Top 5 Amusement Parks in Ireland for Family Fun and Thrills

Family Fun in Ireland’s Top 5 Theme Parks and Adventure Spots

Ireland may be famous for its rolling green hills, historic castles, and charming towns, but it’s also home to some incredible amusement parks packed with fun for the whole family. From thrilling roller coasters and water slides to nature-based adventure parks and immersive themed attractions, Ireland’s amusement parks offer a unique mix of excitement, culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re in for an adrenaline rush, looking for family-friendly activities, or hoping for a relaxing day outdoors, these top amusement parks across the Emerald Isle guarantee an unforgettable experience. Dive into this guide to discover Ireland’s most entertaining parks, with insider tips on rides, tickets, dining, and more!

1. Emerald Park: Ireland’s Ultimate Theme Park and Zoo Adventure

Emerald Park, formerly known as Tayto Park, is Ireland's premier theme park and zoo located in County Meath, just outside Dublin. This beloved destination combines thrilling rides, hands-on animal encounters, and beautiful natural landscapes, making it a must-visit for families, thrill-seekers, and animal enthusiasts alike. With over 50 attractions ranging from adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to gentle family rides, Emerald Park is one of the most comprehensive amusement parks in Ireland. Beyond the attractions, Emerald Park’s zoo is home to a variety of animals from all around the world, providing educational experiences alongside the fun. With themed zones, interactive play areas, and seasonal events, Emerald Park promises an unforgettable adventure for visitors of all ages.

Thrilling and Unique Attractions

1. The Cú Chulainn Coaster: Ireland’s Iconic Wooden Roller Coaster
   Standing as one of the tallest wooden roller coasters in Europe, the Cú Chulainn Coaster offers an exhilarating ride inspired by the legendary Irish hero. Reaching speeds of up to 100 km/h with a 32-meter drop, this coaster combines speed with an authentic wooden structure, adding a rustic feel to the high-speed experience. Known for its twists, turns, and intense drops, it’s a must for thrill-seekers and a true icon of Emerald Park.
2. Dino Dash: A Jurassic-Themed Family Coaster
   Dino Dash transports guests back to prehistoric times on a family-friendly roller coaster that races through vibrant dinosaur landscapes. With gentle turns, twists, and dinosaur displays around every bend, it’s perfect for younger adventurers and families. This colorful, immersive ride provides excitement without the intensity of larger coasters, making it a great choice for younger guests.
3. Viking Voyage: A Water Adventure with a Mythical Twist
   Viking Voyage is a water ride that combines Irish history with adventure, taking visitors on a journey inspired by Ireland's Viking past. Featuring authentic Viking boats, waterfalls, and a 60-foot plunge, this attraction is perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike. The immersive setting with detailed Viking decorations adds to the experience, making it both visually impressive and thrilling.
4. Junior Zone: Fun and Adventure for the Little Ones
   Designed with younger guests in mind, the Junior Zone is a vibrant area filled with safe, gentle rides and colorful play structures. Attractions include a mini train, carousel, and climbing structures, providing a fun, engaging experience for toddlers and young children.

The Emerald Park Zoo: A World of Wildlife

Emerald Park’s zoo is home to over 300 animals from various continents, offering visitors an opportunity to connect with animals up close. From exotic species like Sumatran tigers and African lions to native animals such as red foxes and fallow deer, the zoo aims to educate and inspire conservation awareness. The park’s animal care team provides daily talks and feeding demonstrations, making each visit to the zoo an interactive and educational experience.

1. Big Cat Sanctuary: See the Majestic Sumatran Tigers
   The Big Cat Sanctuary is a highlight of Emerald Park’s zoo, home to the critically endangered Sumatran tiger. Visitors can observe these powerful animals up close and learn about the park’s conservation efforts to protect endangered species through interactive exhibits and talks.
2. Lemur Woods: A Walkthrough Adventure with Curious Primates
   In the Lemur Woods walkthrough, visitors can step into the habitat of these playful primates. With a variety of lemur species hopping and playing around you, this immersive experience is fun for all ages and provides unique insights into lemur behavior.
3. Petting Farm: Hands-On Fun for Younger Guests
   The petting farm at Emerald Park offers kids a chance to meet friendly farm animals, including goats, sheep, rabbits, and donkeys. Children can pet and feed these animals in a safe environment, making it a favorite for families and young visitors.

