30 Best Things to Do in Dublin On a Rainy Day
Planning a trip to Dublin, but worried about the rainy weather?
I hate to dampen your spirits, but chances are it will rain during your time in Dublin. Whether you’re visiting Dublin in the winter, summer, spring, or fall, the only predictable thing about Dublin’s weather is the rain. Thankfully, there are many fun things to do in Dublin on a rainy day!
After living here for the past two years, I’ve learned a thing or two about the many rainy-day activities in Dublin.
In this post, I’ll share my top recommendations for indoor activities in Dublin, from cozy cafes, museums, and whiskey tours to more unique experiences, like Croke Park and the GAA Museum, that you won’t find anywhere else.
So grab your raincoat and get ready to make the most of your time in Dublin, no matter the weather!
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How much does it rain in Dublin?
On average, it rains in Dublin on 193 days of the year. County Dublin gets approximately 683 mm (26.89 in) of rain each year. While extreme weather patterns have recently caused major flooding across Ireland, the regular rainfall is not dangerous.
The wettest months in Dublin are August and December, which both receive an average rainfall of 79 mm (3.1 in).
June and July are the driest months in Dublin, receiving only an average of 61 mm (2.4 in).
| Month | Rain | Average Precipitation (mm/in) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 13 days | 67 mm / 2.6 in |
| February | 10 days | 54 mm / 2.1 in |
| March | 11 days | 53 mm / 2.1 in |
| April | 10 days | 50 mm / 2.0 in |
| May | 11 days | 57 mm / 2.3 in |
| June | 10 days | 61 mm / 2.4 in |
| July | 10 days | 61 mm / 2.4 in |
| August | 11 days | 79 mm / 3.1 in |
| September | 10 days | 71 mm / 2.8 in |
| October | 11 days | 70 mm / 2.8 in |
| November | 11 days | 68 mm / 2.7 in |
| December | 12 days | 79 mm / 3.1 in |
30 Fun Things to Do in Dublin on a Rainy Day
Free things to do in Dublin on a rainy day
Irish Museum of Modern Art
If you’re looking for a fun rainy day activity in Dublin, consider visiting the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA). The IMMA is housed in a historic building that was once a Royal Hospital and boasts an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art from both Irish and international artists.
The museum features a diverse range of exhibitions, showcasing everything from painting and sculpture to video installations and performance art.
This museum is one of the great free things to do in Dublin in the rain, but there are fees for the special exhibits. If you’re a fan of contemporary art or just looking for a unique cultural experience, the Irish Museum of Modern Art is a great place to pass a rainy day in Dublin.
National Museum of Archaeology
Dublin is home to many fascinating museums, but the National Museum of Archaeology is a true local gem. This free museum offers visitors a unique look into early Irish history and culture. One highlight is the treasury, showcasing beautiful Celtic artifacts like a delicate ship made entirely of gold, early Christian texts, and pure gold jewelry.
But the most intriguing exhibit in the museum is the Bog Bodies, a small but impactful display that will leave a lasting impression on visitors. Here, you can get up close with some amazingly preserved bog bodies excavated across the island. The discovery of these bodies has taught us a lot about ancient Irish customs and lives, including what people ate at different times of the year.
The National Museum of Archaeology is a fascinating and educational experience that is the perfect place to stay dry if it rains during your trip to Dublin.
National Gallery
When you’re looking for a way to escape the rain during your visit to Dublin, consider a visit to the National Gallery of Ireland.
Not only is it free to enter, but it’s also home to one of the most impressive collections of Irish art in the world. Immerse yourself in Irish culture and history with works from esteemed artists like Jack Butler Yeats.
But the National Gallery of Ireland isn’t just limited to Irish art. The museum also boasts a diverse range of classic European art and even has an impressionist wing.
With so much to see and explore, the National Gallery of Ireland is the perfect destination for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike. And of course, since it’s inside, you can enjoy it rain or shine.
Hugh Lane Gallery
If you’re an art enthusiast caught in the rain in Dublin, then a trip to the Hugh Lane Gallery is an absolute must. This gallery boasts an exceptional collection of modern and contemporary Irish and international art, featuring masterpieces from renowned impressionist artists such as Manet, Monet, and Degas.
