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 318 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 119 activities

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 78 activities

Classes & workshops

See all 19 activities

Adventure & outdoor

See all 13 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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Things to do near Dublin Zoo

Shopping

During your visit to Dublin Zoo, enjoy shopping at nearby locations like Brown Thomas Flagship Store, just 3.2km away, and Jervis Shopping Centre, also 3.2km away, both offering a mix of luxury and high street brands. If you're up for a drive, Liffey Valley Shopping Centre is 4.8km away.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, just 4.8km from Dublin Zoo, offering captivating performances. Enjoy the lively music scene at Vicar Street, 3.2km away, or immerse yourself in the thrilling sports events at Croke Park, also 3.2km distant, enhancing your Dublin adventure.

Adventure

At Clara Lara Fun Park, enjoy thrilling zipline adventures and a challenging ropes course, located 3.2km from Dublin Zoo. Experience the excitement of climbing at Awesome Walls Climbing Centre, 4.8km away, or have family fun at the Panda Play Cafe, 6.4km away, with its arcade and adventure zone.

Nightlife

While Dublin Zoo itself closes in the evening, the vibrant nightlife awaits nearby in Dublin City. Explore Temple Bar for lively pubs, live music, and traditional Irish entertainment, or head to Camden Street for trendy bars and clubs that keep the energy high well into the night.

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

Find the best attractions near Dublin Zoo

When visiting Dublin Zoo, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture by exploring nearby historic streets, universities, and cathedrals. The attractions cater to families and those seeking cultural experiences, making it a perfect spot for a day out. Be sure to check out the zoo's highlights and consider nearby points of interest, including Edinburgh Zoo, to enrich your visit.

  • Grafton Street: A vibrant hub of activity, Grafton Street is renowned for its lively atmosphere, featuring an array of shops, street performers, and cafes. This pedestrianised thoroughfare offers a delightful mix of high-end boutiques and charming local stores, perfect for leisurely strolls and people-watching.
  • Dublin Castle: Steeped in history, Dublin Castle offers a glimpse into Ireland's rich cultural heritage. With its stunning architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens, it's a romantic spot to explore, showcasing exhibitions that highlight the castle's pivotal role in Irish history.
  • Kilmainham Gaol Historical Museum: This former prison turned museum provides a poignant insight into Ireland's struggle for independence. The guided tours delve into the stories of notable political prisoners, making it a compelling visit for those interested in Irish history and culture.

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

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Dublin Zoo.
  • Consider traveling to Dublin Zoo during the low season (December to February) for more affordable options.
  • 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.