Ireland offers a whole host of family-friendly activities that can make for an unforgettable summer with kids. Here's a list of the top 100 things to do in Ireland this summer with the kids - with picks from every county, to give you some inspiration for fun-filled days for all the family.
Leinster
Dublin Zoo - The kids will love exploring and seeing the animals in Phoenix Park.
Emerald Park - Enjoy the newly-named Emerald Park, ride the roller coasters and enjoy the rides.
National Aquatic Centre - Splash around in one of Europe’s largest indoor waterparks.
Imaginosity - Visit Dublin's interactive children’s museum.
Dublinia - Discover Viking and medieval Dublin.
The Ark - Participate in cultural workshops and performances for children.
Phoenix Park - Get on your bikes and explore this vast urban park.
The National Leprechaun Museum - Dive into Irish folklore.
Clara Lara Funpark - Outdoor adventure park with water activities.
The National Wax Museum Plus - Meet wax figures of famous personalities.
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum - Interactive displays about Irish emigrants.
Airfield Estate - Enjoy arm tours and nature trails.
Newgrange and Knowth - Discover ancient passage tombs - just remember to book in advance as visitor numbers are restricted.
Hook Lighthouse - Tour the world’s oldest operational lighthouse.
Birr Castle Demesne - Visit the Science Centre and Ireland’s Historic Science Centre.
Glendalough - Explore ancient monastic sites and scenic walks - you might even spot some deer and waterfalls.
National Botanic Gardens - Stroll through beautiful gardens.
Kilkenny Castle - Tour the historic castle and its grounds, including a fantastic playground.
Glendalough - Explore ancient monastic sites and scenic walks - you might even spot some deer and waterfalls.
National Botanic Gardens - Stroll through beautiful gardens.
Kilkenny Castle - Tour the historic castle and its grounds, including a fantastic playground.
Castlecomer Discovery Park - Ziplining, boating, and woodland activities.
Birr Castle Demesne - Visit the Science Centre and Ireland’s Historic Science Centre.
Glenveagh National Park - Explore the castle and gardens.
Slieve Bloom Mountains - Family-friendly hiking trails.
Lough Boora Discovery Park - Sculpture park and nature trails.
Clara Bog Nature Reserve - Boardwalk trails through a raised bog.
Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park - Family-friendly activities and history.
Birr Castle Gardens - Home to Ireland’s largest treehouse.
Dublin’s Viking Splash Tours - Amphibious tours of the city.
Wexford Lavender Farm - Enjoy a seasonal day out on this beautiful lavender farm.
Powerscourt Estate - Visit the gardens and waterfall and enjoy a BBQ in this scenic place.
Wicklow Gaol - Interactive tours and historical re-enactments.
Greenan Maze - Navigate the hedge maze and visit the farm museum.
Russborough House and Parklands - House tours and fairy trails.
Munster
Fota Wildlife Park - See the animals enjoying their free-range environments in Cork.
Cork City Gaol - Go on a historical tour of this 19th-century prison - you might even see a ghost!
Blarney Castle - Kiss the Blarney Stone, get the gift of the gab and explore the beautiful gardens.
West Cork Model Railway Village - Enjoy the miniature replicas of the 1940s West Cork railway.
Dolphin Tours - Enjoy a boat tour for a chance to see one of the many dolphins around Ireland's coastline.
Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium - See marine life including sharks and penguins.
Aillwee Cave and Birds of Prey Centre - Explore the caves and watch bird demonstrations.
King John's Castle - Interactive exhibits and medieval re-enactments in Limerick.
Bunratty Castle and Folk Park - Step back in time with historical re-enactments.
The Burren Nature Sanctuary - Discover unique flora and fauna in this unique part of the country.
Rock of Cashel - Explore this historic site with impressive medieval buildings.
Kilkee Waterworld - Indoor water park with slides and wave pools.
Foynes Flying Boat and Maritime Museum - Learn about aviation history.
Muckross House and Gardens - Tour the mansion and traditional farms in Killarney.