One of the highlights of the gallery is the stunning stained glass room, which showcases Harry Clarke’s masterpiece, The Eve of Saint Agnes. You’ll also find an extensive collection of portraits of famous Irish artists, including Jack and Anne Yeats.
Yet another reason to visit the Hugh Lane Gallery is its collection of the last works by Francis Bacon, as well as his original London studio. The exhibit gives visitors insight into Bacon’s artistic process and highlights his illustrious career.
This small museum takes only a couple of hours to see, making it the perfect place to escape the rain in Dublin.
Chester Beatty
The Chester Beatty Museum is another great free activity for a rainy day in Dublin. This museum houses an incredible collection of Asian art gathered by one of the world’s most prominent private collectors.
One of the highlights of the Chester Beatty Museum is the exhibit on world religions, where you can browse beautiful religious texts from the world’s major religions. It’s an incredible experience to examine these ancient manuscripts up close and marvel at their intricate designs, vivid colors, and flowing calligraphy.
Things to do in Dublin on a rainy day for adults
Jameson Experience
If you’re looking for a fun adult-friendly indoor activity on a rainy day in Dublin, consider visiting the Jameson Experience. This unique attraction offers a chance to learn about the history and modern-day production of Jameson whiskey.
The experience concludes with a guided tasting of three different Jameson whiskeys, as well as a drink of your choice in their onsite bar.
The Jameson Experience is a fun rainy-day activity for adults in Dublin. Who knew whiskey could be so educational?
Kilmainham Gaol
To spend a rainy day in Dublin learning about Irish history, history buffs should head to Kilmainham Gaol.
This former prison, built in 1796, is now a museum that recounts the history of those once imprisoned onsite, including leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising.
During your visit, you’ll walk past cells that housed everyone from impoverished Irish (including children) to rebels fighting against British rule and hear their stories.
Kilmainham Gaol is a must-visit for anyone interested in delving deeper into the history of Ireland’s struggle for independence, and the perfect thing to do in Dublin on a rainy day.
Dry off in a pub
Dublin’s pubs offer a perfect rainy day escape with a cozy and magical atmosphere that’s hard to resist. Pubs are an essential part of Irish culture, offering warm hospitality and a chance to relax and socialize.
With dimly lit interiors and a cozy atmosphere, pubs offer a unique ambiance that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Pubs are also excellent places to try some hearty Irish cuisine.
Grab a seat at the bar and chat with the locals while sipping on your drink of choice (assuming you’re old enough to drink alcohol). There’s no more Irish way to spend a rainy day than that!
Why not try a Dublin pub tour?
Tea bus tour
Experience the best of Dublin while staying dry on a Vintage Tea Tour! This unique tour takes you past some of Dublin’s most famous landmarks, including St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Phoenix Park, and the Georgian district. As you soak in the sights, you’ll also be treated to a traditional Irish afternoon tea.
During the tour, there’s no need to rely on a pre-recorded guide because you’ll have the chance to chat with your friendly and knowledgeable tour host. They’ll share insider tips and give you a local perspective on what makes Dublin so special. All the while, you’ll be nibbling on sandwiches and sipping on some delicious Irish tea, staying dry the entire time.
Oscar Wilde House
The Oscar Wilde House, located on Merrion Square, is the childhood home of the famous writer and playwright, Oscar Wilde, and has been turned into a museum dedicated to his life and legacy.
Inside, visitors can explore the various rooms where Oscar Wilde spent his formative years and view a collection of personal artifacts and memorabilia, including letters and photographs.
So if you’re trying to figure out what to do on a rainy day in Dublin, head to the Oscar Wilde House and learn about one of Ireland’s most celebrated literary figures.
Catch a show
Looking for a way to stay dry and entertained on a rainy day in Dublin? Why not head to the theater? Irish theater is world-renowned, and Dublin has many great venues to catch a show.
Catch major musicals on tour at the Bord Gais Energy Theater or enjoy a night of laughs and live music at the Olympia Theater. For a more classic experience, head to the Gaiety Theater, located off Grafton Street, which offers a range of performances, from operas to dramas, all in a stunning and historic setting.
