10 Best Things to Do in Dublin with Kids
Planning an Ireland family vacation often starts with its capital, and you’ll find plenty of fun and educational things to do in Dublin with kids. The city is filled with history, culture, and entertainment, making it a fantastic destination for families. From enchanting castles and museums designed for little explorers to outdoor adventures and sweet chocolate-making experiences, Dublin with kids offers endless opportunities for fun.
If you are wondering what to include in your itinerary while traveling to Dublin, this list highlights the best Dublin family activities that both kids and parents will love.
Here are the best things to do in Dublin with kids:
1. Explore the Animal Kingdom at Dublin Zoo
Dublin Zoo, nestled inside the vast Phoenix Park, is one of the oldest and most renowned zoos in Europe, attracting families from around the world. Covering 70 acres, it’s home to over 400 animals representing a wide variety of species and habitats. Families can wander through themed sections like the African Savanna, Asian Forests, and South American House, each designed to give visitors a glimpse into the animals’ natural environments. For parents planning an Ireland family vacation, the zoo offers a perfect mix of education and entertainment. Spending a day here is one of the most rewarding things to do in Dublin with kids, as it combines outdoor fun with meaningful learning.
What Kids Love
Children are naturally fascinated by animals, and Dublin Zoo provides countless opportunities for them to get close to their favorites. Watching elephants splash in their habitat, seeing tigers prowl gracefully, or giggling at penguins waddling around are all magical experiences for little visitors. The zoo also hosts regular feeding sessions and keeper talks, which help kids engage and understand animal behavior in an interactive way. Many younger children particularly enjoy the petting areas and smaller animals, while older kids love spotting the more exotic wildlife. The variety ensures that no matter what your child’s interests are, they’ll leave with unforgettable memories of their day at the zoo.
Info & Insider Tip
To make the most of your visit, plan to spend at least half a day exploring the zoo at a relaxed pace. Families with toddlers will appreciate the stroller-friendly paths, while older kids can enjoy longer walks across the different zones. Bringing a picnic is a great idea since the zoo has designated areas where families can sit down and recharge, though cafés are available on-site too. Arriving early in the morning lets you avoid the busiest crowds and catch animals at their most active. Pairing your zoo adventure with a stroll in Phoenix Park makes this outing one of the most enjoyable Dublin family activities for all ages.
2. Step into a Fairy Tale at Malahide Castle & Gardens
Malahide Castle & Gardens is a magical destination that blends centuries of history with enchanting outdoor spaces, making it a fantastic stop when traveling to Dublin with kids. Dating back to the 12th century, the castle has been beautifully preserved and showcases the fascinating stories of the Talbot family who lived there for generations. Inside, families can explore elaborately furnished rooms, medieval artifacts, and portraits that bring history to life. Surrounding the castle are over 260 acres of gardens and parklands, including themed areas such as the walled garden and butterfly house. The combination of history, culture, and outdoor fun makes Malahide a must for families seeking a fairy-tale experience.
What Kids Love
Children will feel like princes and princesses as they wander through the castle’s grand halls and imagine what life was like centuries ago. The real highlight for younger visitors, however, is the Fairy Trail in the gardens. This whimsical outdoor trail features hidden sculptures, fairy houses, and interactive play stations that spark imagination and creativity. There are also playgrounds where kids can burn off energy after the tour, and wide-open lawns perfect for running around. Parents will love watching their kids immerse themselves in a storybook adventure while also soaking up the natural beauty of the grounds.
Info & Insider Tip
Malahide is located just a short train ride from central Dublin, making it an easy and convenient day trip for families. Guided tours of the castle are engaging and tailored to different age groups, so even older children remain interested in the stories told by the guides. Don’t miss the butterfly house, where kids can marvel at colorful species in a warm tropical environment. Bringing snacks or a picnic to enjoy on the grounds is highly recommended, as the outdoor spaces are perfect for family meals in the fresh air. Malahide Castle & Gardens is not only one of the most enchanting Dublin family activities, but also a memorable highlight of any Ireland family vacation.
