Planning a trip to Dublin with the whole family? You will be happy to hear that there are a whole host of exciting things to do in Dublin with kids…some of which won’t even cost you a cent for tonnes of family fun!
We’ve done some research and put together this list of the best things to do with your little ones in Ireland’s capital city.
A lot of guides will send you to the old reliable, but you can ensure that there are unique suggestions here for you and your kids when you come to Dublin. At Crowne Plaza, our two Dublin Hotels will captivate you with professional friendly staff and excellent locations in Blanchardstown and Dublin Airport, offering you access to all that Dublin City has to offer.
Outdoor Family friendly Activities
If you’re looking for things to do in Dublin with kids who love being outdoors, you won’t be stuck for options. If are lucky enough to visit Dublin when the weather is on your side, then make the most of it by enjoying some of the following outdoor activities.
However, just in case you’re new to Dublin or you are on vacation in Ireland we have included some of Dublin’s most loved attractions.
Viking Splash Tour
I don’t think a guide to Dublin could start with anything other than the Viking Splash. This unique tour will allow you to experience Dublin by land and by water as you buckle up in a WW2 amphibious DUKWs.
Once your guide has taken you around some of Dublin’s most interesting streets, it’s then time to splash into the Grand Canal Basin for a quick sailing. You will not be missed by any passerby as you hoot and holler your way around Dublin. Don’t miss this key attraction when searching for things to do in Dublin with your kids this year. The tour happens twice an hour in peak season, with anybody over 3 years old welcome to join.
Dublin Zoo
Dublin Zoo is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Dublin with kids, although there is no age limit to having fun. Officially the biggest family attraction in Ireland, Dublin Zoo offers the perfect way to kill a few hours with the kids in Dublin! The Zoo is the fourth oldest in the world!
If you are planning to pay a visit to every animal habitat in the zoo, then you should set aside at least three hours to make your way around the vast 28 hectare site, and possibly longer if you plan to take a break for some food and refreshments.
Travelling in Winter? Why not visit the Wild Lights attraction at Dublin Zoo. This immersive experience brings fairy tales to life in the heart of the phoenix park.
Zipit Forest Adventures
If you’re looking for things to do in Dublin with kids that love the outdoors, then look no further than Zipit Forest adventures. Located in Tibradden Wood in Dublin, Zipit Forest Adventures is the ideal outdoor activity for the little thrill seekers in your life!
Venture high into the tree tops and make your way through the many different circuits on offer including rope bridges, swinging logs, cargo nets and more. ZipIt is just 20 minutes by car from the Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown and is a great thing to do for kids aged 7+. You can turn Zip It into a day trip and explore the looped trails along the forest roads in the Dublin mountains.
Gardening for Kids
This excellent outdoor fun happens every Sunday in the National Botanic Gardens and it is free. The interactive 20 minute sessions start at 11.00am,11.30am, 3.30pm & 4.00pm.
Get your kids to learn about the garden at the National Botanic Gardens every Sunday. Join their knowledgeable professionals for fun activities in the dedicated Children’s Erasmus Education Garden!
Each week they have a different activity to help your kids to become an expert gardener. Sow your own vegetable and flower seeds, play some nature games or re-use everyday things to create your own piece of eco-art all for free with thanks to the Botanic Gardens.
You can find what the activity will be on offer for your kids by checking out the Facebook page for National Botanic Gardens of Ireland
Beyond the Trees Avondale Park
Avondale forest park is the first of its kind in Ireland, a truly unique experience for you and your family. The fully accessible tree top walkway takes you to the heart of the forest in Wicklow. As you meander through the forest to explore the trees. You will rise up to the top of the tower enjoying panoramic views of Wicklow’s beautiful gardens and the forest park.
Once you have taken in the magnificent views, get ready to whizz back to earth. The giant spiral slide glides through the huge platform delivering you back to the ground. Finish your walk in the forest with a trip to the Avondale house or the seed café. Tickets are available directly from Beyond the Trees. They have family ticket options available for groups in different numbers which is handy.
Flynn Park
Just 25 minutes from both our Crowne Plaza Hotels. Flynn Park is a brand new activity park just off the M1 motorway. It boasts a wide range of fun activities for kids from inflatable water parks, to Climbing Walls. High Towers, Paintball and much more!
Set on over 75 acres of land in Fingal, North County Dublin. Flynn Park Adventures now has extensive activity options for the whole family to enjoy together. There are picnic benches to enjoy a quick bite while taking in spectacular views of the north county countryside.
