Who doesn’t love a bit of thrill and laughter with their loved ones? My quest for the perfect family day out led me to explore the best theme parks in Ireland and trust me, it was an adventure I’d recommend to anyone. From heart-stopping roller coasters to magical fairy-tale rides, there’s something about the rush of wind in your hair and the echo of laughter that brings out the kid in all of us.
I remember zipping through the air on a coaster, my screams mingling with the roar of the track – it was exhilarating! And let’s not forget the softer moments, like the gentle bobbing of a boat ride through a serene fairy-tale landscape. It made me wonder, what’s your favourite ride?
Each park had its own unique charm, from wild water escapades to enchanting themed mazes. It’s hard to pick a favourite when you’re spoilt for choice. Have you ever found yourself lost in a maze, laughing at every wrong turn? It’s these spontaneous moments of joy that make theme park adventures in Ireland unforgettable.
☝️ How we rated the services below:
Selecting the best theme parks in Ireland involves careful consideration of several key factors to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for visitors. Here are the most important criteria we focused on:
- Range of Attractions: We value diversity in rides and attractions, ensuring something is exciting for every age group and thrill level. A great theme park caters to both adrenaline seekers and those in search of milder entertainment.
- Safety and Cleanliness: Visitor safety is paramount. We look for parks that uphold the highest safety standards for their attractions and maintain a clean and well-kept environment throughout.
- Value for Money: We assess the overall value offered by a theme park, considering ticket prices, available discounts, and additional costs. It’s important that visitors feel they’ve received good value for their expenditure.
- Guest Services: Excellent customer service enhances the park experience. We consider the availability of amenities like food options, parking, and guest assistance services to ensure a comfortable and convenient visit.
- Atmosphere and Theming: The overall atmosphere and theming of a park play a crucial role in immersing visitors in a magical experience. We look for parks that go the extra mile in creating an engaging environment through meticulous theming and storytelling.
Our Favourite Places in Dublin & Ireland
🍺 GUINNESS STOREHOUSE – Experience the Home of Guinness
🧚 BOOK OF KELLS – Trinity College Library + Ancient Manuscript Tour
🚍 CLIFFS OF MOHER – Full-Day adventure from Dublin to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher & Galway.
🇮🇪 HOP ON HOP OFF BUS – Dublin City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
🎟 DUBLIN PASS – Go City All-Inclusive Pass for 40+ top attractions including Guinness Storehouse and Hop-On Hop-Off tours
Epic Adventures Await at Ireland’s Most Enchanting Theme Parks!
☝️ Our team, along with our families and friends, dove headfirst into Ireland’s most thrilling theme parks, experiencing every roller coaster and merry-go-round to bring you the definitive list of the Best Theme Parks in Ireland. It’s been an adventure filled with laughter, screams, and unforgettable memories, all to ensure you know exactly where to find your next exhilarating day out!
Funtasia Theme Park Drogheda
Bowling was super fun, Pool table was good and everyone had a blast playing bumper cars. The food options are really good with reasonable prices. There’s mini golf for kids which is quite entertaining and we had an argument who can finish the hole the first one!
Funtasia Theme Park in Drogheda has something exciting to offer everyone at every age range whether you’re looking for thrilling rides, relaxing pool parties and interactive video games or even children’s play area that includes carousels, slides & swings – this place will keep your family engaged all day long with smiles from ear-to-ear. It provides great service throughout the park; knowledgeable staff members who help out when needed whether queuing up for a ride or buying tickets for entertainment activities at game booths.
Furthermore it offers birthday party packages too where you can experience better customer service along with hosts taking care of everything from setting up balloons, arranging indoor/outdoor catering service if required and helping parents get away from stress so their kid special day become great success in Funtasia Theme Park’s memorable environment.
