Dublin Zoo Tours

Dublin Zoo
Dublin Zoo
Photo by Mike Kauffman
Photo by Nicola Cunningham
Photo by Nicola Cunningham


Dublin Zoo is not the only place in the city that you can take a walk on the wild side but it is probably the most popular. A firm favourite with families, the zoo attracts more than a million visitors every year, and they just keep coming.

It’s easy to see why. Dublin Zoo is located in the delightful grounds that make up Phoenix Park so it is slap bang in the centre of the city. Established in 1831, yet looking more and more modern with every year, the 28-hectare Dublin Zoo is one of the oldest in the world. There’s a train to help you cover all that distance, and plenty to see at every stop.

The zoo is home to about 400 animals from 100 different species, and is informatively laid out across eight different types of habitat that range from an Asian jungle to a more familiar family farm.

The zoos ecological credentials date back as far as 1857, when its lion-breeding program was started. Dublin Zoo prides itself on providing fun with a purpose. It mixes education and conservation with thrills and excitement.

There are restaurants and cafes, shops and activities as well as all those animals, and all the joys of Phoenix Park waiting just outside its gates. Dublin Zoo promises a great day out for the young and the young at heart.

Plan a trip to see Dublin Zoo

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The Morgan Hotel
Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin
Point A Liberties

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Reviews of Dublin Zoo

4.5
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
54
5 - Excellent 64%
4 - Good
20
4 - Good 24%
3 - Okay
8
3 - Okay 9%
2 - Disappointing
2
2 - Disappointing 2%
1 - Terrible
1
1 - Terrible 1%

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

Way over priced for a zoo.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

Meh..not the best zoo

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Best Lodging Options Near Dublin Zoo

Ruby Molly Hotel Dublin

Ruby Molly Hotel Dublin

4 out of 5
26 - 33 Arran Street East, Dublin
Ruby Molly Hotel Dublin
Marlin Hotel Stephens Green

Marlin Hotel Stephens Green

4 out of 5
11 Bow Ln E, Dublin
Marlin Hotel Stephens Green
easyHotel Dublin City Centre

easyHotel Dublin City Centre

3 out of 5
28 - 31 Benburb Street, Dublin
easyHotel Dublin City Centre
Ashling Hotel Dublin

Ashling Hotel Dublin

4 out of 5
10-13 Parkgate Street, Dublin 8, Dublin, Dublin
Ashling Hotel Dublin
The Hendrick Smithfield

The Hendrick Smithfield

4 out of 5
Hendrick Street, Dublin
The Hendrick Smithfield
Phoenix Park Hotel

Phoenix Park Hotel

3 out of 5
38-39 Parkgate Street, Dublin 8, Dublin, Dublin
Phoenix Park Hotel
Destiny Student - Parkgate

Destiny Student - Parkgate

3.5 out of 5
43 Montpelier Hill, Stoneybatter, Dublin
Destiny Student - Parkgate
Generator Dublin

Generator Dublin

2 out of 5
Smithfield Square, Smithfield, Dublin, Dublin
Generator Dublin
Clink i Lár

Clink i Lár

2 out of 5
35-36 Abbey Street Upper. Dublin1, Dublin
Clink i Lár
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Dublin Zoo

Dublin Zoo offers a variety of exciting activities for visitors, including a thrilling dinosaur adventure and a fun outdoor playground for kids. Families can enjoy the paddocks riding center and explore various family attractions nearby. Additionally, the Tivoli Show provides entertaining performances, making it a perfect day out for sports and wildlife enthusiasts alike. With so much to see and do, Dublin Zoo promises a memorable experience for everyone.

Shopping

The nearest shopping options include Brown Thomas Flagship Store, only 2 miles away, and Jervis Shopping Center, also 2 miles from the zoo, both offering great gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, check out Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, located 3 miles away, which features more entertainment and shopping options.

Recreation

Croke Park, located 2 miles from Dublin Zoo, offers an energetic atmosphere perfect for sports enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the 3Arena, 3 miles away, showcases vibrant music performances that uplift the spirit. For family-friendly fun, the National Aquatic Centre, 4 miles from the zoo, provides a splash of excitement and relaxation.

Adventure

At Clara Lara Fun Park, located 2 miles from Dublin Zoo, experience thrilling ziplining and ropes courses amidst an outdoor adventure vibe. For speed enthusiasts, Mondello Park, 19 miles away, offers exhilarating motor racing. Enjoy the scenic Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk, a breathtaking hiking trail 17 miles from the zoo.

Nightlife

After visiting Dublin Zoo, catch a show at the nearby Olympia Theatre, Gate Theatre, or Smock Alley Theatre, all just 2 miles away. Enjoy the vibrant culture and romantic atmosphere as you immerse yourself in live performances perfect for families and entertainment seekers alike.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Dublin Zoo

When visiting Dublin Zoo, explore nearby attractions like historic colleges, cathedrals, and vibrant streets that cater to cultural enthusiasts and families alike. Don't miss the animal attractions within the zoo, and consider checking out additional points of interest just minutes away, such as the Dublin Zoo 4 and Dublin Zoo 11. These experiences promise a delightful blend of education and entertainment for all ages.

  • Trinity College: A historic university, Trinity College is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. Explore the ancient library, home to the Book of Kells, and immerse yourself in the vibrant academic atmosphere.
  • O'Connell Street: This bustling street is the heart of Dublin, lined with shops, cafes, and historical monuments. Experience the lively city vibes as you stroll past iconic landmarks like the Spire and the General Post Office.
  • Dublin Castle: Steeped in history and romance, Dublin Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into Ireland's past. Tour its elegant state apartments and beautiful gardens, enjoying the blend of culture and history in this majestic setting.

Best time to go to Dublin Zoo

The best time to visit Dublin Zoo is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March43.9°F (6.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July59.2°F (15.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
August58.6°F (14.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
September55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
October52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Dublin Zoo

To save money on your visit to Dublin Zoo, plan your trip between December and February for lower accommodation prices. Book your hotel about a month in advance, or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest nights to stay. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and consider package deals that combine flights and hotels for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and cashback for future bookings. Don't forget to explore free activities around the city to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Dublin Zoo are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Dublin Zoo is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Dublin Zoo is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Dublin Zoo is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near Dublin Zoo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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