We all love going on adventures, but let’s be honest: Sometimes, those overcrowded tourist spots can be underwhelming. Don’t get me wrong; those places are famous for a reason!
But the best part of a trip is discovering unique experiences you can’t have anywhere else. I was on a mission to find exactly that in Ireland.
I wanted to avoid the tourist crowds and uncover the hidden gems, quirky traditions, and breathtaking sights that make Ireland stand out. Are you curious about my discoveries?
Buckle up because I will share ten unique activities to make your Irish adventure unforgettable. Get ready to explore the real Ireland with me!
1. Soar on a Wooden Roller Coaster at Emerald Park
Website: http://www.emeraldpark.ie/
Address: Emerald Park, Kilbrew, Ashbourne, Co. Meath, A84 EA02, Ireland
Contact details: +35318351999
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Emerald Park is Ireland’s only combined theme park and zoo. This unique destination offers a chance to experience heart-pounding drops, exhilarating loops, and all the charm of a classic wooden coaster – a rarity in today’s theme park landscape.
Unlike the smoothness of modern steel coasters, the wooden Cú Chulainn provides a one-of-a-kind ride, where the bumps and curves become part of the thrilling adventure. As you race along the track, you’ll be surrounded by the sights and sounds of the park.
Pro tip:
Lockers are available for rent, so you can store your belongings securely before taking on the Cú Chulainn. Before or after your coaster adventure, don’t miss the chance to explore the fantastic Emerald Park Zoo.
2. Explore the Wonders of Newgrange
Website: https://heritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/bru-na-boinne-visitor-centre-newgrange-knowth-and-dowth/
Address: Newgrange, Donore, Co. Meath, Ireland
Contact details: +353419880300
Operating hours: 24/7
Newgrange is the oldest solar observatory in the world, hundreds of years before the pyramids. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a marvel of engineering, constructed from massive stones weighing up to 200 tons and adorned with megalithic art.
What makes Newgrange genuinely unique is its perfect alignment with the winter solstice. Each year, on December 21st, the rising sun illuminates the tomb’s inner chamber for about 17 minutes, creating a spectacular light show.
Pro tip:
Book your tour well in advance, especially if you want to witness the winter solstice illumination. Tickets for this special event sell out quickly.
3. Stand in the Shadow of an Irish Pyramid in Howard Mausoleum
Address: Old Kilbride Cemetery, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
Built-in 1785, the Howard Mausoleum is a pyramid-shaped tomb that is the final resting place for 18 members of the Howard family. Inspired by the grand Egyptian pyramids, it is a fascinating example of 18th-century funerary architecture.
The Howards chose a pyramid design for their family mausoleum, sparking local lore about their fascination with Egyptian mythology or involvement with the Freemasons.
Pro tip:
Combine your visit with a tour of the Arklow area. Arklow is a charming town with a rich history, and there are plenty of other exciting things to do in the area, such as visiting the Arklow Maritime Museum or exploring the Wicklow Mountains.
4. Savour Freshly-Picked Blackcurrants at Ballykelly Farm
Website: http://www.ballakelly.farm/
Address: Kiondroghad Rd, Andreas, Isle of Man IM7 3EJ, Isle of Man
Contact details: +447624492899
Ballykelly Farm is Ireland’s only dedicated blackcurrant grower. Nestled in the sunny southeast corner of County Wexford, it boasts over 1600 hours of sunshine a year, perfect for cultivating these berries renowned for their flavor and health benefits.
This multi-generational farm has been meticulously growing blackcurrants since 1955. It uses sustainable practices and harvests fruit at peak ripeness to ensure the highest quality.
Pro tip:
Explore the idyllic surroundings of the farm. Stroll through the sprawling blackcurrant fields, breathe in the fresh country air, and soak up the beauty of the Wexford countryside.
5. Climb to the Lantern Room of Hook Lighthouse
Website: https://hookheritage.ie/
Address: Hook Head, Churchtown, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Contact details: +35351397055
Operating hours: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Hook Lighthouse is a beacon of history and maritime safety. Its thick, four-meter walls were initially built to withstand attacks by pirates, and it’s easy to imagine the lighthouse keepers tending to their fires centuries ago.
Today, the lighthouse uses modern technology to guide ships safely into Waterford Harbor. From the balcony, you can take in breathtaking views of the Irish Sea, where, on a clear day, you might even spot humpback or fin whales frolicking in the waves.
