After months of rain and darkness, summer arrives with the call to go outside! Long days, warm temperatures, and lush green landscapes make the perfect backdrop for an adventure in Ireland. Nature beckons you back to the great outdoors, where numerous thrills await — including at Zipit!
Our Forest Adventure Parks in Ireland are buzzing during summer, as families and friends flock to the forests for proper fun in the sun. We’ve created this guide to summer adventures in Ireland, from unique Gaelic games to exciting adventure parks.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s get exploring!
Have the Ultimate Outdoor Adventure Experience at Zipit
Swinging, climbing, and ziplining — you can do it all at Zipit! Our forest parks are home to canopy circuits that offer a range of exciting challenges, from suspension bridges to tightropes and climbing walls. Suitable for anyone ages seven and above, our circuits advance in difficulty as you work through them, making them perfect for adventurers of all abilities!
We have parks across Ireland, including our Tibradden Wood Zipit Adventure Park in Dublin, Lough Key Zipit Adventure Park in Co. Roscommon, and Farran Park Zipit Adventure Park in Co. Cork. Whether you’re looking for summer family activities in Ireland or a unique event venue, our forest parks are guaranteed to deliver heaps of fun.
And for a truly adrenaline-pumping experience, you won’t want to miss out on our Zip Trail at Zipit Tibradden Wood, where you’ll go whizzing down multiple ziplines totalling 500 metres in length!
However, as one of the best things to do in summer, our parks can fill up fast! You can book your tickets online to secure your spot and have an adventure to remember.
More Summer Family Activities in Ireland
Our Zipit courses are some of the most popular activities in summer, but there are plenty more unique adventures waiting. Here are some of our top suggestions for what else you can enjoy during the summer in Ireland!
Meet the Animals at Dublin Zoo
Home to over 400 animals, including tigers, elephants, cheetahs, and gorillas, the Dublin Zoo will take the whole family on a wild adventure. Not only will you get to encounter these exceptional animals, you can join talks by keepers for an informative experience. Spend the day here and relax in the picnic areas or let the kids’ run wild at the playground!
Descend into the Arigna Mines
Have you ever been inside a mine? At the Arigna Mining Experience, descend into historic underground tunnels for a thrilling journey. You’ll be accompanied by a former miner on your tour, providing insight into life on the mines and their history.
Trek with the Alpacas of Knockvicar Farm
How about spending the day outside by taking your very own alpaca for a walk? At Knockivar Alpaca Farm in Co. Roscommon, go for a stroll outdoors with an alpaca herd, guiding individuals along by a lead. It’s like taking a big dog for a stroll! Continue the adventures back at the farm, where you can also feed them by hand.
For even more to do in the area, read our guide to Outdoor Adventures in Roscommon’s Beautiful Forests!
Explore Fota Island
Just outside the city of Cork, Fota Island is brimming with summer family activities. Go exploring outdoors at the Fota House, Arboretum, and Gardens, where you’ll find a diversity of exotic plants. Kids can follow the plant trails for a fun and interactive experience!
An unmissable attraction on the island is the Fota Wildlife Park. Spanning 40 hectares, the park protects numerous species from around the globe, including lemurs, lions, giraffes, and more. Take your visit to the next level and enjoy a private tour with a ranger and feed some of the animals!
Go on a Cork Harbour Boat Cruise
While in Cork, take your adventures off land to enjoy a classic Cork Harbour Cruise! Sail out of the city and pass attractions such as Blackrock Castle and Fota Island. These boat tours make for a memorable journey, as you’ll cruise where the Wild Atlantic Way meets Ireland’s east!
Enjoy Medieval Activities King John’s Castle
In Limerick’s medieval quarter, King John’s Castle transports you back centuries ago. Immerse yourself in Irish history and have fun with some courtyard games, such as ring toss, medieval noughts and crosses, horseshoe throwing, and tug o’ war!
Take Part in Gaelic Games
From hurling and handball to Gaelic football, there’s nothing quite like a good old Irish game. With Gaelic Games, you’ll take part in true Irish culture by enjoying these sports as they should be. Clubs are located across Ireland, including Galway, Dublin, and Cork, making this an ideal summer family activity in Ireland!
Adventure Parks in Ireland to Visit in Summer
While our Zipit courses are some of the most popular adventure parks in Ireland, they’re certainly not the only ones! Here are some more of the best to visit in the summer for a host of exciting outdoor activities:
- Navan Adventure Centre: In Co. Meath, about an hour north of Dublin, the Navan Adventure Centre offers everything from laser tag to archery and a challenging obstacle course. With unique activities like bubble football, human foosball, and off-road go-karting, the kids (and adults!) will have a rip-roaring time.
- Clara Lara Funpark: In Co. Wicklow south of Dublin, the Clara Lara Funpark lets young children freely explore the outdoors. The whole family can enjoy rafting and rowing on the water, while the water shuttle will take kids on a thrilling ride! For more land-based activities, there’s also mini-golf, an obstacle course, and more. It’s pure summer fun for kids!
- Fota Island Adventure: If you really want to test your wits in the outdoors, then Fota Island Adventure will be for you! This park in Co. Cork will challenge the whole family to survive in the woods for a day, break into an escape cabin to find treasure, or even go on a scavenger hunt across the grounds!
With this much to enjoy in the summer, there’s no time to waste! Prepare for an invigorating season outdoors, and make sure to plan ahead for the crowds. Book your Zipit tickets today to avoid disappointment! And if you have any questions before your visit, don’t hesitate to contact us.
