21 amazing things to do in Dublin with kids

I was really surprised at the amount of amazing things to do in Dublin with kids! And not only that, lots of them are free!

Despite it being a popular destination for its pub culture, it’s so much more than that. We found it incredibly family-friendly, with traditional pubs welcoming kids and a city full of music, history, and green spaces.

Dublin was everything I imagined and more with some of the friendliest people we’ve ever met, and we completely fell in love with the live Irish music being played in family-freindly pubs, restaurants and streets all over the city.

But it’s not all about pubs and Irish music – there are endless museums, historical buildings, shopping and parks to explore with little ones.

In this post, we share our top 21 things to do in Dublin with kids, many of which are completely free. And if we’ve managed to encourage you to visit Dublin, keep reading for our recommendations on where to stay and how to save money in Dublin.

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21 amazing things to do in Dublin with kids…

1. O’Connell Street

O’Connell Street is Dublin’s main thoroughfare and crammed full of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants.

Right in the middle, you’ll find the General Post Office (GPO), one of Ireland’s most famous buildings. Inside is an award-winning museum focusing on the 1916 Easter Rising, the Irish War of Independence and aftermath.

You’ll also be able to easily spot the Spire of Dublin, a 120-metre tall stainless steel pin-like monument that replaced the former Nelson’s pillar that was blown up by republican activists in 1966.

O’Connell Street is also home to some of the city’s most prominent monuments.

2. River Liffey Boardwalk

We were lucky enough to be in Dublin for New Year and watch the spectacular ‘Liffey Lights Midnight Moment’ – a magical display of fireworks, beams and lasers on the River Liffey.

Whatever the season, day or night, a stroll along the River Liffey boardwalk is a must.

Look out for the sculpture of a sailor pulling a rope out of the river. The girls enjoyed trying to give him a hand but didn’t get very far.

River Liffey Boardwalk – Free

3. Ha’penny Bridge

Although we’ve seen more impressive bridges, this cast-iron pedestrian bridge is still worth a wander over. Perhaps more interesting is its story, having been constructed to replace ferries previously used to cross the River Liffey. The bridge was named after the ha’penny toll that was charged to anyone crossing it.

Ha’penny Bridge – Free

4. The Temple Bar Pub Dublin

This is what I was most excited about and gave me the real Irish experience. This is the one thing you have to do in Dublin… yes, even with kids!

The Temple Bar is probably Dublin’s most popular and famous bar, offering live traditional Irish music every day. I’d heard about the Temple Bar and wondered whether it would live up to its expectations.

Well, it certainly did, and the slightly pricey pint of Guinness is worth every penny!

We found ourselves wanting to go back there every day to absorb more of the amazing atmosphere and brilliant live music.

The other great thing is that kids are allowed in until 9pm. Maybe you wouldn’t consider this as one of the top things to do in Dublin with kids, but our girls loved the music and were dancing away.

However, bear in mind that this pub is always busy and it’s difficult to find a seat. Our tip would be to go before the music starts at 10:30am and use the double door entrance on Parliament Row side. There is a little foyer down this entrance where you can safely leave buggies too.

Temple Bar Pint of Guinness – €8.95

5. The Cobblestone Pub

If you really want to experience traditional Irish music, then you MUST visit the Cobblestone Pub in Dublin’s oldest neighbourhood, Smithfield.

In this typically ‘local’ pub, the Mulligan family have been playing traditional Irish music for five generations. They sit drinking beer in the corner of the pub like any other group of friends and then all of sudden, spontaneously burst into music. Session times can be found here.

We got there about 3pm and found seats right next to them which was great. Freya enjoyed asking about their instruments, which included the traditional Irish bagpipes (Uilleann), flute, concertina, banjo and more. This truly is a family-friendly pub in Dublin which welcomes families.

The Cobblestone Pub Pint of Guinness – €5.80

6. Trinity College and the Book of Kells

Ireland’s oldest surviving university, Trinity College is located right in the centre of Dublin city. The grounds are free to wander around and the impressive buildings are worth having a look at.

But perhaps the main reason for tourists to head to the Trinity College is the beautiful Old Library, which houses the Book of Kells.

It’s a misbelief that Harry Potter was filmed in the Long Room of the Old Library here, but it certainly comes very close to resembling the Hogwarts Library. Vaulted ceilings with oak panelled walls and thousands upon thousands of books.

One of those books includes the famous Book of Kells, a 9th century manuscript containing the four Gospels of the life of Jesus Christ.

We chose not to visit the Old Library during our visit because the Book of Kells was not on public display due to ongoing conservation plans. In hindsight, I wish we’d have gone just to experience the magnificent Long Room but you can’t do everything!

7. Merrion Square

Make sure you visit this beautiful Georgian square when you need to escape the hustle and bustle of the busy city centre.

The main part of the square is dominated by the immaculate gardens and park. The other part is a great playground to treat the kids to after all of that sightseeing.

Take a walk around the outside of Merrion Square to see the impressive Georgian houses. Many of which are houses previously owned by the rich and famous including Oscar Wilde, whose statue lies on a rock in the Merrion Square.

Merrion Square – Free

8. National Gallery of Ireland

While three sides of Merrion Square are lined with Georgian townhouses, the fourth side is home to the National Gallery of Ireland, Leinster House and the Natural History Museum (National Museum of Ireland).

Although art exhibitions are not normally our thing, this beautiful, big building invited us in for a quick wander around. If art is your thing, I’m sure you could spend days here and if you have kids, Sunday is the day to go with drop-in workshops and tours especially for younger visitors. Plus don’t forget to ask for the family packs and drawing kits.

National Gallery of Ireland – Free

9. Natural History Museum

This is one of four museums that make up the National Museum of Ireland. There are two more in Dublin (Archaeology and Decorative Arts & History) and one in Mayo (County Life).

The Natural History Museum (also known as the Dead Zoo) is a really fun thing to do in Dublin with kids. It has over 2 million items on display including a polar bear, a humpback whale and a dodo. The huge number of mammals, birds, fish and insects is fascinating and our girls really enjoyed it.

Natural History Museum – Free

10. St. Stephen’s Green

Another great place for kids to burn off steam in Dublin.

With 3.5km of pathways and 22 acres of park, St. Stephen’s Green is Dublin’s largest Georgian Square and a real green oasis right in the city centre.

Enjoy the beautiful gardens, lake and waterfall, sculptures and of course, a playground for the kids.

If you visit during lunchtime in the summer you’ll find concerts being performed on the bandstand.

St. Stephen’s Green – Free

11. The Little Museum of Dublin

Just across the road from St.Stephen’s Green is The Little Museum of Dublin.

We didn’t get chance to visit as we ran out of time and prioritised other attractions first.

The tours involve the museums knowledgeable and humorous storytellers using the famous memorabilia to talk you through the history of Dublin.

Apparently they do a great job of interacting with kids. However, it’s worth considering whether younger children will be able to hold their attention during the tour.

12. Molly Malone Statue

You can’t visit Dublin without paying a visit to meet Molly Malone and actually, it’s considered rude not to pay your respects.

Many will know the famous Molly Malone song which has become the unofficial anthem of Dublin.

The song tells the story of the 17th-century fictional character – a fishmonger who wheeled her ‘cockles and mussels’ around the ‘streets broad and narrow’.

Unfortunately, poor Molly died prematurely of a fever but her statue keeps her spirit very much alive in the city centre of Dublin.

Molly Malone Statue – Free

13. Shopping in Dublin

If you love retail therapy then Dublin will not disappoint.

There are plenty of shopping malls, high street retailers, boutiques and markets both sides of the River Liffey.

On the south side, Grafton Street is the main shopping street with the Powerscourt Townhouse Centre and Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre on its doorstep.

