Best Nature and Parks (RV, National, Dog, etc) in Greystones

"The largest urban park of any European capital, Phoenix Park stretches over a staggering seven square kilometres (2.7 square miles). Within that space is the acclaimed Dublin Zoo. Established in 1831, it’s one of the oldest zoos in the world."

"At over 1,750 acres, The Phoenix Park is one of Europe’s biggest city parks... and we're lucky it's right on our doorstep!. More than 350 years old, it is home to Dublin Zoo, playing fields, and the Victorian People’s Flower Gardens."

"Re-opened by Lord Ardilaun (Arthur Guinness) in 1880 for the citizens of Dublin. These 9 hectares / 22-acre park has been maintained in the original Victorian layout with extensive perimeter tree and shrub planting, spectacular spring and summer Victorian bedding. The park is adorned with statutes of Irelands politically and literary heroes like Countess Markiewitz, Robert Emmet, James Joyce, WB Yeats and off course Arthur Guinness/Lord Ardilaun."

"St Stephen’s Green is recognizable in every photo and beautiful in every season. There are cherry blossoms in spring, greenery and swans in summer and the most gorgeous colours in autumn. If you don’t mind having a few passers by in the background, it’s one of the easiest locations for wedding photos in Dublin."

"These leafy, tranquil gardens are located just minutes from the city-centre, and pay tribute to the 49,400 Irish soldiers who died in WWI. The gardens were designed by Londoner Sir Edwin Lutyens, a skilled architect who found inspiration in traditional styles. In the gardens, you’ll find beautiful examples of classical symmetry and formality."

"These gardens are one of the most famous memorial gardens in Europe. They are dedicated to the memory of 49,400 Irish soldiers who died in the 1914-1918 war. The names of all the soldiers are contained in the granite bookrooms in the Gardens."

"Nestled between the suburbs of Raheny and Clontarf is Saint Anne’s Park, owned and managed by the Dublin City Council. Beautiful attractions include a serene walk at the Chestnut park, and onwards you will find architectural follies—buildings that serve as great decors for the park. Including a Water Temple of Pompei found in the banks of the artificial duck pond, a Herculanean temple that overlooks Naniken River, and many more."

"Saint Anne’s Park is located on the Northside of Dublin and is one of the most beautiful parks in the county. The park is home to old ruins, Chinese Suzhou Gardens, Rose Gardens and some magical artwork. On the outskirts of the park lies Ireland’s very own tree of life."

"This market, located in the 247-acre park in Rathfarnham, is well worth browsing through when you're spending the day at Marlay Park. And there are some fantastic vendors at this market. Try the delicious food at Taste of Morocco, get some beautiful hand-made crafts from Handmade For U, find your next read at the Village Bookshop, or enjoy some rolled ice-cream in the sun."

"Set deep within South Dublin, sprawling Marlay Park encompasses wild woodland, indistinct paths, a manicured walled garden and even a golf course. There’s always plenty going on here, like the farmers’ market every weekend and, in summer, an extensive programme of outdoor concerts. Try to locate the ‘fairy tree’ – and good luck (this park stretches out over 300 acres)."

"Another awesome place to go for a walk in Dublin is Marley Park. It is the perfect place to go for some peace and quiet. The park stretches for 86 acres and is home to ponds, forestry and trails."

"A stunning mansion in the Elizabethan Revival style, Killruddery has been home to the Brabazon family (earls of Meath) since 1618 and has one of the oldest gardens in Ireland. The house is impressive, but the prizewinner here is the magnificent orangery, built in 1852 and chock-full of statuary and plant life. If you like fancy glasshouses, this is the one for you. It's 6km north of Greystones just off the R761 coast road."

"We’re coming to the end of our first day in Dublin, and what better way to finish off than by watching the sun set over the River Liffey, which runs right through the centre of the city. Of course, the sunset time will vary depending on the time of year you visit, and you have to be lucky with the weather, but sometimes the sky can put on a real show!"

"Technically, it's little bit outside of Dublin's official boundaries, but close enough for a weekend visit, and super easy to access via the Dart. Loads of different sea life for children to see; including sea horses, black tip sharks and leopard sharks. For any kids tiring of the zoo, this will be really exciting for them as they can get involved with feeding times and engage with the interactive rock pool."

