Dublin Zoo
Ireland’s biggest zoo in Phoenix Park with 400+ animals, keeper talks, Sea Lion Cove and family-friendly facilities.
About
Set within Phoenix Park, Dublin Zoo is Ireland’s flagship wildlife attraction, home to 400+ animals in large, themed habitats such as African Plains, Kaziranga Forest Trail for Asian elephants, Sea Lion Cove with underwater viewing, and the family-friendly Family Farm. Paths are buggy-friendly and wayfinding is simple using the downloadable map and on-site signage. Keeper talks run throughout the day, adding educational depth for curious kids, while seasonal events like Wild Lights transform the zoo after dark in winter. Facilities include cafés, picnic spots and plenty of toilets, and visitors are welcome to bring packed lunches. The zoo emphasises conservation, with breeding programmes for endangered species and engaging interpretation that helps children connect what they see to real-world wildlife challenges. For toddlers, the Playforest and petting-style experiences at Family Farm are gentle introductions; ages 4–8 love watching sea lions, penguins and primates; and older children can delve into talks, trail activities and the Zoorassic exhibits. Expect a lot of walking—plan 3–5 hours—and consider arriving early for nearby Phoenix Park parking, especially at weekends and during school breaks.
At a Glance
About
Set within Phoenix Park, Dublin Zoo is Ireland’s flagship wildlife attraction, home to 400+ animals in large, themed habitats such as African Plains, Kaziranga Forest Trail for Asian elephants, Sea Lion Cove with underwater viewing, and the family-friendly Family Farm. Paths are buggy-friendly and wayfinding is simple using the downloadable map and on-site signage. Keeper talks run throughout the day, adding educational depth for curious kids, while seasonal events like Wild Lights transform the zoo after dark in winter. Facilities include cafés, picnic spots and plenty of toilets, and visitors are welcome to bring packed lunches. The zoo emphasises conservation, with breeding programmes for endangered species and engaging interpretation that helps children connect what they see to real-world wildlife challenges. For toddlers, the Playforest and petting-style experiences at Family Farm are gentle introductions; ages 4–8 love watching sea lions, penguins and primates; and older children can delve into talks, trail activities and the Zoorassic exhibits. Expect a lot of walking—plan 3–5 hours—and consider arriving early for nearby Phoenix Park parking, especially at weekends and during school breaks.