10 best things to do in Ireland with kids
Giants Causeway
The Giants Causeway is a large area of basalt rock columns on the coast in Northern Ireland. Legend says that a giant called Finn McCool built a path of rocks across the sea to Scotland so that he could battle a rival giant. The truth is almost as interesting...the columns were created by a super-volcanic eruptions over 60 million years ago.
Dublin
If you come to Ireland, there’s a very good chance that you will at least pass through Dublin. There is definitely a lot do here with kids. Phoenix Park is a great place to go with kids. It is over 1,700 acres and was once a Royal deer park. You can still see lots of wildlife as you walk or bike through the park. Phoenix Park also includes Dublin Zoo, playgrounds, a flower garden, and tea shops. While in Dublin you can also visit St Anne’s Park, the Ark, and Dublinia.
County Wicklow
County Wicklow is known as the Garden of Ireland. This area has something for everyone with beautiful coastlines, woodlands, and mountains (the second highest peak in Ireland can be found here). It is also the home to Wicklow Way, which is the country’s most popular walking trail. It will take you along old bog roads, forest trails, and disused military supply lines. Be sure to stop at the Glendalough Monastic ruins, explore the large and impressive Powerscourt House and nearby waterfall, hike or kayak around Lough Dan, have a picnic around Lough Tay (aka Guinness Lake), and pause at the Sally Gap for amazing views of the surrounding bogs and Wicklow Mountains. Along the coast, you can stop in the charming town of Bray and visit SEA LIFE Bray to see a variety sea life, see farm animals a the peaceful Glenroe Farm, or relax on big stretch of beach and sand dunes at Brittas Bay.
Killarney
Killarney is a tourist town in Southwest Ireland that children will love! Lots of people use this as their starting point for driving the Ring of Kerry. Next to the city is Killarney National Park. Here you can see Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey, farms, and lots of walking and cycling trails.
Ring of Kerry
One of the most popular attractions in County Kerry is the Ring of Kerry. It is a circular tourist route with many interesting sights along the way. Be sure to explore Crag Cave, Torq Waterfall, Gap of Dunloe, and the Blue Flag Beaches. You can also stop in the small port town of Dingle to see an unusual celebrity….Fungie the Dingle dolphin! This dolphin has been guiding fishing boats to and from the Dingle Harbor for years. You can even take a boat trip just to say hello.
Lough Gur
Lough Gur is one of Ireland’s most magical places. It is right outside of Limerick City. Here you will find Ireland’s largest stone circle, a faerie land, castle ruins, and lots of archaeological sites to explore. You could easily spend a whole day here exploring. Nearby, you will find Ireland’s only Donkey Sanctuary. It is fun and is free to visit.
Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher iw one of the most popular places to visit in Ireland. Here, the cliffs rise 702 feet about the ocean. O’brien’s Tower is on top of the cliffs and offers dramatic views of the surrounding cliffs and ocean. Stop by the Visitor's Center on the way to the cliffs to see the Atlantic Edge exhibit.
Clifden/Sky Road
The village of Clifden is called the Capital of Connemara. It is filled with shops and pubs. Take the kids to a pub to hear traditional Irish music and watch Irish dancing (and yes, kids are allowed in pubs here!). Drive along Sky Road to see some of the best views of the coast in the county. Sometimes it feels like the road is going to fall off the edge of cliffs, but don’t worry! It doesn’t! In this area is also Connemara National Park where you can find scenic mountains, bogs, heaths, grasslands, and woodlands. There are three main walking routes throughout the park and each offers difference scenery and wildlife all along the way.
Kylemore Abbey
Kylemore Abbey is a stunning building set on the edge of a lake. It is simply gorgeous. And it is also a great place to take kids because there are lots of places to run and explore. You can also take mountain hikes behind the Abbey, if you are feeling extra adventurous!