Brought to you by VisitDublin.com
The summer months are behind us, but there’s still plenty of stuff to do in Dublin to keep the little ones occupied.
No need to stay at home this winter, with plenty of ideas for things to do to keep the kids happy for hours. The capital city is filled with places to go and fun events to attend, so save this list and get planning some fun days out in Dublin.
Go to a museum
Dublin is full of fun and fascinating museums that offer a great mix of education and entertainment. At the National Print Museum, there are so many cool things for children to discover, including arts and crafts, alphabet games for tiny tots, activity sheets and a Junior Library. All these activities are free too.
Three of the city’s National Museums – the Museum of Archaeology, the Museum of Natural History, and the Museum of Decorative Art and History – are family-friendly places to learn more about Ireland and see some incredible artefacts that really bring the past to life.
Top tip: Most museums have activity sheets for kids with puzzles and games – ask for them at reception and make the exhibits even more engaging and accessible.
Dublinia
At Dublinia, you follow in the footsteps of Vikings. You’ll experience the gruelling life aboard a Viking warship, learn new Norseman skills, dress up in warrior clothes, spend time in a smoky and cramped Viking house and hear the stories surrounding these Scandinavian seafaring raiders and traders.
Top tip: Make sure you leave enough time to climb up the 96 steps in the original Mediaeval tower to admire the spectacular views of Dublin city centre.
National Wax Museum Plus
Bring your kids to meet their heroes, heroines, and idols at the National Wax Museum Plus. These lifelike waxworks include well-loved personalities and characters such as Harry Potter, Peppa Pig, Sponge Bob Square Pants and the Simpsons. For those who like a good scare, there is the Chambers of Horror, where you can hang out in the basement with Dracula, Buffalo Bill, and Hannibal Lecter.
Top tip: For a fun reminder of their visit, children can take home a moulded wax copy of their hand.
Kilmainham Gaol
For over 100 years, Historic Kilmainham Gaol held men, women, and children for everything from petty crimes to involvement in momentous events in Irish history. It was here that many of the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising were imprisoned and executed. The guided tour of the gaol tells you about these prisoners and events. You’ll also see the filming locations of many movies, including In the Name of the Father, The Italian Job, Michael Collins and The Wind That Shakes the Barley. A visit is an excellent way to learn more about Irish history, politics, art and design, particularly architecture.
Top tip: Tours are suitable for children over the age of six and this historic building isn’t suitable for buggies and strollers.
National Leprechaun Museum
The National Leprechaun Museum is a place of mystery and magic where nothing is quite what it seems. Through guided storytelling tours, your little ones will discover the sights, sounds, legends and lore of the Otherworld, the home of leprechauns and many more mythical creatures. The museum has hands-on displays and sensory experiences that make you feel like you’ve landed in another world and immerse you in fun.
Top tip: The tours are in English only and are suitable for children seven years and older.
Rainforest Adventure Golf
It’s mini-golf but in a rainforest. Located in Dundrum, Rainforest Adventure Golf is a great day out for the whole family, with plenty of things to do for kids of all ages. There are two 18-hole indoor mini-golf courses – one Aztec-themed and one Mayan-themed – complete with jungle sights and
sounds. The mini arcade buzzes with bright neon game machines for all ages where they can challenge each other and win prizes. When you have worked up a hunger, the on-site café serves pizzas, chicken wings, ice creams, coffee, beers and wines.
Top tip: No buggies are allowed on the course, but there are storage facilities.
Family-Friendly Pop Up Music Events
There are also some fun, free, music events on around the city this November worth checking out.
Thinner Lizzy at Wolfe Tone Square
When: Friday 4th November
Where: Wolfe Tone Square, Dublin 2
Time: 5pm – 8pm
Cost: Free to attend
The Legend of Luke Kelly
When: Saturday 5th November
Where: St. Patrick’s Park, Bull Alley St., Dublin 8
Time: 2pm – 5.30pm
Cost: Free to attend
The Joshua Tree at Meeting House Square
When: Sunday 6th November
Where: Meeting House Square, Dublin 2
Time: 5pm – 8pm
Cost: Free to attend
Love this place; leave no trace
The Leave No Trace principles help us make as little an impact as possible on the incredible Irish landscape as we explore the outdoors this winter and beyond. Keep outdoor areas safe, clean and free from waste/hazards, and help protect the natural environment.
As the winter draws in, don’t let the chilly weather keep you at home. Take advantage of Dublin’s many activities and enjoy a great family day out.
Brought to you by VisitDublin.com
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