Dublin Zoo Dublin
Ireland's largest zoo, home to diverse animals from around the globe in beautifully recreated habitats.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity
Dublin Zoo Dublin
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ireland's largest zoo, home to diverse animals from around the globe in beautifully recreated habitats.
"A fantastic family day out with a wide array of animals to discover."
🎯 Pack a Picnic!
Zoo food can be pricey and basic. Bring your own snacks and lunch to save money and enjoy better quality.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is extensive! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfy footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
African Plains
African Plains Exhibit
Wander among giraffes, zebras, and rhinos in a vast, open habitat.
Snow Leopard
Fringes of the Arctic
Marvel at the elusive snow leopard in its rocky, mountainous enclosure.
Orangutan Forest
Asian Forests
Observe these intelligent primates swinging through their treetop home.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Pack a Picnic!
Zoo food can be pricey and basic. Bring your own snacks and lunch to save money and enjoy better quality.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is extensive! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfy footwear is a must.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Plan for at least 3 hours to see everything without rushing, especially with kids.
🚗 Parking Tips
North Road offers many on-street spots. Arrive early for the car park adjacent to the zoo.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Pack a Picnic!
Zoo food can be pricey and basic. Bring your own snacks and lunch to save money and enjoy better quality.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is extensive! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfy footwear is a must.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Plan for at least 3 hours to see everything without rushing, especially with kids.
🚗 Parking Tips
North Road offers many on-street spots. Arrive early for the car park adjacent to the zoo.
📱 Check for Deals
Look for discounts on sites like Groupon before your visit for potential savings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise Dublin Zoo for its diverse animal collection and well-maintained habitats, making it a great family outing. However, some find the on-site food options to be overpriced and of mediocre quality, leading many to recommend bringing their own provisions. The zoo's size means a good amount of walking is involved.
"What a lovely Zoo! Never know what to expect from Zoos in other countries, but I really loved the zoo here! Everything was so well kept up, clean, modern, and very beautiful. Animal welfare seemed to be kept paramount. The exhibits were well kept. I honestly have never seen so many animals out and active at any other zoo before, it was amazing!! We saw Wolves like less than 10 feet away it was amazing! If you love animals I would highly recommend to come here!!"
Dj Lorence
"So much fun! We wish we had spent more time there. The Dino Trail was amazing, and we saw so many animals we hadn’t seen before. There were plenty of rest and snack areas—some with huts that were perfect for escaping the rain. My toddler especially loved the playground near the giraffes, zebras, and rhinos—it was spacious and great for kids. Very stroller friendly and easy to navigate.
We visited on a Sunday afternoon. It was busy, but the zoo is so big and well laid out that it never felt crowded. Overall, a very enjoyable experience!"
Alyx Ke
"Absolutely amazing place to visit! The animals look happy, it's a very friendly place, and this year the Zoorassic Trail is a brilliant addition. I recommend going as early as possible— the animals are very active then, and it’s less crowded. Make sure to visit the shop at the end; the toys are just gorgeous."
P CoCo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take the Luas tram to Heuston Station and enjoy a pleasant 15-minute walk through Phoenix Park, or catch bus routes 11 or 11b from O'Connell Street directly to the zoo. Taxis are also readily available for a door-to-door service. +1
Yes, there is parking available. North Road, adjacent to the zoo, has numerous on-street parking spots. The car park right beside the zoo can get busy, so arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! The Luas tram to Heuston Station is a popular option, followed by a walk. Several bus routes, such as the 11 and 11b, also serve the zoo directly from the city centre. +1
If arriving by train at Connolly Station, you can use Google Maps to plan your route to Dublin Zoo, often involving a Luas ride or bus. For a direct journey, consider a taxi.
Yes, buses like the 11 and 11b are convenient options that will take you close to the zoo entrance from various points in Dublin city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's often recommended to check the official Dublin Zoo website for the most current admission prices. Look out for potential deals on sites like Groupon for savings.
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets at the entrance, but booking online in advance is often advised to secure your spot and potentially avoid queues, especially during peak times.
Deals and discounts for Dublin Zoo tickets can sometimes be found on third-party sites like Groupon. It's worth checking these platforms before your visit.
Dublin Zoo's opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times for your planned visit date.
Most visitors find that 3 hours is a good amount of time to see most of the zoo without feeling rushed. If you have young children or plan to spend time at the playgrounds, you might want to allocate 4-6 hours. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the majestic giraffes and rhinos in the African Plains, the elusive snow leopards in the Fringes of the Arctic, and the intelligent orangutans in their forest habitat.
Yes, Dublin Zoo has playgrounds where children can expend energy, which is a great addition for families and can extend your visit time. +1
The main restaurant offers basic fast food at premium prices. Many visitors recommend bringing your own picnic and snacks to save money and enjoy better quality food.
Absolutely! Dublin Zoo is very family-friendly, with dedicated playgrounds and a variety of animals that captivate young minds. Plan for breaks and consider bringing snacks.
Yes, bringing your own picnic and snacks is highly recommended by many visitors to save money and have more enjoyable food options.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for opportunities to capture animals in their naturalistic habitats, like the wide-open African Plains or the arboreal orangutans. Early morning light can be ideal for animal photography.
The diverse exhibits, from the Arctic to Asian forests, offer unique backdrops. Try to capture the animals interacting with their environment for more dynamic shots.
A telephoto lens is useful for capturing close-ups of animals from a distance. However, a good smartphone camera can also capture great memories of your visit.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. Be mindful of any specific signage or staff instructions regarding photography in certain areas or of particular animals.
While personal photography is usually permitted, professional photography or videography may require special permits. Always check the zoo's official guidelines if you have specific needs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The zoo's layout is generally stroller-friendly, and the playgrounds offer a great way for children to burn off energy. Look out for keeper talks and feeding times, which can be particularly engaging for younger visitors. The variety of animals, from lions to elephants, provides endless fascination for kids of all ages.
💰 Budget Travelers
🚶 Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Dublin Zoo
When planning your route, consider using the zoo's map, available online or at the entrance. Popular exhibits like the Orangutan Forest and the Snow Leopard enclosure are highlights for many. The zoo also features educational talks and keeper feeding sessions throughout the day, which can add an engaging layer to your experience and provide excellent photo opportunities.
For those concerned about navigating the grounds, the zoo is generally accessible, with paved paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. The playgrounds are a significant draw for families, offering a chance for kids to burn off energy. Remember to check the daily schedule upon arrival for feeding times and talks to optimize your visit.
Dining and Refreshments
To avoid disappointment and save money, packing a picnic is a highly recommended strategy. There are designated areas where you can enjoy your own food, making it a more budget-friendly and potentially more satisfying option. This allows you to control the quality and variety of your meals, catering to specific dietary needs or preferences.
If you do opt for on-site dining, be prepared for standard fast-food fare. For a more diverse culinary experience, many visitors choose to leave the zoo and find dining options in nearby Phoenix Park or back in Dublin city centre after their visit.
Getting to Dublin Zoo
Alternatively, several bus routes serve the zoo. Buses such as the 11 or 11b depart from O'Connell Street and will take you directly to the vicinity of the zoo. This is a practical option for those who prefer not to walk or want a more direct route. Taxis are also readily available throughout the city for a door-to-door service, though this will be the most expensive option.
If you are driving, parking is available. The zoo has an adjacent car park, but it can fill up quickly, especially during busy periods. North Road, which runs alongside the zoo, offers numerous on-street parking spots. Arriving early is generally advised to secure a convenient parking space.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit