Top Things to do in County Dublin
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What to do and see in County Dublin, Province of Leinster: The Best Things to do Good for a Rainy Day
Discover the best top things to do in County Dublin, Ireland including Croke Park Stadium Tour & GAA Museum, Irish Whiskey Museum, Richmond Barracks, Vaults Live, EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, 14 Henrietta Street, Pearse Lyons Distillery, James Joyce Tower & Museum, Saint Patrick's Cathedral, National Gallery of Ireland.
Restaurants in County Dublin
1. Croke Park Stadium Tour & GAA Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2,702 reviews
Croke Park has been at the heart of Irish sporting life for over 100 years. With a capacity of 82,300, this magnificent stadium is actually the third largest in Europe. Its size is only part of its greatness, however, as you’ll discover on this eye-opening, access-all-areas tour. From quirky insights into why Croke Park’s grass is always greener to learning about defining moments in Irish history, the passionate Tour Guides will take you on an inspiring journey around our national stadium. Some of the highlights include taking a seat in the VIP area, getting a birds-eye view from the media centre, sneaking a peek inside the dressing rooms, and of course, walking in the footsteps of legends as you go pitchside through the players’ tunnel.
Reviewed By frank1365 - County Kerry, Ireland
Context: Kerry GAA fan for over 50 years. Opportunity: Bucket list to visit Croker tour behind scenes having been there numerous times on game day. Booked on line: Easy. No issues. Taxi from hotel: dropped me at Hotel side which is Hogan Stand Side so if u in taxi , direct them to Cusack Stand side Get there early: great cafe , lovely staff , great grub. While u eat u are surrounded by pictures of why u are there. It WILL get to u. Museum: Seamus Darby’s 1982 actual jersey n ball. Well deserved inclusion. Eoin, our tour guide called us to order. It was a cold , dry day in January and only a brave Monaghan man dared to accompany us. You are brought to a mini theatre for a 10 min film of croker behind scenes on big days. Eoin then brought us to Kerry dressing room from previous Saturday Dublin Kerry NFL game. When u walk out of the dressing room , be prepared!!! You are in the most famous tunnel in Ireland. In a stadium that is 3rd largest in Europe. By the greatest amateur organization in the world. U see the pitch for the first time and the enormity of the occasion hit me. The History, the passion, the memories, the culture, the fame , the personalities, the elation , the despair, the Pride in being IRISH. Our guide Eoin was clearly a Dub and proud of it. He made apologies that a lot of the material we would see was Atha Cliatha based. I couldn’t have been more honored. Kerry Dublin. Dublin Kerry. Their time is now. And ours beckons. Kluxton could be freeman of Tralee and Killarney tomorrow if he wanted. Walked the steps to hoist Sam replica. Thoughts of Tadgh Kennelly doing his jig on top of counter in better Kerry days. Eoin gave us the facts n figures n memories n hints of future battles. He told the history of everything that happened in those 4 walls. His passion spoke volumes. As I took it all in and wiped both eyes dry , I started down the tunnel where only days earlier , surely the next “Hall of Fame” recruit, David Clifford, who had, on 25/01/2020, most of his jersey ravaged , in the dying minutes, by Dublin players as souvenirs in acknowledgement of the arrival of the latest O’Connell, Sheehy, Donaghy, Gooch, Fitzgerald and most of all, an O”Sé or three. Good times? Great times. Go there. Goosebumps. Close eyes. Stand silent and remember where u are and all that’s been there before u. And if u lucky enough to get Eoin as a guide, you will think” I couldn’t have had a better guide to show us the greatest and most famous place in Ireland “.
2. Irish Whiskey Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 10,549 reviews
Irish whiskey is fast becoming one of the most popular spirits across the World. The Irish Whiskey Museum, based in the heart of Dublin City in a historic building on Grafton Street, tells the complete and unbiased history of Irish whiskey and its importance in Ireland’s turbulent past. The Irish Whiskey Museum is independent of all whiskey distilleries, offering its visitors the opportunity to taste and experience a huge selection of Irish Whiskey. Whether it’s Single Grain, Malt, Pot Still or a Blended Whiskey, the Museum’s whiskey experts will always be able to help you find the perfect whiskey to suit your palate. Tours take place from 10am-6pm every day, while visitors can experience a variety of live traditional music, storytelling and events every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening until 10.30pm.
