DUBLIN

Visit Dublin Zoo for half price: Dublin Zoo is celebrating the start of autumn with half price tickets every Saturday and Sunday until the 21st of October. The latest additions to the zoo include three baby sea lions and twelve flamingo chicks, so there’s lots to see.

Suits: All ages. When: until 21st October. Costs: €9 (adults) €6.50 (children); tickets must be purchased at the gate. Find out more here. 

KILKENNY 

National Reptile Zoo: Get up close and personal with over 100 species of reptile at Ireland’s only dedicated reptile zoo. With a soft play centre, onsite café, indoor picnic areas and hourly animal encounters, this is a full day out for the whole family.

Suits: The whole family. When: 10am-6pm, 6 days a week. Costs: €9.90 (adults), €7.50 (children). Find out more here. 

WICKLOW

National Birds of Prey Centre: The stunning Russborough House in Blessington is home to the National Birds Of Prey Centre, where hawks, falcons, eagles and owls from all over the world live. The centre runs guided talks and an opportunity to get up close and personal with these gorgeous birds.

Suits: The whole family. When: Wednesday to Sunday 11am-5pm. Costs: €8 (adults) and €6 (child). Find out more here. 

GALWAY

Atlantaquaria: The National Aquarium of Ireland is home to over 150 marine and freshwater native species. From a giant skeleton of a fin whale to Valentine, the only White Skate on public display in the world, this is a must for kids with an interest in sea life.

Suits: The whole family. When: Monday-Friday, 10am-5pm, Saturday and Sunday, 10am-6pm. Costs: €12 (adult), €7.50 (child). Find out more here. 

KILDARE

Wallaby Woods: This open farm is home to 60 animal species including pygmy hedgehogs, wallabies, emus and lots more. It has a fantastic petting area, as well as a fairy cottage, playground and zipline, meaning hours of bang for your buck.

Suits: The whole family. When: Monday-Sunday 11am-5pm. Costs: €6 per person (under 2s go free). Find out more here.  

CORK

The Donkey Sanctuary: Head to Mallow for the chance to meet some gorgeous donkeys who have all been rescued by the experts at The Donkey Sanctuary. The farm has gorgeous walkways and a great onsite coffee shop, as well as lots of information about the 130 donkeys and mules who live onsite.

Suits: The whole family. When: Monday to Friday 9am-4.30pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am-5pm. Costs: Free, but donations are welcome. Find out more here.

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