Also nearby is George’s Street Arcade – one of Europe’s oldest city markets and Ireland’s first purpose-built shopping centre.

On the north side, Henry Street is the main shopping area with the Jervis and Ilac Shopping Centres. Henry Street is also home to Arnotts – Ireland’s oldest and largest department store.

Dublin Shopping – As much as you want to spend

14. Dublin Castle and the State Apartments

When we visited, the castle and its grounds were still dressed for Christmas. The entrance was lined with beautifully lit Christmas trees which looked magical.

The state apartments can be viewed by either a self-guided tour or guided tour. If you want to really learn about the history and bring to life each room, a guided tour is the best option. However, with young children we chose the self-guided tour and there is a booklet which provides information on each room.

The castle is definitely one to add to the list of things to do in Dublin with kids but it’s perhaps more suitable for older children who will understand and appreciate the information provided.

15. Dublin City Hall

Right next to Dublin Castle is the City Hall which is free to wander around and admire the beautiful main hall. There was a wedding on when we tried to visit so were unable to look inside but downstairs in the vaults is a free exhibition which delves into the history of the city.

Dublin City Hall – Free

16. Christ Church Cathedral

The oldest of the two cathedrals in the city (the other being Saint Patrick’s Cathedral).

Entry into the cathedral is via self-guided or fully guided tours.

As part of your visit, you can enter the crypt to see the ancient cathedral’s treasures and artefacts including the mummified cat and rat! Apparently the cat chased the rat into a pipe of an organ and got stuck.

If your feeling energetic, you can take a steep climb, 86 steps up to the Belfry (12 years and over). If you’re lucky you may even get to ring the bells.

17. Dublinia

Dublinia is one of the more exciting things to do in Dublin with kids. It takes you back to Viking times through immersive, interactive, and multi-sensory exhibitions.

Kids can explore life in medieval Dublin, walk along a recreated medieval street, and learn about archaeology in a hands-on way that makes history come alive.

18. Saint Patrick’s Cathedral

Not the oldest but the tallest cathedral in Dublin.

We stopped here to take photos but didn’t go inside. It’s worth having a look if you’re on your way to Marsh’s Library.

There’s also a little playground for the kids to enjoy.

19. Marsh’s Library

Next to Saint Patrick’s Cathedral is the first and oldest public library in Ireland.

We took photos from the outside and walked up to the entrance where you can see inside but we didn’t pay to enter.

If you love libraries and want to spend some time in there with the kids, then it may be worth the fee (plus it does support the conservation and running of the library).

For us, the quick glimpse was enough.

20. The Guinness Storehouse

We knew we couldn’t leave Dublin without visiting the Guinness Storehouse – after all, it’s one of the city’s most iconic attractions. The tour recommends 90 minutes, but we ended up spending over three hours exploring every floor.

The experience takes you through seven levels of immersive exhibits, where you learn about the ingredients, brewing process, the Guinness family legacy, and the evolution of its iconic advertising.

There are multi-sensory tasting rooms, and you can even learn how to pour the perfect pint of Guinness – a fun hands-on experience. The tour finishes in the Gravity Bar, where you can enjoy a complimentary pint while taking in panoramic views over Dublin. The girls were happy sipping their fizzy orange while we soaked up the skyline.

Surprisingly, the Guinness Storehouse is a great spot to visit with kids. There are loads of interactive exhibits, and the information is presented in a way that’s easy for older children to understand and enjoy.

Top Tip: Book your tickets online for a better deal, and try to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon when it’s quieter.

21. Kilmainham Goal

The name of this place confused me until I found out that gaol is the old-fashioned way of spelling jail.

Entrance to Kilmainham Goal is by guided tour only but ver reasonably priced and can be booked online to guarantee entry.

Top Tip: Book early as tickets sell weeks in advance.

Unfortunately, we were unable to get tickets as they’d sold out but you can visit the museum for free. The information inside is so interesting, focussing on the political history of Ireland, the Great Famine and the War of Independence.