How Much Time You’ll Need

To fully enjoy everything Emerald Park offers, plan to spend a full day at the park. With its blend of thrilling rides, interactive zones, and animal exhibits, a full day will allow ample time to explore each area and take breaks at the various dining spots.

Ticket Options for a Full Adventure

• One-Day Pass: €35 for adults, €30 for children under 12, providing unlimited access to all rides and zoo attractions.
• Family Pass: €110 for a family of four, offering a discount for families seeking a full day of fun.
• Annual Pass: Available for €80 per person, allowing unlimited entry to Emerald Park throughout the year, ideal for families who live nearby or visit frequently.

Getting to Emerald Park

Emerald Park is located approximately 30 minutes from Dublin in Ashbourne, County Meath. By car, it’s a straightforward drive along the M2 motorway. For those without a vehicle, there are bus services from Dublin City Centre to Ashbourne, where visitors can take a short taxi ride to the park entrance.

Dining Options for Every Appetite

• The Lodge Restaurant: The Lodge offers a range of hearty meals, from burgers and pasta to fresh salads and wraps, making it a convenient spot for lunch or a mid-day meal.
• Pizza Place: Located near the main rides, this quick-service spot offers fresh pizza slices and cold drinks, perfect for families who want to refuel without missing too much park time.

Local Tip to Maximize Your Day

Arrive early, especially on weekends, to enjoy shorter lines for popular rides like the Cú Chulainn Coaster and Viking Voyage. Don’t miss the animal feeding sessions at the zoo for a closer look at Emerald Park’s residents and unique insights into their care.

Stay tuned to Isla Guru Magazine for more family-friendly adventures, theme park guides, and travel tips from around the world!

2. Funtasia Waterpark: Ireland’s Largest Indoor Waterpark

Funtasia Waterpark in Drogheda, County Louth, is a popular destination for families looking for year-round aquatic fun. This indoor water park, just north of Dublin, offers a wide variety of slides, splash zones, and interactive play areas, making it a great choice even on rainy days. In addition to its impressive water facilities, Funtasia also features an adventure center, arcade, and climbing walls, providing entertainment options for all ages. With its mix of water rides, games, and activities, Funtasia offers an exciting, weatherproof day of fun in Ireland.

Splash-Worthy Attractions

1. The Super Bowl Slide: A Thrill for Adrenaline Lovers
   The Super Bowl Slide is a high-speed water slide that sends riders spiraling into a giant bowl before dropping into a pool. Its intense twists and turns make it one of Funtasia’s most thrilling attractions, providing a fun rush for older kids and adults.
2. Pirates Cove: A Family-Friendly Adventure Area
   Pirates Cove is a multi-level water play area filled with slides, fountains, and tipping buckets that create a safe yet exciting environment for young children. The pirate-themed decor, complete with treasure chests and pirate ships, makes it a hit for little adventurers.
3. Climbing Wall and Sky Climb: A Break from the Water
   For those looking for dry land fun, Funtasia’s climbing wall and Sky Climb area offer challenging activities that test balance and agility. The climbing wall caters to various skill levels, while the Sky Climb is a ropes course where visitors can navigate obstacles from high above.

How Long to Spend

A full day is perfect to explore the water park, arcade, and adventure zones. Families with younger children may find a half-day sufficient if focusing only on the water attractions.

Ticket Options for Family Fun

• Waterpark Pass: €15 for a two-hour session, with options for extended passes available.
• Adventure Pass: €12 for access to the climbing wall, Sky Climb, and other non-water activities.
• Combo Tickets: Discounted combination passes for water and adventure areas are available for families or groups, starting at €25 per person.

Getting to Funtasia Waterpark

Located in Drogheda, about 40 minutes from Dublin, Funtasia Waterpark can be reached by car via the M1 motorway. Alternatively, visitors can take a train from Dublin to Drogheda, followed by a short taxi ride to the waterpark.

Dining Options for Refueling

• Pirate’s Cove Café: This casual spot offers a variety of kid-friendly meals like pizza, chicken tenders, and chips, perfect for a quick meal during a water break.
• Funtasia Diner: Serving hot food options, including burgers and pasta dishes, Funtasia Diner is a convenient choice for families looking for a satisfying lunch.

