Phoenix Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Phoenix Park?
What makes it 95% Kids-Friendly: Kids get two free playgrounds, Dublin Zoo inside the grounds, child-size bikes with helmets, and open lawns for ball games, so families can easily fill a whole active day.
Positives:
- Free park entry: Walking paths, gardens and playgrounds are all free to use.
- Family-friendly facilities: Restrooms and visitor centre have baby-changing tables and water refill stations.
- Open spaces: Wide, flat avenues give kids room to run and ride safely.
Challenges:
- Weather changes: Rain and wind can arrive quickly—carry waterproof jackets and sun hats.
- Distance between spots: Attractions spread over 1 700 acres—plan to bike or limit walking distances.
- Zoo queues: The zoo can get busy at peak times—reserve timed-entry tickets online.
What is Phoenix Park?
- An urban park of 1,760 acres on Dublin's north bank, originally established as a royal deer park in 1663
- One of Europe's largest walled parks, preserving 17th-century deer-park landscapes with woodland avenues and open grasslands
- Home to Áras an Uachtaráin, historic monuments such as the Papal Cross and Ashtown Castle, and a resident population of wild fallow deer
What is so special about Phoenix Park for with kids?
- Interactive animal exhibits and train ride at Dublin Zoo
- Two free playgrounds and large picnic lawns
- Easy family bike routes on flat, safe paths
- Monthly gardening demos in the Walled Kitchen Garden
- Wild deer sightings near the Papal Cross
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Covers key attractions like the zoo and playgrounds without tiring younger kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Phoenix Park
Dublin Zoo:
Explore animal exhibits, interactive talks, petting zoo and train ride.
Tip: Buy tickets online in advance to skip queues and arrive at opening time for active exhibits.
Universal-access playgrounds:
Let kids play on slides, swings and soft surfaces at two playgrounds.
Tip: Visit between 9:30 am and one hour before sunset and pack a snack break.
Family bike rental:
Rent adult and kids’ bikes with helmets for flat park trails.
Tip: Choose child seats or tag-along bikes and follow the signposted 14 km routes.
Picnic in People’s Flower Gardens:
Spread a blanket on lawns by the ornamental lake and Victorian flower beds.
Tip: Arrive early to claim a bench and bring a waterproof picnic mat in case of damp grass.
Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden:
Attend monthly gardening demos and see seasonal vegetables and flowers.
Tip: Check the second Saturday schedule and let kids plant seeds with the gardeners.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Phoenix Park
- Start early: Arrive at opening time to enjoy quieter playgrounds and shorter zoo lines.
- Use bikes: Cycling speeds up travel between attractions and is fun for all ages.
- Pack light snacks: Bring easy-to-eat picnic items to save time and money on cafés.
Reviews of Phoenix Park
Alexia Copcescki
Everything was very beautiful and clean. I could see crows, deer, and squirrels. Just stand still and respect their space, and they'll walk right by you. It was perfect! Please don't try to feed the animals, and be careful with children, as they can fight among themselves and end up hurting anyone nearby. Five stars!
Emine Dervish
Such a beautiful park, spare a few hours to enjoy it. Make sure you have tea and lovely fresh scones at the end of your walk. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Dill Viejo
One of the finest parks I’ve ever visited. Spotting the fallow deer was an unforgettable highlight. We enjoyed a pleasant walk, followed by coffee and cake at the café—a perfect way to savor the joy of strolling amidst nature.
H J Melnick
This is a large park. With beautiful gardens. ADA compliant. Free unisex WC. Zoo. Ball fields. Hiking. Please be situational awareness. Coffee shop. Ice cream. Great information center.
Prajakta Todankar
famous for its greens as well the zoo for the kids... you can drive in ur own car oe hop on the bus... on a nice sunny day have picnic with family and friends.. so much to do... plenty parking and mobile toilets facilities available
When is the best time to visit Phoenix Park (Dublin, Ireland)?
Spring brings flower blooms and mild weather; summer has longer daylight but more crowds; in autumn watch deer near the Papal Cross; winter playground hours shorten—bring warm layers.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Dublin Zoo tickets (2 adults, 2 kids) | EUR 84 |
| Family bike rental (1 hr) | EUR 24 |
| Picnic supplies | EUR 15 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 123 |
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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Map of Phoenix Park
Address: Dublin 8, Ireland
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About Phoenix Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+353 1 820 580010 BEST nearby Activities
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