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Ireland/Things to Do in Dublin, with kids

National Gallery of Ireland (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is National Gallery of Ireland?

83%Kids-Friendly
View Map

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.

Google
Reviews4.7/ 5
(from 16,876 reviews)
Free Dublin Attractions: A Day at the National Gallery of Ireland 🇮🇪 | (4K)
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Free Dublin Attractions: A Day at the National Gallery of Ireland 🇮🇪 | (4K)
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Positives:

  • Free Entry to Permanent Collection: All permanent galleries and kids’ programs are free, so you can visit multiple times.
  • Central Location: Next to Merrion Square and close to St. Stephen’s Green, making it easy to combine with a park visit.

Challenges:

  • Limited Seating: Benches are scarce in gallery rooms; plan short rests in the Atrium or café.
  • Quiet Spaces: Young children must speak softly in exhibition rooms to respect other visitors.
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🏖️ Explore National Gallery of Ireland with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around National Gallery of Ireland. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is National Gallery of Ireland?

  • A public museum in Dublin that houses Ireland’s national collection of Western European and Irish art from the 14th to the 21st century
  • A complex of four interconnected neoclassical and modern wings encompassing over 11,000 paintings, sculptures and decorative arts
  • An establishment founded in 1854 that researches, conserves and curates major works by European masters and Irish artists

What is so special about National Gallery of Ireland for with kids?

  1. Free interactive family tours with games and stories.
  2. Hands-on art activities in the Atrium Creative Space.
  3. Self-guided trails and audio adventures for kids.
  4. Free art packs and Sunday drop-in workshops.
  5. Central location near parks and public transport.

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

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.

(View National Gallery of Ireland on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in National Gallery of Ireland

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.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to National Gallery of Ireland

  1. Arrive Early: Get a family pack and join the first tour to beat the midday crowd.
  2. Reserve Exhibitions Online: Book paid shows in advance for weekend discounts and entry slots.
🏖️ Tour National Gallery of Ireland like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in National Gallery of Ireland. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of National Gallery of Ireland

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Carina KP

Carina KP

Sep 2025

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

Breno Martinelli

Sep 2025

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

Jim & Melissa Thomssen

Aug 2025

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

Luca Lombardi

Jul 2025

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

L. M. H. Oppenheimer

May 2025

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.

When is the best time to visit National Gallery of Ireland (Dublin, Ireland)?

Family drop-in workshops run Sunday Sept–May. In summer, check the online calendar for special kids’ events. Mornings are less crowded.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Dublin on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Temporary exhibition ticket (adult ×2)EUR 25
Café snacks and drinksEUR 16
Total EstimatedEUR 41

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of National Gallery of Ireland

Address: Merrion Square W, Dublin 2, D02 K303, Ireland

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Looking for other Things to Do besides National Gallery of Ireland (Dublin)?

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About National Gallery of Ireland

Opening Hours

Monday:11:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Tuesday:9:15 AM – 5:30 PM
Wednesday:9:15 AM – 5:30 PM
Thursday:9:15 AM – 8:30 PM
Friday:9:15 AM – 5:30 PM
Saturday:9:15 AM – 5:30 PM
Sunday:11:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+353 1 661 5133

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