Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Family Favorites
Kids
There is so much for families to see and do in Dublin that it's
hard to know where to begin, but here are a few child- and
parent-tested favorites:
Dublin's parks give families on the go a respite from the
city's ruckus. In
Merrion Square
and
St. Stephen's Green,
you will find lawns for picnicking, ducks for feeding, play-
grounds for swinging, and gardens for viewing. Horse-lov-
ing youngsters will especially enjoy taking a family carriage
tour around the parks (see “Organized Tours,” below).
West of Dublin's city center, the vast
Phoenix Park
entices
visitors and locals alike (p. 93). Phoenix Park is home to the
Dublin Zoo
(see above), myriad trails, amazing trees, sports
fields, playgrounds, and herds of lovely free-roaming deer.
You will discover mansions, castles, and many secret gar-
dens. Ice-cream vendors and teahouses spring up in all the
right places to keep you going. Those weary of walking can
take a trail ride through the park thanks to the nearby
Ash-
town Riding Stables
(see section 5, “The Great Outdoors”).
If a day with Vikings appeals to your family, don't miss
Dublin's Viking Adventure
(see above) or the lively
Viking
Splash Tour
in a reconditioned World War II amphibious
“duck” vehicle. You'll see Dublin from land and water with
a Viking tour guide who will keep the whole family dry and
well entertained (see “Organized Tours,” below).
Interactive creative activities for families can be found in
the
Temple Bar
area.
The Ark
(see above) offers unique arts
classes and cultural experiences for children, while
Hey!
Doodle Doodle
(see above) is a paint-it-yourself pottery stu-
dio for the whole family.
Day excursions out of town are great fun, especially when
there are beaches to run on and treasures to discover. North
of the city is the
Malahide Castle Demesne
(see “Dublin's
Northern Suburbs” in chapter 8). This great estate features
not only the beautiful
Malahide Castle
but also the fasci-
nating
Fry Model Railway
exhibit, a display of exquisite
antique dollhouses and toys at
Tara's Palace,
acres of park-
land, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