Reviewed By laurenmudle
Mark O’R or little jesus for short was great! Amazing knowledge and great way of interacting, made everyone comfy and made us laugh too. With the premium tour you get the 3 standard whiskeys (to help you decide your favourite type of whiskey!) and then 1 extra special one and a nice take home gift which in the gift shop was 8€ so it’s amazing value for money! Would do again if I knew I’d forget the history of Irish whiskey and could get the drinks again ;)
3. Richmond Barracks
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 319 reviews
Richmond Barracks is a venue of historical importance that celebrates the rich stories and experiences of the local community, past and present. The Barracks runs regular guided tours and is currently running the Richmond Barracks to Kilmainham Walking Tour on Thursdays to Sunday at 11am and 1.30pm. The walk from Richmond Barracks to Kilmainham is steeped in Dublin’s rich historical, political & cultural landscape. Discover the local stories, the hidden histories & walk in the footsteps of those 1916 Rising Rebels that were marched to their execution in Kikmainham Gaol.
4. Vaults Live
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 522 reviews
Step inside and Meet Irelands Most Infamous Characters: The Vaults is a live experience like no other. Set to be the next best thing to do in Dublin. Vaults Live offers six great stories inspired by Irish history where you will find yourself right in the middle of the action. Prepare to be thrilled, excited and amazed as you experience stunning 360° sets, state of the art lighting, lavish costumes special effects and character performances you'll never forget. The world of Vaults Live is set over 4 floors in a stunning Victorian schoolhouse in the beating heart of Dublin's city centre. Book tickets to Vaults Live online now.
Reviewed By 204shaimaaa
An hour you will never forget! Amazing interactive show, light and sound effects with a lot of stories to tell!
5. EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 7,771 reviews
Don't just visit Ireland, understand it with a visit to the EPIC, winner of Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction at the World Travel Awards 2019. EPIC is an interactive journey about how a small island made a big impact on the world. Discover why Irishness is celebrated around the world, with a journey through Irish history & culture, told from the perspective of those who lived. To begin your journey you will receive a stamped passport as you enter the exhibition, & then follow a path through the 20 themed galleries. You will discover why people left, see how they influenced the world they found, & experience the connection between their descendants & Ireland today. Immerse yourself in the stories of some of the most remarkable tales of sacrifice, endurance, adventure, and discovery the world has ever known. EPIC brings these amazing stories to life in a unique & spectacular way. Located in Dublin's Docklands. Open daily from 10am. Last entry is 5pm, museum closes at 6:45pm.
Reviewed By pqflyer - San Diego, United States
The EPIC Irish Emigration Museum really is an epic experience. The title "museum" doesn't say enough. Everything is interactive, giving visitors the possibility of a quick overview or -- at any point -- more in-depth information. The best use of current technology I've seen in such an institution. The path through the exhibit is clear and logical -- no chance of getting lost or missing something. Much to see and do and think about. If you love Ireland or have Irish roots or are interested in history or simply want to experience the use of cutting-edge technology in a museum setting --- this is a must-see in Dublin. Near the Jeannie Johnston ship and the Famine sculptures.