Escape Room Boat
For a thrilling and unique experience on a rainy day in Dublin, look no further than The Escape Boat, a live escape room on a barge located in Grand Canal Dock. Players must solve puzzles, crack codes, and uncover mysteries in order to escape. This is not your average escape room – it’s an adventure like nothing you’ve ever seen before!
While this isn’t one of Dublin’s boat tours, it is a fun boat-based activity!
Get your friends together and put your problem-solving skills to the test. Don’t miss out on this exciting rainy day activity in Dublin!
Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle is a perfect indoor activity to add to your list of things to do in Dublin when it rains. This impressive structure was the seat of British rule on the island when Ireland was part of the UK.
Despite its many uses over the centuries, including as a military fortress, royal palace, and government building, the castle is now open to the public for exploration. The State Apartments are a highlight of the castle, with opulent decor and period furnishings from various eras, providing a glimpse into the castle’s royal past.
Visiting Dublin Castle is an educational experience for visitors, delving into the complexities of Irish history and government over the past 800 years. So, if you’re looking for a fascinating indoor activity to enjoy on a rainy day, Dublin Castle should definitely be on your list.
Irish Whiskey Museum
What better way to pass a rainy day in Dublin than by drinking up at the Irish Whiskey Museum? This museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of Irish whiskey and its significance in Irish culture and heritage (along with some taste tests!).
Whether you’re a casual whiskey drinker or a true enthusiast, the museum has a tour option to suit your interests. The Classic Tour covers the basics of Irish whiskey, including a tasting of three different types. For those who want to delve deeper, the Whiskey Blending Experience is a unique opportunity to create your own personalized blend. Or, why not treat yourself to the Whiskey and Brunch Experience for a special rainy morning treat?
So, if you’re looking for an enjoyable way to pass a rainy day in Dublin, the Irish Whiskey Museum is definitely worth checking out.
Teelings Whiskey Distillery
One of the best things to do in Dublin on a rainy day for adults is a trip to Teeling’s Whiskey, located in the charming Liberties neighborhood. This distillery offers a unique and immersive experience that takes visitors on a journey through Dublin’s rich whiskey distilling history.
During your tour, you’ll see the stills where the whiskey is made and even witness the process of turning the mash inside. But the best part of the tour is the tasting session at the end, where you get to savor the only whiskey distilled right in Dublin.
Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado or a curious beginner, Teeling’s is the perfect place to expand your knowledge and palette. This is an activity that is sure to warm you up from the inside out, making it a perfect rainy-day activity in Dublin.
14 Henrietta Street
A truly moving experience, a tour of 14 Henrietta Street takes you back in time to Tenement Dublin. This restored Georgian townhouse offers a glimpse into the lives of the families and individuals who called it home over the past 300 years.
Similar to the Tenement Museum in New York City, 14 Henrietta Street allows you to walk in the footsteps of the building’s former residents, from the affluent family who first inhabited the house in the 1720s to the 100 people who lived here in overcrowded conditions in 1911.
Visiting 14 Henrietta Street is an emotional journey. During my visit, our guide related the personal stories of former residents in the building. Families with ten or twelve children were crammed into single-room apartments. Disease was rampant, and often children didn’t live past the age of five.
This tour gives a different side of Dublin’s history: the story of the people and their everyday lives. This phenomenal museum is great anytime, but especially worth visiting on a rainy day in Dublin.
Vintage shopping in Temple Bar
Vintage enthusiasts are in luck! Dublin is a treasure trove of pre-loved items, and the Temple Bar neighborhood is the prime spot to score your next vintage haul.
One of the most iconic shops in the area is Lucy’s Lounge, boasting over 40 years in business and a vibrant pink exterior that’s hard to miss. Downstairs, you’ll find an eclectic mix of vintage nightgowns, funky knitwear, and floral dresses. Lucy’s Lounge is committed to reducing waste in the fashion industry and even repurposes used clothing into bags and unique wearable creations.
