Best Theme Parks and Amusement Parks in Dublin

These amusement Parks in Dublin, offer fun days out, full of exhilarating rides, fun events & attractions, perfect for the whole family.

Dublin is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic landscapes, but when it comes to amusement parks, the city may not have the massive scale of parks like Disneyland or Universal Studios. 

However, Dublin does offer several smaller amusement parks and fun centers that cater to thrill-seekers, families, and adventure enthusiasts. These parks might not have the international fame of their larger counterparts, but they have their own charm and unique attractions that draw locals and tourists alike.

Best Amusement Parks in Dublin

1. Tayto Park (now known as Emerald Park)

Tayto Park (now called Emerald Park) offers a mix of traditional amusement park rides and unique attractions related to Ireland’s iconic Tayto crisps brand, which gives the park its original name. Beyond the rides, it boasts a zoo and several animal exhibits, giving it a wildlife and theme park fusion that’s hard to find elsewhere in Ireland.

Best Rides:

• The Cú Chulainn Coaster: This is the star attraction of Tayto Park and holds the title as the largest wooden roller coaster in Europe. It’s a must-ride for adrenaline junkies, offering thrilling drops and twists.
• The Rotator: For those seeking extreme thrills, the Rotator swings you 31 meters high while spinning at high speeds, providing a dizzying but exhilarating experience.
• Flight School: Designed for younger guests, this mini coaster offers fun for kids who are still a bit too small for the bigger rides.
• Viking Voyage: A water-based log flume ride that takes riders through a Viking-themed adventure, complete with splashes and plenty of excitement.

Events and Seasonal Attractions:

Emerald Park hosts various events throughout the year, with Halloween being a standout. “Tayto Park After Dark” offers spooky attractions and late-night rides. During the winter, the park transforms into a Christmas wonderland with festive lights, Santa’s grotto, and themed events that are popular with families.

Location:

Tayto Park, recently rebranded as Emerald Park, is located just outside Dublin, in Ashbourne, County Meath. 

It’s approximately a 30-minute drive from Dublin city center, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists.

How to Get There:

• By Car: The most convenient way to get to Tayto Park is by car. It’s a straightforward drive via the M2 motorway. There’s ample parking available on-site.
• Public Transport: Alternatively, you can take a bus from Dublin City Centre. The Bus Éireann route 103 or 105 will drop you off near the park, though a short taxi ride may still be needed to reach the park itself.

2. Funtasia Waterpark

Funtasia Waterpark is a family-friendly destination offering a variety of attractions beyond its water slides and another one of the best, fun amusement parks in Dublin. The park includes mini-golf, bowling, an indoor play area, and a climbing wall, making it a versatile entertainment spot.

Best Rides:

• The Super Bowl: This slide drops you into a giant bowl where you spin around before plunging into the pool below. It’s one of the most popular attractions for thrill-seekers.
• The Boomerang: A high-speed slide that takes you on a near-vertical drop before sending you back up a wall for a thrilling “boomerang” effect.
• Pirate’s Cove: A section specifically designed for younger children, featuring smaller slides, water jets, and a splash area.

Other Fun Attractions:

Funtasia’s waterpark may be its main draw, but there’s plenty more on offer:

• Egyptian-themed Mini Golf: Perfect for a break from the water, the 18-hole indoor mini-golf course offers an adventure through ancient Egypt, complete with themed obstacles and decor.
• Bowling: The state-of-the-art bowling lanes are a hit for families and groups, providing some laid-back entertainment after a day of water slides.

Events and Seasonal Attractions:

Funtasia hosts themed events, especially during holidays like Halloween and Christmas. Themed decor and special activities, such as pumpkin carving or visits from Santa, add to the festive atmosphere.

Location:

While Funtasia Waterpark isn’t directly in Dublin, it’s located nearby in Drogheda, County Louth, around 45 minutes from Dublin city center; more of a day trip from Dublin. It’s one of the largest indoor waterparks in Ireland and is perfect for family fun, particularly on rainy days.

How to Get There:

• By Car: The quickest way to reach Funtasia from Dublin is by taking the M1 motorway north toward Drogheda.
• Public Transport: Take the Dublin-Belfast train from Connolly Station and disembark at Drogheda Station. From there, it’s a short taxi ride to the park. Bus services from Dublin also connect to Drogheda, offering another public transport option.

3. The National Aquatic Centre (AquaZone)

AquaZone combines thrilling water slides and family-friendly aquatic attractions with a focus on fun for all ages. It’s a great option for both locals and tourists looking for indoor water-based entertainment.

Best Rides:

• The Master Blaster: A high-speed water roller coaster, the Master Blaster propels riders uphill on powerful jets of water, providing a fast-paced and exhilarating experience.
• The Flow Rider: Surfing fans will love the Flow Rider, which simulates the sensation of catching waves, allowing riders to bodyboard or surf indoors.
• The Wave Pool: This pool generates waves at regular intervals, providing an ocean-like experience in a controlled environment.
• The Lazy River: Perfect for those looking to relax, the lazy river takes guests on a gentle ride around the perimeter of the waterpark, offering a break from the more adrenaline-pumping attractions.

Events and Seasonal Attractions:

AquaZone hosts family fun days, with special discounts and extra activities for children. Birthday parties are popular here, with group packages including access to the waterpark and special birthday rooms for celebrations. Special events during school holidays add extra fun to the experience, drawing larger crowds.

Location:

Located in Blanchardstown, just outside of Dublin’s city center, the National Aquatic Centre’s AquaZone is one of the largest waterparks in Ireland. It’s part of the wider National Sports Campus, making it a key destination for sports and recreation.

How to Get There:

• By Car: AquaZone is about a 15-minute drive from Dublin city center via the N3. Ample parking is available on-site.
• Public Transport: Bus routes from Dublin city, including the 38 and 39, provide direct access to the center.

4. Fort Lucan Adventureland

Fort Lucan is Dublin’s biggest outdoor adventure playground, featuring slides, climbing frames, and obstacle courses. It’s an ideal day out for families with young children, as the attractions are geared toward kids aged 2-12.

Best Rides:

• The Raging River: This water slide is the main attraction, where riders race down on inflatable tubes into a pool below.
• The Crazy Golf Course: A fun mini-golf course adds a competitive element to the day, with various obstacles and challenges.
• The Helter Skelter: A classic playground slide that’s a hit with younger kids.
• Go-Karts: Fort Lucan also offers a go-karting track, where kids can race each other around a mini circuit, offering great fun for siblings or friends.

Events and Seasonal Attractions:

Fort Lucan hosts themed events throughout the summer months, including “Pirate Day” and “Superhero Day,” where kids are encouraged to dress up and participate in themed games and activities. Birthday parties are also popular at the park, with exclusive access to certain rides and party rooms available for rent.

Location:

Fort Lucan Adventureland is located in Lucan, a suburb about 20 minutes west of Dublin city center. It’s an outdoor adventure park designed primarily for children but with attractions that parents can enjoy too.

How to Get There:

• By Car: The park is easily accessible via the N4 motorway from Dublin city center.
• Public Transport: Bus routes such as the 25 and 66 from Dublin city center stop near Lucan village, from where it’s a short walk to the park.

While Dublin may not be home to massive, world-famous theme parks, the city and its surrounding areas offer a variety of amusement parks and fun centers that cater to all ages and preferences.

Whether you’re looking for the thrill of a roller coaster at Tayto Park (Emerald Park), a fun-filled day of water slides at Funtasia, or a relaxing family outing to Fort Lucan, there’s something for everyone.