Description
The Convention Centre Dublin is a striking, ultra-modern event landmark situated directly on the banks of the River Liffey in the vibrant Docklands zone. Offering a versatile rotation of large-scale public exhibitions, massive conventions, and seasonal family spectaculars, it stands as one of the most exciting cultural things to do with kids in Dublin. The iconic glass-fronted multi-functional venue features a soaring glass atrium that provides families with panoramic views over the city skyline, the Irish Sea, and the distant mountains as they move between massive exhibition floors.
Ticket prices are determined individually by the independent production company or specific festival organiser hosting the event within the complex. For instance, major family-focused events like the annual spring Dublin Comic Con feature single-day entry prices starting from approximately £10.08 (€12.00) for children aged 5 to 12, while tiny toddlers under the age of 5 can walk through the gates completely free of charge. While accessing the main venue foyers requires a valid ticket for a scheduled show, advanced online booking is highly recommended across all calendar lines to secure seats for popular matinees.
If you are looking for the best place for an inspiring day out with family and kids, this premier architectural powerhouse perfectly balances educational enrichment with a comfortable, world-class visitor environment. It provides a spacious and safe indoor destination where mature children can discover specialized hobbies, meet comic creators, dive into interactive technological displays, and enjoy spectacular live entertainment out of the unpredictable Irish weather.
Features
- Paid
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
Key Features
- Iconic Glass Atrium Architecture: Features six distinct light-filled foyer levels enclosed in a massive glass drum, providing stunning views.
- Massive Multi-Venue Layout: Houses a highly flexible array of 22 top-tier event spaces, including a majestic 2,000-seat auditorium and massive exhibition halls.
- State-of-the-Art Accessible Facilities: Engineered with level step-free entry ramps, multi-floor lifts, and a specialized Changing Places bathroom hoist system.
- Advanced Sound Induction Systems: Features built-in structural induction loops and high-spec infra-red radiators across all primary halls for assistive hearing.
Detailed Highlights
- The Glass Drum Foyers: Moving up through the six levels of the iconic tilted glass cylinder is an adventure in itself. Children love riding the sweeping escalators and looking out through the massive clear facade to watch boats pass on the River Liffey below.
- The 2,000-Seat Auditorium: This world-class tiered performance hall hosts spectacular symphonic concerts and seasonal events. Families are immersed in pristine acoustics and excellent sightlines, making live performances deeply engaging for kids.
- Interactive Workshop Areas: During major public conventions, the upper-level meeting spaces are transformed into hands-on learning zones. Kids can join creative comic-drawing masterclasses, interact with SFX makeup pros, and learn basic animation skills.
- The Forum Exhibition Hall: This massive ground-floor space frequently fills with expansive public displays, pop-culture stalls, and interactive stands. It gives families endless floor space to safely wander and discover unique merchandise or creative displays.
- Panoramic Event Dining: The fifth-floor foyer offers a spectacular, elevated food theatre space. Families attending select banquets or public shows can enjoy treats while watching the sunset melt over the Irish Sea and the Dublin mountains.
Specific Internal Spaces and Features
- The Auditorium: The premier, multi-tiered performance space featuring 2,000 acoustic seats and dedicated wheelchair slots.
- The Forum Hall: The expansive ground-floor exhibition space designed for large public events, conventions, and pop-up retail stalls.
- The Liffey Hall: A flexible, large-scale meeting and presentation area located on the first floor.
- The Wicklow Halls: A collection of bright, adaptable rooms on level two frequently utilized for festival dining and catering hubs.
- The Six Light-Filled Foyers: A series of modern networking platforms stacked vertically inside the main glass drum atrium.
- Liffey Boardrooms 1–4: Private, leather-seated meeting spaces used for intimate panels or small event operations.
- Wicklow Meeting Rooms 1–5: Sun-drenched rooms complete with integrated control panels for adjustable automatic sunblinds.
- The Ground Floor Foyer: The dramatic, soaring entrance lobby where public visitors register for major conventions.