3. Become a Young Scientist at Imaginosity, Dublin Children’s Museum
Imaginosity, Dublin’s award-winning children’s museum, is designed to inspire young minds through hands-on learning and play. Spread across three floors, it offers interactive exhibits that cover science, art, social learning, and creative problem-solving. Every corner of the museum is tailored for children under nine, with activities that encourage exploration, imagination, and role-playing. From climbing structures and pretend-play areas to creative workshops, there is something to keep every child entertained. Families looking for unique things to do in Dublin with kids will find Imaginosity the perfect destination for learning disguised as fun.
What Kids Love
What makes Imaginosity special is the way it allows children to step into different roles and environments. Little ones can pretend to be doctors in the hospital zone, shopkeepers in the mini-supermarket, or builders in the construction zone. For more artistic kids, the creative workshops offer opportunities to paint, draw, and design with guidance from friendly staff. Parents love how the exhibits are designed to encourage teamwork, social interaction, and problem-solving skills while children are simply having fun. The museum also hosts special events and rotating exhibits, ensuring that every visit feels fresh and exciting.
Info & Insider Tip
Since the museum has limited capacity for safety and quality reasons, tickets are sold for time-based sessions, so it’s best to book in advance online. This system helps ensure that the museum doesn’t feel overcrowded, allowing children to fully enjoy the experience. Located in Sandyford, just outside Dublin’s city center, it’s accessible by public transport, though planning ahead for travel time is recommended. Pack snacks for after your session, as children often leave buzzing with energy and excitement. For families with younger kids, this museum is one of the most engaging and rewarding Dublin family activities to include in your itinerary.
4. Be Amazed at LEGO® Discovery Centre Dublin
The LEGO® Discovery Centre in Dublin is every child’s dream come true, offering a vibrant indoor playground filled with millions of colorful LEGO bricks. Families can explore themed play zones, interactive rides, and even a 4D cinema experience that brings brick-built worlds to life. One of the highlights is Miniland, where iconic Dublin landmarks are recreated with astonishing detail using thousands of LEGO pieces. Whether your kids are budding builders or just enjoy creative play, this destination is one of the most exciting things to do in Dublin with kids. It’s a perfect indoor attraction, especially on rainy days when outdoor options are limited.
What Kids Love
Children absolutely adore the chance to build and race their own LEGO cars, take part in creative challenges, and explore the imaginative play zones. The 4D cinema adds an extra thrill, immersing kids in action-packed LEGO adventures complete with wind, rain, and special effects. Younger visitors love the DUPLO play area, which is designed specifically for toddlers and preschoolers. The hands-on environment ensures that kids stay engaged for hours while developing problem-solving and motor skills without even realizing it. It’s the kind of activity where both boys and girls find endless ways to have fun.
Info & Insider Tip
The LEGO Discovery Centre is best for children aged 3 to 10, but parents and older siblings can still enjoy the creative atmosphere. To make the most of your visit, book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially during weekends and school holidays. Arriving earlier in the day often means fewer crowds and more time for kids to fully explore the attractions. Parents can relax at the café while their children play, making it a convenient outing for families. If you’re planning an Ireland family vacation, this stop is an excellent way to add a balance of creativity and fun to your itinerary.
5. Dive into the Deep at National Sea Life Aquarium Bray
Located just a short trip south of Dublin in the charming seaside town of Bray, the National Sea Life Aquarium is a fascinating destination for families. Home to over 1,000 sea creatures, the aquarium showcases everything from graceful seahorses and playful clownfish to mesmerizing jellyfish and even sharks. The carefully designed exhibits take visitors on a journey through marine habitats, offering both education and entertainment. For families traveling to Dublin, this makes for an easy day trip that combines indoor fun with the beauty of Bray’s coastal scenery. It’s one of those Dublin family activities that feels like an adventure into another world.