Name | Funtasia Theme Park | Drogheda |
Website | http://www.funtasia.ie/ |
Address | Donore Road Industrial Estate, Unit 1 & 2, Funtasia Theme Parks, Drogheda, Co. Louth, A92 EVH6, Ireland |
Contact Details | (041) 989 8000 |
Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: Closed Friday: 3:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
Google Rating | 4.1 Stars out of 5 |
Total Reviews | 2495+ reviews |
Clara Lara Funpark
Clara Lara Funpark is one of Ireland’s best outdoor attractions that offers a unique and exciting experience for all ages. It is located near Glendalough, Knockrath in County Wicklow, making it accessible to anyone who wants to enjoy a day out with their family or friends. Apart from its great location, the park also has an impressive selection of activities and features such as swimming pools, interactive water play areas, pedal boats and nature trails which will certainly keep everyone amused through rain or shine.
What makes Clara Lara Funpark even more appealing are its reasonable rates for entrance tickets – children receive discount prices on entry making it an affordable way to enjoy the outdoors without breaking the budget! With so much on offer at this park including food options and barbecues available throughout your visit you can leave feeling fully satisfied after having spent quality time with those around you. Moreover staff members monitor all activities ensuring safety precautions are taken at all times and customers satisfaction is guaranteed – something that not many venues in Ireland boast about!
Lastly for parents looking for some extra peace of mind during their visits to this stunning oasis there are plenty of facilities provided such as wooden huts where you can store your belongings safely while still being able to keep an eye on your kids whilst they goof around. So when considering what could be better than spending a day outside in nature then head over to Clara Lara Funpark where laughter awaits!
Name | Clara Lara Funpark |
Website | https://www.claralara.ie/ |
Address | near Glendalough, Knockrath, Co. Wicklow, A67 CY53, Ireland |
Contact Details | (0404) 46161 |
Opening Hours | Monday: 10:30 AM – 5:45 PM Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 5:45 PM Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 5:45 PM Thursday: 10:30 AM – 5:45 PM Friday: 10:30 AM – 5:45 PM Saturday: 10:30 AM – 5:45 PM Sunday: 10:30 AM – 5:45 PM |
Google Rating | 4.6 Stars out of 5 |
Total Reviews | 1506+ reviews |
Bundoran Adventure Park
Bundoran Adventure Park is located in Drumacrin, Bundoran in County Donegal, Ireland. The park has a variety of rides for all ages and plenty of counter-games to enjoy making it the perfect spot for spending quality time with family or friends during the summer holidays.
From classic bumper cars to water slides and trampolines; what stands out from other places is that there’s something that everyone can have fun with. Another plus point worth noticing is that unlike other such attractions, most rides at Bundoran accept tokens which can be purchased onsite before getting started too!
There’s also an 18 hole mini golf course where you can test your skills with clubs along with race karts to truly rev up your experience here. In addition to these activities , they also offer great food trucks around their premises so one doesn’t go away hungry either! What makes this place more special is picturesque nature views where visitors can sit and watch the sun setting down while savoring delicious beverages provided by their café as well. On top of everything else, they do have disabled parking spaces & access making it accessible for elders or kids having wheelchairs completely hassle free & stress free .
All in all if you are looking forward to spend an unforgettable day outdoors packed with enjoyable rides & lasting memories; I don’t think any could match up to this particular adventure park!
Name | Bundoran Adventure Park Ltd |
Website | http://www.bundoranadventurepark.com/ |
Address | Sea Rd, Drumacrin, Bundoran, Co. Donegal, Ireland |
Contact Details | |
Opening Hours | Monday: 1:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 1:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 1:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 1:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 1:00 – 9:00 PM Saturday: 1:00 – 9:00 PM Sunday: 1:00 – 9:00 PM |
Google Rating | 4.3 Stars out of 5 |
Total Reviews | 1480+ reviews |
AquaZone
AquaZone is one of the largest indoor waterparks in Ireland, located in Blanchardstown’s National Aquatic Centre. It boasts spectacular attractions such as a 500-metre lazy river, four-lane racer slides, tube and body slides, an adventure pool with unique features like cannons blitz water buckets and jet pumps. With 723+ reviews on Google and 4 stars out of 5 rating, it’s no surprise that customers are satisfied with their experience at AquaZone.
The place offers great family fun for both adults and kids alike. Swimming pools with suitable depths provide hours of entertainment while there is also an airjump trampoline area to add some more excitement to the mix. Customers have commented on how clean and well maintained the facility was which made them feel welcomed during their visits. To complete this amazing experience AquaZone provides showers for users to use before or after using the facilities along with lockers available nearby for any belongings kept safe throughout your time spent here. There are cafeterias where healthy meals can be found inside perfect for all age groups visiting the park adding another dimension to their stay here!
