What makes it 83% Kids-Friendly: Sunday family tours, art workshops, free activity packs and stroller-friendly halls keep 5-12s busy and safe, though delicate paintings mean no space for loud running games.
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time for a family tour, creative space, and exploring key exhibits without rushing younger children.
Family-Friendly Guided Tour:
Join the Sunday public family tour with games and stories.
Tip: Meet at the Merrion Square Courtyard at 12:30 pm and arrive 10 minutes early.
Atrium Creative Space:
Drop in to borrow drawing materials and make free artwork.
Tip: Find the space near the main entrance and keep drawings light.
Family Pack Activity Kit:
Pick up a free activity pack with a booklet and art prompts.
Tip: Collect packs at any info desk and return when done.
Kids & Families Audio Tour:
Follow a story-led audio adventure on your phone.
Tip: Scan QR codes in galleries or download via the Smartify app.
Through a Lens: Family Favourites:
Go on a self-guided child-friendly trail of key works.
Tip: Use your device for images and questions to guide discussion.

Carina KP
By far, my favourite museum in Dublin. The visit is so quiet and respectful, the collection is amazing, and every time I go, I discover something new and get to see the fantastic temporary exhibitions. The staff is so attentive, the shop has lovely cards and gifts. I truly recommend visiting this Gallery with such varied and fascinating works.
Breno Martinelli
Amazing visit. Although I have been to Dublin many times, I wasn't aware of this incredible gallery. 3 stories of great art pieces. Enough items for a whole day visit. As a truly flemish art appreciator, the section on the third floor got me speechless. All that for free! If you are an architecture admirer it's also a good place to visit.
Jim & Melissa Thomssen
Great collection in a building that's a work of art in itself. The portrait gallery was an educational place as well as gallery. New additions blend well but there are lots of short steps that may challenge folks with mobility issues. Just FYI . Well worth a visit when in Dublin!
Luca Lombardi
What a spectacle! One of the best art galleries I've ever visited. Natural light allows you to see the true colors of the paintings and the artist's brushstrokes. No protective glasses to interfere with the experience. The rooms are spacious, so you can breathe and walk among the paintings undisturbed. The incredible thing is that the museum is free, so consider making a donation. Highly recommend...
L. M. H. Oppenheimer
Excellent experience especially for a visitor to Dublin. Easy to walk to. Free admission and many beautiful and intriguing gallery areas. I spent hours quietly walking and viewing. Plus at the end the cafe offered delicious food and drink and the shop had lovely selection of books, portable art and items.
Family drop-in workshops run Sunday Sept–May. In summer, check the online calendar for special kids’ events. Mornings are less crowded.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Temporary exhibition ticket (adult ×2) | EUR 25 |
| Café snacks and drinks | EUR 16 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 41 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Address: Merrion Square W, Dublin 2, D02 K303, Ireland
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