With only a few weeks left of the summer holidays and sweltering temperatures this weekend, it means parents will be kept busy keeping the kids entertained.
Dublin is full of places to bring the kids to allow them to run around, burn off some energy and make sure they sleep that night. While beaches are an obvious one, if it gets a bit crowded you might want to look for an alternative activity.
Here are the 12 best things to do with children this weekend:
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Dublin Zoo
Roam the African Savanna with giraffes, rhinos and zebras, or spend some time with the gorillas and the penguins in the sunshine this weekend at the zoo.
Viking Splash
Have an entertaining and educational tour of Dublin. You will be taken around Dublin in an authentic World War Two American land to sea vehicle which was built by the General Motor Corporation. Find out more here.
Newbridge House and Farm
A hidden gem in rural Fingal, families can step back in time and enjoy art, furniture and stories of times past, as well as an outdoor adventure on their working farm.
Wooly Ward’s Mobile Petting Farm
A memorable experience with pigs, goats, lambs, hens, chicks, rabbits and lots more. The animals will perform in shows such as “No More Tricks'' and “Sleepy Jack” and you will get a chance to feed and pet the stars afterwards. After the party food there is lots more fun with animal quizzes, painted animal tattoos and a sing song.
Fort Lucan
Fort Lucan is a children's outdoor centre playground with a huge play area, crazy golf and waterslides. Set within a huge wooden Viking Fort, the centre provides hours of outdoor fun for children aged between 2 and 12 years.
Kids can climb on huge towers and go down the 40 foot slides, along sky-high walkways, a maze and an army style assault course. Children of all ages can then show off their driving skills on the Go Kart tracks or have a game on the Crazy Golf course. There’s also a famous Waterfall along with a Raging River. Check it out here.
Butterfly House, Malahide
This one is as entertaining and interesting for children as it is for adults. Located at the back of Malahide Castle, the Butterfly House has over 20 species of butterfly, making for one colourful experience. It's open all year round and can be booked as part of a Castle Tour or on its own, both of which can be done here.
Fairy Trails
Two of the best known are arguably the trail at Malahide Castle and the one at Ardgillan Castle in Balbriggan. However, there’s plenty more, like: The Tymon Park Fairy Trail, The Fairy Wood at Corkagh Park and The Marlay Park Fairy Tree.
Airfield Estate, Dundrum
Airfield Estate has to be included in the list of things to do with kids in Dublin. Located in Dundrum, Airfield Estate is home to an array of farm animals such as Jacob sheep, Oxford sandy black pigs, Saneen goats, Rhode Island red hens, chickens and donkeys that are waiting for you to pay them a visit .
After you've said hello to them, it's time to head up to the picturesque walled gardens followed by Overends Kitchen, which features a menu of organic bites made with ingredients grown on site. It doesn't get any fresher than that.
The Dream Teepee Party
This company provides unique luxurious sleepover and party experiences for children and adults. They developed 10 different themes to suit boys and girls of all ages. From magical indoor sleepovers, luxe glamping in one of our fully furnished belle tents, right through to outdoor dining in our stylish dome.
Walk and Ice-Cream
The Dun Laoghaire Harbour walk is a great shout with ice cream from Teddy’s. The Howth Pier Walk with Gino’s nearby is also hard to beat for sweet treats. There’s also the Botanic Gardens and Newbridge House with cafes nearby that sell ice-cream.
St Anne's City Farm
Dublin City Council’s first urban farm opened at St Anne’s Park in 2019 and has been a hit with local families ever since. Run by committed volunteers, the working farm is open to visitors every weekend and can be booked here .
Zipit, Dublin Mountains
Nothing screams excitement quite like zooming through the trees on a zip wire. It's a great opportunity for the kids to experience a proper thrill and for you to release your inner child as you take to the skies at Zipit Forest Adventures in Rathfarnham.
Suitable for children aged 7 and up, this super unique Dublin experience makes for one unforgettable family weekend. To book ahead, make sure to head here .
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