Roaring good fun at Dublin Zoo
I can still fondly remember the first time I went to Dublin Zoo. I wasn’t expecting much from the visit, but when I saw the Red Panda for the first time, I immediately fell in love with the place.
But it’s not just a tourist attraction, either. Many of the zoo’s staff have shared stories about how the zoo strives to be a conservation centre for all animals, especially those that are endangered.
It’s a perfect spot for a weekend outing. Even if you’re all adults, there’s still plenty to learn, see, and experience. So, we’ll walk you through everything you need to plan your next visit with ease.
What is Dublin Zoo Known for?
Dublin Zoo in Ireland is a premier family attraction, offering a perfect place for all to learn and discover the beauty and preciousness of wildlife. It’s also a place renowned for its conservation projects, which aim to protect endangered animals.
Best Time to Go to Dublin Zoo
The best time to go to Dublin Zoo depends on your availability. The zoo is less crowded during weekdays, especially from Monday to Wednesday during lunchtime. With most families at work or school, it opens up the zoo for a more leisurely exploration.
If you’re unable to visit the zoo during weekdays, the best times to go are either early morning or late afternoon.
Things to Know about Dublin Zoo
Address: Dublin Zoo is located at Phoenix Park, Saint James, Dublin, D08 AC98, Ireland.
Operating Hours: Dublin Zoo is open from Monday to Sunday, 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
Parking: Dublin Zoo does not have a designated parking area. However, there are other places to park, such as The Lord’s Walk car park and The Cricket Grounds car park. There are also parking spots along the North Road with a total capacity of almost 400 cars.
Contact Information: You can reach them via phone at +353 1 474 8900 and via a working email address at [email protected]. You may also contact them through their website for an enquiry.
Washrooms: Washrooms are conveniently located near most of the main attractions of the zoo, as well as at the entrances to most exhibits. The largest cluster of these is located near the entrance and adjacent to the restaurants and food service facilities.
Water Stations: The zoo features numerous water stations strategically placed throughout the entire facility. Dublin Zoo encourages its visitors to make full use of these stations and bring their own water bottles to reduce the use of single-use plastics at the zoo.
Luggage Storage: The zoo offers ample storage for visitors who wish to store their belongings in a secure location while exploring the zoo. Lockers are available at the entrance for €5 each and can only be accessed with the provided key.
Pets: Pets are not allowed inside the zoo. As for assistance dogs, they will be kept in a certain comfortable location while their owners roam the park. Don’t worry, as they will be taken care of and provided with fresh drinking water for their stay.
Accessibility In Dublin Zoo
Additional Needs Concession Prices: For guests with additional needs, one accompanying carer may be admitted free of charge.
| Ticket Prices | |
| Adult With Additional Needs | €15 |
| Child With Additional Needs | €10.50 |
| Carer | Free |
Wheelchair Users and Rentals: While the zoo is over 180 years old, many of its facilities are actually wheelchair-friendly. They also have 20 wheelchairs available at the front entrance on a first-come-first-served basis.
Mobility Scooter Rental: They also offer mobility scooters for rent at the main entrance for an additional €25, in addition to your ticket fee. These scooters are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Accessible Toilets: Dublin Zoo has a total of 9 accessible toilets located throughout the entire zoo. Staff members are available to assist anyone who needs to access the accessible toilets.
Changing Places Facilities: The zoo also features a newly implemented changing places facility. It’s a more comprehensive and inclusive restroom for individuals with all disabilities. You can enquire about the facility’s access code at the front gate.
Food Allergies: The many restaurants in Dublin Zoo follow food safety protocols and ensure to provide consumers with all the necessary information and advice on allergens. These are usually found on the menus of these restaurants.
How To Get To Dublin Zoo
Car: To head to Dublin Zoo by car, there are two ways to get there. You can take the North Road, which will lead you to the Lord’s Walk car park and the Cricket Grounds car park. You may also head to Chesterfield Avenue, which can lead you to North Road.
There are also entrances at Ashtown Gate and Cabra Gate, which can be accessed through the North Road. There is no parking at Dublin Zoo, so it’s advisable to head to the car parks that we stated above.
