WHETHER YOU’RE FROM Dublin city or just visiting, Grand Canal Dock is an area well worth spending a little time in.

Having been redeveloped over the last few years, thanks in part to companies like Facebook and Google setting up home in the area, it’s become a trendy place to hang out.

Here are seven fun things to do in Grand Canal Dock – let us know if you have more suggestions in the comments below.

1. Get out on the water

Donal Murphy Donal Murphy

If you’re feeling a little more adventurous you can do a lot of watersports in the Grand Canal dock area. From water-skiing to wakeboarding, windsurfing or kayaking there are loads of different ways to dip your toe into the water (sports).

Or if that’s not your bag you can do some great people-watching in the area. Grab a coffee in the nearby Il Valentino or Fresh supermarket and have a stroll around.

2. Treat yourself to a tasty meal

The Marker Hotel The Marker Hotel

There are a wealth of restaurants in and around the Grand Canal Dock area where you can get a wide range of delicious cuisines. Whether you’re looking for some nibbles before a show, a great outdoor or rooftop area to enjoy a drink in the sun, or a pre-theatre menu to indulge in before heading to a show, there’s definitely something for you.

The Marker Brasserie recently won ‘Best Hotel Restaurant in Dublin’ at the recent Restaurant Association of Ireland awards. 

3. Go to the dogs

Shelbourne Park Shelbourne Park

Well, not literally, but Shelbourne Park Greyhound Racing is just around the corner, so if you’re up for  a bit of a flutter, you don’t have too far to go.

Not only can you have a gamble on the greyhounds, you can have a meal in the restaurant or a drink at the bar – where you’ll be able to see the races from the comfort of your table.

4. Head to a game

infomatique infomatique

Aviva Stadium is just around the corner – you could probably see it from your hotel room, in fact. If you’re going to a big game then there’s no better place to head to for a pre-match meal or drink.

Even if you’re not heading to a game, the buzz around the area will be well worth checking out. There’s a friendly game between the Republic of Ireland and Netherlands on this week (Friday 27 May).

5. Stroll on the strand

bea&txm bea&txm

Sandymount strand is a beautiful walk, particularly on a sunny day. If you really feel like stretching your legs you can head as far as the Poolbeg towers and catch a great view of Dublin bay.

6. Catch some culture at the Bord Gáis Energy theatre

Krongu Krongu

The gorgeous Bord Gáis Energy Theatre is the place to head to for anything from musicals to plays to catching the RTÉ Concert orchestra performing the Indiana Jones film score or Derren Brown: Miracle (on this week).

What’s really nice to do though is have a drink during the interval on the upper levels where you’ll get fantastic views across the Grand Canal basin.

7. Rock out at Three Arena

3Arena 3Arena

If you feel like rocking out for the evening then head to 3Arena where all the biggest acts play. You could stroll down from your hotel in Grand Canal Dock or take the Luas from town. Either way, you’ll get a splendid view of the Docklands at night.

Hans Zimmer, one of Hollywood’s most popular composers, will be playing the 3Arena on Thursday. He’ll be performing songs from well known soundtracks such as The Lion King, Mission Impossible and The Dark Knight Trilogy.

Got any more suggestions for us? Let us know in the comments below.

Fancy winning an urban escape package at the 5 star Marker Hotel in Grand Canal Dock? It includes an overnight stay, two 60 minute spa treatments and dinner for two. Simply head to the Marker Hotel to enter. Good luck.