What Kids Love
Children are captivated by the ocean tunnel, where they can walk beneath swimming rays and sharks gliding overhead. The interactive rock pools are also a highlight, giving kids the chance to gently touch starfish and other small sea creatures. Colorful tanks filled with vibrant fish keep younger visitors mesmerized, while older children enjoy reading fun facts about marine life. Special feeding sessions are a big hit, as kids love watching divers interact with the animals. It’s an attraction that mixes wonder, excitement, and learning in a way that appeals to all age groups.
Info & Insider Tip
The aquarium isn’t overly large, which makes it ideal for families with younger children who may tire quickly. A visit usually takes around one to two hours, leaving plenty of time to explore Bray’s seafront with its playgrounds, cafes, and walking paths. Check the feeding schedule in advance so you can time your visit to catch the most exciting moments. Public transport from Dublin makes getting to Bray easy, or you can combine the trip with a scenic drive along the coast. Visiting the aquarium and Bray together is one of the best value-packed things to do in Dublin with kids.
6. Discover History at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum is not your typical history museum—it’s a fully interactive journey through the stories of Irish emigrants who shaped the world. Located in Dublin’s Docklands, the museum uses modern technology like touchscreens, motion sensors, and immersive displays to make history engaging for all ages. Visitors can explore how Irish people influenced culture, politics, science, and more across the globe. While the subject matter is educational, the hands-on approach makes it surprisingly enjoyable for children. Adding this to your Ireland family vacation itinerary offers both fun and meaningful insights into Irish heritage.
What Kids Love
Older children in particular love the interactive passport system, which allows them to stamp their way through each gallery as they uncover new stories. Digital games, audio-visual displays, and even holograms make the experience feel dynamic and exciting. The museum also highlights Irish music, dance, and folklore, giving kids a lively introduction to the country’s culture. Younger children may not grasp all the history, but the engaging visuals and interactive features keep them entertained. For families who want to balance fun attractions with something educational, EPIC is a perfect choice.
Info & Insider Tip
Plan for about two hours to explore the museum at a comfortable pace. It’s best suited for children aged 8 and older, though younger siblings can still enjoy the interactive elements. The museum is stroller-friendly, and its Docklands location means you can combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship. Booking tickets online is recommended to skip queues, especially during peak travel seasons. For families traveling to Dublin, EPIC provides a unique opportunity to connect with Ireland’s global story in a kid-friendly way.
7. Relax and Play at Phoenix Park
Phoenix Park is one of the largest enclosed city parks in Europe, covering more than 1,700 acres of open green space. Families can spend the entire day here exploring its vast landscapes, which include woodlands, lakes, and historical landmarks. The park is also home to Dublin Zoo, the Áras an Uachtaráin (the President of Ireland’s residence), and a herd of wild fallow deer. It’s the kind of destination that allows families to escape the hustle and bustle of the city while still staying close to central Dublin. For anyone looking for free and flexible things to do in Dublin with kids, Phoenix Park is an excellent choice.
What Kids Love
Children love the sense of freedom the park provides, with endless fields perfect for running, biking, or kite flying. Spotting deer roaming freely is always an exciting highlight, as it feels like stepping into a nature reserve right in the city. Families can also enjoy playgrounds scattered around the park, giving kids the chance to climb, swing, and slide after a long walk. The park often hosts seasonal events and outdoor concerts, which can add even more fun to a family outing. Whether it’s riding bikes together or simply enjoying ice cream on the grass, the park delivers unforgettable family memories.
Info & Insider Tip
Because the park is so large, it’s wise to plan your route in advance or rent bikes to cover more ground. Stop by the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre for maps and recommendations tailored for families. Bringing a picnic is highly recommended, as the open lawns and shaded spots make perfect rest areas. Entry is free, making it one of the most budget-friendly Dublin family activities. Pairing a visit here with Dublin Zoo creates a full day of adventure that kids and parents alike will appreciate.
8. Go Adventuring at Airfield Estate Dundrum
Airfield Estate in Dundrum is a hidden gem for families who want to experience farm life within the city limits. As Dublin’s only working urban farm open to the public, it offers a unique blend of gardens, woodlands, and agricultural activities. Families can wander through fields, orchards, and flower gardens while observing sustainable farming in action. The estate focuses on education, sustainability, and nature, making it an ideal addition to your Ireland family vacation. Kids get the chance to connect with animals and learn where food comes from in a fun and interactive way.
