Located in the Phoenix park, Dublin Zoo is brilliant for the kids as you can imagine but also great for the adults. Over the last number of years Dublin Zoo has expanded greatly (check out the African Plains) and the quality of enclosures has increased no end. It regularly gets great reviews on TripAdvisor and compared to other significant Zoos, it is priced reasonably.
Since its inception in 1831, Dublin Zoo has evolved into a prominent landmark, drawing milliions of visitors to experience its unique blend of wildlife and history. It stands on an impressive 28 hectares, offering a sanctuary for over 400 animals from diverse habitats. It is the second oldest Zoo in the world.
One of the zoo’s oldest residents is a Chilean flamingo that arrived in the 1970s, making it a remarkable survivor and an interesting character for visitors to observe.
In 2017, Dublin Zoo celebrated a record-breaking event with the birth of a southern white rhino calf, which was a significant milestone in the conservation of this endangered species. This birth was crucial in bolstering the population of white rhinos, which has been dwindling due to poaching and habitat loss. Additionally, the zoo is home to some unique animal behaviors. For instance, the Asian elephants at Dublin Zoo have been observed using tools such as sticks to scratch themselves, showcasing their impressive intelligence.
Over the years, Dublin Zoo has been home to several famous animals, including the beloved lion, Cairbre, who became a symbol of the zoo in the early 20th century. Cairbre’s likeness was even used for the iconic MGM lion logo, cementing his place in both the zoo’s and Hollywood’s history. Another notable event in the zoo’s timeline was the arrival of the first-ever gorilla in Ireland in 1997; Harry the gorilla quickly became a favorite among visitors.
Dublin Zoo has also played a vital role in various conservation efforts. Notably, it has been involved in the breeding and reintroduction programs for the Scimitar-horned oryx, a species once extinct in the wild. These efforts highlight the zoo’s commitment to preserving biodiversity and educating the public about the importance of wildlife conservation.
The zoo’s gift shops offer a range of souvenirs, from plush animal toys to educational books, allowing visitors to take a piece of their experience home with them. Family-friendly activities and facilities are abundant, ensuring that even the youngest visitors have a great time. Play areas, stroller rentals, and family restrooms are just a few of the amenities that make the zoo accessible and enjoyable for families.
To maximize your visit, consider arriving early in the day when the animals are most active and the crowds are lighter. Must-see exhibits include the African Savanna, home to giraffes and zebras, and the Kaziranga Forest Trail, where you’ll encounter Asian elephants. The Sea Lion Cove and the Gorilla Rainforest are also visitor favorites. Seasonal events and special programs, such as keeper talks, feeding times, and educational workshops, provide additional opportunities to engage with the wildlife and learn more about conservation efforts.
It is on a large site so between getting around it and stopping off for lunch it will take you most of a day. Our tip is to bring some food with you as there are areas with seating and tables that you can eat use. Bring a flask of tea or coffee to keep warm!
There are usually daily activities and talks at the Zoo, perfect for the inquisitive mind. If you manage to cover the whole Zoo you’ll have done a lot of walking so we recommend comfortable shoes and plenty of snacks. Watch out for the weather forecast as well – Ireland has a slight reputation for the rain!
Getting there via bus, take the Nos. 25, 26, 46A, 66 / 66A / 66B, 67, 69. Via LUAS it’s a 15-20 minute walk from the Heuston Station stop. Prices range from about €24 for an adult and €18 for a child with Family tickets available. However you will get discounts if you book in advance online. Weekends can be busy particularly in the summer so we recommend buying your ticket online first – www.dublinzoo.ie
