If you're planning trips around Ireland with kids in tow, you’re in for a lot of adventure! As a mum of three energetic boys who love nothing more than the freedom of the great outdoors and the fun of exploring somewhere new, I’ve discovered that Ireland is an absolute treasure trove for family-friendly outings. From fairy trails to farmyards, castles to coastlines – every county has something great to offer families.
Whether you’re visiting Ireland for the first time or looking for fresh ideas to explore closer to home, here are the very best places in Ireland for kids – all tried, tested and loved by families like ours.
1. Fota Wildlife Park, Co. Cork
Perfect For: Animal lovers and curious minds
Fota Wildlife Park is one of our absolute favourite places to visit as a family. Located just outside Cork city, it’s not a zoo – it's an immersive wildlife experience. Kids can walk alongside wallabies, spot giraffes roaming in their enclosure, and even see cheetahs up close. There's a lovely playground and picnic areas, making it an ideal day out. For an even more unforgettable experience, book in for a VIP Experience. We did this and it was an amazing experience!
Top Tip: Visit midweek or early in the day to avoid crowds, and bring a buggy if you’ve younger ones as there's lots of walking.
2. Emerald Park, Co. Meath
Perfect For: Thrill seekers and mini adventurers
Now renamed Emerald Park, this is Ireland’s only theme park and zoo, and it’s packed with rides, rollercoasters, and animal exhibits. Our boys particularly loved the Viking Voyage flume ride and the zoo area featuring tigers, lemurs, and monkeys. It’s suited to a range of ages, from toddlers to teens.
Top Tip: Download the park map in advance and check height requirements for rides to avoid disappointed kids.
3. The Irish National Heritage Park, Co. Wexford
Perfect For: Little historians and outdoor explorers
Step back in time with this open-air museum showcasing Ireland’s 9,000-year-old history. The Irish National Heritage Park is a hands-on and interactive, with thatched huts, Viking houses, and fun activities like archery and panning for gold. It’s such a fun way for kids to learn about Irish heritage and makes for a great day out.
Top Tip: Book a guided tour or one of the seasonal events – the storytelling sessions are magical.
4. Lough Key Forest & Activity Park, Co. Roscommon
Perfect For: Nature lovers and puzzle-solvers
Lough Key Forest & Activity Park is a hidden gem in the heart of Ireland that’s absolutely packed with things to do. From the magical tree canopy walk to indoor play zones and a thrilling Boda Borg challenge, there’s something for every age and weather.
Top Tip: Bring waterproofs and spare clothes – Irish weather is unpredictable, and there’s plenty of outdoor fun to be had!
5. Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, Co. Clare
Perfect For: Imaginative play and stepping back in time
We absolutely adore Bunratty. The castle itself is so exciting for kids to explore (all those towers and spiral staircases!) and the surrounding folk park is like a living village from the 19th century, complete with roaming animals and traditional sweet shops. It’s a truly immersive experience for the whole family. My boys love the playground there too and always have great fun when we visit.
Top Tip: Wear comfortable shoes – there’s lots of ground to cover and so many hidden gems to discover.
6. Galway Atlantaquaria, Co. Galway
Perfect For: Rainy day adventures and sea creature fans
Galway Atlantaquaria is Ireland’s largest native species aquarium is the perfect spot for a rainy day. Younger children will be fascinated by the touch tanks where kids can get hands-on with starfish and crabs. It’s educational, entertaining and the location on Salthill’s promenade makes for a lovely stroll afterwards.
Top Tip: Pair your visit with a stop at the Salthill playground or a treat from one of the nearby cafés.
7. Castlecomer Discovery Park, Co. Kilkenny
Perfect For: Active kids and budding adventurers
With zip lines, pedal boats, a tree-top walk and an elf & fairy village, Castlecomer Discovery Park feels like something from a storybook. There’s a lovely café on site too, and the woodland trails are buggy-friendly.
Top Tip: Book adventure activities in advance during school holidays as they fill up fast.
8. Glendalough & The Wicklow Mountains, Co. Wicklow
Perfect For: Family hikes and outdoor picnics
If your little ones love a good adventure, Glendalough is a must. The Monastic City is like something from a fairytale, and the trails around the lakes are gentle enough for children but still packed with beautiful views. My boys loved seeing the waterfalls and our visit was particularly warm so they took a dip in the lake there. Make sure to bring a spare change of clothes and towel if your kids are also partial to playing in the water!
Top Tip: Bring a picnic and some binoculars – there's always wildlife to spot, and the kids will love leading the way.
9. Leahy’s Open Farm, Co. Cork
Perfect For: Animal cuddles and rural fun
Leahy’s Open Farm is one of those places that children remember forever. I'm now 35 and still remember my childhood visits there! From tractor rides to feeding lambs and exploring the maze, it’s a day full of fun and a bit of mucky play! There’s even an indoor play barn for rainy days, where you can enjoy a bite to eat and let the kids play to their hearts content.
Top Tip: Arrive early – there’s so much to do, and little ones might want to do it all twice!
10. Titanic Belfast, Co. Antrim
Perfect For: Older kids and budding historians
While it might not seem like a typical “kids” attraction, Titanic Belfast is so interactive that even our boys were completely enthralled, especially our then 8 year old, who is the biggest Titanic fan and knowledge buff I know! The ride through the shipyard is a highlight, and the storytelling throughout is truly first-class (pardon the pun!). Entrance to Titanic Belfast also includes entrance to the S.S. Nomadic, which is situated about a minute away from Titanic Belfast. It's the last remaining White Star Line ship and you can explore it yourself.
Top Tip: Pair your visit with a walk around the docks and treat yourself to the delicious afternoon tea at the Titanic Hotel, which is just across the road from Titanic Belfast. They even have a kids afternoon tea, the staff are friendly and you may even be treated to someone playing the grand piano as you enjoy your food – perfect for a chilled afternoon. Read about our stay at the Titanic Hotel Belfast.
Making Memories Across Ireland
One of the most beautiful things about exploring Ireland with kids is how the ordinary becomes extraordinary – a simple forest walk becomes an epic adventure when you stumble across a stream or old ruins within the woods (which is a common occurrence here in Ireland) and a rainy day just means puddle-jumping and hot chocolate afterwards.
These magical places have given our family some of our most treasured memories, and I hope they’ll inspire your own adventures too. Don’t forget your raincoats, your wellies, and your sense of adventure – Ireland has plenty of magic waiting for you.
If you're a family on a budget and looking for some great places to visit with the kids, check out these hidden gems in Ireland for families on a budget.