Pro tip:
Explore the interactive exhibitions in the visitor center, which detail the lighthouse’s fascinating history. Afterward, grab a delicious bite to eat at the award-winning Café Hook, which uses fresh, local ingredients to create a menu of traditional Irish fare.
6. Get up Close with Creepy Crawlies at National Reptile Zoo
Website: http://www.nrz.ie/
Address: Hebron Business Park, Hebron Rd, Leggetsrath West, Kilkenny, Ireland
Contact details: +353567761783
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
The National Reptile Zoo is the only dedicated reptile zoo in Ireland. It is special because it allows visitors to get up close and personal with a wide variety of reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates they wouldn’t normally encounter in Ireland.
The zoo is focused on education, exploration, and conservation. The zoo is divided into different sections, including a rainforest habitat, a desert exhibit, and a nocturnal room so that you can learn about reptiles worldwide.
Pro tip:
One of the highlights of the National Reptile Zoo is the hourly Animal Encounters, where you can learn more about specific animals and even touch some of them!
7. Step Back in Time at the Kilbeggan Distillery
Website: http://www.kilbegganwhiskey.com/
Address: Lower Main St, Kilbeggan, Co. Westmeath, Ireland
Contact details: +353579332134
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Kilbeggan Distillery is the oldest licensed distillery in Ireland, dating back to 1757. Kilbeggan still uses original equipment, including a water-powered wheel and a coal-fired kiln.
You’ll witness these timeworn tools working and modern machinery. They’ll share the secrets of triple distillation, a signature characteristic of Irish whiskey, and explain how it contributes to the smooth, unique flavor.
Pro tip:
Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, as this famous distillery can fill up quickly. Don’t miss the chance to bottle your Kilbeggan whiskey straight from the cask for a genuinely unforgettable souvenir!
8. Explore the Wonders of Nature at Birr Castle Demesne
Website: https://birrcastle.com/
Address: Castle Demesne, Townparks, Birr, Co. Offaly, R42 V027, Ireland
Contact details: +353579120336
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Birr Castle Demesne is a historic estate boasting Ireland’s most remarkable scientific achievements alongside stunning gardens. The estate is home to Birr Castle, built in the 17th century by the Parsons family.
The Parsons family was a family of scientists and astronomers, and Birr Castle Demesne became a center for scientific research in the 19th century. The estate is also home to the most beautiful gardens in Ireland, with over 5,000 varieties of plants.
Pro tip:
One of the most extraordinary things to do at Birr Castle Demesne is to visit the Leviathan of Parsonstown, also known as the Birr Telescope. It was the largest telescope in the world in 1845, and it is still the third-largest telescope in Ireland today.
9. Explore the Ancient Passage Tomb in Rathcroghan
Website: https://www.rathcroghan.ie/
Address: Tulsk, Roscommon, Ireland
Contact details: +353719639268
Operating hours: Monday to Saturday – 9:15 AM to 4:30 PM
Rathcroghan is a vast archaeological complex believed to be one of Europe’s most important ceremonial and burial sites. This passage tomb dates back to 3,000 – 2,500 BC and consists of a large mound with an underground chamber.
It is said to be the burial place of several Irish mythical figures, including the warrior queen Medb and the mythological cow Maeve. The surrounding landscape is also said to be home to otherworldly creatures, such as the fairies and the Fomorians.
Pro tip:
Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain around Rathcroghan can be uneven. Also, bring a flashlight if you want to explore the passage tomb.
10. Sample a Sip of Gin at the Cape Clear Island Distillery
Website: https://www.capecleardistillery.com/
Address: Cape Clear Island, Knockannamaurnagh, Skibbereen, Co. Cork, Ireland
Contact details: +353871405584
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Cape Clear Island Distillery is the only distillery on an Irish island. Founded by islanders seeking to revitalize their close-knit community, the distillery uses local botanicals, like sea kelp, to create its signature “3 Sq. Miles” gin, named after the island’s size.
This unique ingredient list, fresh island air, and ocean influence imbue the gin with a distinctive coastal flavor profile. Visitors can tour the distillery and learn about the distilling process and the story behind this special place.
Pro tip:
Book your tour in advance, especially during the busy summer months. After your tour, savor a gin and tonic made with “3 Sq. Miles” gin, enjoying the panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean while you sip.