Dublin Bus: The bus has an extensive network that covers the entire city of Dublin, with routes running in parallel. Here is the list of bus routes that pass by Dublin Zoo.
| Dublin Bus Route | Bus Stop | Operating Hours |
| Route 99 | Dublin Zoo | Monday to Sunday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Route 11 | Phoenix Park | Monday to Saturday:6:30 AM – 11:30 PM Sunday:9:15 AM – 11:30 PM |
| Route 26 | Park Gate | Monday to Friday:5:45 AM – 11:25 PM Saturday:6:15 AM – 11:25 PM Sunday:7:00 AM – 11:25 PM |
| Route 68 | South Circular Road | Monday to Friday:6:00 AM – 10:25 PM Saturday:6:35 AM – 11:30 PM Sunday:10:15 AM – 11:30 PM |
| Route 69 | Phoenix Park | Monday to Friday:6:15 AM – 11:15 PM Saturday:6:20 AM – 11:15 PM Sunday:10:00 AM – 11:15 PM |
Bike: If you’re looking to bike to Dublin Zoo, you can take the North Road to Chesterfield Ave. It should take you to Ashtown Gate, where the bike parking is.
Alternatively, you can also take Dublin Bikes, which has a nearby bike stop at Heuston Station.
Luas Tram System: Speaking of Heuston Station, the Dublin Luas is a tram system that encompasses most of the city. The closest station to Dublin Zoo is Heuston Station, approximately a 15-20 minute walk away.
Rail: Dublin also offers several train options in addition to the Luas. If you’re heading to Dublin Zoo, the closest stop on the DART line is Heuston Station. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the station to Dublin Zoo.
Taxi: Dublin Zoo is also accessible via several taxi routes. Depending on where you’re coming from, you may be going to Dublin Zoo via Chesterfield Avenue or the North Road.
How Much is a Ticket to Dublin Zoo
Dublin Zoo offers several ticket options for its visitors. There are several ways to purchase your tickets, so be sure to check these options before buying, as you may find a better deal through certain promotions.
These tickets are separated into three main categories: Single Day Tickets, Family Tickets, and Group Tickets.
| SINGLE DAY TICKETS | ||||
| Ticket Type | Gate Prices | Online Price Booked Less Than 2 Days In Advance | Online Price Booked At Least 2 Days In Advance | Online Price Booked 5+ Days In Advance |
| Adult | €25.50 | €23.80 | €20.80 | €20.20 |
| Child under 3 | FREE | FREE | FREE | FREE |
| Children aged 3 – 15 years | €19.50 | €18 | €15.30 | €14.90 |
| Senior Citizens (over 65) | €19.50 | €18.50 | €15.80 | €15.40 |
| Child with Additional Needs | €10.50 | NOT AVAILABLE ONLINE | NOT AVAILABLE ONLINE | NOT AVAILABLE ONLINE |
| Adult with Additional Needs | €15 | NOT AVAILABLE ONLINE | NOT AVAILABLE ONLINE | NOT AVAILABLE ONLINE |
| Student (with valid ID) | €19.50 | €18.50 | €15.80 | €15.40 |
| FAMILY TICKETS | ||||
| Ticket Type | Gate Prices | Online Price Booked Less Than 2 Days In Advance | Online Price Booked At Least 2 Days In Advance | Online Price Booked 5+ Days In Advance |
| 2 Adults + 2 Children | €72.50 | €68 | €59 | €57.20 |
| 2 Adults + 3 Children | €75.50 | €71.80 | €63.30 | €61.40 |
| 2 Adults + 4 Children | €80.50 | €76.20 | €66.70 | €64.50 |
| GROUP TICKETS | ||
| Ticket Type | Gate Prices | Online Prices |
| Child | €15 | NOT AVAILABLE ONLINE |
| Adult | €21.30 | NOT AVAILABLE ONLINE |
What Kind of Animals are in Dublin Zoo?
Dublin Zoo boasts a diverse menagerie of animals within its halls. These animals are separated into four categories: mammals, birds, reptiles, and invertebrates. They have quite a large selection of these, but we’ve chosen to showcase the highlights of each category.