Local Tip for a Smooth Visit

Funtasia can be very popular during weekends and holidays, so arrive early to secure lockers and avoid peak crowds. For the best experience, visit midweek if possible, when the waterpark is quieter.

3. Bundoran Adventure Park: Seaside Fun for All Ages

Bundoran Adventure Park, located in County Donegal along Ireland’s picturesque Wild Atlantic Way, is a classic seaside amusement park filled with family-friendly rides, arcades, and carnival games. Known for its coastal setting, Bundoran Adventure Park offers rides and attractions for visitors of all ages, including classic bumper cars, roller coasters, and Ferris wheels. With its vibrant seaside atmosphere and a great selection of rides, this park is perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking for a nostalgic amusement experience with a stunning coastal view.

Must-Try Seaside Attractions

1. The Big Wheel: Coastal Views from Above
   The Big Wheel offers visitors a chance to take in panoramic views of Bundoran’s coastline from above. This Ferris wheel is a family favorite, providing a relaxing ride with unbeatable views of the Atlantic, especially beautiful at sunset.
2. Waltzer: A Spinning Thrill
   The Waltzer is a classic fairground ride with spinning seats that create a whirlwind experience. It’s a lively attraction that provides fun for teens and adults, blending fast spins with a touch of retro charm.
3. Bumper Cars: A Family Favorite
   Bundoran Adventure Park’s bumper cars allow families to have some friendly competition as they race and bump around. A timeless amusement park favorite, the bumper cars add a bit of laughter and light-hearted fun to any visit.

How Much Time You’ll Need

Half a day is typically enough to experience the main rides and enjoy a few carnival games, making Bundoran Adventure Park ideal for a fun afternoon or evening visit.

Ticket Options

• Ride Tokens: Available for €1 each, with rides generally requiring between 2-4 tokens. Bulk purchase options are available at a discount, perfect for families or groups.
• Unlimited Ride Passes: During peak season, the park offers unlimited ride passes for around €25 per person, allowing all-day access to attractions.

Getting to Bundoran Adventure Park

Bundoran Adventure Park is easily accessible by car, located approximately two hours from both Dublin and Belfast. Visitors can also take a bus from Sligo to Bundoran, with routes running regularly during summer.

Snacks with a View

• The Carousel Café: Overlooking the beach, The Carousel Café serves coffee, sandwiches, and light bites, perfect for a snack break while enjoying the seaside view.
• Ice Cream Hut: A must-stop for anyone with a sweet tooth, the Ice Cream Hut offers a range of flavors and seaside treats, perfect for cooling off on a sunny day.

Local Tip to Enhance Your Visit

For the best experience, visit Bundoran Adventure Park in the late afternoon when the evening lights add extra charm. Be sure to bring cash for tokens and games, as some attractions are cash-only.

4. Clara Lara Funpark: An Outdoor Adventure Wonderland

Nestled in the Wicklow Mountains, Clara Lara Funpark is an outdoor adventure park that specializes in nature-based activities and water fun. This family-oriented park is perfect for those looking for a break from traditional amusement parks, offering activities like rope swings, obstacle courses, and rowboats. Clara Lara’s focus on outdoor play makes it a favorite for families who enjoy nature, adventure, and hands-on activities. With no electronic rides, Clara Lara Funpark brings visitors closer to nature and promotes creativity and exploration in a scenic woodland setting.

Adventure-Filled Attractions

1. The Aqua Shuttle: Water Fun in the Wild
   The Aqua Shuttle is a thrilling water slide that lets kids and adults slide into a natural lake, offering excitement in a beautiful outdoor setting. It’s a unique attraction that combines the thrill of a water slide with the refreshing feel of an open lake.
2. Rafting on the Lake: A Family-Friendly Adventure
   Clara Lara’s lake allows families to paddle on wooden rafts or rowboats, perfect for some relaxed time on the water. This activity brings a sense of tranquility and adventure as you navigate through natural surroundings and enjoy the park’s picturesque scenery.
3. Zip Lines and Rope Bridges: Test Your Agility
   Clara Lara’s rope bridges and zip lines provide a hands-on adventure where kids and adults can test their balance and strength. These outdoor challenges encourage exploration and physical play, making them a hit among visitors of all ages.

