Summer Holidays are back in full swing, and we’ve created a list of our favourite Family Friendly Adventures for you to explore near us! From thrilling theme parks to serene botanical gardens and exciting boat tours, there's something for everyone in this bustling city.
For the Thrill Seekers, Animal Lovers and Aquatic Adventures:
Emerald Park
Emerald Park’s highly anticipated newly open attraction, Tír na nÓg, Land of Eternal Youth calls for the bravest Adventurers. With three new attractions, visitors can prove they are warrior worthy on Na Fianna Force, set out on a magical journey on The Quest, and fly alongside the Children of Lir on the Celtic Dreamer.
Ireland’s only theme park and zoo offers a wide range of attractions for all ages, from exhilarating roller coasters and adrenaline-pumping zip lines to gentle carousel rides and a delightful zoo.
Emerald Park is the perfect day out filled with excitement and enjoyment that will leave the whole family craving more.
Dublin Zoo
A trip to Dublin Zoo is a must for animal lovers. Located in the heart of Phoenix Park, the zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from around the globe. The zoo's engaging exhibits and educational programs ensure a fun and informative day for the entire family.
Welcoming its first Cheetah in 20 years, Dublin Zoo is a must visit this summer! Callie the cheetah can be spotted in her new home in the zoo’s African Plains.
Aquazone
Aquazone, located in the National Aquatic Centre in Dublin, is a thrilling water park that offers a splashing good time for the whole family. With a wide range of exciting water slides, including the adrenaline-pumping Master Blaster, as well as lazy rivers and wave pools, Aquazone guarantees hours of fun and excitement. Aquazone is the perfect destination for aquatic adventures and offers an unforgettable day of water-filled entertainment for the entire family.
Picnics, Parks & Playgrounds
Phoenix Park
Deer Spotting: The Phoenix Park was established as a Royal Deer Park in 1662 by James Butler, Duke of Ormond and fallow deer have been in the park ever since! Today it is home to a herd of over 600 fallow deer and it is a real treat and thrill to see these beautiful creatures in the park.
It is also the site of the Phoenix Park Nature Trail, which takes around 1 hour to complete. Organise a picnic in the park for a day that whole family can enjoy!
Áras an Uachtaráin: The official and private residence of the President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins is located in Phoenix Park and is open for public tours every Saturday morning.
The Phoenix Park Visitor Centre is a separate heritage site, located outside of the grounds of Áras an Uachtaráin, which has a children’s playground and a stunning Victorian flower garden, People’s Flower Garden.
Newbridge House & Farm
Farmyard Discovery Trail: Embark on the Farmyard Discovery Trail with Kevin and his friends Tammy the Tamworth, Percy the Peacock, and Rua the Robin at Newbridge Farm, where families can complete interactive challenges, meet various farm animals, and explore the beautiful walled garden and orchard.
Children can also enjoy interactive feeding sessions, pony rides and tractor tours, creating unforgettable memories of their farmyard adventures.
Fort Lucan
Spend the day at Dublin’s biggest Adventure Playground where kids can unleash their imagination and embark on exciting escapades!
Fort Lucan is a unique outdoor attraction which features an impressive wooden fort structure with an array of slides, climbing frames, and obstacle courses that challenge young adventurers to conquer new heights. The park also boasts thrilling zip lines, bungee trampolines, and an exhilarating water slide, ensuring there's never a dull moment. With spacious picnic areas and a café offering refreshments, families can enjoy a relaxing break amidst the lush green surroundings.
Fort Lucan is a haven of joy and adventure, providing endless hours of outdoor fun and long-lasting memories for all the family!
Botanic Gardens
Stop and smell the flowers in the National Botanic Gardens.
The National Botanic Gardens of Ireland holds a purpose to explore, understand, conserve and share the purpose of plants. The Gardens are home to over 300 endangered species from around the world and six species that are already extinct.
The Gardens are the perfect place to soak up the peace, picnic and escape the busy streets of Dublin’s City Centre.
Beachs & Bays, Cruises & Tours
Viking Splash Tour
Experience Dublin's rich history in a whole new way with Viking Splash Tours! Hop on board the unique amphibious Viking vehicle for an adventure like no other. Led by entertaining guides, you'll tour the city streets and then splash into the River Liffey for a thrilling ride. Put on your Viking helmet, sing along, and learn all about Dublin's past while taking in its famous landmarks. It's a fun-filled adventure that the whole family will love, combining history, entertainment, and a splash of excitement!
Howth Coast Boat Tour
Explore the beauty of Dublin’s coastline and bay with a cliffside cruise from Howth Harbour. During the trip, you can enjoy stunning views of Ireland’s Eye, the Martello Tower, and spot a colony of seals and birds.
For an even more magical experience, consider the evening sunset cruise, offering a perfect end to a day of family fun.
North Bull Island & Dollymount Strand
Connected to the coast at both ends, long and skinny North Bull Island is a glorious nature reserve tucked into Dublin Bay. Along the 5km strand of Bull Island, there are stunning views of the Howth pennisula, Poolbeg Lighthouse and the smokestacks of Dublin Port.
Go for a stoll along the three-mile Dollymount Strand, spotting seals at the northern end and kite surfers at the southern one.
‘Dollyer’ is the perfect family getaway from the bustling city no matter what the weather or season.
Why chose Carlton Hotel Blanchardstown?
At Carlton Hotel Blanchardstown, we pride ourselves in being on of the leading family friendly hotels in Dublin, offering the ideal destination for the ultimate family getaway.
Our Little Adventurers package is designed for the bold and brave adventure seekers. We believe in creating memorable experiences and fun adventurers for the young minds and the young at heart! Stay in one of our Spacious Family Rooms with a Delicious Breakfast included for some Pre-Adventure Fuel. Enjoy the Convenience of Complimentary Car Parking during your stay.
Make the most of your stay with Optional Add-on Tickets to some of Ireland’s most exciting family-friendly attractions, ensuring a fun-filled adventure for all this summer!
