Description
The Royal Hibernian Academy is a brilliant choice if you are searching for the best things to do with kids in Dublin. Situated in a quiet location on Ely Place right in the city centre, this dedicated public academy and modern art gallery offers families a great window into visual culture. It serves as a creative, educational day out for families who want to introduce older children and teenagers to major artistic movements.
Standard entry to the gallery spaces is completely free, making it an incredibly affordable choice for an afternoon of discovery. Families can explore the evolving public exhibits and massive structural installations without worrying about ticket prices or hidden admission fees. There are no surprise costs upon arrival, and all the main indoor galleries are completely open to the public.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids, this gallery perfectly connects traditional arts with modern visual projects. It gives children a chance to see massive contemporary canvases and introduces them to detailed architectural models. Because the building focuses on providing open, quiet spaces to contemplate creative ideas, it offers an accessible environment for young minds to learn.
Features
- Free
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
Key Features
- Spacious Open Layout: The main exhibition spaces feature towering 17ft ceilings that let kids observe massive art pieces from different angles.
- Educational Day Out: The academy supports a dedicated learning curator who coordinates special tailored group sessions and cultural talks.
- Quiet Indoor Haven: The building provides a calm, brightly lit sanctuary where families can relax away from busy central streets.
Detailed Highlights
- The Massive 17ft Ceilings Room: This represents the largest main exhibition space on the first floor spanning over 6,000 square feet. Kids will love looking up at the immense white walls designed to hold massive modern canvases. A helpful peer note: children are usually fascinated by how small they feel when walking through these towering, brightly lit spaces.
- The RHA Annual Exhibition: This is Ireland's largest and longest-running open submission showcase held every summer between May and August. The grand event brings together nearly 600 pieces of art covering painting, sculpture, and photography. It is highly engaging because children can spot a wide mix of styles from hundreds of different creators.
- The Ground Floor Ashford Gallery: Located on the lower level, this specific 1,100 square foot room is dedicated to emerging local artists. The smaller size makes it easier for younger children to explore without feeling tired. It provides an excellent spot to view brand new, experimental local artworks up close.
- The Architectural Model Displays: A popular regular component of the main summer shows includes highly accurate, miniature architectural designs. Curious kids can inspect tiny, intricate mock-ups of modern buildings and public spaces. It helps children understand how complex local buildings are carefully planned out before construction.
- The Natural Light Atrium: Part of a major building modernization, this bright walkway layout connects the three principal galleries. Children enjoy walking across the wide stone-faced walkways under the brilliant overhead lighting. It serves as an open, airy spot for family members to discuss their favourite paintings.
Beyond the Main Attraction
- The National Gallery of Ireland: A magnificent, free-to-enter historic landmark showcasing thousands of European and Irish masterworks located just a 3-minute walk away on Merrion Square.
- St Stephen's Green: A beautifully manicured Victorian public park situated less than 400 yards away, featuring an expansive children's playground, duck ponds, and wide lawns for family picnics.
- The National Museum of Ireland - Archaeology: A fascinating, free museum on nearby Kildare Street housing incredible ancient treasures, including real Iron Age bog bodies and Viking artifacts.
0.35 miles
