Fun Indoor Attractions for Rainy Days in Dublin

Looking for ways to enjoy Dublin when the weather isn’t cooperating? Ireland’s capital offers a wealth of indoor attractions that provide shelter from the inevitable Irish showers without compromising on fun or cultural experiences. From fascinating museums to interactive exhibits, here’s our guide to Dublin’s best indoor attractions—perfect for those days when the rain is falling but your spirits don’t have to.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

Located in Dublin’s Docklands, this fully digital museum provides an immersive journey through Ireland’s diaspora history. Interactive exhibits tell the stories of 10 million Irish people who left the island, and their influence on the world. Children will enjoy collecting stamps in their EPIC passport as they move through the galleries, while adults will appreciate the depth of historical content.

National Gallery of Ireland

Housing an impressive collection of Irish and European art, the National Gallery offers free admission to its permanent collections. The light-filled central courtyard provides a peaceful retreat from rainy streets, while masterpieces by Caravaggio, Vermeer, and Jack B. Yeats offer cultural enrichment. Free tours run throughout the day, and the gallery café offers excellent refreshments.

Dublinia

Step back in time at this Viking and medieval experience. Children will delight in trying on Viking clothes, walking the medieval streets, and exploring archaeological artefacts. Located at Christchurch, its convenient city centre position makes it easy to reach from anywhere in Dublin. The views from the medieval tower provide a spectacular cityscape—even in the rain.

Natural History Museum

Affectionately known by locals as the “Dead Zoo,” this Victorian cabinet-style museum houses thousands of preserved specimens from around the world. The building itself is a time capsule, largely unchanged since the 1850s, creating a museum within a museum experience. Children are invariably fascinated by the giant Irish deer skeletons and the room-sized whale specimens.

GPO Witness History

This immersive and interactive exhibition puts visitors at the heart of the 1916 Easter Rising. Located in the historic General Post Office building—the headquarters of the uprising—it combines original artefacts with cutting-edge technology to bring this pivotal moment in Irish history to life. The central courtyard features a stunning collection of sculptures commemorating this landmark event.

Kilmainham Gaol

While getting to this historic jail might involve a brief dash through raindrops, the compelling guided tours are entirely indoors and tell the powerful story of Ireland’s journey to independence. The austere Victorian wings and haunting execution yard provide a sobering but essential understanding of Irish history. Advance booking is strongly recommended as tours frequently sell out.

While Dublin’s green landscapes owe their vibrancy to the frequent rainfall, there’s no need to let a showery forecast dampen your spirits. With your Easirent car providing convenient transportation between venues, you can experience the best of Dublin’s indoor attractions regardless of what the weather brings. Simply park, explore, and enjoy the rich cultural offerings of this historic city—all while staying perfectly dry.