Things to do in Dublin city with kids when it rains
It can be hard to entertain outdoor lovers on rainy days but below are some of my favourite things to do with kids in Dublin when the weather isn’t on our side. We know that there is nothing better than getting outdoors but these immersive experiences are pretty engaging for all ages.
Aquazone at the National Aquatic Centre
Known as Ireland’s favourite water park, Aquazone offers something for all ages water slides for the big kids and a fun-filled pirate play area for the little ones.
With over 8 slides and many water based activities, you can look forward to hours of fun at Aquazone. The NAC welcomes everybody from ages 0 to 18, with different limitations on groups depending on your kids ages. To get the best enjoyment from slides, you must be at least 110cm tall.
Build a Bear Workshop
Build a Bear brings a child best friend to life, their teddy bear. Since opening in August 2010, Blanchardstown’s Build a Bear store has been creating happy memories.
Last year Build a Bear turned 25, but they continue to put their heart into the store and experience for everybody who walks in their store. No matter if you find your way to Blanchardstown centre or to the Dundrum store know that the team always have the same mission; To add a little more heart to life!
Related read: Create a Special Memory at Build a Bear Blanchardstown
Jump Zone
A popular family attraction and the first of its kind in Europe, Jump Zone is an indoor trampoline sports park which is set within a 34,000 square foot facility. If you’re looking for things to do in Dublin with toddlers, then this one might not be for you. Suitable for children aged five years and older, and over one metre in height.
Jump Zone features a trampoline court, warped walls, assault courses plus much more. The best part? If you’re looking for things to do in Dublin that are for adults too then you can also join in the fun and enjoy the many fun-filled activities on offer.
The Santry location is roughly 1km from our Dublin Airport Hotel. While our Blanchardstown hotel is found just 10 minutes drive from Jump Zone Liffey Valley. It is suitable for all fitness levels, with an endless variety of activities and zones to jump around in.
Emerald Park
This is a brilliant family day out, with dedicated rides for toddlers, kids and adults alike. Formerly known as Tayto Park, the adventure theme park opened in 2010 and has been a favourite of guests of the Crowne Plaza as we are just a 25 minute drive from the park. Enjoy spectacular views of the Irish countryside as you soar to the top of the Cú Chulainn coaster.
Partake in an Irish road trip and Check out our full guide on Emerald park now!
The art cart takes place Every Sunday in the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre it is free of charge. The 20 minute sessions start at 11.00am,11.30am, 3.30pm & 4.00pm. This is just one of the many family events at the visitor centre.
Kids can learn about pond life in the Phoenix Park with an interactive workshop delivered by the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre. These sessions run almost every Sunday and it covers a wide range of topics to help your kids get down and dirty with nature, art, craft and wildlife!
These free children’s workshops on nature awareness, history and heritage and arts and crafts are suitable for ages 6-11 years.
I would recommend you ringing the centre at 01 6770095, before you plan to travel as the Art Cart is subject to change and may depend on Staff availability.
The Phoenix Park itself has a lot of fun things to do with kids, there is an excellent playground, a guided nature walk.
The Chocolate Warehouse
Established in 2001, The Chocolate Warehouse is the ultimate ‘chocolate wonderland’, filled with history, joy and, most importantly, chocolate! Throughout the year, The Chocolate Warehouse hosts many different seasonal workshops which will allow the whole family to get hands on and create their own chocolate masterpieces.
If you are visiting Ireland during a seasonal time such as Easter or Christmas, there are special workshops available. Each workshop lasts 2 hours and includes a hands on experience. This is one of the best food things to do with kids in Dublin.
Zero Latency
This action-packed virtual reality system is a unique combination of technology and pure imagination that transports you and your kids into fun social games. One moment you’re living lavishly in the Crowne Plaza, the next you’re lost in a world of Virtual Reality.
Put on the VR headset and join the world of fun for you and your kids. With no wires or walls to stop you. Play games that let you explore earth or help to build bonds.
The Best hotels for Family Fun
Crowne Plaza is the perfect hotel for a family staycation. The hotel is away from the hassle of the city yet close to all the fun activities, nature and adventure that Dublin has to offer. Most of our guests plan a day of shopping or exploring by availing of all the surrounding retail outlets on our doorstep, and then use another day to visit one of the many nearby family attractions like the Dublin Zoo, Emerald Park or the National Aquatic Centre
Family Fun Museums in Dublin for kids
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
Voted Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction three times in a row at the World Travel Awards (2019, 2020, 2021), EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum is perfect for those looking for things to do in Dublin with kids who love history. You won’t find leprechauns, or their pots of gold for that matter, and that is what makes this tour unique.
