While every county in Ireland is stunning in its own right, Dublin manages to give you the past, present and future all in one! Considering 2016 is a pretty important year for the Republic of Ireland, now is a great opportunity to get out there and see what the capital has to offer. Whether you're from the area or just up for a day or two, there are plenty of FREE things to enjoy with the kids.
 
And to make it even EASIER to get around, make sure you pick up a Leap Family Card for just €10! The promotional ticket is to encourage families to use public transport around Dublin, and can be used by 2 adults and up to 4 children*.
 
To help you get the most out of the city, make sure you visit the following places: 
 
1. The Natural History Museum of Ireland
The Natural History Museum is free to enter and is a great place to spend a rainy afternoon. Here children will learn about animals from Ireland and around the world, and there are always plenty of events and exhibits on to intrigue and excite kids of all ages. Located on Merrion Street, it is easily accessible by bus and just a short walk from the Luas. 
 
 
2. Malahide Beach  
Hop on the DART or grab a bus and head out to the beautiful seaside village of Malahide. Here you will find the most wonderful little beach to enjoy a 99 or even a spot of afternoon tea! While you’re there, why not go for a walk up to the lighthouse – you’ll pass by stunning landscape and scenery and the kids will have an absolute ball.  
 
 
3. The GPO
Considering it is a pretty huge year for the Republic of Ireland, why not take a trip out to where it all began – the GPO. Located along O'Connell Street, you will be right in the heart of the city centre so you can pop into the hundreds of shops that adorn Henry's Street, and it is close enough to Grafton Street to have a wander up there. A hugely important part of the 1916 Easter Rising, it is one of the most incredible places you can see with your kids. You can even give them a taste of what happened on that momentous day 100 years ago by taking a look at the bullet holes in the pillars (although not everyone thinks they are actual bullet holes...).
 
 
4. St. Stephen’s Green
St. Stephen’s Green is one of the most beautiful green spaces to be found right in the heart of Dublin city. Here you will find a playground for the kids to enjoy, a pond to feed the ducks, lushes trees to sit under and enjoy a picnic and bandstands to shelter in if it starts to rain. There are always events happening inside the park whether it's summer or winter, and the changing landscape means every time you go you'll experience something new. With the Luas, DART and a plentiful supply of buses going by it is the perfect place to relax and enjoy tranquility away from the bustling Dublin streets.
 
 
5. The Phoenix Park
Take the Luas Red Line to Heuston Station or hop on any one of the following buses - 25, 26, 46A, 66 / 66A / 66B, 67, 69 - to Phoenix Park. 
Here you can go for a relaxing stroll around the park itself, have tea in the fabulous Tea Rooms, wander around Dublin Zoo or enjoy the stunning gardens beside the Phoenix Park visitor centre. 
 
 
6. Croke Park
Ok, you may have to pay a little more than €10 for this experience but the kids will absolutely LOVE it, even if they’re not GAA fans! While we totally recommend you go on a match day (the atmosphere is just incredible), the museum, which is open all year round, is nothing like your normal stuffy, ‘look but don’t touch’ museum. With interactive games, hurling and football practice your kids will be able to test their skills to the max. The DART, Luas and a number of buses will either bring you right to the door or leave you a 15 minute walk away - perfect!
 
 
7. The Botanic Gardens
The number 4, 9 and 83 bus all run by the Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin so you can get there no problem whatever direction you’re coming from. If it’s a really fine day, bundle the kids up and head along to immerse yourself in all things pretty - entry is free and you’ll all learn a thing or two about how the role of plants is more than just being visibly appealing.
 
 
8. Grab a 99 at Teddy’s Ice Cream
Right on the DART line is one of the most incredible ice cream parlours in all of Dublin – Teddy’s! From 99s to Oreo sprinkles and tubs, you and the kids will literally be spoilt for choice. Have a wander down the East Pier and then take the little ones for a go on the swings in Dun Laoghaire Park. It has recently been done up and is perfect for all ages (kids’ ages obviously!).
 
 
*Up to 18 years old, until their 19th birthday. It is valid for 24 hours after the first time you use it.

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