A rainy June bank holiday in Ireland doesn’t have to mean cabin fever! Ireland is packed with fantastic indoor attractions that are perfect for families looking to entertain kids while staying dry. From play centres and aquariums to interactive museums and chocolate factories, here’s your go-to guide for rainy-day fun across Ireland.
Whether you’re based in Dublin or off exploring the Wild Atlantic Way, here are 20 kid-friendly spots that make grey skies feel a little more magical.
1. Aillwee Burren Experience, Co. Clare
Go deep underground in this stunning cave system, explore birds of prey shows, and even sample homemade cheese. A thrilling mix of nature and education.
2. Happy Days Play Centre, Co. Cork
This colourful play centre in Cork is perfect for little ones to burn off energy with slides, climbing frames, and toddler zones.
3. The Hidden Village Role Play Centre, Co. Monaghan
Kids step into a mini world with themed zones like cafés, salons, supermarkets and garages. Great for imaginative play in a cosy, safe space.
4. Astropark, Co. Dublin
This indoor arena is ideal for older kids and teens, with football, multi-sport inflatable games, and party packages. Located in Coolock and Tallaght.
5. High Rise Lisburn, Co. Antrim
A brilliant indoor climbing centre with sensory rooms and soft play, catering to all ages and abilities. Fully accessible and inclusive.
6. Vintage Tea Trips, Dublin City
Not just for adults! Kids will love sightseeing on a classic double-decker bus while sipping tea and enjoying sweet treats.
7. Wildlands Galway, Co. Galway
This activity centre features an incredible indoor play village, soft play, climbing walls, escape rooms, and more. Ideal for all ages.
8. Casino Model Railway Museum, Co. Dublin (Malahide)
All aboard! This charming museum features Ireland’s largest collection of model trains and railway memorabilia. Fascinating for train fans big and small.
9. Butlers Chocolate Factory Tour, Co. Dublin
A deliciously fun experience where kids can see how chocolates are made, decorate their own treats, and learn about chocolate history.
10. Playtown Tullamore, Co. Offaly
Designed as a mini-town, this role play centre lets kids be anything from a vet to a fireperson. A fun and interactive learning experience.
11. Kidspace Rathcoole & Rathfarnham, Co. Dublin
Soft play zones, toddler areas, sensory spaces and great coffee for the grown-ups. Everything you need under one roof.
12. The Treehouse Skibbereen, Co. Cork
An indoor play paradise with treehouse-themed climbing zones, slides, and creative spaces. Ideal for younger children. [Cover Image]
13. Galway Atlantaquaria, Co. Galway
Explore Ireland’s largest native species aquarium. Expect sharks, rays, and hands-on touch pools in this immersive marine adventure.
14. Celbridge Playzone, Co. Kildare
A colourful and fun indoor soft play space with climbing frames, ball pits, and a separate toddler area.
15. EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, Dublin City
One of the most interactive and engaging museums in the country. Touch screens, storytelling, and digital games make it a hit with older kids.
16. Bray Bowl, Co. Wicklow
Bowling, arcade games, pool, laser tag and more! A great all-in-one family entertainment centre near the sea.
17. Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI), Dublin City
A beautiful mix of culture and creativity with exhibitions, children’s workshops, and a café in the heart of Dublin.
18. Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, Co. Kerry
A marine wonderland featuring penguins, sharks, otters, and colourful tropical fish. Indoors and awe-inspiring.
19. The National Reptile Zoo, Co. Kilkenny
Meet lizards, snakes, turtles, and even crocodiles at this hands-on zoo experience. All under one roof in Gowran.
20. The Model, Co. Sligo
A contemporary art centre offering family-friendly exhibits, creative workshops, and a lovely café for a rainy-day chill out.
Tips for Rainy Day Adventures:
- Always check opening times and whether pre-booking is required.
- Pack socks for play centres (they often require them).
- Bring plenty of water!
Rain might be a regular feature of Irish life, but with places like these, it doesn’t have to spoil the fun. From imaginative play to educational escapes, there’s no shortage of ways to make memories this bank holiday — even when the skies turn grey.
Which ones have you visited? Any favourites we missed? Let us know in the comments or tag your rainy-day crew!
