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 325 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 123 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

Popular places to visit


Top Dublin Zoo Hotel Deals

Ruby Molly Hotel Dublin

Ruby Molly Hotel Dublin

4 out of 5
26 - 33 Arran Street East Dublin
Ruby Molly Hotel Dublin
Marlin Hotel Stephens Green

Marlin Hotel Stephens Green

4 out of 5
11 Bow Ln E Dublin
Marlin Hotel Stephens Green
Ashling Hotel Dublin

Ashling Hotel Dublin

4 out of 5
10-13 Parkgate Street Dublin Dublin
Ashling Hotel Dublin
Arlington Hotel O'Connell Bridge

Arlington Hotel O'Connell Bridge

3 out of 5
23-25 Bachelors Walk Dublin Dublin
Arlington Hotel O'Connell Bridge
Point A Liberties

Point A Liberties

3 out of 5
Oliver Bond Street Dublin
Point A Liberties
Phoenix Park Hotel

Phoenix Park Hotel

3 out of 5
38-39 Parkgate Street Dublin Dublin
Phoenix Park Hotel
easyHotel Dublin City Centre

easyHotel Dublin City Centre

3 out of 5
28 - 31 Benburb Street Dublin
easyHotel Dublin City Centre
The Hendrick Smithfield

The Hendrick Smithfield

4 out of 5
Hendrick Street Dublin
The Hendrick Smithfield
Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin

Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin

4 out of 5
23 Upper O Connell Street Dublin Dublin
Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin
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

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Dublin Zoo, visit Brown Thomas Flagship Store, just 3.2km away, or explore Jervis Shopping Centre, also 3.2km away, both offering a mix of luxury and local brands. If you're up for a drive, Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, located 4.8km away, is another excellent option.

Recreation

At Croke Park, immerse yourself in the vibrant sports atmosphere while enjoying wellness activities like yoga sessions on the pitch. Nearby, the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre offers an enchanting environment for relaxation and cultural experiences. Don't miss 3Arena, where you can unwind with live music performances that lift your spirits.

Adventure

At the Panda Play Cafe, enjoy an exciting arcade adventure just 6.4km from Dublin Zoo. For thrill-seekers, Clara Lara Fun Park offers a zipline ropes course 3.2km away, while Awesome Walls Climbing Centre, located 4.8km away, provides an exhilarating climbing experience outdoors.

Nightlife

While Dublin Zoo primarily operates during the day, the surrounding area offers vibrant nightlife. For a lively evening, visit the nearby Camden Street, where you’ll find popular venues like The Camden Exchange and The Bernard Shaw, perfect for enjoying drinks and music after a day at the zoo.

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

Find the best attractions near Dublin Zoo

Discover the rich culture and family-friendly experiences near Dublin Zoo, where you can explore historic streets, universities, and cathedrals. Don't miss the chance to enjoy the zoo itself, along with attractions nearby, ensuring a delightful day for visitors of all ages. Consider including highlights from Edinburgh Zoo and your own zoo favourites for a comprehensive adventure in this vibrant area.

  • Grafton Street: This vibrant thoroughfare is a bustling hub of shopping and street performances, embodying the lively spirit of Dublin. With its array of boutiques, cafes, and musicians, Grafton Street offers a perfect blend of retail therapy and cultural immersion, making it a must-visit for any traveller.
  • Dublin Castle: Steeped in history, Dublin Castle exudes charm and romance. Explore its stunning architecture and lush gardens, while delving into Ireland's rich heritage. The castle often hosts cultural events and exhibitions, providing a unique glimpse into the country's past.
  • Phoenix Park: One of the largest enclosed parks in Europe, Phoenix Park is an oasis for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With sprawling greenery, playgrounds, and even wild deer, it offers a peaceful retreat from the city buzz, perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls.

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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