Another great spot is Dublin Vintage Factory. With an eclectic mix of styles, this vintage shop sells clothes by weight. Whether you’re a seasoned vintage shopper or just looking for something unique, Temple Bar is the ultimate rainy-day destination for your next vintage find.
Photo Museum Ireland
If you love photography, the Photo Museum Ireland is a great place to spend a rainy day in Dublin. This museum showcases the very best in contemporary Irish photography.
Take in the evocative displays while exploring the museum’s unique and engaging exhibitions. With its friendly and knowledgeable staff, the Photo Museum Ireland provides an enriching and unforgettable experience that is sure to be a highlight of your time in Dublin.
Token
For a solid dose of nostalgia, head to Token, Dublin’s very own 18 and over video game bar. What better way to spend a rainy day in Dublin than reliving your adolescence by playing Donkey Kong, Mortal Combat, and more?
With over 40 retro arcade games to choose from, a full bar, and a dinner menu (including tasty vegan options), Token is the ideal place to pass the time in Dublin on a rainy day.
Dublin Ghost Bus Tour
If you have a penchant for eerie tales, then Dublin’s Ghost Bus Tour is an ideal rainy-day activity for you. The tour takes you back in time to when the city was plagued by disease, spreading rapidly through the population. You’ll be shocked to learn about the desperate measures taken by infected individuals, such as using the city’s drinking water to alleviate their wounds.
The tour doesn’t hold back on exploring the darker side of Dublin’s history. You’ll hear about the harsh realities faced by those affected by the plague, from being ostracized to worse.
Moreover, the tour isn’t limited to these harrowing accounts. It delves into various bizarre and fascinating events that took place in Dublin’s past, unraveling legends and ghosts that will captivate your imagination.
For an unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into Dublin’s intriguing past, book your spot on the Dublin Ghost Bus Tour.
Indoor Activities in Dublin for Families
Croke Park and the GAA Museum
One fun and educational rainy day activity for families in Dublin is a trip to Croke Park and the GAA Museum. As the home of traditional Gaelic sports, Croke Park is a symbol of Irish culture and history.
Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium, including the VIP area, media center, dressing rooms, and pitch. Led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about Irish sports, the tour offers an eye-opening journey through the world of Gaelic games.
After the tour, head to the onsite GAA Museum. It showcases the history of Irish sports with rare artifacts and a hall of fame for the best players. Don’t miss the interactive area where you can try your hand at hurling or Gaelic football.
For families looking for an indoor activity in Dublin on a rainy day, a visit to Croke Park and the GAA Museum is a must!
EPIC Museum of Emigration
One of Dublin’s most visited museums is the EPIC Museum of Emigration. This museum covers a uniquely Irish topic: the outsized role that emigration has played on Ireland and the world. For centuries, the greatest Irish export has been its people, and this museum dives into the historic events that have brought Irish people to every corner of the globe.
Whether you have Irish roots or simply an interest in Irish history, this excellent museum will give you a newfound appreciation for Irish contributions to the world. Visitors can even trace their ancestry in the museum’s database.
Expect to spend one to two hours in this engaging and unique museum, connecting with the Irish story. It’s a must-visit attraction in Dublin, especially on a rainy day when you’re looking for indoor activities to enjoy.
Irish Rock n’ Roll Experience
If you’re a music lover looking for a unique and immersive experience in Dublin, The Irish Rock‘N’Roll Museum Experience is a must-visit. This one-of-a-kind museum offers a theatrical journey through the vibrant Irish music industry of the past 30 years.
As you explore the Button Factory venue and recording studios, you’ll uncover fascinating stories from backstage and the recording booth, and see vintage guitars, equipment, and handwritten lyrics. And for the ultimate music experience, you can record your own demo track.
This museum is the perfect indoor activity for families in Dublin looking for a fun activity on a rainy day. Get ready to rock out and make some unforgettable memories at The Irish Rock‘N’Roll Museum Experience!
Guinness Storehouse
The Guinness Storehouse is the most visited tourist attraction in Ireland and a great thing to do in Dublin on a rainy day. Despite the fact it’s about beer, the Guinness Storehouse is kid-friendly (and appropriate) and the perfect indoor activity in Dublin for families.
