, the Butlers Factory Tour is a great rainy-day activity. Dressed like a Butlers chocolatier in a lab coat and mob cap, children and parents are invited to decorate and take home their very own chocolate creation. This tour also gives the opportunity to learn the chocolate making process and the rich history of Butlers though interactive demonstrations and films.
Address: Clonshaugh Road & Clonshaugh Ave, Dublin 17
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30-5:15pm, Sat-Sun 9am-5:15pm
Phone Number: +353 (1) 474 8159
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Staying at Dublin City Quay
Riverfront views, top museums, artsy students, traditional pubs, Docklands, wine bars, and trendy restaurants.
