Kids love their midterm breaks, but mums often find it difficult to mirror their little ones’ excitement. It’s hard enough to come up with entertaining ideas to keep them occupied during the weekends – and now there are extra days to fill!
If you want to get yourself and the kids out of the house, Dublin has plenty to offer, especially if you’re lucky enough to have access to a Luas line. Here are our top 10 picks to keep the kids busy this February midterm without straying too far from Dublin’s tram lines.
1. National History Museum
With free entry, the Natural History Museum is the perfect place for kids to while away a midterm afternoon. From the recently opened Discovery Zone to Steps in Evolution, you and your kids will enjoy a fascinating and educational experience together. Both Luas lines will give you access to the museum, but the Green Line’s Stephen’s Green stop is the closest point.
2. Drimnagh Castle
This hidden gem in South Dublin can be found at a short walk from Bluebell Luas stop on the Red Line. Drimnagh castle is over 800 years old and even housed the Sheriff of Dublin during the 13th century, so it’s well worth bringing the kids for a visit.
3. Kilmainham Gaol
The beautifully restored Gaol gives visitors a fascinating glimpse into life in Ireland during the struggle for independence. The informative tour will occupy any child interested in history, while others can be entertained by ghost stories surrounding the old building. Keep in mind that tours can be arranged for children with special needs by prior arrangement. Kilmainham Gaol can be accessed from the Suir Road stop on the Red Luas line.
4. JumpZone
JumpZone is the first indoor trampoline park in the whole of Europe. Suitable for child over the age of five, they offer free jumping, as well as specialised activities, such as Aerobics and Dodgeball. Get off at the Stillorgan stop on the Green Luas line to avail of JumpZone’s fun offerings.
5. Imaginosity
Imaginosity, Dublin Children's Museum is a child-centred creative, educational and interactive space for children under nine-years of age and their families. From art studios to theatre spaces and newsrooms, your kids will never want to leave. You can easily reach Imaginosity from the Stillorgan Luas stop on the Green line.
6. Rainforest Adventure Golf
Rainforest Adventure Golf at the Dundrum Town Centre is the only themed indoor mini golf venue of its kind in Ireland. Take on the Awesome Aztec or Mysterious Mayan courses and go head-to-head with your youngsters. Make it a family day out and make it adults vs kids – winner gets an extra helping of ice-cream! You can reach Dundrum Town Centre from either the Balally or Dundrum stops on the Green Luas line.
7. Dublin Zoo
2014 saw lots of new baby animals born at Dublin Zoo, from elephants and red pandas to lions and even a hippopotamus! The kids will love seeing so many animals up close, while learning all about them from the educational plaques at each enclosure. You can access Dublin Zoo from the Heuston Luas stop on the Red Line.
8. Jeanie Johnston
An authentic replica of the original that carried over 2,500 Irish emigrants to North America between 1847 and 1855, your kids will love exploring this tall ship on Dublin’s River Liffey. Take a tour both above and below deck of Dublin’s favourite ship and indulge your youngster’s fantasy to be a pirate. The Jeanie Johnston is just a short walk from George’s Dock stop on the Red Line.
9. National Gallery
If you have artistic children, then the National Gallery could inspire some creative spirit! With free entry, the Gallery is hosting a number of art activities over the midterm break. You can access the National Gallery from both Luas lines.
10. The Ark
Based in Temple Bar, The Ark is a “unique, purpose-built cultural centre” for children aged 2-12. Their offerings change every few weeks, which means you can make it a regular activity for the kids - there’s guaranteed to be something on of interest to you and your little ones. Temple Bar is easily accessible from both the Red and Green Luas lines.
For more information, visit the Luas website here.