Mammals
Mammals make up the largest exhibit in Dublin Zoo. As such, there is quite a selection to see and observe when visiting. With many of these mammals being endangered species, the animals are primarily housed at the Dublin Zoo for conservation reasons.
| MAMMALS | ||||
| Animal Name | Irish Name | Status | Zoo Location | Group Name |
| Asian Lion | Leon Áiseach | Endangered | Asian Forests | Pride |
| California Sea Lion | Leon Farraige California | Least Concern | Sea Lion Cove | Colony |
| Chimpanzee | Simpeansaí | Critically Endangered | African Plains, beside the Gorilla Rainforest | Community |
| Elephant | Eilifint Áiseach | Endangered | The Kaziranga Forest Trail | Herd |
| Giraffe | Sioráf | Vulnerable | African Plains | Herd/Tower |
| Red Panda | Panda Rua | Endangered | Himalayan Hills | None |
| Rhinoceros | Srónbheannach Bán Deisceartach | Near Threatened | African Savannah | Crash |
| Snow Leopard | Liopard Sneachta | Vulnerable | Himalayan Hills | None |
| Tiger | Tíogar Amur | Endangered | Asian Forests | None |
| Zebra | Séabra | Near Threatened | African Plains | Herd |
Birds
While not as extensive as the mammals in Dublin Zoo, the birds that are found in Dublin Zoo are quite a varied group of birds that you wouldn’t expect to see in a zoo. They are mainly here for conservatory reasons. Here are a few of them.
| BIRDS | ||||
| Animal Name | Irish Name | Status | Zoo Location | Group Name |
| Citron-Crested Cockatoo | Cocatú Ciotrón-Círíneach | Critically Endangered | Near the Orangutan Forest | Flock |
| Flamingo | Lasairéan Sileach | Near Threatened | Flamingo Lagoon | Flamboyance, Colony, Flock |
| Hornbill | Cornóg Thalún Aibisíneach | Vulnerable | African Plains | Flock |
| Humboldt Penguin | Piongain Pheiriúch | Vulnerable | Beside Sea Lion Cove | Colony |
| Waldrapp Ibis | Íbis Mhaol Tuaisceartach | Endangered | Lower Zoo | Flock |
Reptiles
Reptiles play a significant role in Dublin Zoo’s conservation efforts. These reptiles come from all corners of the world and are deeply cared for by the zoo’s staff and guests alike. Here are some of the reptiles that truly caught our attention.
| REPTILES | ||||
| Animal Name | Irish Name | Status | Zoo Location | Group Name |
| African Spurred Tortoise | Toirtís Spor Afracach | Endangered | African Plains | Creep |
| Ball Python | Píotón Burmach | Vulnerable | Zoorassic World | None |
| Chinese Stripe-Necked Turtle | Turtar Muineál Stríocach Síneach | Critically Endangered | Zoorassic World | None |
| Green Crested Lizard | Laghairt Ghlaschíorach | Least Concern | Zoorassic World | None |
| King Ratsnake | Nathracha Rí-Fhrancacha | Not Yet Evaluated | Zoorassic World | None |
| Lau Banded Iguana | Ioguána Bandach Lau | Endangered | Zoorassic World | Mess |
| Madagascar Giant Day Gecko | Ollgheiceo Lae Mhadagascar | Least Concern | Zoorassic World | None |
| Panther Chameleon | Caimileon Pantar | Least Concern | Zoorassic World | None |
| Vietnamese Pond Turtle | Lochthurtar Annam | Critically Endangered | Zoorassic World | Bale |
| West African Crocodile | Crogall Na hAfraice Thiar | Not Yet Evaluated | Zoorassic World | None |
Invertebrates
This is Dublin Zoo’s smallest—both literally and numerically—exhibit of animals. Although it only holds one species, it is quite interesting specimen, even when compared to the others at the zoo.
| INVERTEBRATES | ||||
| Animal Name | Irish Name | Status | Zoo Location | Group Name |
| Stick Insect | Cipíneach | Cipíneach | Discovery and Learning Centre | None |
Where to Eat at Dublin Zoo
Dublin Zoo is home to a few restaurants and cafes for you to enjoy during your stay. This is perfect, as it removes the hassle of searching for a place to eat after exploring the many enclosures and habitats the zoo has to offer.
WUUF Dogs
Media Credit: Alican Güray Instagram
Website: https://www.dublinzoo.ie/your-visit/eat-refresh-drink/
Address: Dublin Zoo, Phoenix Park, Dublin, Ireland
WUUF Dogs is located in the area near the Kaziranga Forest Trail. While only open on Saturday and Sunday, they offer delicious hot dogs, burgers, and chips to enjoy alongside drinks.
The bright yellow stand and playful dog-themed branding make it hard to miss. It’s honestly the perfect quick stop after hours of walking around.