In conclusion, not only does AquaZone offer exciting activities but is also a great way to beat cabin fever without having to go outside leaving warm comforts indoors yet still enjoying what summer has got to offer! The ease of booking tickets online surely isn’t overlooked either plus there being plenty food options – it’s clear why people find enjoyment aquazone worthwhile !
Name | AquaZone |
Website | http://www.aquazone.ie/ |
Address | National Aquatic Centre, Snugborough Rd, Deanestown, Blanchardstown, Co. Dublin, Ireland |
Contact Details | (01) 646 4300 |
Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
Google Rating | 4 Stars out of 5 |
Total Reviews | 723+ reviews |
Fort Lucan
Fort Lucan is situated in Westmanstown, in Lucan, Co. Dublin and offers a great adventure activity for kids of all ages. The atmosphere was friendly with helpful staff on hand to guide the way around the extensive grounds.
The facility itself provides numerous activities suitable for different age levels such as Bumper Boats & Go Karts, Shooters Tower Rope Course and Caving Adventure at an additional cost (Children €4-€5/Adult €7). In addition there is Mini Golf/ Pirate Putt Crazy Golf which I would recommend from a personal experience; children will definitely be entertained!
All these services are accompanied by an abundance of picnic benches spread throughout Fort Lucan if guests want to bring their own food along or alternatively use the cafe located inside serving snacks throughout the day. In conclusion this facility encourages outdoor fun with plenty of attractions and overall provides great value for money!
Name | Fort Lucan |
Website | http://www.fortlucan.com/ |
Address | Fort, Westmanstown, Lucan, Co. Dublin, K78 E678, Ireland |
Contact Details | |
Opening Hours | n/a |
Google Rating | 4.3 Stars out of 5 |
Total Reviews | 621+ reviews |
Emerald Park (Formerly Tayto Park)
Emerald Park, located in Ashbourne, Co. Meath, is a must-visit destination for families and groups looking to have an amazing day out filled with fun and excitement. Emerald Park is home to some of the world’s best rides for kids such as roller coasters, bumper cars and water ride attractions – even daredevils can find something thrilling! The park is extremely well organised with plenty of food pit stops, comfortable seating areas and toilet facilities spread across the grounds so that there are no worries about being thirsty or having go nowhere fast.
For those who prefer less exciting activities but still want to participate in the fun of visiting Emerald Park then you won’t be disappointed either; they have a petting zoo where visitors can safely get up close with animals like lemurs while still maintaining social distancing measures set by local authorities. Another hit at Emerald Park are its free flying raptors shows; expect breathtaking displays unlike anything else around! For parents worried about parking costs associated with this massive amusement park don’t worry because they offer huge parking area which is managed professionally too so no need to budget extra pennies into your trip here – simply show up, park and enter all smiles!
Don’t forget before making plans to check online prices where tickets are bundled at discounted prices; this could save you money whilst avoiding queues upon entry since you’ve booked them pre purchased secure tickets for specific time slots…now isn’t that nice? So come one come all it doesn’t matter what age range everyone will remember their time spent here as priceless memories were made from start till finish when visiting Emeral Parks – it truly lives up to its name ‘emerald’ most definitely cut from another finer cloth 💎👍
Name | Emerald Park |
Website | http://www.emeraldpark.ie/ |
Address | Emerald Park, Kilbrew, Ashbourne, Co. Meath, A84 EA02, Ireland |
Contact Details | (01) 835 1999 |
Opening Hours | n/a |
Google Rating | 4.6 Stars out of 5 |
Total Reviews | 12576+ reviews |
Ballyhass Mallow
Highly recommend Ballyhass adventures near Mallow. Great signage, top class facilities & amazingly friendly and professional customer service. We felt in very safe hands. We visited the aqua park at 2pm on August 3rd. Great fun for all ages. Beautiful hot chocolates with our picnic at reception before we headed home planning our next visit already! Thanks all.
