Wondering what kind of outdoor experience there is in Ireland for kids and families to enjoy? Then look no further!
Ireland is a wonderland for families looking to connect with nature and create lasting memories. Every corner of the country offers something exciting for kids of all ages. With plenty of green fields, national parks, wildlife reserves and farms, there is no shortage of outdoor spaces to keep the whole family entertained. Ready to make memories with your loved ones? Let’s discover some of the best outdoor experiences Ireland has to offer!
1-Visit one of our Fantastic Zoo’s or Wildlife Reserves
We’ve got a great selection of Zoos and Wildlife Park to choose from;
Dublin Zoo, Dublin: offers you the opportunity to discover over 400 animals from across the globe. It is the biggest wildlife reserve in Ireland, spanning over 28 hectares of Phoenix Park. Roam the African Savanna and spot giraffes, rhinos and zebras as you go. Hang out with the gorillas at the new Gorilla Rainforest, then travel through the Kaziranga Forest Trail to see the magnificent herd of Asian elephants. In Winter look out for Wild Lights, a spectacular light show exhibition at Dublin Zoo. This epic event is enjoyed by visitors of all ages and is a must-see event in November-December.
Emerald Park, Meath: is Ireland’s only theme park. There is something for the whole family to enjoy, with rollercoasters, a junior area, playgrounds, and shows. Emerald Park has one of Ireland’s longest zip wires, a sky-walk and climbing wall. Plus, a fantastic zoo which is home to over 250 animals! Meet some exotic animals like Mountain Lions, Leopards and Tigers or catch a crazy birds of prey show. Also, visit our petting farm, where you can meet a variety of friendly farm animals.
Fota Wildlife Park, Cork: is not like any ordinary zoo. The park is full of animals that thrive in a free-range environment, which allows them to roam free. Prepare to come face to face with animals and birds from all over the world. Through breeding programmes, the park cares for several different species in danger of extinction. Animals to see include Giraffes, Lemurs, Meerkats, Zebras and Kangaroos. The Park also has a great playground.
2- Go Farming!
Ireland is known for its green fields and thriving farming community. Many farms now offer a great day out for families. Some of our favourites include;
Kissane’s Sheep Farm, Kerry: is home to over 1000 mountain sheep and hundreds of playful lambs. The farm has two border Collies who expertly herd the sheep wherever the farmer needs. In Spring, visitors will have the opportunity to see the adorable new-born lambs. Kissane’s Sheep Farm is open for Sheep Dog Demonstrations from early April until mid-October every year.
Rathbaun Farm, Galway: welcomes visitors with a wonderful insight into farming life. Prepare to be enchanted by its 250-year-old thatched cottage, turf fire and original stonewalls. A visit typically means watching the family’s trusty sheepdog Bailey rounding up the sheep. Tour groups are often served afternoon tea or coffee along with delicious hand-made scones, jam and freshly whipped cream. During the summer months, the farm even offers a chance to bottle-feed the lambs!
3- Check out some of our Cool Caves!
Ireland’s landscape provides us with a vast system of Caves throughout the country and many of them are open to the Public. Some of our favourites include;
Crag Caves, Kerry: offer an amazing insight into how caves are formed. The caves stretch for almost four kilometres and are older than mankind itself. Here, you will find fantastic examples of pillars, stalagmites, stalactites, curtains, flowstones and straws. For younger kids, there’s a great indoor and outdoor play area, while adults can relax in the Crazy Cave Café. Sip tea or coffee on comfy sofas and watch the large-screen TV, all while keeping an eye on the little ones.
Doolin Caves, Clare: features the longest stalactite in the Northern Hemisphere. This stunning formation hangs down from the cave’s roof, reflecting colours and detail like a grand, ornate glass chandelier. Take a fully guided tour, and travel 200 feet under the limestone of the Burren landscape. Kids will love the nature trail, where they can see goats, cattle, sheep, and chickens. The trail is included in the cave entry price!
Aillwee Caves, Clare: is a natural wonder, with a rich history stretching back over 330 million years. The cave tour is sure to wow visitors of all ages. Explore hibernation chambers and see the bones a European Brown Bear, dating from 10,400 years to 4,600 years ago. Take a stroll through stunning caverns and marvel at the breath-taking underground waterfall! 🌊
Plus, don’t miss the Birds of Prey Centre, where you can witness majestic Eagles, Falcons, Hawks, and Owls up close.
4- Visit some of our Free Entry National Parks
There are 6 National Parks in Ireland, they are all free entry, offer great walks or bike riding opportunities and are especially great for sunny days! Some of our top park pics include;
Killarney National Park, Kerry: is a stunning mix of mountains, lakes, woodland and waterfalls. See the magnificent McGillycuddy’s Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountain range, and at their feet, discover the world-famous lakes of Killarney. Whether you choose to walk, cycle, or enjoy a relaxing boat ride, the park offers countless ways to explore its beauty. Keep an eye out for the park’s native red deer, and don’t miss the chance to visit the beautiful Muckross House!
The Burren National Park, Clare: has over 70% of Ireland’s native flowers and is the only place in the world where Arctic, Alpine and Mediterranean plants grow side by side. The park features striking Limestone Pavements, with a moonlike landscape where plants grow in the cracks of the stone. Despite the rocky terrain, the Burren is bursting with unique and rare flowering plants that thrive in this incredible environment.
Connemara National Park, Galway: covers around 2,957 hectares of rocky mountains, bogland, heaths, grass and woodlands. Explore old ruins, sheep pens, an ice house, and Tobar Mweelin, a well that once supplied water to Kylemore Castle. Also, you’ll find traces of ancient settlements, like 4,000-year-old megalithic tombs! The park contains many wildlife, flora and fauna. Kids especially love spotting the iconic Connemara Ponies, a true symbol of the Galway countryside.