Dublin Zoo

Three large Southern White Rhinoceros, Ceratotherium Simum, in their habitat in Dublin zoo, Ireland
Three large Southern White Rhinoceros, Ceratotherium Simum, in their habitat in Dublin zoo, Ireland
Elephants being fed from above in a wide outdoors area in Dublin Zoo, Ireland
EyeEm Custom Shoots Q4 2018
The 2018 Wild Lights exhibit At Dublin Zoo showcased the creatures of the ocean as well as Chinese heritage. This is the God of Wealth. #LifeAtExpedia #Red


Dublin Zoo is not the only place in the city that you can take a walk on the wild side but it is probably the most popular. A firm favourite with families, the zoo attracts more than a million visitors every year, and they just keep coming.

It’s easy to see why. Dublin Zoo is located in the delightful grounds that make up Phoenix Park so it is slap bang in the centre of the city. Established in 1831, yet looking more and more modern with every year, the 28-hectare Dublin Zoo is one of the oldest in the world. There’s a train to help you cover all that distance, and plenty to see at every stop.

The zoo is home to about 400 animals from 100 different species, and is informatively laid out across eight different types of habitat that range from an Asian jungle to a more familiar family farm.

The zoos ecological credentials date back as far as 1857, when its lion-breeding programme was started. Dublin Zoo prides itself on providing fun with a purpose. It mixes education and conservation with thrills and excitement.

There are restaurants and cafes, shops and activities as well as all those animals, and all the joys of Phoenix Park waiting just outside its gates. Dublin Zoo promises a great day out for the young and the young at heart.

Tours & day trips

See all 244 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 110 activities

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 56 activities

Classes & workshops

See all 15 activities

Adventure & outdoor

See all 9 activities

Reviews of Dublin Zoo

4.5
Top destination
5 - Excellent
65
5 - Excellent 59%
4 - Good
38
4 - Good 34%
3 - Okay
6
3 - Okay 5%
2 - Disappointing
1
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
1
1 - Terrible 1%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Make sure you study your map and try to see the elephant feeding show at the time stated

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Do not go on a rainy day - Having said that we did enjoy it.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Book online to save a little on the entry fee!

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller

Leprechaun museum Temple bar

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Dublin Zoo

Visit Dublin Zoo for an unforgettable family day out, where you can immerse yourself in wildlife and engage in various activities tailored for all ages. Enjoy a memorable zoo experience as you explore family attractions and partake in exciting family activities. This perfect family break in Dublin promises to be both educational and entertaining, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking a delightful adventure in the heart of the city.

Shopping

The nearest shopping centre is Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, located 4.8km from Dublin Zoo, offering a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. Brown Thomas Flagship Store and Jervis Shopping Centre, both 3.2km away, provide excellent options for gifts and souvenirs in a lively atmosphere.

Recreation

At Dublin Zoo, you can explore wellness activities nearby. Croke Park, two miles away, offers an energising sports atmosphere. The Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, three miles distant, provides a romantic setting for cultural performances. For a lively vibe, enjoy a concert at 3Arena, also three miles from the zoo.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of ziplining at Clara Lara Fun Park, located 3.2km from Dublin Zoo. Challenge yourself at the Awesome Walls Climbing Centre, a climbing haven 4.8km away. For family fun, enjoy the arcade at Panda Play Cafe, situated 6.4km from the zoo.

Nightlife

Dublin Zoo's nightlife offers a unique atmosphere with evening events like the Twilight Zoo. Nearby, explore the vibrant Temple Bar for live music and traditional pubs. Visit The Church Bar for a lively cocktail scene, or enjoy a quiet drink at The Vintage Cocktail Club, renowned for its creative concoctions.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Dublin Zoo

Dublin Zoo, located in the heart of Dublin, offers a delightful family experience amidst a rich tapestry of cultural attractions. Visitors can explore nearby historic sites, cathedrals, and universities, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both leisure and education. Don't miss the chance to discover nearby points of interest, including Edinburgh Zoo, and immerse yourself in the diverse wildlife and engaging exhibits throughout the entire zoo.

  • Trinity College: A historic institution steeped in rich culture, Trinity College is home to the famed Book of Kells. Explore its stunning library, showcasing ancient manuscripts and magnificent architecture, providing a glimpse into Ireland's scholarly heritage.
  • Grafton Street: This vibrant street pulses with city life, featuring an array of shops, cafés, and street performers. A perfect spot for leisurely strolls and people-watching, Grafton Street embodies the charm and energy of Dublin's urban culture.
  • Dublin Castle: A historical gem, Dublin Castle offers a romantic ambience with its beautiful gardens and grand architecture. Visitors can delve into Ireland’s past while exploring the State Apartments and the stunning chapel.

Best time to go to Dublin Zoo

The best time to visit Dublin Zoo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Dublin Zoo falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Dublin Zoo falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March43.9°F (6.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July59.2°F (15.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
August58.6°F (14.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
September55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
October52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to Dublin Zoo

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically December to February) for more affordable package holidays to Dublin Zoo.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

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