Dublin is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, but an unforgettable evening doesn’t always have to revolve around alcohol. Whether you’re a non-drinker or simply looking for alternative ways to enjoy the city, there’s no shortage of options in this lively city. From adventure parks and Irish Comedy Clubs to live performances, go-karting, and even axe-throwing, the city offers plenty of exciting experiences. Many pubs also cater to non-drinkers with well-stocked alcohol-free options and even board games for a relaxed time.
To help you plan the perfect evening, we’ve put together a list of things to do in Dublin—whether you prefer a drink in hand or a completely alcohol-free time. From unique to cool activities and attractions, each option promises to take you on an unforgettable journey through this vibrant city.
Top Unique things to do in Dublin
1. MV Cill Airne Boat Bar & Restaurant
Quay 16, North Wall Quay, Dublin 1
Ideal for couples, groups, and solo travellers looking for unique things to do in Dublin and dining experience the MV Cill Airne is Located in Dublin City about 10 minutes’ walk from Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane. The MV Cill Airne Boat is a floating restaurant and bar on the River Liffey. Grab a seat at the captain’s table in Quay 16 Restaurant, dine in the Blue River Bistro Bar, or meet for a casual drink in the White Bar on the main deck.
2. Mary's Bar and Hardware Shop
8 Wicklow Street, Dublin 2
Situated off Grafton Street, Mary’s Bar & Hardware Shop is the perfect spot to drop in for a pint, serving great old-fashioned pints in a relaxing and friendly atmosphere, as well as fulfilling your small grocery and hardware needs. Perfect for solo travellers, couples, and groups who enjoy a quirky atmosphere with a mix of traditional pub vibes and hardware store charm.
3. Dublin City View from The Blue Light Pub
Barnacullia, Sandyford, Dublin 18
Built among the foothills of the Dublin Mountains, The Blue Light pub offers a drink in the best view of Dublin City, where music and craic has been flowing for 300 years. The Blue Light pub has live music seven nights a week, good food and a superb range of craft beers and Irish whiskey. Enjoy breathtaking views of Dublin while relaxing in a cozy, traditional Irish pub with your friends and family.
4. Aqua Lough Adventure Park
Flynn Park, Balbriggan, County Dublin, K32 N884
Aqua Lough Adventure Park is the city’s only inflatable water park, conveniently located just about 20 to 25 minutes’ drive from Clayton Hotel Dublin Airport. Aqua Lough features a range of obstacles, including slides, trampolines, and climbing walls, all floating on the water. This adventure park is suitable for families, groups, and adventure enthusiasts looking for a fun day out with water activities and team-building challenges. The course lasts for 1 hour, giving you plenty of time to slip, slide, and have a blast.
5. The Home of Irish Comedy: International Comedy Dublin
23b Wicklow Street, Dublin 2, D02 VH59
Located on Wicklow Street, International Comedy Dublin is Ireland’s oldest comedy club. International Comedy Dublin offers a range of shows throughout the week, making this an ideal activity if you're in Dublin for the weekend, guaranteeing you a great laugh.
6. Storytelling night at Seanchoiche
Various locations, including The Fumbally Cafe, Dublin
Seanchoíche is a unique Irish storytelling night founded in Dublin, currently running in several other countries. Seanchoíche hosts nights for people from all corners to come and listen and engage with spoken stories, ranging from personal anecdotes, prose, monologues, fictional narratives and anything in between. So, if you are someone who enjoys engaging with spoken stories and a night of laughter, tears, and connection this is the perfect place for you.
7. Forge a ring workshop at Silverworks Dublin
24 Drury Street, Dublin 2, D02 V658
Located above JT Pimms on Georges Street, Silverworks holds a two-hour workshop where participants learn various metalworking techniques, including marking, cutting, shaping, soldering, filing, texturing, and polishing. Coming away with their own personalised sterling silver ring they themselves have created. Craft your own one-of-a-kind silver ring with expert guidance and enjoy a hands-on journey into the art of jewellery making.
8. Silent Disco Dublin
Silent Adventures is an all singing, all dancing tour display. The state-of-the-art wireless headphones will transport you to a world of music and fun, where you can sing and dance to carefully selected party anthems. So, join the Silent Adventures team as they take you on a journey of song and dance through the streets of Dublin promising a fun and exciting experience for everyone.
