Dublin Zoo

Dublin Zoo
Dublin Zoo
Photo by Mike Kauffman
Photo by Nicola Cunningham
Photo by Nicola Cunningham


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.

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Things to do near Dublin Zoo

Dublin Zoo offers a range of engaging activities, including informative animal talks and exciting animal encounters that enhance your visit. Beyond the zoo, you can enjoy activities such as football and various sports in the surrounding areas. This vibrant location not only showcases wildlife but also provides an opportunity for visitors to connect with nature and learn more about the animals.

Shopping

For shopping near Dublin Zoo, visit the Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, just 4.8km away, offering a vibrant family atmosphere. The Brown Thomas Flagship Store and Jervis Shopping Centre are both only 3.2km away, featuring a mix of high-end and popular brands.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Croke Park, where you can enjoy a guided tour of the stadium and immerse yourself in sports history. At 3Arena, indulge in exhilarating concerts that lift your spirits. For family fun, visit the National Aquatic Centre, perfect for swimming and relaxation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Clara Lara Fun Park's zipline ropes course, located 3.2km from Dublin Zoo. For climbing enthusiasts, Awesome Walls Climbing Centre, 4.8km away, offers an exciting indoor climbing experience. If you're seeking speed, Mondello Park, 30.6km away, hosts exhilarating motor racing events.

Nightlife

After a day at Dublin Zoo, immerse yourself in the vibrant theatre scene. Catch a performance at the Olympia Theatre, Gate Theatre, or Smock Alley Theatre, all offering a mix of culture and entertainment, perfect for a romantic evening or family outing just a stone's throw away.

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

Find the best attractions near Dublin Zoo

While visiting Dublin Zoo, tourists can explore a delightful mix of street attractions, historic colleges, and cathedrals that cater to a variety of interests. Whether you're seeking cultural immersion, family-friendly activities, or a taste of the city’s rich heritage, the surrounding area offers a wealth of experiences to enjoy during your stay.

  • Trinity College: Discover Ireland's oldest university, a treasure of history and culture. Home to the stunning Book of Kells, Trinity College offers a captivating atmosphere with its cobbled paths and beautiful architecture, just 3.2km from Dublin Zoo.
  • O'Connell Street: This bustling thoroughfare is the heart of Dublin, lined with shops, cafes, and historic monuments. Experience the vibrant city vibes as you stroll along this iconic street, also 3.2km away from Dublin Zoo.
  • Dublin Castle: A magnificent blend of history and romance, Dublin Castle features beautiful gardens and impressive architecture. Explore its rich cultural significance, located 3.2km from Dublin Zoo, and immerse yourself in Ireland's storied past.

Best time to go to Dublin Zoo

The best time to visit Dublin Zoo is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July and July are its hottest month on average. At the time of July, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy. January and January are its coolest month on average. At the time of January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Dublin Zoo

To save money on your trip to Dublin Zoo, consider visiting during the off-peak months of December to February when accommodation prices drop. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best deals, especially on Tuesdays, which are typically cheaper than Saturdays. Use Expedia’s search tools to filter for budget-friendly options and check for last-minute discounts. For transport, utilise Dublin's public transport system, which is cost-effective. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for further savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Dublin Zoo are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Dublin Zoo is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Dublin Zoo is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Dublin Zoo is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise the search wizard on Expedia to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay near Dublin Zoo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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