It’s a fully interactive museum which brings Irish history to life. Browse the many exhibitions and stories and discover why 10 million people left Ireland and what impact they made all around the world. Get your passport stamped in each of the rooms that tell such a unique story of Ireland.
National Wax Museum Plus
Dating back to 1804 founded by Madame Tussaud, The National Wax Museum Plus is one of Dublin’s most popular attractions, offering an interactive experience for all ages.
Set over three floors, visitors can look forward to meeting many familiar and famous faces, as well as exploring the Science and Discovery Room, the Hall of Fame and the famous Mirror Maze.
National Leprechaun Museum
A great thing to do in Dublin is discovering some of the folklore of Ireland, leprechauns are a staple of Irish fables. The museum has a daytime experience for kids aged 6+. You will discover an ancient history of Ireland that still influences stories and mythology all over the world.
A guided tour through the exhibition found in the heart of Dublin, your story teller will bring you back to ancient Ireland and help you imagine a fun and magical world of fascinating folklore and enchantment.
National Museum of Ireland – Natural History
For those stuck for ideas on what to do with kids in Dublin when it’s raining the National Museum of Ireland is a go-to choice for many. Affectionately known amongst locals as the ‘Dead Zoo’, The National Museum of Ireland – Natural History is home to over 10,000 preserved animal specimens which are a sight to behold.
Both educational and fascinating, The Natural History Museum offers the perfect mix for an unforgettable family activity in Dublin. Go from the Giant Irish deer to trekking on an activity trail. A visit to the natural history museum won’t cost you as admission is free.
Walks in Dublin
With a huge 302 parks in Dublin, you can assure yourself of an exciting walk on your holiday. Not every hour of your trip needs to be action-packed and taking a moment to breathe in a park is one of my favourite moments on holiday. Stopping by a local bakery and grabbing a coffee, bringing the kids to a park and strolling through the wide open spaces would relax anybody.
St Stephens Green
St Stephen’s Green Park offers a peaceful oasis within Dublin city. Walk the beautiful pathways which are dotted with sculptures, sit by the fountains, visit the playground or admire the ducks and swans that call this historic park their home. You’re also just seconds away from Grafton St. Ireland’s famous shopping district with kids stores like Disney, Lego and lots of food or café options.
Iveagh Gardens
For those looking to save money and find free things to do in Dublin with kids, the Iveagh Gardens is a perfect choice. With a history dating back over 300 years, the Iveagh Gardens in Dublin’s city centre feature many lawns, floral displays, rockeries and fountains. Children will love entering the beautifully set yew maze and trying to work their way through it.
Marley Park
Located on Dublin’s southside, Marley Park offers so much to keep children entertained, including a large playground, beautiful woodlands, playing pitches and a miniature railway which runs every Saturday during the summer months (weather allowing). You can also find one of the fairy trails in Marley Park. An incredibly magical thing to do with kids, you can recall the Irish mythical stories.
Corkagh Park
Corkagh Park is a relatively new park in Dublin, but what it lacks in history, it makes up for in family friendly activities! Featuring a cycle track, a playground, fishing lakes and a fairy trail, Corkagh Park offers hours of things to do in Dublin for all the family.
Fairy Trail walks in Dublin
Malahide Castle and Gardens Fairy Trail is 1.8km of pure magic set in the beautiful woodlands of Malahide Castle. With fairy houses, sculptures and lots of hidden treats for children to uncover, this fairy trail will leave little ones mesmerised.
On the Northside of Dublin closer to our Dublin Airport Hotel, you will also find a fairy trail in Ardgillan Castle. On the southside of Dublin you can visit them in Tymon Park, Marlay Park and Corkagh Park. Ardgillan Castle offers brilliant views, picnic tables, adventure playground, cycling trail and forest walks. It’s a brilliant amenity only 20 minute drive from Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport.
Dublin Beaches
Dublin offers some of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland. If your kids love the water, or even just the sandy shores then this is one of the top things to do in Dublin with the kids that won’t cost a penny. From secluded shores to busy harbours, Dublin’s beaches can be incredible with some perfect weather.