Even though we didn’t have ticket, we struck lucky and got a sneaky peek into the incredible prison, which was an amazing experience.

Freya enjoyed hearing about the children which had served time there including a 5-year-old girl who did 7 nights for begging.

We walked to Kilmainham Gaol from the city centre but it takes approximaely 45 minutes. If you’d rather not walk you can take a local bus or the Hop On Hop Off Bus.

Other helpful information…

The Dublin Pass

The best way to work out whether the Dublin Pass is worthwhile is to compare the cost of all of the things you want to do in Dublin against the cost of the Dublin Pass for your family.

Based on the things we wanted to do in Dublin with the kids, we worked out that the Dublin Pass wasn’t going to save us money.

We also love to walk lots when we’re exploring but if you’d rather get the Hop On Hop Off Bus, this is also included in the Dublin Pass. This is also a great thing to do in Dublin with kids with little legs that get tired quickly.

To get the most out of the Dublin Pass I would recommend staying for a longer period of time and obviously visiting as many of the attractions included as possible.

Where to stay in Dublin with kids – our recommendation

You can get cheap accommodation if you look a little further out and don’t mind getting the bus into the centre. We paid a little bit more as we wanted to be central and stayed New Year’s Eve and the three-nights after.

Our top recommendation – Maldron Hotel Pearse Street

We certainly made a good choice with this hotel. Our room had two double beds and was clean, comfortable and modern with everything we needed. The breakfast was delicious and the location was perfect with just a 15-20 minute walk from the centre.

Other recommendations on where to stay in Dublin

How to save money in Dublin

Look out for cheap flights…

I’ve always wanted to go to Dublin but everyone told me that it was expensive. So when I found return flights from Manchester for all four of us for just £136.46 (that’s just £31 each plus one 10kg bag), I booked without hesitation.

Use our guide on how to book the cheapest flights to make sure you get the best price.

Get accommodation with breakfast included…

I’ve already recommended our accommodation, the Maldron Hotel Pearse Street and I’d highly recommend booking accommodation which includes breakfast. That way you can make sure you have a really good fill at breakfast and then just manage on snacks until your evening meal.

Drink wisely…

Alcohol is expensive in Dublin so why not save your pint for the pub and just have tap water (which is completely safe to drink) with your evening meal.

Dine out early for cheaper meals…

Try and eat out early doors and take advantage of early-bird set menus. On that note, we highly recommend eating at the Church Café, Late Bar & Restaurant, which is a converted church on two floors.

It’s not the cheapest place but it’s well worth it for the amazing food, buzzing atmosphere and live Irish music and dancing. We paid €59.90 for two 2-course set meals and two kids meals but the food and entertainment were worth every penny.

Use Groupon…

Try searching Groupon Ireland for meal vouchers. We dined at Al Vesuvio (Italian restaurant) one night. We bought a Groupon voucher for a two-course Italian meal. Then we just added another pasta dish on for the kids to share.

Use local transport for airport transfer…

The cheapest way from Dublin airport to the city centre is by bus. But don’t take the Airlink Express bus (number 700 or 700X) unless you don’t mind paying more at approximately €8 per person.

Instead, the city bus (number 16 or 41) is less than half the price at approximately €3. You can buy tickets at the bus stop or onboard the bus but the driver will only accept change, no notes.

The bus takes approximately 40-45 minutes from Dublin airport to the city centre and the driver will tell you the best stop to get off at if you ask.

Our final thoughts…

Hopefully, you can see just how many brilliant things there are to do in Dublin with kids. The best part? You don’t need to spend a fortune, there are plenty of activities and attractions are completely free to fill a 4-day itinerary in Dublin or more. While food and drink can be on the pricier side, our tips will help you save along the way.

We spent four days in Dublin with our girls and still didn’t manage to fit in everything we wanted to. We completely fell in love with the city – the atmosphere, the people, the music – and we’d love to return someday to tick off a few more spots and venture into the Irish countryside too.

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