Inside the Guinness Storehouse, you’ll learn about the history of the Guinness family, the brewery, and how the famous stout is made. The interactive environment makes the experience engaging and fun for visitors of all ages.
The tour culminates with a pint of Guinness in the Sky bar, which offers some of the best views of the city and surrounding mountains. It’s sure to be one of the most memorable pints of Guinness you’ll ever have!
Little Museum of Dublin
The Little Museum of Dublin is an ideal destination for a rainy day activity in the city. Tucked inside a Georgian mansion, this small museum houses a vast collection of intriguing artifacts. What sets this museum apart is that instead of having lots of information for visitors to read, knowledgeable docents are on hand to answer any questions you have about the items on display.
When you arrive, you’ll be treated to a tour led by one of the enthusiastic docents. The tours change frequently, so each visit will offer new insights into Dublin’s fascinating history. With its intimate setting and unique approach to storytelling, the Little Museum is one of Dublin’s best rainy-day activities.
GPO Museum
If you’re looking for an educational and thought-provoking indoor activity in Dublin, then head to the GPO Museum. Located inside the historic General Post Office on O’Connell Street, this museum is dedicated to telling the story of the 1916 Easter Rising.
Using state-of-the-art technology, multimedia displays, and historical artifacts, the GPO Museum brings the events of the Rising to life in a powerful and engaging way. Visitors can learn about the bravery and sacrifice of those involved in the rebellion, and explore the building that served as a pivotal point in Irish history.
The exterior of the General Post Office still bears the marks of the battle. Inside, the exhibits offer a moving tribute to the events that shaped modern Ireland. Don’t miss the chance to experience this powerful museum during your visit to Dublin.
Trinity Library and the Book of Kells
A visit to Trinity Library and the Book of Kells is a must-do activity in Dublin, especially on a rainy day. The exhibit provides a detailed history of early Christianity in Ireland and the role that books, such as the Book of Kells, played in spreading Christian beliefs throughout Europe.
You’ll have the chance to see the Book of Kells up close, albeit only two pages. The artwork is intricate and colorful, showcasing the skill of its creators.
The highlight of the tour is a visit to the breathtaking Trinity Library, where you can walk under towering wooden shelves lined with thousands of books. This remarkable library has even been said to have inspired the library in the Harry Potter movies, and it’s not hard to see why!
Hop-on hop-off bus tour
Looking for a way to explore Dublin while staying dry on a rainy day? A Hop-on hop-off bus tour is the perfect solution! These tours provide a comprehensive overview of the city’s history and layout while allowing you to cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time, all while staying dry.
In Dublin, there are two hop-on hop-off bus tour companies: Big Bus and DoDublin. If you want a more personalized experience with a local touch, I recommend booking with DoDublin. Their tours are led by retired Dublin bus drivers who provide live commentary, giving you an insider’s point of view.
One of the significant advantages of taking a hop-on hop-off bus tour is that you can stay on the lower level of the bus on a rainy day. This way, you can enjoy the sights of Dublin while staying dry and comfortable. It’s an excellent way to explore the city, regardless of the weather!
Christ Church Cathedral
Christ Church Cathedral is a fascinating historical attraction in Dublin that can be explored on a rainy day. Established by Sitric, King of the Dublin Norsemen, almost a millennium ago, this architectural wonder is steeped in history.
One of the cathedral’s most intriguing features is its 12th-century crypt, one of the oldest and most extensive in Britain and Ireland. Visitors can explore the restored crypt and view the Treasures of Christ Church exhibit, which includes manuscripts and artifacts showcasing almost a millennium of Irish worship. Don’t miss the extraordinary church silver, a highlight of the crypt exhibit.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
St Patrick’s Cathedral is another historic Dublin cathedral to visit on a rainy day.
Erected in the 13th century, it’s one of the few remaining buildings from medieval Dublin and has played a significant role in Ireland’s history for over 800 years. Legend has it that St. Patrick himself baptized Christian converts on the site almost 1500 years ago.
One of the highlights of visiting St. Patrick’s Cathedral is attending a performance by its world-renowned choir, which has been in operation since 1432 and still performs daily during the school term. The impressive architecture and rich history of the cathedral are sure to captivate visitors, making it an excellent activity to enjoy on a rainy day in Dublin.