Recommended Time to Explore

A full day is ideal to enjoy all the outdoor activities Clara Lara Funpark offers, especially for families who want to experience both the water and land-based attractions.

Ticket Options

• Day Pass: €16 per person, which includes access to all outdoor activities.
• Family Pass: Discounted rates are available for families, with packages starting at €50 for four people, making it a budget-friendly option for larger groups.

Getting to Clara Lara Funpark

Located in Rathdrum, County Wicklow, Clara Lara Funpark is about an hour’s drive from Dublin. The park is best reached by car, as it is situated in a rural area with limited public transportation.

Rustic Snack Options

• Picnic Area: Clara Lara offers a designated picnic area where families can bring their own food for a more budget-friendly dining option.
• Clara Lara Café: The small café offers snacks, sandwiches, and drinks, providing a convenient option for families who prefer to purchase their lunch onsite.

Local Tip for Maximum Enjoyment

Bring swimwear, as many activities involve water play. Arriving early is ideal, especially on sunny days, as the park can become quite popular with families during summer.

5. Westport House & Pirate Adventure Park: Historic Fun on Ireland’s West Coast

Westport House & Pirate Adventure Park, located in County Mayo, combines the elegance of a historic mansion with an exciting family adventure park set along the Wild Atlantic Way. Dating back to the 18th century, Westport House is surrounded by beautiful grounds and offers an array of activities that include thrilling pirate-themed rides, paddleboats, and even swan pedaloes on the lake. With both educational and entertainment options, it’s a perfect blend of history and adventure.

Must-Try Attractions

1. Pirate Queen Swinging Ship: High Seas Adventure
   Inspired by the legendary Irish pirate queen, Grace O’Malley, this swinging ship ride offers high-flying thrills and a hint of maritime history. It’s a family favorite, providing a gentle yet exciting experience that captures the spirit of adventure.
2. Pirates Plunge Log Flume: Water Fun with a View
   The Pirates Plunge log flume offers a scenic yet thrilling ride through the park, culminating in a splash-filled drop. Positioned near Westport House, the log flume combines a water adventure with views of the park’s historic landscapes.
3. Westport House Tour: Explore Irish History
   Guests can tour the beautifully preserved Westport House, filled with historical artifacts, period decor, and engaging exhibits about the Browne family who once lived here. The tour offers a glimpse into 18th-century Irish life and makes for an educational stop amidst the fun rides.

Ideal Time to Spend

A full day is ideal to experience the park’s attractions, including both the rides and the Westport House tour, as well as the scenic lake activities.

Ticket Options for History and Fun

• Park Entry: €20 for adults, €15 for children, covering all rides and the Westport House tour.
• Family Pass: €60 for a family of four, making it a cost-effective choice for families.
• Season Pass: €110 per family, allowing unlimited visits throughout the year, ideal for locals or regular visitors.

Getting There

Located about 3 hours from Dublin, Westport House can be reached by car or by train to Westport Station, followed by a 10-minute taxi ride. It’s easily accessible for those staying in Mayo or nearby.

Dining Options for a Family Feast

• Gracy’s Pizzeria & Bistro: Located on the grounds, Gracy’s serves wood-fired pizzas, burgers, and locally inspired dishes, offering a cozy spot for a full meal.
• The Tea Rooms: Situated within Westport House, the Tea Rooms offer tea, coffee, and a selection of pastries, perfect for a relaxing break during the tour.

Local Tip for a Full Experience

Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lake, especially in summer, when you can take advantage of the park’s beautiful outdoor spaces. Don’t miss the evening ghost tour if you’re staying nearby – it’s a unique way to explore Westport House.

From thrilling roller coasters to indoor waterparks and outdoor adventure retreats, Ireland’s top amusement parks offer excitement, relaxation, and family-friendly entertainment across the island. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping rides, nature-based activities, or relaxing in a tropical-themed water park, these parks showcase the diversity of fun and adventure Ireland has to offer. Pack your bags, grab your tickets, and embark on an unforgettable journey to Ireland’s best amusement parks – where memories are made and fun awaits at every turn!