SeaPoint Beach
If you’re looking for free things to do in Dublin with kids who love to swim, then SeaPoint beach supplies hours of fun. Located outside Dun Laoghaire, SeaPoint is a popular location amongst Dublin’s Sea swimmers, thanks to its toilets and shower facilities, and the accessible rails which provide support upon entering the water.
Sandycove Beach
Home to the famous Forty Foot, Sandycove Beach is found close to the James Joyce Tower and Museum. Sandycove Beach is a popular spot with families thanks to its shallow waters for paddling and stunning views of the bay.
The James Joyce tower was the author’s home for a short time. This became the opening scene of the well-known novel Ulysses. There is a small museum dedicated to Joyce, which is perfect for some short respite from the sun.
Sandymount Strand
Sandymount Strand promenade is located in the southside suburb of Sandymount and boasts beautiful views of Dun Laoghaire, Dublin Bay and Poolbeg. Enjoy an extra-long stroll by heading away from the promenade and venturing down the pier towards Poolbeg Lighthouse.
Dollymount Strand
Situated on Bull Island on Dublin’s northside, Dollymount Strand is a five kilometre stretch of beach and sand dunes and offers an idyllic escape from the city centre. Keep an eye out for grey seals and harbour seals that are known to frequent an area of Bull Island known as ‘the point’.
The strand is named after Dorothy Vernon, known warmly as Dolly. She was lady of Clontarf Castle, and this Clontarf neighbourhood was named in her honour.
Related Read: Dublin’s Best Beaches and Coastal Walks
Newbridge house
This 18th century house is just 15 minutes from the Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport, and it really does have something for everybody. The farmyard discovery trail has been redesigned to become much more interactive. You can meander through the farmyard and paddocks and say hello to many different animals along the way.
Once you’re finished on the farm, you enter to the walled gardens and orchard. The walled garden is over 250 years old. You can smell their fresh flowers and plants and sit by the fountain before heading back to the farm shop. The farm shop has a café offering up teas, coffees and fresh bakes along with a very good soft serve ice cream.
Free things to do Dublin with kids
If you’re looking for things to do in Dublin which are free, then you’ll love our list of walks and beaches. It is worth noting that there are a lot of free things to do in Dublin and it isn’t just walking around public spaces. There are museums, historical areas, tours and much more too.
Things to do with a toddler in Dublin
If you’re looking for things to do in Dublin with toddlers, you’ll love Airfields and Funky Monkeys. While almost all of the above walks, beaches and a lot of tours are also suitable things to do in Dublin with your toddler. These experiences have been specially picked for your toddler.
Funky Monkeys
Located in Citywest, Clare Hall and Dundrum, Funky Monkeys is a ‘jungle of fun’ for children aged eight years and under. Funky Monkeys offers the perfect environment for parents to relax, while their children explore and play in the adventure centre
Your kids will have great fun in the play area that includes glides, mini football, ball pits, slides, climbing frames and much more. Funky Monkeys encourage parents to join in on the fun with their kids. Helping both of you to enjoy some much needed play time together!
Airfield
For a family activity that toddlers will love, head to Airfield in Dundrum, which is Dublin’s only urban working farm and gardens. Collect freshly laid eggs, watch the cows being milked or get up close and personal with the many other farm yard animals. Their daily activities start from 10am with the egg collection finishing at 3pm with the estate walk and talk.
Found nestled in the urban town of Dundrum, Airfield is Dublin’s sustainable food hub. The estate has a young chef programme to encourage budding chefs aged 8-12 to embark on a culinary adventure. You can find something to do with your toddlers and children all under one roof at Airfield.
The Wrap Up
I know that there are surely experiences or venues that are not on this list. Finding the best things to do with your kids while on holiday can be tough, so I’ve just selected a number of fun adventures to take. Our two hotels are in prime location for exploring, and you don’t have to go far to find fun.
Travelling to Dublin with Kids is a great holiday, especially with the Family Breaks offer from Crowne Plaza. Whether you’re an outdoors family or like to be indoors exploring history in a museum Dublin has an adventure on the cards for you and your family.
FAQs about things to do in Dublin With Kids
Are there many free things to do with kids in Dublin?
With a number of free tours and walks on this guide, you can discover a whole range of free things to do in Dublin on our other guides for your Irish vacation.
What is the number one recommendation of something to do in Dublin with your kids?
With such close proximity to our hotels, Jump Zone is great family entertainment and fun.
What is the best time to visit Dublin with kids?
With a number of free tours and walks on this guide, you can discover a whole range of free things to do in Dublin on our other guides for your Irish vacation.
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