6. 14 Henrietta Street
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 785 reviews
When you enter 14 Henrietta Street you’ll experience over 300 years of family and city life in the walls of one address. Our intimate guided tours bring you on a journey from the houses grand Georgian beginnings to the tenement dwellings of its later years. By connecting to the personal stories of those who called 14 Henrietta Street home the building’s hidden histories are revealed. See the house, hear its stories and discover the layers of Dublin history within its walls. “It really brought the human side of history alive for us” The building is accessed via a Guided Tour only. Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday : 10.00 - 16.00 We advise booking in advance
Reviewed By ginacH1248DB
Went here with my mum, dad and sister the other week and we were literally blown away. This is a real hidden gem of an attraction (and you will enjoy just as much as an Irish person as you would a tourist) a true way to get a proper taste of Dublin. From the minute we arrived all the staff and reception were beyond nice and our tour guide Gillian was also INCREDIBLE, so informative, passionate about the tour, great fun and really added the extra element. Could not recommend more, thank you all so much
7. Pearse Lyons Distillery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 472 reviews
Located in Dublin’s historic Liberties, Pearse Lyons Distillery, Dublin’s only boutique distillery, is a five-minute walk from The Guinness Storehouse. Nestled in the former Church of St. James, this distillery has a colourful history dating back to the 12 Century. On tour of the distillery and surrounding graveyard, guests are introduced to the compelling characters from Dublin’s famous distilling and brewing district. This district, rich in culture and tradition, was once a place of booming industry known as The Golden Triangle. The Pearse Lyons Distillery produces some of Ireland’s finest small batch Irish whiskies and celebrates the Irish tradition of storytelling on each guided tour. Guests enjoy a sensory experience as they are brought through the distilling process, before enjoying whiskey and gin tastings at our tasting bar. All booklets, interactives and welcome video are translated in seven languages (English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Chinese and Portuguese)
Reviewed By MagianLincs - Legbourne, United Kingdom
Surprisingly this must see attraction isn't included on the Dublin Pass list. Like other reviewers we received free entry after purchasing a ticket upgrade for one of the bus tours. The staff were, in our case Emma and David, were both extremely enthusiastic in sharing their in-depth knowledge of the business and brand. The standard of renovation to the church is stunning and seeing two copper stills where the altar would normally be is pretty quirky to say the least! At the end of the tour/tasting the tea rooms are just as impressive with more friendly service and tasty cakes. Overall a fantastic visit offering a far more interesting experience than some of the better known brands.
8. James Joyce Tower & Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 296 reviews
Museum housed in a seaside tower that inspired the setting of the first chapter of Ulysses; features memorabilia and a fantastic view of the coast and the surrounding countryside.
Reviewed By Seehanes
If you are in the Sandycove area it would be difficult to justify not visiting the James Joyce Tower. The tower is one of a series of small defensive forts that were built along the Dublin coastline in the early 1800s. There is access to all levels including the open roof from which views are impressive. If the tower itself is not sufficient reason to attract attention, then the James Joyce perspective may tip the balance. Joyce stayed here for six nights in September 1904, when he was 22 years old, as a guest of his friend Oliver St. John Gogarty who was leasing the tower. On the sixth night fellow guest Samuel Chevenix Trench dreamt he saw a black panther and proceeded to shoot at the creature - terrifying Joyce who immediately fled. The tower provides the scene for the opening pages of Joyce's novel Ulysses. Biographical information and interesting photographs of Joyce form part of the display here. There is also a black panther, for good measure. Staff are friendly and helpful. There is no admission fee, but donations can be made at the discretion of visitors.
9. Saint Patrick's Cathedral
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 7,110 reviews
A magnificent cathedral that houses Jonathan Swift's remains (he wrote Gulliver's Travels). It is the only remaining cathedral in Ireland with a daily sung services. A small entrance fee is charged for tourists and all money raised goes back to paying for the upkeep of the building.
Reviewed By vijayaraghavans2013 - Chennai (Madras), India
Very large cathedral of the patron saint of Irish Has loads of history and a 'feel' one you step into the cathedral The painted glasses are breathtaking Right off the hop on hop off bus stop and easy to access
10. National Gallery of Ireland
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,086 reviews
The National Gallery of Ireland holds the national collection of European and Irish fine art. Admission is free to the permanent collections. The historic wings have recently been refurbished and reopened to the public. Entrance to the gallery is via Merrion Sq and Clare Street entrances.
Reviewed By ElizaMo55 - Warsaw, Poland
I was very lucky to visit a breath taking exhibition of Spanish impressionist, Sorolla when visiting NGI in October. National Gallery of Ireland hosts a number of temporary art exhibitions which are definitely worth visiting, beside permanent collection of Irish art.
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