Dublin Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Dublin
This itinerary balances free outdoor fun in Dublin's famous parks with engaging indoor ticketed attractions. It's designed to keep children aged 3-12 entertained with a variety of activities, from animal encounters to interactive play and waterpark thrills, all while being mindful of budget.
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, February 20Phoenix Park Play
Unwind after school with a visit to Europe's largest enclosed urban park.
Families can enjoy the universal playgrounds, spot wild fallow deer roaming freely, and explore the vast green spaces.
Suitable for all ages (3-12+). Playgrounds are universally accessible. Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours. Bring snacks and water. Look out for the deer!
Free car parking is available at various locations within the park, including near the Visitor Centre and Dublin Zoo. The park is also accessible by Dublin Bus.
Go Kids Go! Playtime
An exciting indoor adventure play centre offering multi-level soft play areas for different age groups, including a disco room and indoor soccer. Electric go-karts are available for an extra charge.
Suitable for babies up to 12 years. Dedicated areas for ages up to 2, up to 5, and 5-12. Go-karts are an additional €2. Admission is for 1.5 hours play.
Free parking available. Accessible by local Dublin Bus routes.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, February 21Dublin Zoo Fun
Explore one of Europe's oldest and most popular zoos, home to over 400 animals across 60 acres in Phoenix Park.
Discover lions, tigers, elephants, and more in diverse habitats.
Open 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM in February, last admission at 4:00 PM. Suitable for all ages. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Duration: 3-4 hours.
Limited on-site parking at Dublin Zoo; additional free car parks are available within Phoenix Park, such as Lord's Walk car park next to the Zoo. The zoo is stroller and wheelchair accessible.
Zoo Park Lunch
Enjoy a packed lunch or purchase food from one of the many cafes and restaurants within Dublin Zoo.
There are ample picnic areas throughout the park.
Family-friendly dining options and picnic spots available. Bringing your own picnic can be a budget-friendly choice.
Easily accessible within Dublin Zoo.
Imaginosity Discovery
An interactive Children's Museum where kids learn through play across 2.
5 floors of exhibits. Features a supermarket, diner, construction zone, and theatre workshops designed to spark imagination.
Primarily designed for children up to 9 years of age, but younger children (3-6) will particularly enjoy it. Workshops are often run daily. Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours.
Located in Sandyford, accessible via the Luas Green Line to the 'Stillorgan' stop, followed by a short walk. Parking available at Beacon South Quarter car park (paid).
St Stephen's Green
Enjoy a relaxed stroll and play in this beautiful Victorian park in the city centre.
Kids can feed the ducks and swans, or visit the playground.
Suitable for all ages. Playgrounds are available. Duration: 1 hour.
Easily accessible by public transport (Luas Green Line, various Dublin Bus routes). Paid on-street parking and car parks are available nearby.
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, February 22AquaZone Waterpark Fun
Dive into Ireland's favourite indoor waterpark with 8 rides, slides, and experiences including a wave machine, lazy river, and a pirate play area for younger children. Sessions are 2 hours long.
Catters for all ages (3-12+). Children aged 3 and under go free but must be pre-booked. Children 8 and under require 1 adult per 2 children in the water. Children 9-12 require an adult to remain on premises.
Ample free parking available. The Sport Ireland Campus is cashless (card payments only). Bring a €1 coin for lockers.
Aquatic Centre Lunch
Grab a convenient lunch at the family-friendly restaurant located within the National Aquatic Centre, offering a range of culinary delights.
Various food options suitable for families.
Located inside the National Aquatic Centre. Free parking on site.
Dead Zoo Lab
Explore fascinating specimens from the National Museum of Ireland – Natural History's collection, temporarily displayed at the Dead Zoo Lab.
This accessible exhibition features a variety of animals, insects, and marine life.
Admission is free. Suitable for all ages, particularly children interested in animals and nature. The main Natural History Museum on Merrion Street is closed for refurbishment, so this is a great alternative.
Accessible by Luas Red Line (Museum stop) or various Dublin Bus routes. Limited paid parking may be available in the vicinity.
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