Dublin Zoo, at Phoenix Park, is one of Europe’s oldest zoos, first opening to the public in 1831. Rated as one of Ireland’s top visitor attractions, the zoo is a great day out for families, friends or couples to enjoy. Home to over four hundred different species of mammals, birds, reptiles, fish and other invertebrates from across the world, there’s always something new to see each time you visit.
Opening Hours
The zoo is open year round from 9 am to 6 pm daily. The only days that it closes are Christmas Day and St. Stephen’s day.
How Long Does A Trip To The Zoo Last?
You can take the entire day if you wish when you visit the zoo. The minimum recommended visit is 3 hours in order to get around and see everything, from the Family Farm to the African Plains. There are many food and refreshment stands available at the Zoo and there is also the unique Meerkat restaurant, as well as several picnic areas. With all these options it’s very easy to make a day of it.
Dublin Zoo Highlights
A number of regular activities and talks take place at the zoo, so there is always something different to explore.
From March to September, talks take place daily and includes information on different animals at the zoo including lions, elephants, gorillas, penguins and more. From October to February, the talks typically only run at weekends. It’s always best to check the Dublin Zoo website for more details before your visit.
Conservation & Education
The zoo is heavily focused on its mission of conservation and education in the running of its facility. Its aim is to help conserve wildlife while working with other organisations from across the globe.
Some examples of recent conservation projects include the EAZA Ape Campaign and the Kinabatangan Orangutan Conservation Programme in Borneo, where deforestation of palm oil plantations is threatening the species. In 2016, the zoo commissioned scientist Lorraine Bull to make procurement recommendations to reduce its usage across Dublin Zoo.
Some Irish conservation projects include the Owl Conservation Project and Little Tern Conservation Project.
The zoo also partners with leading third level institutions to promote research that will have a direct benefit to animals in the zoo.
The Phoenix Park
Amidst beautiful natural surroundings, the Phoenix Park is simply perfect for a picnic after your visit to the zoo. While you’re there, you may even spot one of the native deer grazing on the lush green grass of the sprawling parkland.
Getting To Dublin Zoo
The zoo is easily accessible from the city centre, with plenty of transport options.
Bus to Dublin Zoo
We recommend that you take a Dublin Bus as it’s usually the most direct option. The bus routes that stop closest to Dublin Zoo are: 25, 26, 46A, 66 / 66A / 66B, 67, 69
Tram & Train To Dublin Zoo
The Luas red line stops at Hueston train station, which is a 10-15 minute walk to Phoenix Park (home of the Zoo). Once you get off the tram, turn right while facing the train station, then left and walk up until you see the big gates to Phoenix Park. For a train from Cork, Limerick, Waterford, Galway, Mayo, and Kerry, you can arrive at Heuston station and walk as directed above, while a train from the greater Dublin area will mean linking via the Red Luas line at Connolly station to Heuston station.
Parking at Dublin Zoo
There is plenty of free parking available when visiting Dublin Zoo. Alongside the roads of the Phoenix Park, there is ample spaces to park a car. The closest car parking to the Zoo is the Cricket Grounds car park.
Cycle to The Zoo
The park is very popular for cycling too, so that’s another option to consider. You can pick up Dublin Bikes all around the city, however, the nearest station to drop off the bikes is at Heuston Station, which as stated above, is about a 15-minute walk. See the Dublin Bikes map of stations here.
How Much Is Admission To The Zoo?
Admission costs €17.50 for adults and €13 for children under 16. Kids under 3 go free.
Family tickets are also available:
2 Adults + 2 Children: €49.00
2 Adults + 3 Children: €53.00
2 Adults + 4 Children: €57.00
