Phoenix Park is one of Dublin’s biggest and best free outdoor spaces for families.

It is a large public park with walking routes, open green space, trees, gardens, playgrounds, picnic areas and places to explore. It can be a good option for a family walk, a buggy walk, a cycle, a picnic, or a low-cost day out with children.

Why It Is Good for Families

Phoenix Park gives families space to move, walk, play and spend time outdoors without needing to spend money.

Children can enjoy open green areas, spot wildlife from a safe distance, visit playgrounds, explore walking paths, or simply have space to run around. It can also be a good place for parents and carers to meet another family, take a longer walk, or get fresh air when everyone needs a change of scenery.

What You’ll Find There

Phoenix Park includes large open spaces, tree-lined routes, gardens, walking and cycling paths, picnic areas, the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre, Ashtown Castle, playgrounds and cafés.

The park is also home to Dublin Zoo, Áras an Uachtaráin, the President of Ireland’s residence, and a herd of wild fallow deer. The park itself is free to enter, although some attractions inside the park, such as Dublin Zoo, have their own charges. Phoenix Park is one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital city.

Visitor Centre & Playground

The Phoenix Park Visitor Centre is beside Ashtown Castle and has information about the park’s history.

There are woodland walks, picnic areas and a universal-access playground near the Visitor Centre. This can be a useful starting point for families who want toilets, a café nearby, and a more focused area to visit with children.

Getting There

Phoenix Park has several entrances, including Parkgate Street near Heuston Station.

The park can be reached by public transport, walking, cycling or car. Parkgate Street is close to Heuston Station and the Luas Red Line. Route 99 also runs from Parkgate Street to the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre, with stops at places including the People’s Gardens, Dublin Zoo, Áras an Uachtaráin and the Papal Cross.

For the most up-to-date route, check the TFI Journey Planner before travelling.

Dublin Zoo

Dublin Zoo is located inside Phoenix Park and can be a popular family day out.

The zoo is a paid attraction, separate from the free public park. It is home to animals, habitats, family experiences, keeper talks and seasonal events.

Current ticket prices
Adult: €26.50 at the gate / €22.50 online day ticket
Child aged 3–15: €20.00 at the gate / €17.00 online day ticket
Child under 3: Free
Senior / student: €21.00 at the gate / €17.50 online day ticket

Family tickets online
2 adults + 2 children: €62.50
2 adults + 3 children: €64.00
2 adults + 4 children: €67.00

Dublin Zoo says online booking can save up to 15%, and prices may change, so check their website before visiting. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Website
www.dublinzoo.ie

Practical Details

Address
Phoenix Park
Dublin 8

Main public transport access
Heuston Station / Luas Red Line at Parkgate Street
Route 99 to Phoenix Park Visitor Centre

Cost
Free entry to the park

Facilities may include
Walking routes
Cycling routes
Playgrounds
Picnic areas
Visitor Centre
Cafés
Toilets
Gardens
Open green space
Dublin Zoo

Family Note

Phoenix Park is very large, so it is worth choosing a specific meeting point or area before you go, especially with children.

Keep children close near roads, cycle routes, car parks, ponds, wooded areas and entrances. If you see deer, enjoy watching them from a distance and do not feed or approach them.