Mordern, Free, Best Art Museums in Maynooth

"Unexpected and splendid: the Chester Beatty Library, with its remarkable collections of Oriental, Islamic and Western art and books, is simply one of the finest museums in Ireland. This collection was gifted to the Irish State by Chester Beatty, an American mining magnate. The permanent 'Arts of the Book' and 'Sacred Traditions' exhibitions showcase the Library's treasures, which include Chinese jade books and Biblical papyri in state-of-the-art galleries; other exhibitions change regularly."

"These include the Irish government state apartments, which are used for official state engagements, as well as the Garda (Irish police) Museum and the Chester Beatty Library museum. All of these can be visited. Visiting the main Castle, which includes the State Apartments, requires a ticket, and you can either do a self-guided tour or a guided tour. The former is free for holders of the Dublin Pass."

"Nestled behind Dublin Castle, the Chester Beatty is the only museum in Ireland to have won the European Museum of the Year award. Its vast collection of religious artifacts from across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and North Africa is unparalleled. Works from 2700 B.C."

"Based in a renovated 17th century hospital, the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) hosts different exhibitions from Irish designers such as Elieen Gray to international artists like Philippe Parreno. The IMMA is a mix between old and new culture which makes it unique. It’s a really original gallery we recommend you to visit it."

"Housed on the grounds of the Royal Kilmainham Hospital, not only does IMMA offer renowned permanent and temporary exhibitions but it is also a fine setting for a stroll on a sunny day."

"Out in Kilmainham, IMMA is worth a visit for the striking building and gardens alone. Contemporary art is spread throughout the former hospital, with free guided tours available too."

"The Hugh Lane Gallery is the first known public gallery of modern art in the world. Founded in 1908 by Sir Hugh Lane, an Irish art dealer, collector and gallery director, it includes a permanent exhibition and other revolving exhibitions, mostly by contemporary Irish artists. Be sure to visit the stained-glass room, which contains a popular piece called “The Eve of St. Agnes,” as well as other stained-glass work from 20th-century glass artists."

"Hugh Lane Art Gallery – A contemporary and modern art museum housed in a 18th century former home that includes the Francis Bacon studio. Founded in 1908, it is believed to be the first public gallery of modern art in the world."

"The National Museum of Decorative Arts and History is located in a very large and impressive old army barracks in the Dublin city suburb of Smithfield. It has a Luas stop (the Dublin city tram) conveniently located at the entrance. This museum is packed full of interesting exhibits including Irish silver, military history from 1550 to modern day, and a chance to look at the clothing and jewellery worn in Ireland from the 1760’s to the 1960’s."

"Collins Barracks have a collection encompassing millennials of mesmerising objects, from jewellery and coins, through clothing and furniture, to weapons and vessels. Given that there are four floors of artifacts to see and depending on your child’s age, you may like to reference the guidebooks or floor plans. This will help you to manage the tour and potentially make it more focused on specific items for younger children."

"National Museum of Decorative Arts & History – A museum that will appeal to both art and history lovers. It is filled with decorative arts, jewelry, furniture, costumes, weapons, Asian art, & history exhibits."

"The Olivier Cornet Gallery on Denmark Street represents some incredible contemporary Irish and international artists, who's works include painting, sculpture, ceramics, fine art prints, photography and installations. They're always running incredible exhibitions too, so have a look at their site to see which artists they're showcasing at the moment."

"The Gerard Byrne Studio, Art Gallery is home to a display of Gerard's paintings and is aimed at art enthusiasts and collectors."

"Located on Dublins busy O’Connell Street, Gelato Di Natura Dublin is another superb traditional Italian ice-cream parlour. Formerly known as SUSO, with stores all over the world, you are sure to get top quality ice cream at Gelato Di Natura Dublin. With an impressive 28 flavours to choose from you will be spoilt for choice."

"Gelato Di Natura is located on the bustling O’Connell Street, and you can choose if you want to enjoy your ice cream inside or outside. Cookies, vanilla and chocolate are popular but also unusual flavours like walnuts and figs can be found in their selection of flavours. View this post on Instagram"

"If you're looking to indulge early on the weekend, look no further. San Lorenzo's can be described (and is) as a modern Italian, NYC style. Some say this is the #bestbrunchindublin and I'm finding it hard to argue that myself."

"Among the most popular places in Dublin, San Lorenzo’s offers Italian cuisine with some pleasant American contaminations in a relaxed and informal atmosphere in the city center. Reservations required every day of the week."

"Il Fuoco is one of the best restaurants in the centre of Dublin serving authentic Mediterranean and Italian cuisine, we only source the finest local ingredients to ensure the best dining experience for our customers. Enjoy a full Irish or continental breakfast, or swing by to sample our great pastry selections, lunch or dinner menus that are all specially prepared Read more…"

"This restored soldiers barracks is today a state-of-the-art exhibition space and venue that pays tribute to its colourful history and Ireland’s heritage."

"This Arts Centre in Dundrum has a range of events and programmes, but in particular they have a great programme for children. In July they also run performance summer camps."