62 Things to Do Near Dublin

Dive into Ireland's National Sports & Science Centre for a hands-on adventure. With interactive science exhibits, VR zones, and climbing walls, it's a fun and educational experience for all ages.

Tip: Great for families and anyone looking for a unique, active experience.

Discover vibrant and hidden street art in this unique Dublin spot. It's a fantastic place to capture some cool photos and experience a less-touristy side of the city.

Tip: Keep an eye out for the colorful murals tucked away in unexpected places.

Step into Ireland's first immersive, multi-room visual playground. This unique spot offers a captivating journey through different themed rooms with stunning visual effects.

Tip: Book tickets in advance, especially for weekend visits.

Explore contemporary art in the stunning 17th-century Royal Hospital Kilmainham. IMMA offers a diverse range of exhibitions and is a peaceful escape, perfect for a rainy day.

Tip: Check their website for current exhibitions and opening hours.

Escape to nature at this beautiful forest park, less than 50km from Dublin. Explore over 500 acres of woodland with scenic trails for a peaceful retreat.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails.

Prepare to be amazed at this interactive attraction filled with mind-bending illusions and optical wonders. It's a fun and engaging experience for couples and families.

Tip: Great for a date night or a fun outing with friends.

Tucked away in Phoenix Park, this hidden gem boasts beautiful gardens, a serene lake, and charming farm animals. It's perfect for a relaxed walk and picturesque photos.

Tip: Combine with a visit to Phoenix Park to spot wild deer.

Enjoy a fantastic day out at Avondale Forest Park, featuring a stunning treetop walk and panoramic views. It's an accessible and memorable nature experience.

Tip: Consider visiting on a clear day for the best views.

Discover the fascinating history of Dublin through quirky exhibits and engaging stories. This charming museum offers a unique and entertaining perspective on the city.

Tip: Book your tour in advance as it's a popular spot.

Experience breathtaking coastal scenery on this iconic cliff walk. Enjoy stunning views of Dublin Bay and the Irish Sea, with options for various trail lengths.

Tip: Take the DART train from Dublin city center for easy access.

Step back in time at this former prison, a significant site in Irish history. The guided tours offer a powerful and moving insight into the country's past.

Tip: Book your tickets well in advance as they sell out quickly.

Located within Dublin Castle, this library houses an incredible collection of manuscripts, prints, and decorative arts from around the world. It's a free and fascinating cultural gem.

Tip: Don't miss the beautiful illuminated manuscripts.

Get hands-on with Ireland's national sports, Gaelic football and hurling. This is a fun and active way to immerse yourself in local culture.

Tip: Check experiencegaelicgames.com for booking and details.

Explore Ireland's rich history and culture across several branches, including Archaeology, Decorative Arts & History, and Natural History. Admission is free.

Tip: The Natural History Museum (the 'Dead Zoo') has impressive ancient artifacts.

One of Europe's largest enclosed urban parks, offering vast green spaces, walking trails, and the chance to spot wild deer. It's a perfect escape from the city bustle.

Tip: Rent a bike to cover more ground and enjoy the scenery.

A charming fishing village easily accessible by DART train. Enjoy the scenic cliff walk, fresh seafood, and the picturesque harbor.

Tip: Try the fresh fish and chips by the harbor.

Embark on a unique amphibious vehicle tour that splashes into Dublin Bay. It's a fun and informative way to see the city's landmarks from both land and water.

Tip: Great for families and a lively way to learn about Dublin's history.

Discover the fascinating stories of the Irish diaspora through interactive exhibits. This museum brings the history of emigration to life in an engaging way.

Tip: Consider a joint ticket with the Jeanie Johnston famine ship.

Explore this historic cemetery, which is also a beautiful botanical garden. Guided tours offer insights into Ireland's notable figures and history.

Tip: Take a guided tour for the most insightful experience.

Unleash your inner warrior with a session of axe throwing. It's a thrilling and unique activity perfect for groups looking for some competitive fun.

Tip: Wear closed-toe shoes for safety.

