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Day Trips from Dublin with Kids

Looking to venture beyond Dublin city with the kids? You've exhausted Dublin Itineraries and are looking to escape the capital, get some fresh air into your lungs and survive a relatively short car journey! There are numerous family-friendly destinations just a short journey away, offering a mix of history, nature, and fun activities. Here are some of our top picks for day trips that are sure to keep the whole family entertained.


1. Howth: Seaside Magic & Seal Spotting

Just a 45-minute DART ride from Dublin, Howth is a coastal gem. Let the kids burn off energy at the pirate-themed playground, then stroll along the pier to spot curious seals. Feeling adventurous? Tackle the Howth Cliff Walk for breathtaking views (best for older kids). Browse the weekend market for sweet treats or pick up handmade crafts. Grab a bite at our favourite Crabby Joes for hearty Irish fare or Beshoffs for top-notch fish and chips. A great choice for all ages!

Best for: All ages. For the Cliff Walk 5 + (unless you have a sling / back carrier.


A 30-minute DART ride from the city centre takes you to the magical grounds of Malahide Castle. Wander through the fairy trail with little ones, or be wowed by Ireland’s only Butterfly House. The Avoca café is perfect for a relaxed lunch with fresh sandwiches and treats. The expansive playground and forest trails make this spot a full-day adventure for kids aged 3+.

Opening Hours: Daily 9:30am – 5:30pm

Best for: Ages 3+


Located near Bray, about 45 minutes by car, Killruddery is a hidden gem where nature and heritage meet. The stunning gardens are perfect for a peaceful stroll, while younger kids can play in the sandpit or meet the resident chickens. Seasonal events, partner activities like tree climbing, and a welcoming farmyard vibe make this one of our favourite spots. Don’t miss lunch at The Grain Store Café with its wholesome, local menu or the fab Saturday Farm Market for local delights!

Opening Hours: April–October, Tues–Sun 9:30am – 5:00pm

Best for: All ages


This iconic Wicklow Valley site is about an hour and 15 minutes from Dublin and is steeped in history and natural beauty. Explore the ancient round tower and monastic ruins, then follow the trails to the Upper Lake for a family picnic. There's also food trucks near the carpark. The walking path is accessible and buggy-friendly, making it ideal for families with younger kids. It’s a great spot for nature-loving families and older kids who enjoy walking.

Opening Hours: Daily 9:30am – 5:00pm

Best for: All ages


A fantastic destination in Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow (about an hour from Dublin), this forest park features Ireland’s longest treetop walk and a 12-storey viewing tower that ends with a giant spiral slide – a hit with brave kids and grown-ups! There’s also a lovely playground and walking trails to explore. Refuel at the on-site Seed Café.

Step back in time with a visit to Avondale House the birthplace of Irish forestry and home to Charles Stewart Parnell. Explore the preserved interiors, including the mustard-yellow drawing room and Parnell's grandfather's Wooton desk, offering a glimpse into 19th-century estate life.

Opening Hours: Check website for current times

Best for: Ages 4+


Located in Enniskerry, just under an hour from Dublin, Powerscourt is home to 47 acres of spectacular gardens including Italian, Japanese, and walled gardens. The on-site waterfall is the highest in Ireland and makes for a great nature escape. Enjoy lunch or cake at the Avoca café with a view. It’s a lovely day out for all ages.

Location: Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow

Opening Hours: Daily 9:30am – 5:30pm

Best for: All ages


Just an hour from Dublin in Kildare, this is a unique mix of horse farm, garden, and fairy trail fun. The guided tours are engaging, the Japanese Gardens are tranquil and beautiful, and there’s a great playground too. Kids love the Fairy Trail and St. Fiachra’s Garden adding a touch of magic to your visit. With whimsical fairy houses hidden along a woodland path. This enchanting walk encourages children to imagine a world of fairies while enjoying nature. Afterwards, head to St. Fiachra’s Garden, inspired by Ireland’s monastic past, with ponds, rock formations, and quiet spaces that are both educational and beautiful. Enjoy a family lunch, with Local ingredients in the cafe. Perfect for all ages.

Opening Hours: March–September, 9:00am – 6:00pm

Best for: All ages


Step back in time at this UNESCO World Heritage Site just over an hour from Dublin. Tour the 5,000-year-old passage tombs of Newgrange and Knowth, accessible only by guided tour from the visitor centre. The interactive exhibits make this experience fascinating for school-aged kids and up. There’s also a café on-site for lunch or snacks.

Opening Hours: Check website for tour times

Best for: Ages 5+


For families seeking a thrilling day out filled with rides, wildlife, and unforgettable memories, Emerald Park (formerly Tayto Park) is an ideal destination. Located in County Meath, just a short drive from Dublin, Emerald Park combines the fun of a theme park with the adventure of a zoo, making it a super fun choice for a family-friendly day trip. Rollercoasters and thrill rides for older kids, a zoo, and a dedicated Tír na nÓg area for younger ones. There are plenty of places to eat inside the park, and the picnic areas are perfect for bringing your own lunch. Ideal for ages 3 and up.

Opening Hours: Varies seasonally; check website

Best for: Ages 3+


10. Belfast: Titanic Tales, W5 Science & City Sights

Hop on a train or drive two hours north to explore Titanic Belfast, a must-see museum built on the ship’s original site. Younger kids will adore W5, a hands-on science centre packed with fun exhibits. Add in a visit to Belfast Zoo or a Black Cab Tour for a full day of fun. Stop by St. George’s Market for delicious eats and live music. The Titanic Belfast with its interactive, family-friendly exhibits offer a fascinating look into the story of the Titanic, from its construction to its fateful voyage. Kids and adults alike will be captivated by the life-size reconstructions and the hands-on displays, making it an engaging way to learn about this iconic ship’s legacy. Just a short walk from Titanic Belfast, W5 Science and Discovery Centre is an interactive science and discovery cantre perfect for curious minds. It’s packed with hands-on exhibits, science demonstrations, and exciting themed zones designed to entertain kids of all ages. With everything from climbing frames and role-play areas to robotics displays, W5 will have kids exploring, playing, and learning for hours.

Opening Hours: Varies by attraction

Best for: Ages 7+


For the thrill-seekers, Carlingford Adventure offers zip lines, aerial courses, and more. Whether you’re into land, sea, or sky adventures, the centre has something for everyone. Choose from activities like zip-lining, laser tag, archery, kayaking, plus many more. About 90 minutes from Dublin, Carlingford is a fantastic destination for adventurous families. SkyPark offers Ireland’s largest aerial adventure park with zip lines and obstacle courses. At the Adventure Centre, try kayaking, rock climbing or laser tag. There are dining options on-site or pop into Carlingford village for seafood or pizza.


Skypark offers fun for all ages. For little ones (ages 3–6), the Skynet Giant Adventure features safe, netted play with slides, tunnels, and treehouses. The Kids Zone has a sandpit, mini diggers, puzzles, and gentle games. Kids aged 6–12 can enjoy Skypark Junior, footgolf, mini golf, and even supervised axe throwing for older kids. Tweens and teens (12–16) can tackle the high-flying Aerial Adventure Course with zip lines and rope challenges, or dive into action with a 3-hour woodland laser combat game.

Opening Hours: Weekends 9:00am – 5:00pm

Best for: Ages 3+



 
 
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