The Spire (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is The Spire?
Children enjoy spotting the giant needle and nearby buskers, but there are no toilets, play equipment, or fencing, and busy O’Connell Street traffic demands constant adult supervision.
Positives:
- Central meeting point: Easy to reach by bus, tram, and on foot from major city hotels.
- Free entertainment: Street performers often play near the Spire at no cost.
Challenges:
- No on-site facilities: There are no toilets or baby-change tables at the Spire plaza.
- Weekend crowds: O’Connell Street can get busy; keep children within sight.
What is The Spire?
- A 120-meter stainless steel monument on Dublin’s O’Connell Street
- Designed by architect Ian Ritchie and inaugurated in 2003 to replace the bombed Nelson’s Column, symbolizing the street’s rebirth
- The world’s tallest outdoor sculpture, its polished surface reflects light and shadow across the city
What is so special about The Spire for with kids?
- Engage kids with a free scavenger hunt around the Spire
- Reward them with ice cream and street performances
- Balance walking with a playground stop nearby
- Enjoy a safe, flat pedestrian plaza ideal for families
- Take advantage of central access for easy transport connections
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a scavenger hunt, ice-cream break, and a playground stop without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in The Spire
Free Scavenger Hunt for Kids:
Kids tick off The Spire and other landmarks on a printable checklist.
Tip: Download the PDF before you go and bring pencils for the kids.
Dublin Family Scavenger Hunt:
App-based photo and trivia game across eight city stops starting at the Spire.
Tip: Book online in advance and carry a portable phone charger.
Ice Cream & Buskers Break:
Grab cones on O’Connell Street and watch street performers nearby.
Tip: Try local flavors and sit on benches to keep the kids safe.
Nearby Playground Pit-Stop:
Small play area in Parnell Square Gardens, a 5-minute walk east.
Tip: Let children burn off energy on slides and swings under supervision.
When is the best time to visit The Spire (Dublin, Ireland)?
In summer, watch more buskers and open-air stalls. In rainy months, pack waterproofs or duck into nearby cafés for shelter.
Explore These Activities
Reviews of The Spire (Dublin)
Shelley C
I was not sure what to expect of this. I mean, a 390ft pin cannot be that interesting. However, I was wrong, and it actually is worth seeing. It is well placed on O'Donnell Street as a backdrop to the other sculptures lining the street. It is not until you reach the base that you can truly appreciate the size of the monument. It is also a really good feature to use if you get lost in the city. T...
Malik SA
One of the must visit places in dublin. Its surface reflects Dublin’s ever-changing skies and cityscape—raw stainless steel on top, partially polished with a custom pattern on the lower 10 m derived from geological core samples and the DNA double helix  • Dramatic night illumination: the lower portion is softly lit from below, while nearly 12,000 perforations near the apex allow LED lighting to ...
Jobin George
Thought of taking a better pic from a closer angle.. but as we move closer it gets really hard to fit in the frame.... Really a huge structure in the middle of Dublin city .. .. really amazing 🤩
Valérie
This stainless steel object is so disproportionately tall that you will find it challenging to take a good picture of it. It truly is a piece of art beyond any measure that one is familiar with. However, as with any other metal sculpture, placing your ear on it will give you another perception of the object and the space that it occupies. Trust me in this. And if you want to take a good photo of...
Vinod Rotti
The Spire is good place to visit, it’s a monument in centre of Dublin. There is New-York Dublin portal on walking distance from the Spire. Many shops to buy souvenirs and great place to visit in Christmas. One may need to walk a lot here, one will naturally be photogenic on this streets. The only issue is it’s busy street and one will spend very little time at Spire.
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Paid family scavenger hunt (4) | EUR 52 |
| Ice cream cones (4) | EUR 12 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 64 |
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
How to Maximize Your Visit to The Spire
- Download scavenger PDF: Get the free checklist at home to start exploring immediately.
- Visit early: Arrive before noon to avoid the largest crowds.
- Combine with playground: Plan a stop at Parnell Gardens to break up walking time.
Map of The Spire
Address: O'Connell Street Upper, North City, Dublin, Ireland
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About The Spire
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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