My daughter attended summer camp here with her friends. She had the time of her life and came home buzzing every day. She mentioned Amy in particular as one of the instructors who made her experience so good. She will definitely be back next year.
Visited for a hen party where half the group did the aquapark and the other half did axe throwing. Everyone had a blast and could not get over how much fun they had, our group ranged in age from 24 to 61 so there is definitely something to suit everyone. Highly recommend Ballyhass for any day out. The staff were very helpful and friendly from start to finish, we will be back again!!!
Had a great experience down here ziplining. The resources,staff and facilities here are incredible. We took several wheelchair users on a Zipline and it was a once in a lifetime experience for all of us. Cannot wait to come back!
Name | Ballyhass Mallow |
Website | https://www.ballyhass.ie |
Address | Unnamed Road, Ballyhass, County Cork, P51 N990, Ireland |
Contact Details | (022) 27773 |
Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Google Rating | 4.8 Stars out of 5 |
Total Reviews | 462+ reviews |
Perks Family Entertainment & Indoor Funfair
Perks Family Entertainment & Indoor Funfair is the perfect place for kids and adults alike looking for a fun day out. It offers an impressive variety of activities such as mini golf, bowling, arcade style games, pool tables and soft play areas that everyone can enjoy. The pricing is also very reasonable so there’s no need to break the bank when enjoying all these fun activities.
What makes Perks even more special is their Autism hour where the lights and sound are reduced to create a calmer atmosphere which allows those with autism to feel at ease and be able to enjoy themselves without feeling overwhelmed or confused. Furthermore ,the staff working at Perks pay great attention ensuring customers have wonderful experiences as they provide kindness in response to anyone’s needs while visiting.
Additionally, this center provides free parking alongside having its own restaurant serving delicious food if hungry after all of your endless amounts of playing! All These factors make Perks Family Entertainment & Indoor Funfair the ideal spot for family gatherings or group outings making it worth visiting over other places due simply factoring in how well maintained this facility remains along with how enjoyable each experience always turns out leaving you wanting more every time you go!
Name | Perks Family Entertainment & Indoor Funfair |
Website | https://www.perksfunfair.com/ |
Address | Seafield, Youghal, Co. Cork, Ireland |
Contact Details | (024) 92438 |
Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: Closed Friday: Closed Saturday: 12:30 – 7:00 PM Sunday: 12:30 – 7:00 PM |
Google Rating | 4.2 Stars out of 5 |
Total Reviews | 815+ reviews |
Splash Valley Aqua Park
Splash Valley Aqua Park is located on Lower Main Street in Glasnarget North, Rathdrum. It boasts a stunning 4.8 out of 5 stars rating on Google Reviews, with more than 54 reviews available to look through before your visit! The park’s website states that Splash Valley has “fun for all ages” and provides plenty of activities to do such as an aquatic playground and river rides, plus numerous waterslides. With the option of a hot shower after-the-fact for those muscular aches, you’re sure to have a great day out no matter what age or ability you may have here.
However even though many are raving about its services online, there are some drawbacks when it comes to visiting this particular park – one big downside people seem to agree upon is the lack of readily available sunscreen at the spot itself; so make sure if you plan on going during sunny hours (hint: always) that you come prepared with enough sun protection or be prepared to buy some offsite once inside their gates! Also while the staff are almost always friendly and helpful according to customers’ feedback – they can’t compromise safety while dealing with large numbers of visitors so expect them not only to apply strict rules but enforce them too when necessary – which could potentially lead towards longer waiting times in certain areas before being allowed onto rides or attractions themselves. Finally coming into contact with water parks requires thorough hygiene practices as well due having large numbers exposed closely together around each other; other visitors highly recommend bringing hand sanitizer along should additional safety measures need protecting against any potential diseases related risks whilst present within Splash Valley’s premises itself.
All things said and done however – most people tend find Splash Valley Aqua Park worth their visits time & money spent both because of unparalleled lifeguard supervision combined alongside sensational views overlooking lowland country scenery nearby plus adequate amenities ensuring everyone’s comfortability kept optimal from start till finish! So despite its shortcomings – everything considered thoroughly regarding cost versus value & entertainment involved – why not take advantage if given chance experience weekdays especially since capacity limitations might also sometimes exist?
