Dublin Tourist Attractions
From the top attractions for tourists to places to visit for locals that want to play tourist for the day, here is a list of things to do on a day in Dublin city. Since many of these attractions plan special events, sign up for their newsletter to be the first to know.
Book of Kells
https://www.tcd.ie/visitors/book-of-kells/
There is often a queue of people waiting to go inside and see one illuminated page of this medieval book which is a national treasure. As part of the tour you also get to visit the Long Room of the Trinity College Dublin Library which is equally impressive to see in person.
Bram Stoker’s Castle Dracula
Why is Castle Dracula located in Dublin and not in some far off mystical place called Transylvania? The answer is Bram Stoker. He’s the author of the original Dracula book and he’s from right here in Dublin. The Castle Dracula experience tells the story of both Dracula the character and Bram Stoker the author using scares, storytelling, magic, and a wee bit of fun.
Chester Beatty Library
This unique museum makes it to the top of the must-see attractions in every Dublin travel guidebook I've come across. Their vast collection of religious and historically significant manuscripts, books, arts, and artifacts is truly amazing, as is the story behind the collection and founding of this Dublin museum. They hold regular exhibits in addition to hosting events for people with an interest in Asian and Middle Eastern culture and history.
Dublin City Arts Office
http://www.dublincityartsoffice.ie/
Taking over the Temple Bar Cultural Trust, the Arts Office of Dublin City Council is the point of contact for all the arts event funding and promotion around Dublin.
Dublin Zoo
Located in Phoenix Park, the Dublin Zoo is one of the world’s oldest zoos and they claim to be the most popular visitor attraction in Ireland. Make it a day out to visit this amazing zoo then explore the grandness of Phoenix Park. Subscribe to email updates to learn about animal happenings and family friendly events.
Dublina
Experience medieval Dublin in this fun and interactive museum that recreates the period with actors in costume and demonstrations. Located next to Christ Church Cathedral (costs extra to go inside), this is the perfect rainy day activity for adults and kids alike.
EPIC Ireland
Explore the stories of the people who emigrated from Ireland to countries around the world and played their part in history. This interactive museum is a modern and fun experience for the whole family. It's located at CHQ, a former tobacco and tea storage house, which offers shops and restaurants and is a great place for lunch.
Funderland
http://www.winterfunderland.ie/
According to the website “From Bounceworld and the Fun Factory to the Take Off and Ultra Buzz “white-knuckle” rides, Funderland will present an array of attractions to suit all ages and tastes.”
Glasnevin Museum
Glasnevin is so much more than a historic cemetery. The stunning visitor centre run by the Glasnevin Trust and opened in 2010 houses exhibitions on the lives of the famous and not so famous throughout Irish history.
Hidden Dublin Tours
https://www.hiddendublintours.com/
For a unique and memorable experience, book a character-driven walking or bus tour led by talented guides and actors. I personally went on their Traditional Irish Storytelling bus where you learn about Pookas, fairies, giants, Leprechauns, and Vikings (only the last of which are real) in a custom built thatched roof double-decker bus. Other only-in-Dublin night time experiences include the Gravedigger Ghost Bus (includes a free “ghoulish” drink – I wonder what is in that potion) and the Northside Ghost Walk (safest while in a group).
Irish Museum of Modern Art
The wonderful modern art museum in Dublin can be found set among the stunning grounds of the former Royal Hospital Kilmainham. It is the leading national museum in Ireland for both modern and contemporary art. Besides their strong permanent collection displayed on a rotating basis, the IMMA presents world-class exhibitions in their open galleries. By consulting their website and joining the mailing list, you will be well informed about their event calendar and future exhibition opening dates.
James Joyce Centre
Promoting the life and works of literary legend and Dublin’s own James Joyce, the centre hosts exhibitions and lectures in addition to the annual Bloomsday celebration.
Kilmainham Gaol Museum
http://kilmainhamgaolmuseum.ie/
This Victorian jail dating back to 1796 tells the story of the multiple Irish rebellions and The Easter Rising as Ireland fought for independence from the United Kingdom.
Little Museum of Dublin
Across from the entrance to the famous Stephen's Green Park, this "little" museum is full of Dublin history. For those who have any interest in the story of Dublin can explore this Georgian house on their own or with a guided tour. The U2 exhibit is very popular with fans from around the world.
National Botanic Gardens of Ireland
The botanic gardens in Glasnevin is a wonderful addition to the lush parks and gardens around Dublin. It is certainly a lovely place to spend a few hours, especially when the sun is shining and the flowers are in bloom. A brief look at their calendar of events shows National Tree Week, an orchid fair, an exhibition on the wildflowers of Ireland (in the visitor centre), and botany courses and demonstrations.
National Gallery of Ireland
https://www.nationalgallery.ie/
The historic art gallery and museum is a wonderful place to spend the morning (or afternoon) and since it is free to enter, you can pop in on a whim and explore the many famous collections. I pass by the entrance on Clare Street facing toward Trinity College quite often. The plain entry doors are easy to miss and I've spotted many visitors looking around and wondering if this is indeed the way to get inside.
National Museum of Ireland
Includes the museums of Decorative Arts & History, Country Life, Natural History, and Archaeology
Science Gallery
https://dublin.sciencegallery.com/
What other city in the world besides Dublin can claim to have an interactive, educational, and thought-provoking (art) gallery devoted to science? This unique gallery (part of Trinity College) changes their main exhibition regularly and also hosts lectures and other special events, so sign up to be the first to know.
Saint Patrick's Cathedral
https://www.stpatrickscathedral.ie/
It's definitely worth visiting at least one of the famous cathedrals in Dublin, either this or Christ Church Cathedral. Since they both charge admission which is uncommon for churches in Europe, read up and decide for yourself. Check out their pipe organ concert schedule for a special treat.