Where to entertain and educate the kids while they’re off school …

Dublin Zoo, Phoenix Park, Co Dublin

Dublin Zoo is inviting Galway and Limerick hurling supporters to camán down during the All-Ireland Final on July 19, with half price admission for those looking to while away the time before heading to Croke Park, or those who need a distraction as they’re too nervous to watch the nail-biting game live! The offer applies to fans in supporter gear who buy tickets at the entrance. A special event this summer is Animal Bricktacular, featuring over 40 life-sized sculptures built from 3.5 million toy bricks scattered across the zoo grounds until August 30. There’s also a Bricktacular Workshop on July 25 for younger builders. A highlight every summer is the 3km Run for Wildlife on August 29, which supports rhino conservation and grants complimentary entry afterward.

Emerald Park, Ashbourne, Co Meath

Ireland’s only theme park and zoo, home to over 250 animals from around the world, visitors can explore immersive experiences such as Lemur Woods and the Petting Farm. This summer, Lost Valley – Land of the Dinosaurs, Emerald Park’s newly re-themed prehistoric adventure, opens with the Dino Dash coaster and new Swingosaurus, as well as Dino Meet & Greet photo opportunities. Junior Zone incldues more than ten family-friendly attractions and playgrounds, while older kids can enjoy the famous Cú Chulainn Coaster, Na Fianna Force and The Quest in Tír na nÓg or cool off with a splash on Viking Voyage, Ireland’s only flume attraction. One of the most popular pitstops during the summer season is The Show by Robert Fossett, celebrating its tenth anniversary with an all-new production until August 31, which is included with the all-access ticket. Book your day out early and save up to 20 per cent. We recommend going early too and hitting all of the big rides first to avoid afternoon queues, if you’re so inclined!

Fota Wildlife Park, Carrigtwohill, Co Cork

Fota Wildlife Park hosts its annual Native Species Weekend on July 25-26, featuring conservation experts from Dublin Zoo, and the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group. The award-winning education team runs daily talks until the end of August and visitors can see the newest arrival: a critically endangered baby François’ langur monkey, which is part of an international breeding programme, as well as a Nubian giraffe calf born in late June. Due to popular demand, the 35-metre high wheel is operating all season, with panoramic views of the 100-acre park and Cork Harbour.

National Reptile Zoo, Leggetsrath West, Co Kilkenny

Established in 2006 by Zoo Director and Herpetologist James Hennessy, the National Reptile Zoo is one of Ireland’s leading wildlife conservation and education centres, with more than 100 animals representing over 60 species from around the world; one in four of which is classified as endangered. Their vision is to inspire curiosity towards reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates, bust common myths and challenge misconceptions, and foster a greater appreciation for these remarkable animals and the vital role they play in ecosystems worldwide. World Snake Week is on now with a programme of interactive encounters with king cobras, giant pythons, mambas and more. There’s also a range of exhibits and play area, plus visitors don’t have to book in advance, so it’s a good option to drop in if you need to cool off with some cold-blooded reptiles.

Secret Valley Wildlife Park, Clonroche, Wexford

Set on fourteen acres of countryside, this award-winning wildlife park is the only fully licensed zoo and wildlife park in the south east. Earlier this year, Secret Valley and the ISPCA rescued an abandoned, emaciated African serval that’s now in their care. Servals are bred with domestic cats to produce what are known as Savannah cats, but they retain their wild instincts and can jump up to 12 feet, so they require a special habitat. The keepers hold daily serval talks to educate people about illegal exotic pet ownership. They also run immersive experiences like Little Helper, Junior Keeper and VIP tours, with hands-on experiences to feed capybara, meerkats, lemurs, capuchin monkeys, llamas, alpacas and more. There’s also acess to outdoor play areas and a large indoor obstacle course.

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