Your ideal family base at Crowne Plaza Dublin Blanchardstown
Looking for the perfect weekend in Dublin? Staying at Crowne Plaza Dublin Blanchardstown places you at the heart of family-friendly attractions, fantastic shopping, and some of the city’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. With everything from retail therapy to outdoor adventures just minutes away, it’s the ideal base for a relaxed and memorable Dublin escape.
Below is a suggested Dublin itinerary to help you make the most of your stay, highlighting some of the best things to do in Dublin with family-friendly activities and easy day trips right on your doorstep.
DAY 1 – Blanchardstown & Phoenix Park
Morning – Blanchardstown Shopping Centre
Ease into your weekend with a short stroll from Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown to Blanchardstown Shopping Centre, one of Ireland’s largest and most family-friendly retail destinations.
10:00 – Breakfast
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before a day of exploring.
Family-friendly options:
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before a day of exploring.
- The Butcher Grill
- Starbucks or Costa
- The Gallery Café – a great choice for families
10:45 – Family Fun in the Centre
After breakfast, enjoy some light entertainment:
- Funtropolis soft play for younger children
- Movies at Omniplex Cinema
- Browse the wide range of family-friendly shops
- Bowling in Blanchardstown for teenagers
This easy start sets the tone for a stress-free weekend in Dublin.
Afternoon – Phoenix Park (15–20 minute drive)
A short drive from Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown brings you to Phoenix Park, one of Europe’s largest enclosed city parks and a must-visit for families.
12:30 – Picnic or Lunch
Choose a scenic picnic spot or enjoy lunch at:
- Phoenix Café
- The Strawberry Hall Café
1:30 – Explore Phoenix Park
There’s something here for everyone:
- Spot the famous wild deer
- Walk or cycle through beautiful parkland
- Visit Áras an Uachtaráin and the People’s Garden
- Add Dublin Zoo for a memorable family experience
Evening
6:00 – Dinner
After a day of exploring, return to the Blanchardstown area for a relaxed meal.
Family-friendly options:
- The Carpenter (Castleknock)
- Restaurants in Blanchardstown Shopping Centre
- Or return to the hotel for a relaxing evening.
DAY 2 – Emerald Park
No family weekend in Dublin is complete without a visit to Emerald Park, one of Ireland’s top attractions and it’s an easy journey from the hotel.
Morning
8:30 – Breakfast
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel or grab a coffee along the way
9:30 – Drive to Emerald Park
Just 25–30 minutes from Blanchardstown, making it a simple and stress-free day trip.
10:00 – 4:00 – Emerald Park Adventure
Spend the day enjoying thrilling rides, animal encounters, and family-friendly attractions.
Highlights include:
- Cú Chulainn Coaster for thrill seekers
- Tayto Factory Tour
- Petting zoo and farm area
- Playgrounds and outdoor spaces
- A wide range of dining options
Tip: Arrive early or book tickets for Emerald Park online to avoid queues and make the most of your day.
Late Afternoon & Evening
4:30 – Return to Blanchardstown
After an exciting day, keep dinner simple with nearby options:
- Casual dining in Blanchardstown Shopping Centre
- The Black Bull — a traditional Irish pub with a family-friendly atmosphere
- District 8 — a modern, vibrant spot perfect for a casual evening.
Then return to our hotel to relax and recharge after a fun-filled weekend.
Your Dublin Weekend Starts Here
Enjoy the ideal mix of comfort, convenience, and family-friendly surroundings in the heart of Blanchardstown. With Blanchardstown Shopping Centre just steps away, Phoenix Park nearby, and Emerald Park within easy reach, everything you need for a memorable weekend in Dublin is right on your doorstep.