Top Cool Things to do in Dublin
1. VR Gaming at Zero Latency
21 Maple Avenue, Sandyford, Dublin 16, A94 N6V9
VR Gaming at Zero Latency is Ireland's premiere Free Roam Virtual Reality gaming arena. The advanced technology puts players inside of the game where you are free form wires or traditional controllers to roam. Blending technology with interactive gameplay you are bound to have an amazing experience and is sure one of the cool things to do in Dublin.
2. Swim the Forty Foot
Sandycove, Dublin
If you are seeking unique experiences and cool things to do in Dublin, this is definitely one you won't want to miss. Located in Sandycove, The Forty Foot, is a historic bathing pool on the southern tip of Dublin Bay, a short walk from the James Joyce Tower. The Forty Foot is a popular destination where people have swum all year round for the past 250 years. It is about 25-minute drive from Clayton Hotel Leopardstown and is also accessible via public transport both train and bus. Experience the famous Dublin tradition and share the unforgettable experience with your family and friends.
3. Axe Club Dublin
End of, Gaelic St, North Wall, Dublin 3
Looking for cool things to do in Dublin? You just came across the coolest one. The Axe Club Dublin is situated off Gaelic Street, near Connolly Station. The Axe Club started throwing axes in 2010, offering urban axe throwing with hatchets and woodland axe throwing where they combine axe throwing with Bushcraft in their riverside space. They provide expert instruction, friendly competitions, and even themed events such as costume parties so rest assured that you are bound to have fun and the best experience.
4. Wall Climbing Gravity Climbing Centre
6a Goldenbridge Industrial Estate, Inchicore, Dublin 8
Gravity Climbing Centre offers a fantastic bouldering experience for both novices and experienced climbers, suitable for adults and children over 7yrs. The climbing centre offers 10 colour coded circuits of climbing, plus a comp wall with 25 boulders and regular re-setting and competitions. For novices, a 1-hour introductory lesson ensures you off to the best possible start, making your climbing safer and more enjoyable and accelerating your progress. If you are not already experienced, you can book your induction session with Gravity Climbing Centre.
5. Go Karting with Kylemore Karting
Unit 1A, Kylemore Industrial Estate, Killeen Road, Kylemore, Dublin 10, D10TP04
Go Karting with Kylemore Karting is Ireland’s largest indoor karting venue, a favourite among motorsport enthusiasts for over 30 years. Go Karting offers an adrenaline packed experience for racers of all skill levels with their three multi-level tracks, high-performance karts, and a top-tier indoor facility. This is activity is perfect for families, groups, and adventure enthusiasts who want to experience the thrill of go-kart racing. After an exhilarating day of go-karting, unwind and rejuvenate at Clayton Hotel Burlington Road, the ideal haven for your Dublin city escape. Enjoy luxurious comfort and top-notch amenities, ensuring your stay is as thrilling as your adventures.
6. Courtlough Shooting Grounds
Courtlough, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin, K32 KD99
Located in North Dublin near Balbriggan, Courtlough Shooting Grounds is a large outdoor shooting range operating on 23 acres. The Courtlough Shooting Grounds facilitates extensive Clay shooting and Rifle ranges and can cater up to 150 guests per day. For those passionate about outdoor shooting sports or even looking for some cool or unusual things to do in Dublin, Courtlough provides a top-tier experience with expert instruction and a variety of shooting activities.
7. Irish Dance Show
1 Denmark Street Great, Rotunda, Dublin, D01 W1C0
The award-winning Belvedere Irish Nights Show is a high energy show that gives a flavour of the different styles of Irish dance along with ballads and songs performed by award-winning Irish musicians and features musical arrangements and compositions by Anthony Davis. Experience the enchantment of Belvedere Irish Nights, where the magic of Ireland comes alive through mesmerising music and dance. This captivating show takes you on an immersive journey into the heart of Irish culture, leaving you spellbound. The show is great for families, couples, solo travellers, and groups who want to experience the vibrant and energetic performances of traditional Irish dance. Tickets for the show are available on the website where you can opt for just the show or book a dinner and show to complement the evening.
How many days in Dublin is enough?
Dublin may be a compact capital, but it has plenty to offer and will fill as much time as you give it. To truly experience its rich culture, vibrant atmosphere, and historic charm, we recommend spending at least three to four days exploring the city. And if you’re wondering how to make the most of your evenings, we’ve got you covered on that too. Check out our guide to the best things to do at night in Dublin and plan an unforgettable trip to this dynamic and welcoming city in the Emerald Isle.