Enjoy a fun-filled outing with a mix of activities like bowling, arcade games, and ping pong. It's a vibrant spot for a casual and entertaining time.

Tip: Located within Dundrum Town Centre, making it easy to combine with shopping.

Voted one of the world's top gardens, Powerscourt offers stunning landscapes, intricate designs, and beautiful architecture. It's a truly picturesque destination.

Tip: Allow ample time to wander through the extensive gardens.

Learn about the pivotal 1916 Easter Rising at the General Post Office. The museum offers an immersive look at this significant event in Irish history.

Tip: It's a great way to understand a key moment in Irish independence.

Discover this hidden oasis in the heart of Dublin. Known for its maze, grotto, and beautiful landscaping, it's a tranquil spot away from the city crowds.

Tip: A perfect place for a quiet picnic or a peaceful stroll.

Immerse yourself in a free-roam virtual reality experience. Battle zombies, explore new worlds, and enjoy cutting-edge gaming with friends.

Tip: Book your session in advance to secure your preferred time slot.

Step aboard a faithful replica of a 19th-century famine emigrant barque. Learn about the challenging journeys of Irish emigrants during the Great Famine.

Tip: Often available as a joint ticket with EPIC museum.

Admire a vast collection of European and Irish art, including masterpieces by Caravaggio and Vermeer. Admission to the permanent collection is free.

Tip: Check for special exhibitions which may have an entry fee.

Enjoy a seaside town experience with a walk along the pier and views of Dublin Bay. It's a refreshing escape easily reached by the DART.

Tip: Grab a coffee at Happy Out cafe overlooking the pier.

Indulge in a unique spa experience in a salt cave, known for its therapeutic benefits. It's a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate your skin.

Tip: Ideal for a pampering session or a unique wellness treat.

Journey back to Viking and medieval Dublin with interactive exhibits and historical reconstructions. It's an engaging experience, especially for families.

Tip: Great for kids interested in history and archaeology.

Wander through stunning glasshouses and diverse plant collections. These beautiful gardens offer a peaceful and educational escape.

Tip: Free to enter and a lovely place for a leisurely stroll.

Paddle along the scenic coastline of Dalkey, exploring caves and enjoying views of Dublin Bay. It's an adventurous way to experience the coast.

Tip: Suitable for beginners with guided tours available.

Discover the history of Dublin tenement living in this preserved Georgian house. It offers a unique and poignant glimpse into the lives of past residents.

Tip: Book tickets in advance for this highly recommended tour.

Home to a significant collection of modern and contemporary Irish art, including Francis Bacon's studio. It's a must-visit for art lovers.

Tip: Admission to the permanent collection is free.

Enjoy a scenic coastal walk between Bray and Greystones, offering stunning views of the Irish Sea. This popular route is a great day trip from Dublin.

Tip: Check for any trail closures due to weather conditions.

Immerse yourself in authentic traditional Irish music sessions at this renowned pub in Smithfield. It's a lively spot for music lovers.

Tip: Arrive early to get a good spot, especially on weekends.

Explore fascinating exhibits on Ireland's wildlife and natural heritage, including impressive displays of taxidermy and ancient bog bodies.

Tip: Check if the upper galleries are open, as they are sometimes closed for renovation.

Experience world-class theatre at Ireland's national theatre. The Abbey showcases a range of classic and contemporary Irish plays.

Tip: Book tickets in advance, especially for popular productions.

Discover ancient Viking ruins preserved under a glass floor in the middle of a supermarket. It's a surprisingly fascinating historical find.

Tip: A quick and unexpected historical detour.

Admire a diverse collection of Irish and European art, from Old Masters to contemporary pieces. It's a free and enriching cultural experience.

Tip: Focus on specific wings or artists to make the most of your visit.

Located just 40 minutes from Dublin, this park offers a water park, laser tag, ziplining, bowling, and more. It's a fun-filled destination for the whole family.

Tip: Great for a day trip with a wide range of activities.

