Things to do near Liffey Valley

Fort Lucan

Westmanstown, Lucan, Co. Dublin

With three waterslides, high tower walks, ziplines, crazy golf and go karts, Fort Lucan is Dublin’s largest outdoor adventure playground. Set within a wooden Viking fort, the centre promises to provide hours of entertainment for the family. There’s a cafe and an ice cream shop on site too – for when you need a break from all the excitement.

Jump Zone Liffey Valley

22 Fonthill Rd, Palmerstown Upper, Dublin 22

Situated within Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, Jump Zone is an indoor trampoline centre for both children and adults that spans over 25,000 square feet. Visitors can take part in a free jump or choose to take part in a range of activities such as dodgeball, the foam pit and the battle beam. Bouncing is suitable for children over the age of five and there is a toddler soft play zone for those who are younger.

Dublin Zoo

Phoenix Park, Dublin 8

Accessible by bus in 30 minutes or by car in 15 minutes, Dublin Zoo is one of Ireland’s top tourist attractions. Located within the wonderfully scenic Phoenix Park, the zoo is home to over 400 animals that exist within ten continent based sections. Visitors can see elephants, sloths, tigers, hippos and lots more. It takes a full day to see all the zoo has to offer – so make sure you wear comfy shoes!

Vue Cinema

22 Fonthill Rd, Palmerstown Upper, Dublin 22

With 14 screens and 2,600 seats, the Vue Cinema at Liffey Valley makes for the ultimate movie experience. Each screen is kitted with surround sound and 4K technology and if you feel like splashing out you can upgrade to their VIP recliner seats with tables. The cinema hosts regular ‘mini-morning’ screenings where you can watch the latest blockbuster family film at a discounted rate.

Dublin Falconry

Luttrellstown Castle Resort, Castleknock, Dublin 15

The Dublin Falconry is home to raptors including hawks, Owls, Falcons and Buzzards. Guests can choose from a range of private experiences such as Hawk Walk, Falconry Experience and Owl Experience that take place across the 526-acre estate. The centre is suitable for all ages and is fully wheelchair accessible. Just a ten-minute drive from Liffey Valley, this is an experience like no other.

Rafting

Mill Lane, Palmerstown, Dublin 20

You might have guessed from the name that Liffey Valley is situated beside the river Liffey. Stretching over 125 kilometres, the river is used for many things including recreational activities like rafting. A trip with Rafting.ie lasts about 2.5 hours and will take you on a journey of discovery learning about local wildlife, history and, of course, rafting! Rafting.ie will supply all the equipment you need such as wetsuit, helmet, life jackets etc. All you need to bring is a swimsuit and a towel.

Corkagh Park

Naas Rd, Newlands Cross, Dublin 22

Home to a pet farm, playground, dog walking track, fairy trail, rose garden, and fishing lakes, there’s something for everyone at Corkagh Park. The park is kept in great condition and is a favourite location among families in Dublin. Entry to the onsite amenities is free and the park is open every day. The playground is situated beside beautiful woodlands and contains suitable attractions for children aged 2 and up.

Emerald Park

Kilbrew, Ashbourne, Co. Meath

Less than a 30-minute drive from Liffey Valley lies Emerald Park. Both a theme park and a zoo, there is no other place like Emerald Park in Ireland. The main attraction is the mythical Cú Chullain wooden roller coaster that will whisk you to amazing heights from which the whole park can be seen – if you dare to look. There’s a range of attractions in the park to suit all age groups including a climbing wall, high ropes course, zip lines, trampolines, soft play area and lots more. At the zoo you can see tigers, monkeys, buffalo and a whole host of other amazing animals.

AquaZone

Snugborough Rd, Deanestown, Dublin 15

Labelled as ‘Ireland’s Favourite Waterpark’, AquaZone is the perfect spot for a fun-filled family day out. With eight exciting attractions including the Master Blaster, Green Giant and Dark hole slides, a surf simulator, the Lazy River and Wave Pool. Younger kids will love the Pirate Ship section with water guns, smaller slides and lower water levels and parents will love the bubble pool for a few moments of peace. There’s family changing rooms and restaurant on site too.

D10

Indoor Skate Park

252 Le Fanu Rd, Kylemore, Dublin 10

Just an eleven minute drive from Liffey Valley is D10, Ireland’s largest indoor skate park. The park is suitable for riders of BMX, scooters, skateboards and rollerblades and contains a half pipe, foam pit, a resistance ramp and much more. Staff are on hand during skating sessions to provide guidance and support and to ensure participants safety. The centre often runs camps and programs too.

In conclusion, Liffey Valley and it's surrounding area offers a wealth of family-friendly activities that cater to all ages. However, your Irish adventure doesn’t have to end here. Just a few hours away, the charming city of Cork awaits with its own unique attractions. From exploring the wonders of the universe at Blackrock Castle Observatory to enjoying the thrills at Perks Entertainment Centre, there’s something for everyone. Check out our things to do in Cork with kids article for more information.