Ideas For A Family Day Out This Summer

Keeping the kids entertained during the summer can seem like a daunting task. All that energy combined with sunshine (hopefully), can lead to a lot of excitement that needs to be channelled into an adventure! We’ve put together some ideas to help you out this summer.

A Trip to the Zoo.

Dublin Zoo is the perfect day out for all the family. Located in Dublin’s Phoenix Park it is accessible via train, luas and bus. With free parking for those travelling by car. The 28 hectare park is home to over 400 animals, so prepare for a nice long stroll around catching a glimpse at all the amazing different species. From penguins to the reptile house, the African plains to the seals, there is something for every animal lover. Dublin Zoo also hosts a number of events like keeper talks and feeds throughout the day.

Photo by Daiga Ellaby on Unsplash

Photo by Daiga Ellaby on Unsplash

Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk.

If you’re looking to get the family active outside in the Irish sunshine this is a great way to do so. Starting off in Bray and following the beautiful scenic coastal line to Greystones, the views you encounter will be breathtaking. It’ll also blow out any cobwebs being cooked up inside might have developed! After the walk, Greystones has a lovely selection of restaurants and cafes for those who have worked up an appetite. You can also return to Bray via the DART, if the legs can’t handle the return journey. Be aware that this walk probably isn’t the friendliest for pushchairs and buggies so is best suited for confident walkers.

Photo by Ihor Malytskyi on Unsplash

Connemara Trail

This is the perfect trip for any horse/pony lovers you may have in the family. Located in the heart of Connemara in Galway, the horse trails promise to bring you into the “hidden heart” of the amazing Connemara landscape. You’ll be taken through wild, grassy hills and across vast sandy beaches. This is an experience that will create lifelong memories.

Photo by Iswanto Arif on Unsplash

Photo by Iswanto Arif on Unsplash

Tayto Park

Located in Ashbourne, Co. Meath and named after what is possibly Ireland’s favourite crisp, Tayto Park is a world of adventure. With both a theme park and small zoo, there is something for everyone. Let the older kids lose on the bigger amusements like Cú Chulainn roller coaster and the “rotator”, while the little kids get to go on the kid friendly ferris wheel, steam train express, and playground and water fun! There is also a Dinosaurs Alive attraction for any fans of Jurassic Park. It’s important to note that not all rides are inclusive in general entry fee and may require tokens or a wristband at an extra cost. See Tayto Park’s website for all info.

Dunmore East Adventure

If you’ve got some water babies on your hands, this is the perfect day activity! Located in County Waterford, Dunmore East is a tourist haven. There are restaurants a plenty for after your fun in the water, as well as being within a short drive of Waterford City.

Dunmore East Adventure offers an array of activities, sailing, kayaking, caving, climbing, the list is endless. Our favourite bit though? Definitely their Wibit Wipeout Aquapark! A giant obstacle course on the water that sees you jumping, climbing, swimming and swinging your way around. There are age and height restrictions for all activities so ensure to check their website before booking!