Discover a stunning and often overlooked walking trail near Dublin, set between the Wicklow Mountains National Park. It offers beautiful natural scenery.

Tip: Perfect for a refreshing hike or run in a beautiful landscape.

See incredible artifacts, including prehistoric gold, Viking treasures, and ancient bog bodies. It's a captivating journey through Ireland's past.

Tip: The 'Treasures' exhibition is a must-see.

Climb to the ruins of this historic castle perched on a rocky outcrop for panoramic views of the Laois countryside. It's a dramatic and scenic historical site.

Tip: A worthwhile detour for history buffs and photographers.

Explore a diverse range of objects, from Irish furniture and silver to military history and costumes. Located in Collins Barracks, it offers a broad look at Irish material culture.

Tip: Free to enter and offers a wide variety of exhibits.

Enjoy a fun and competitive game of crazy golf in a vibrant setting. It's a great activity for friends and families looking for some lighthearted entertainment.

Tip: Perfect for a casual outing with a bit of friendly competition.

Discover Ireland's wildlife and natural heritage, with extensive displays of mammals, birds, and insects. It's often referred to as the 'Dead Zoo'.

Tip: Check for renovation updates as some galleries may be closed.

Walk through a beautiful raised bog with boardwalks and interpretive signs. It's a unique natural environment offering a peaceful escape.

Tip: A great spot for birdwatching and enjoying unique flora.

Marvel at the intricate illustrations of the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript from the 9th century, housed in the stunning Long Room of Trinity College.

Tip: Book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.

Explore one of Ireland's most significant cathedrals, a stunning example of Gothic architecture with a rich history dating back centuries.

Tip: Look out for the tomb of Jonathan Swift.

Discover the history of this complex, which has served as a Viking fort, Norman castle, and British administrative center. Explore its state apartments and medieval undercroft.

Tip: The guided tours provide excellent historical context.

Learn about the history and brewing process of Ireland's iconic stout. Enjoy panoramic city views from the Gravity Bar with a pint of Guinness.

Tip: Book tickets online to save time and potentially money.

Visit Dublin's older cathedral, known for its stunning medieval architecture, crypt, and rich history. It offers a serene and awe-inspiring experience.

Tip: Don't miss exploring the fascinating medieval crypt.

Experience Ireland's oldest pub, dating back to 1198. Enjoy traditional music, hearty food, and a truly historic atmosphere.

Tip: A great spot to soak in the authentic Irish pub culture.

Discover Ireland's rich past through captivating exhibits of prehistoric gold, Viking artifacts, and ancient bog bodies. It's a free and insightful journey.

Tip: The 'Treasures of Ireland' exhibition is a highlight.

See Ireland's diverse wildlife and natural heritage, including impressive taxidermy displays and ancient bog bodies. Known affectionately as the 'Dead Zoo'.

Tip: Check for updates on gallery openings as some may be under renovation.

Located within Dublin Castle, this library houses an extraordinary collection of manuscripts, prints, and decorative arts from across the globe. Entry is free.

Tip: The illuminated manuscripts are particularly stunning.

Step into a preserved Georgian tenement house and learn about the lives of Dublin's working-class families. It offers a unique and moving social history experience.

Tip: Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended.

Discover a significant collection of modern and contemporary Irish art, including the preserved studio of Francis Bacon. Admission to the permanent collection is free.

Tip: A must-visit for art enthusiasts interested in Irish modernism.

Enjoy a scenic coastal escape to this charming fishing village. Walk the cliff paths, savor fresh seafood, and soak in the harbor views.

Tip: The DART train provides easy and scenic access from Dublin.

One of Europe's largest enclosed urban parks, offering vast green spaces, walking trails, and the chance to spot wild deer. It's a perfect escape from the city bustle.

Tip: Rent a bike to cover more ground and enjoy the scenery.

Located in Collins Barracks, this museum showcases Irish furniture, silver, military history, and more. It offers a broad perspective on Irish material culture.

Tip: Free admission and a wide range of exhibits to explore.