Dundalk is situated on the Castletown River, which flows right through the town. Here are the best things to do with kids in Dundalk.
Dundalk’s name in Irish, ‘DĂºn Dealgan’, translates to ‘Dalgan’s stronghold’. Dundalk is in County Louth and is on the border between the north and the south. It is almost exactly halfway between Belfast and Dublin.
Studies suggest that the Dundalk area has been inhabited since at least 3500 BC, during what is known as the Neolithic Period. Dundalk, in its modern form, mostly owes its shape to a man named Lord Limerick in the 17th century.
It’s one of the biggest towns in Ireland and a border town with over five primary schools and five secondary schools in the Dundalk area.
With this, Dundalk’s population is made up of a large number of families. Below, we have compiled a list of the top five things to do with kids in Dundalk.
5. Stephenstown Pond Nature Park − a beautiful walk
For any adventure with the kids, outdoor activities are a must. First on our list of the best things to do with kids in Dundalk is to visit Stephenstown Pond Nature Park.
Stephenstown Pond Nature park offers people a fantastic nature walk through a nature reserve and around a large pond.
Many have spoken about how one can have the opportunity to feed the ducks at the pond and be at one with nature during the summer season.
Address: Stephenstown Pond Project, Knockbridge, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland
4. The Omniplex Dundalk − you can’t go wrong with a trip to the cinema
This Omniplex is a modern, state-of-the-art cinema in Dundalk and the best way to see the latest films in the town.
It’s a nine-screen cinema that features all the latest blockbusters for you and your kids. This is the perfect activity leading into winter.
The cinema has comfortable leather recliner seats, and it is the optimum way to enjoy all of the newest movies your kids want to see together.
Address: Dundalk Retail Park, Inner Relief Rd, Marshes Upper, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland
3. Aura Dundalk Leisure Centre − perfect when the weather isn’t great
Why not take a dip in the state-of-the-art pool at Auras leisure centre? Aura has a great 25 m (82 ft) pool where your kids can take lessons.
They have a great online timetable so you can see when you’re able to take your kids and when it’s closed for adults only or for school swim lessons.
Address: St Alphonsus Rd, Marshes Lower, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland
2. Blackrock Beach − lovely even in the cold
Blackrock Beach is a gorgeous day trip for the family. The beach is right on the main street, which offers easy parking.
While on the beach, the kids can enjoy the sand and the sea safely within the eye of their parents. Along the street are various restaurants for a bite to eat and places to stop off for an ice cream or a snack.
Despite coming into the cold weather, it’s always a lovely trip to Blackrock Beach when you layer up.
Address: Haggardstown, Blackrock, Co. Louth, Ireland
1. Air Bound − a great day of fun
Air Bound is a trampoline park built for all ages, perfect for kids and grown-ups alike. It’s made up of hundreds of square metres of interlocking trampolines covering the floor space and even going up the walls of the building.
There are various sectors to the Airbound park, including a Dodgeball Court, Slam Dunk, Free Jumping Area, High Towers and Airbag.
Air Bound doesn’t just offer you the run-of-the-mill trampoline experience. It offers each individual the opportunity to live out their stuntman/acrobatic dreams, all in a safe environment.
At Air Bound, you can organise birthday parties for your kids, and each kids’ party package includes 1.5 hours of party time. This is one of the best things to do with kids in Dundalk all year round.
Address: Unit 19 North Link Retail Park,, Coes Rd, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland
READ MORE: our list of the best things to do with kids in Ireland
Other notable mentions
Dundalk Museum: The County Museum Dundalk is a great day out for both kids and adults. Once a part of Dundalk Distillery, there are lots of fun facts on the history of Dundalk for kids.
Proleek Dolmen: Situated on the grounds of the Ballymascanlon Hotel & Golf course, visiting here makes for a lovely walk when the weather is nice.
The Carrickdale Hotel & Spa: If you’re coming to Dundalk for a visit, we would recommend staying at the Carrickdale Hotel & Spa as they have many family-friendly activities to keep the kids entertained.
Slieve Gullion Forest Park: This is about a half-hour drive from Dundalk but is totally worth it as there are a number of play areas, nature walks, and fascinating story-tellings of Celtic mythology.
Castle Roche: Go for a walk at Castle Roche, one of the historical sites in Dundalk, and check out the beautiful ruins while having a family picnic in the green fields.
FAQs about things to do with kids in Dundalk
What should we not miss in Dundalk?
On your visit to Dundalk, you should not miss Brigid’s Shrine and Well, Stephenstown Pond Nature Park or Castle Roche.
Are there things to do with kids in Dundalk?
Yes! There are many family attractions in Dundalk. There are also things that are just a short drive away, like Carlingford Adventure Centre, Carlingford Lough, and Funtasia Water Park.
Will my kids be bored in Dundalk?
No, there are plenty of activities to keep them entertained, from a trip to the cinema to visiting the surrounding historical sites and more.