Killarney National Park - Boat trips, hiking, and jaunting car rides.
The Skellig Experience Centre - Learn about the Skellig Islands’ history.
Smugglers Cove - Enjoy tubing and the inflatable Rebel Rampage.
Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience - Spectacular views and interactive exhibits - just don't go too close the the edge!
Waterford Treasures - Museums detailing Viking and medieval history.
Cobh Heritage Centre - Learn about Irish emigration in this interactive museum.
The Donkey Sanctuary - Visit rescued donkeys in County Cork.
Belvedere House Gardens and Park - Explore gardens and woodland trails.
West Coast Aqua Park - Enjoy this inflatable water park with the kids.
Connacht
Brigit's Garden - Explore beautiful Celtic-themed gardens.
Galway Atlantaquaria - Discover marine life in Ireland’s largest aquarium.
Connemara National Park - Hike on kid-friendly trails and enjoy the beautiful scenery in this magical part of Ireland.
Kylemore Abbey - Visit the Victorian Walled Garden and Gothic Church and enjoy the nuns homemade chocolate.
Lough Key Forest and Activity Park - Ziplining, boat tours, and forest trails are on offer here.
Aran Islands - Cycle and explore the islands’ unique landscapes.
Westport House - Historic tours and Pirate Adventure Park.
The Wild Atlantic Way - Road trip along Ireland’s rugged west coast.
Ulster
The Giants Causeway - Visit the iconic basalt columns.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge - Cross this thrilling bridge.
Donegal Adventure Centre - Surfing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities.
Ulster Folk and Transport Museum - Step back in time with historical exhibits.
Titanic Belfast - Interactive museum about the world-famous ship.
W5 Interactive Discovery Centre - Science and discovery centre in Belfast.
Mount Stewart - Explore the mansion and gardens.
The MAC Belfast - Cultural events and activities for kids.
Giant’s Lair Story Trail - Magical walking trail in Slieve Gullion Forest Park.
Mourne Mountains - Family-friendly hikes and scenic views.
Navan Centre and Fort - Interactive history experiences.
Exploris Aquarium - Discover marine life in Strangford Lough.
Saint Patrick’s Trian - Interactive exhibits about Saint Patrick.
The Argory - National Trust property with beautiful gardens.
Castle Ward - Explore the location used for Winterfell in Game of Thrones.
Florence Court - Historic house and woodland trails.
Portstewart Strand - Beautiful beach perfect for family outings.
Marble Arch Caves - Guided tours of stunning limestone caves.
Cavan Burren Park - Prehistoric tombs and scenic walks.
Derrynane House - Historic house and scenic grounds.
Glen of Aherlow - Scenic valley with hiking trails.
Lough Gur - Archaeological site with ancient monuments.
Foynes Flying Boat and Maritime Museum - Learn about aviation history.
Glenarm Castle - Beautiful gardens and events.
Larne Leisure Centre - Swimming pools and family activities.
Crawfordsburn Country Park - Beach, woodlands, and waterfalls.
Pickie Fun Park - Amusement park with pedal boats and mini-golf.
Belfast Zoological Gardens - See a wide variety of animals.
Lagan Valley LeisurePlex - Indoor water park and leisure centre.
Crom Estate - Explore the historic estate and its nature trails.
Jungle NI - Adventure park with tree top adventures.
Rathlin Island - Visit the puffin colony and enjoy nature walks.
Mount Usher Gardens - Stunning gardens and river walks.
Inishowen Maritime Museum & Planetarium - Explore maritime history and space.
Wild Ireland - Wildlife sanctuary with bears, wolves, and other animals.
Erica's Fairy Forest - A magical forest in County Cavan.
A visit to any of these places ensures a memorable summer filled with adventure, learning, and fun for kids and parents alike, all while exploring beautiful Ireland. How many will you and your family cross of the list before summer is over?
Now let's hope that the sun shines for us this summer so we can enjoy all of these family adventures!