The Cove-Chicken Hut
Media Credit: James Aban Instagram
Website: https://www.dublinzoo.ie/your-visit/eat-refresh-drink/
Address: Dublin Zoo, Phoenix Park, Dublin, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 474 8900
The Cove-Chicken Hut is located in Sea Lion Cove. The small shop offers burgers, chips, and cold drinks alongside quite a few other things that might interest you while you’re peckish.
It’s casual and perfect for families or friends who just want to grab a quick bite without leaving the fun behind. Additionally, there are picnic tables nearby where you can sit and enjoy your meal.
Where to Stay near Dublin Zoo
If you’re visiting Dublin Zoo as a tourist or if you’re simply not from Dublin, you must be wondering where you could stay for your few days exploring the zoo. Thankfully, there are a few hotels and hostels for you to stay at for your perfect day at the zoo.
Hilton Dublin Kilmainham
Media Credit: Hilton Dublin Kilmainham Instagram
Website: https://www.hilton.com
Address: S Circular Rd, Kilmainham, Dublin, D08 XAK3, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 420 1800
Price Range: Starts at €251
The Hilton Dublin Kilmainham shouldn’t be a shocker that it’s on here due to its proximity to the Dublin Zoo. Located in Dublin’s city centre, it’s a well-known 4-star hotel that offers a range of amenities at a competitive price point.
A few of their amenities that are included with their promotions are a paid breakfast, paid parking, and an indoor pool. They are also well-known for their sustainable practices within their hotel.
The zoo itself is only a 20-minute walk from the hotel, which is the quickest way to travel if you don’t want to wait for bus stops. If you don’t feel like walking, the Dublin bus also passes near the hotel.
Holiday Inn Express Dublin City Centre
Media Credit: Holiday Inn Express Instagram
Website: https://www.ihg.com
Address: 28-32 O’Connell Street Upper, Rotunda, Dublin 1, D01 T2X2, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 878 8099
Price Range: Starts at €209
The Holiday Inn Express is another hotel located in Dublin’s city centre, but it’s a bit farther away compared to other hotels. The reason it’s listed here is more to do with the quality of the hotel than its proximity to Dublin Zoo.
The hotel offers a comfortable stay with amenities such as a complimentary breakfast and is entirely pet-friendly. It is also conveniently located near other notable sites in Dublin, including Kilmainham Gaol and Dublin Castle.
The zoo itself is about a 50-minute walk from the hotel. The beauty of this hotel is that a total of six routes pass near the hotel, all of which pass by Dublin Zoo. Y
Ashling Hotel Dublin
Media Credit: Ashling Hotel Dublin Instagram
Website: https://www.ashlinghotel.ie
Address: 10 – 13 Parkgate St, Stoneybatter, Dublin 8, D08 P38N, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 677 2324
Price Range: Starts at €378
The Ashling Hotel is one of our favourites due to its inclusive rooms, and it stands to be one of the closest hotels to the zoo. The hotel offers a good selection of rooms. While they are pricey, they’re quite lovely and of premium quality.
The Ashling Hotel takes pride in its inclusivity. As such, they offer family rooms and Dublin’s first sensory guest room, ideal for families with autistic children or adults travelling to Dublin.
The hotel itself is quite close to the zoo, offering a travel time of only 17 minutes on foot. You can also ride the bus, which will shorten it to 5 minutes.
Tips When Visiting Dublin Zoo
Here are a few tips that we’ve learned through our own experience and by asking around among the locals. These might help you on your trip to Dublin Zoo.
| Always Book at Least 5 Days in Advance Tickets sold 5 days in advance tend to be the cheapest type of tickets. If you don’t need the special accommodation tickets, you should avail these as you can easily save a lot of money from them. The Cheaper the Hotel, the More You Can Spend While a nice hotel tends to be the best, you wouldn’t want to spend a fortune on just your accommodation. If you’re looking to stay in Dublin for only a few days on a budget, a cheap hostel might be the best option for you. Arrive in the Early Morning or in the Late Afternoon Time is crucial when it comes to tourist spots such as these. Arriving early will allow you to explore the zoo with fewer people. If you don’t want to wake up early, you can go during the late afternoons, as it also tends to have fewer people. Wear Comfortable Clothing Even in the winter, the zoo tends to get very hot. Wearing breathable and comfortable clothing is best when heading here, even if it’s raining. |