What Kids Love
Children especially love meeting the resident farm animals, including cows, sheep, goats, and chickens. Watching cows being milked, collecting fresh eggs, or helping to feed animals are hands-on experiences that always delight. Seasonal activities, such as Easter egg hunts or pumpkin picking in autumn, add extra excitement to family visits. The estate also features natural play areas where kids can climb, explore, and let their imagination run wild. For families used to city attractions, Airfield Estate provides a refreshing change of pace.
Info & Insider Tip
The estate is about 20 minutes from Dublin city center and is easily accessible by public transport. To make the most of your visit, plan to spend at least half a day exploring both the farm and gardens. Pack comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be walking across grassy fields and trails. The on-site café serves delicious homemade meals using ingredients from the farm itself, giving families a true farm-to-table experience. Visiting Airfield Estate is one of the most immersive and hands-on Dublin family activities for kids who love animals and nature.
9. See the City from Above on a Dublin Bus Tour
One of the easiest ways to explore Dublin as a family is by hopping on a double-decker bus tour. These hop-on hop-off tours take visitors past the city’s top attractions, including Dublin Castle, Trinity College, Phoenix Park, and more. The buses provide live or recorded commentary, offering fun facts and stories that bring the city to life. For families traveling to Dublin with kids, this is a stress-free way to cover more ground without tiring little legs. It’s sightseeing made simple, enjoyable, and flexible for all ages.
What Kids Love
Children find riding on the open-top deck of the bus exciting, especially with the wind in their hair and panoramic views of the city. The novelty of hopping on and off at different stops keeps them engaged, as each new location feels like the start of another mini-adventure. Younger kids love waving at pedestrians below, while older ones enjoy snapping photos of famous landmarks. The commentary often includes fun trivia, which sparks curiosity and makes the ride more than just transportation. It turns city sightseeing into an activity that kids actively enjoy.
Info & Insider Tip
Families can choose between 24-hour or 48-hour passes, giving flexibility to spread sightseeing over multiple days. It’s a great way to plan your itinerary around children’s energy levels, as you can easily return to the bus whenever they need a break. Bring along jackets, as the open-top deck can get chilly even on sunny days. Consider using the tour to reach attractions like Dublin Zoo or EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, as it doubles as both transport and entertainment. For first-time visitors, this bus ride is one of the most convenient things to do in Dublin with kids.
10. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at Butlers Chocolate Experience
For families with a sweet tooth, the Butlers Chocolate Experience is a must-visit attraction in Dublin. This behind-the-scenes tour takes visitors through the history of Butlers, one of Ireland’s most beloved chocolate brands. Families can watch expert chocolatiers at work, learn how chocolate is made, and explore exhibits dedicated to the art of chocolate-making. It’s a deliciously unique experience that adds a touch of indulgence to your Ireland family vacation. Unlike typical museums, this one is interactive and filled with treats, making it particularly appealing for younger visitors.
What Kids Love
Children are thrilled by the chance to decorate their own chocolate creations, which they can take home as souvenirs. Watching chocolate being molded, filled, and decorated is fascinating, especially when they realize they get to taste samples along the way. The aroma of freshly made chocolate fills the air, adding to the sensory excitement. For many kids, this experience feels like stepping into their very own version of Willy Wonka’s factory. It’s not only tasty but also creative, giving them a chance to get hands-on in a sweet new way.
Info & Insider Tip
The Butlers Chocolate Experience is conveniently located near Dublin Airport, making it a great activity to fit in at the start or end of your trip. Advance booking is recommended, especially during school holidays and festive seasons when demand is high. Plan for about 90 minutes to fully enjoy the tour and workshop. Parents should bring cameras to capture their children’s joy while decorating chocolate, as these moments become some of the sweetest memories. For families looking for a fun and flavorful outing, this is one of the most delightful things to do in Dublin with kids.