Name | Splash Valley Aqua Park |
Website | http://www.splashvalley.ie/ |
Address | Lower Main St, Glasnarget North, Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow, A67 CX62, Ireland |
Contact Details | 086 727 2872 |
Opening Hours | n/a |
Google Rating | 4.8 Stars out of 5 |
Total Reviews | 54+ reviews |
Seasonal Tramore Amusement Park
Seasonal Tramore Amusement Park is definitely worth visiting as it offers a wide range of activities and rides for all age groups. From toddlers to adults, everyone can have an entertaining time here. There are several roller coasters such as the Crazy Train, Big spin Dipper, the Water Ride and Hovering high above which make for exciting experiences. The park also has waterside challenges games like bumper cars, sponge zone shooting gallery which guarantee loads of giggles and fun for kids flitting about with squeals of laughter!
For those who are brave enough there is also a horror house ride complete with its own spooky sound track that provides more thrills than anyone would expect from an amusement park! To top it off one can enjoy delicious treats ranging from donuts to crepes at the food court located within.
The location itself just across the road from the beach further enhances Seasonal Tramore Amusement Park – both its beauty charm. So if you’re looking to have a great family day out or just some thrilling adventure then this place shouldn’t be missed!
Name | Seasonal Tramore Amusement Park |
Website | http://tramoreamusements.com/ |
Address | Tramore West, Tramore, Co. Waterford, Ireland |
Contact Details | (051) 393 986 |
Opening Hours | n/a |
Google Rating | 4.4 Stars out of 5 |
Total Reviews | 1368+ reviews |
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My Final Thoughts
I’ve had an absolute blast diving into the world of Ireland’s best theme parks, and I’m thrilled to share this adventure with you. Each park, with its unique blend of thrilling rides, enchanting landscapes, and family-friendly fun, promises a day out that’s as memorable as it is exciting. From wild water slides to roller coasters that have you clinging to the edge of your seat, there’s a piece of magic waiting for everyone. My journey through Ireland’s amusement parks has been nothing short of magical, and I’m buzzing with the hope that you’ll feel the same exhilaration and joy. Here’s to your next adventure in Ireland’s incredible theme parks – may it be filled with laughter, thrills, and unforgettable moments!
Thrills & Chills: Essential FAQs for Ireland’s Top Theme Park Adventures
How unique are theme parks in Ireland compared to others around the world?
I’ve noticed that Irish theme parks uniquely integrate cultural elements and natural landscapes with thrilling attractions. This distinct blend makes them stand out, offering visitors not just rides, but an immersive experience into the charm and beauty of Ireland.
Can families find suitable attractions in Irish theme parks?
Indeed, Irish theme parks cater to all ages with a variety of attractions. My visits have revealed a wide range of options, from gentle rides and interactive exhibits for the little ones to adrenaline-inducing roller coasters for the more adventurous.
Are water parks available in Ireland for those hot summer days?
Yes, and they’re a fantastic way to beat the summer heat! Ireland hosts several water parks that offer a variety of water-based activities, from lazy rivers and wave pools to high-speed water slides, making for a refreshing day out.
What’s the secret to discovering less known theme parks in Ireland?
Digging a bit deeper and exploring regional areas can uncover some hidden treasures. Engaging with local communities or checking regional tourism websites has led me to discover some less-known parks that offer unique experiences and a break from the crowded tourist spots.
How accommodating are Irish theme parks to visitors with special needs?
From my experience, Irish theme parks are very considerate towards visitors with special needs. They often provide accessible facilities, special queue lines, and assistance services to ensure everyone has an enjoyable visit.
Is it possible to enjoy both nature and adventure in Irish theme parks?
Absolutely! Many theme parks in Ireland are set against the backdrop of the country’s stunning natural beauty, offering outdoor adventure activities alongside traditional theme park fun. This combination allows for a diverse experience that appeals to nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
What tips should I keep in mind when planning a visit to an Irish theme park?
Planning ahead is key. I recommend checking the weather forecast, as Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable, and dressing accordingly. Also, look into any online booking options to secure tickets in advance and potentially save on admission fees. Lastly, don’t forget to check the park’s schedule for any special events or shows happening during your visit.
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