Looking for the best things to do in Dublin with kids? Look no further.
We've had a snoop for some of the best activities for kids in Dublin and rounded up our top ten.
Some of the activities will require a car, while for others you can just hop on the Dart or Luas. We've tried to select things to do that will suit all budgets, and that should be enjoyable for accompanying adults too.
Here we go:
Dublin Zoo
It's a bit of an obvious one, but always a solid choice.
The beauty of the zoo is you can do it all in your own time - whether you've only got three hours to spend there, or you intend on being there all day. There's so much to see, and arriving early means you can check the feeding times for certain animals and pop back when they're on.
The African Plains are a great addition to the zoo, and seeing the animals up close is really exciting for the kids.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CjfSPevPPti/
Rainforest Adventure Golf
Think mini golf, but in a rainforest.
Located in Dundrum, this novelty mini golf is a big winner with competitive streaks coming out in both little and big kids.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cbu5k8NslNx/
Salt Cave Halotherapy, Balbriggan
Just picture a massive sand pit with a long list of health benefits and you've got the Salt Rooms in Balbriggan, assembled using tiles containing high quality, raw and natural salt. When inhaled, the salt can help to keep in check symptoms of various skin disorders such as psoriasis or dermatitis, and also has a very positive impact on respiratory system disorders including asthma, sinusitis, smoker's cough or bronchitis. The Salt Rooms also have a family room full of toys, along with plenty of reclining seats to sit back and relax on, breathing in all the benefits while the kiddies play.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CjlmhbcsATD/
Aqua Zone at the National Aquatic Centre
This is like an underwater playground for kids: there's a pirate ship and wave pool as well as a few water slides, so there's plenty of things to do.
The National Aquatic Centre also has some pretty badass water slides for grown ups, if parents want to take turns on babysitting duties. Alternatively, most local pools do family hours early on weekend mornings, so definitely worth checking out if you've got any children fond of swimming.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CjauVSqqclP/
Airfield Estate
This working farm allows guests of all ages to learn about food, farming and nature in a relaxed urban setting in Dundrum. Kids can explore at Naturescape with interactive play area for 4-12 year olds which is located in the woodland walk area. A zip wire, balance beams, climbing structure and willow tunnel are proving to be great additions to the estate.
Younger kids will be kept busy in the soft play area for 0-4 year olds - an imaginative play area for budding little ones to take on the role of being a farmer, a gardener or chef at Airfield.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Ci66iefok9J/
St Annes City Farm
Another beautiful working farm not far from the city, St Annes City Farm in Raheny is run completely by volunteers and is inhabited by a host of friendly farm animals for kids to befriend. They also regularly hold an array of workshops - check out their website before heading out for opening hours and workshop times.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CjumU34MYbx/
EPIC Museum
Voted Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction three years in a row, EPIC is the perfect place for curious kids to explore. There's no shortage of educational experiences and kid-friendly workshops throughout the museum - little ones can even visit Santa when the season comes around.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CjIBs5PM_Km/
Malahide Castle
Not only do they have a seriously cool playground complete with zipline and diggers, but there's also tonnes of space for the kids to run around.
You can pay in to visit the castle or just go exploring around the grounds. The added bonus here is that there's an Avoca Café serving up coffee and treats for any weary parents in need of a caffeine or sugar fix.
Your local library
Libraries can often be overlooked as a great place to take kids - obviously, in all libraries there's a dedicated children's area for young book worms to immerse themselves, but Dublin libraries also hold regular touring performances, workshops and events for kids to enjoy - pop into your local one to see what's on!
https://www.instagram.com/p/CjqfWmQMg5u/
The Ark Theatre
A dedicated cultural centre for children in the heart of town, the Ark creates opportunities for kids to discover and love art. With a regular roster of theatre performances especially for children and a host of creative workshops and exhibitions, the Ark is the perfect place to take inquisitive kiddies.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cjz3fEVKygX/
Header image via Instagram/stannescityfarm READ NEXT: 500 new homes to be built on Liberties site at Dublin 8