Jeanie Johnston Experience
Aboard Jeanie Johnston, you’ll learn the story of the thousands of Irish people who fled the Famine for North America.
Located in Dublin’s Docklands, across from the EPIC Museum of Irish Emigration, the Jeanie Johnston Experience takes you back in time to the mid-19th century to see for yourself the conditions experienced by the hundreds of passengers crammed into ships like this one. By touring this ship, you’ll learn about the hardships and struggles that the passengers faced as they sought a better life overseas.
The Jeanie Johnston Experience is an excellent choice for a rainy day activity in Dublin. You’ll stay dry indoors while learning about this moving period in Irish history, and come away with a deeper understanding and appreciation for this defining event.
Dublinia
Dublinia is one of the best Dublin museums for families looking for a rainy day indoor activity. You and your kids can explore the lifestyle of Viking warriors, and kids will especially love dressing up as Vikings themselves.
At Dublinia, you’ll discover the city’s rich history and the various groups that shaped modern-day Ireland. It’s an ideal activity to escape the rain in Dublin.
The National Museum of Ireland – Natural History (AKA The Dead Zoo)
The National Museum of Ireland – Natural History, also known as the Dead Zoo, is an intriguing attraction to explore in Dublin on a rainy day. Its vast collection of approximately two million scientific specimens includes animals from across Ireland.
Visitors can marvel at a variety of wildlife, from butterflies and beetles to seals and the long-extinct giant Irish elk. Plus, admission to the Dead Zoo is free, making it a perfect activity for all budgets.
Browse books in a bookshop
It’s widely known that Ireland boasts a rich literary heritage with numerous acclaimed authors, from James Joyce and Sally Rooney. Hence, it won’t surprise you to learn that brick-and-mortar bookstores are thriving in Dublin.
What better way to pass the time in Dublin on a rainy day than by keeping dry in one of the city’s many bookstores? You can peruse the recommendations and get inspired to pick up a good read.
One of my favorite bookstores in Dublin is Hodges Figgis, located on Dawson Street. This iconic four-story establishment features an impressive selection of Irish-centric books, making it an ideal spot to uncover your next favorite Irish author.
The ARK
Looking for a novel indoor activity in Dublin for families? Then head to The Ark, a purpose-built arts venue located in the vibrant Temple Bar area of Dublin City.
With a focus on sparking childhood imagination, The Ark offers an array of engaging activities for children aged two to twelve, ranging from theatre and music to literature, art, film, dance, and beyond.
Their mission is to share great art made for, by, and about children, bringing joy and fostering a lifelong love of culture. With their program of performances, exhibitions, and creative workshops updated every few weeks, there’s always something new to explore and experience.
Take advantage of a rainy day and let The Ark bring some creativity, imagination, and fun to your family’s day in Dublin.
FAQ: Rainy Day Activities in Dublin
There are many great indoor activities in Dublin that you can do on a rainy day. Visit one of the city’s many museums, find your next read in a cozy bookshop, or dry off in a traditional Irish pub. Whatever you choose to do in Dublin on a rainy day, it’s hard to go wrong!
Most days in Dublin get at least some rain, but it usually doesn’t last all day. December and January are the wettest months in Dublin, receiving on average 12 and 13 days of rain, respectively.
It can rain hard in Dublin! Sometimes the rain is a soft drizzle, but other times we get some major downpours. Hard rain in Dublin is usually short-lived, so you can shelter from the rain at one of the city’s many indoor activities.
On average each year, April gets the least rain in Dublin (although not by much!). March in Dublin is one of the city’s wettest months.
The wettest months in Dublin tend to be December and January, although it rains year-round in Dublin.
Final thoughts about the best things to do in Dublin on a rainy day
As a city where it rains nearly every day of the year, there’s a wide range of indoor activities in Dublin for every type of traveler. From learning local history at the city’s many museums, or experiencing the local pub culture, there’s no shortage of things to do in Dublin on a rainy day. So don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits – get out and explore all that this vibrant city has to offer!