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 255 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 109 activities

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 56 activities

Classes & workshops

See all 16 activities

Adventure & outdoor

See all 10 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
Maldron Hotel Parnell Square Dublin City

Maldron Hotel Parnell Square Dublin City

4 out of 5
Parnell Square West Dublin Dublin
Maldron Hotel Parnell Square Dublin City
Phoenix Park Hotel

Phoenix Park Hotel

3 out of 5
38-39 Parkgate Street Dublin Dublin
Phoenix Park Hotel
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
Clink i Lár

Clink i Lár

2 out of 5
35-36 Abbey Street Upper. Dublin1 Dublin
Clink i Lár
easyHotel Dublin City Centre

easyHotel Dublin City Centre

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

When visiting Dublin Zoo, immerse yourself in a memorable zoo experience that offers a fantastic day trip for families. Enjoy various family attractions and activities amidst the beautiful surroundings, making it an ideal family break in Dublin. Additionally, the zoo's proximity to nearby football and sports venues enhances the overall adventure, ensuring a delightful outing for all ages.

Shopping

For shopping near Dublin Zoo, visit Brown Thomas Flagship Store, only 3.2km away, for luxury gifts. The Jervis Shopping Centre, also 3.2km away, offers a variety of shops. If you're up for a drive, Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, 4.8km away, features entertainment and family-friendly options.

Recreation

Enjoy a night at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, where you can immerse yourself in captivating performances that evoke romance and culture. For live music, head to 3Arena or Vicar Street, both offering vibrant atmospheres perfect for relaxation and entertainment, just a short distance from Dublin Zoo.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of ziplining at Clara Lara Fun Park, located 3.2km from Dublin Zoo, surrounded by nature. Challenge yourself at the Awesome Walls Climbing Centre, 4.8km away, offering various climbing routes. For family fun, visit the Panda Play Cafe, an adventure arcade, 6.4km from the zoo.

Nightlife

While Dublin Zoo itself is not a nightlife venue, the vibrant atmosphere of Dublin City offers nearby attractions. Enjoy live music and traditional pubs in Temple Bar, or head to Camden Street for trendy bars and late-night eateries, creating a lively backdrop for your evening adventures.

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

Find the best attractions near Dublin Zoo

Whether you're seeking culture, family experiences, or historic sites, Dublin Zoo and its surroundings offer a delightful mix of attractions. Explore nearby points of interest such as charming streets, historic colleges, and majestic cathedrals. Be sure to check out the zoo favourites and consider a visit to Edinburgh Zoo for a broader experience. The entire zoo promises to be an exciting adventure for all visitors.

  • Trinity College: Explore Ireland's oldest university, renowned for its stunning architecture and the famous Book of Kells. The tranquil campus offers a blend of history and culture, making it a must-visit for any tourist.
  • Grafton Street: Experience the vibrant heart of Dublin's shopping scene. This bustling street is lined with boutiques, cafes, and performers, perfect for soaking up the lively city atmosphere while enjoying some retail therapy.
  • St. Patrick's Cathedral: Discover the largest cathedral in Ireland, steeped in history and architectural grandeur. Its beautiful gardens and rich heritage provide a serene cultural experience in the midst of the city.

Best time to go to Dublin Zoo

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

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.