- Large and varied number of animals in well-sized enclosures.
- Thematic and regional groupings are educational.
- Footpaths are well laid out and generally wheelchair- and pram-friendly.
- Restaurants and cafés are available, prices are moderate.
- Can get extremely crowded on weekends.
- "Train Ride" not really worth the fee.
- Some signage faded and needs major overhaul.
- Huge zoo located in Phoenix Park, one of the oldest zoos in Europe.
- Addition of "African Plains" and ongoing renovation works brought Dublin Zoo into the 21st century.
- The zoo is on the weekend agenda for most Dublin families and can get crowded.
A firm favorite with Dublin families and known as a local attraction since the 19th century, Dublin Zoo has been expanded with the addition of the "African Plains" in recent years. rebuilding works continue in line with modern animal (and visitor) management theories - the polar bears have been relocated to Budapest, the restaurants have been spectacularly revamped and even the usual weekend queues are diminishing due to a new entrance area.
Well laid-out pathways with a visitor-friendly surface lead to all the major attractions and will make pleasant walking for at least two hours. The zoo also offers "trains" (jeep-drawn trolleys) in some areas, most notable the "African Plains". Unless your children are driving you crazy or you are extremely tired it is best to avoid those - they simply drive along the footpaths and offer no added value.
A look at the zoo's website will give you an idea what to expect. One let-down we noticed is the signage on the enclosures. This was overhauled around 1999 and has not stood the test of time, a lot of signs are extremely faded and have needed replacement for some time to retain their educational value. While this does not distract from "watching the animals", it certainly can be frustrating especially with inquisitive kids.