"With over 30 displays and 1000 creatures Sea Life is always popular with the kids and adults alike. The aquarium contains Ireland’s largest collection of sharks as well as other tropical fish, octopus and fish found in Ireland’s lakes, rivers and seas. Feedings and talks take place at Sea Life throughout the day."

"Sea Life in Bray is a really fun day out and definitely worth a visit. Get up close with over 1,000 amazing sea creatures and let your little ones discover something fascinating. Make the most of your visit by attending some of their talks and feeding demonstrations which are held throughout the day."

"The beautiful grass and colourful flowerbeds are overlooked by the majestic St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It’s a great day out for all, and even sits by the River Liffey."

"If you appreciate a good, strong cup of coffee, then you need to get yourself to One Society in Dublin. It has some of the nicest tasting coffee we’ve ever tried anywhere in Ireland, and we’ve tried a LOT of places. Not only are their drinks phenomenal, but their food is out-of-this-world grade, too."

"One Society cafe on Lower Gardiner Street is a “hidden” gem. If you’re looking for a cool coffee, breakfast, brunch, or lunch spot, check this place out. ⁣It’s a little bit out of the way to get to, but no more than a 5-10 minute walk from O’Connell bridge."

"Toscana in Dun Laoghaire, and boasts a great view overlooking the pier, so you can hypnotise the kids with the ships as you dine. It's an Italian restaurant and has a classy feel so you probably want them on decent behaviour. They do have a lovely kids' menu though – there are plenty of good playgrounds to explore in Dun Laoghaire afterwards, and if they're good (or if the weather is good) you can treat them to a Teddy's Ice Cream."

"Why: You have to be careful when wandering the streets of Temple Bar because otherwise you can end up paying a lot of money for some bang average food. However, there are plenty of hidden gems to be found if you know where to look and Al Vesuvio is one of them. Located in Meeting House Square, its vast menu covers everything from fresh pasta and pizzas, to more hearty classic main courses such as veal Milanese."

"Right on Meeting House Square in Temple Bar, this place makes a great starting point for a night out. Al Vesuvio is a cosy spot serving top-notch Italian food seven days a week. We especially love the huge selection of pizzas with (rosse) and without (bianche) cheese."

"One of my favorite experiences in Dublin was our traditional Celtic night at Arlington Hotel. The dinner is three course, surprisingly good, and you'll find a traditional Irish feast. The show is fun and entertaining and makes for a memorable night."

"The National Gallery of Ireland houses the country’s most important classical art collection, but for more contemporary exhibits it is the Irish Museum of Modern Art that wins out. The collection of 3,000 modern Irish and international works is housed inside the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, which dates back to 1684. Most of the art inside the 17th-century building was produced after 1940, including pieces by Joseph Cornell and Roy Lichtenstein."

"Imma Museum of Modern Art is a family-friendly museum, which contains beautifully landscaped gardens and an excellent café with a play area and plenty of toys. Address: Royal Hospital Kilmainham, Military Rd, Kilmainham, Dublin 8, Ireland"

"The Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) houses a large collection of modern and contemporary art by both Irish and international artists."

"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 Dublin City Gallery – Hugh Lane, most of which is housed in the William Chambers-designed Charlemont House, focuses exclusively on modern and contemporary art, with a strong representation Irish artists, Highlights are the Impressionist paintings of the Lane Bequest and the faithfully reconstructed studio of hell-raising painter Francis Bacon in all its messy glory. You might also like: Best day trips from Dublin"

"Displaying modern and contemporary art work, Dublin City Gallery provides significant insight into Irish culture and the evolution of art over time. The Hugh Lane: 100 Years Exhibition saw the return of all 39 paintings from Sir Hugh Lane’s 1917 bequest to the gallery. Great works from renowned stained-glass artist Harry Clarke can also be marvelled at here."

"The Hugh Lane Gallery has an excellent collection of paintings, drawings, and sculptures, as well as short-term exhibitions. But one thing really draws people to this gallery: the Francis Bacon Studio. When the artist died in London, his entire studio was transported back to his hometown of Dublin."