By Jessica Russo
Okay, it does rain quite a bit on the Emerald Isle - but, think of it this way - without all that rain, Ireland wouldn't be so green!
Don't let a few droplets rain on your parade. The Irish are all about fun, so they made sure that there's tons to do inside. From breweries and distilleries to amazing castles and museums, here are some of the best things to do in Dublin when it rains.
Photo by Instagram user @edylan
Libraries
Trinity College's Long Room - free
Even if you're not exactly a "bookworm," you will fall in love with Trinity College's Long Room. The instant awe you'll feel upon entering the Long Room may even catch you by surprise. Feel your head bobble as you look up, down, and all around at the soaring stacks of classics that surround you. For an extra thrill (and a small fee), spring for the Book of Kells Exhibition!
Chester Beatty Library - free
Established in 1950 and located on the grounds of Dublin Castle, this amazing library was named European Museum of the Year in 2002! Sir Alfred Chester Beatty's jaw-dropping collection includes Egyptian papyrus texts, medieval manuscripts, paintings, drawings, rare books, and more.
Photo by Instagram user @artisticmishap
Go on a pub crawl
What's a better way to drink the grey away than to tap along to live folk music in a traditional Irish pub? Friendly locals will make you feel right at home, and a pint of Guinness will make you feel all warm and fuzzy.
Brazen Head - the oldest pub in Ireland!
Address: 20 Lower Bridge St, Merchants Quay, Dublin 8, D08 WC64
The Stags Head
Address: 1 Dame Ct, Dublin, Ireland
O’Donoghue’s
Address: 15 Merrion Row, Dublin, Ireland
The Long Hall
Address: 51 South Great George's Street, Dublin 2, Ireland
McDaid’s
Address: 3 Harry St, Dublin, Ireland
The Cobblestone
Address: 77 King St N, Smithfield, Dublin, D07 TP22
Palace Bar
Address: 21 Fleet St, Temple Bar, Dublin 2, Ireland
Photo by Instagram user @mcdullamy
Breweries & Distilleries
Guinness Storehouse
If you like Guinness, this brewery experience is a must-do! Hear tales of Ireland's most famous beer, enjoy tastings, hang out on the rooftop bar, and learn all about how Guinness is made. What better place to enjoy a pint? (The gift shop is pretty fun, too.)
Old Jameson Distillery
The Jameson Distillery Bow St. is the original site where Jameson Irish Whiskey was distilled until 1971! Treat yourself to a tour and a mixing class, then enjoy a nice glass of the good stuff in the cozy Distillery Pub next door.
Teeling Distillery
An operating distillery in the heart of Dublin, Teeling is a pretty special place. Enjoy an informative, yet fun tour, then unwind with a tasting (or two)!
Photo by Instagram user @particlefusion
Castles and Cathedrals
Dublin Castle
Located right off Dame Street, this 13th-century storybook castle boasts spectacular exhibitions! Aside from the Chester Beatty Library, experience amazing architecture, artistic masterpieces, and historical wonders.
Christ Church Cathedral
While you might want to walk the grounds of this breathtaking Cathedral, there is tons to see inside! If you're willing to fight the drops for a few minutes, the grey stone of the grounds looks stunning in the rain, as long as you have an umbrella.
St. Patrick's Cathedral
Founded in 1191, Saint Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin is the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland! With its spire standing at an impressive 140 feet tall, St. Patrick's is the tallest and largest church in Ireland.
Photo by Instagram user @justinetanomjit
Go Shopping
George’s Street Arcade
The rain is the perfect time to snag some souvenirs! Nestled near Dublin Castle, in the middle of Dublin's favorite bars and pubs, lies George's Street Arcade. This ornate 1881 indoor shopping plaza is a site in itself. Admire amazing Victorian architecture, taste yummy offerings from local food vendors, and find crafty handmade keepsakes.
Photo by Instagram user @joecool134
Museums
Kilmainham Gaol
This colossal former prison once held many Irish revolutionaries, including the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising. As you tour this grim yet fascinating site, you will hear stories of the many who were imprisoned and executed on the very grounds of Kilmainham Gaol.
EPIC Irish Emigration Museum
This immersive, interactive museum is an interesting experience highlighting the history of Irish diaspora and emigration to other countries.
The Little Museum of Dublin
Called "Dublin's best museum experience" by the Irish Times, The Little Museum of Dublin is a wonderful way to drench yourself in Irish culture. Learn all about the history of Ireland's vibrant capital!
National Gallery of Ireland - free
This gorgeous museum houses European art from the 14th to the 20th century, covering all major mediums. Enjoy amazing architecture and exciting exhibitions at this gem of a gallery.
Dublin Writers Museum
Dublin has quite a literary history. Step inside this breathtaking 18th-century house and celebrate the legacy of Joyce, Beckett, Yeats, Wilde, and other Irish literary legends.
Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) - free
This beautiful museum showcases the very best of modern and contemporary art. Since IMMA is located right near Kilmainham Gaol, why not do both in one rainy day?
Dublin City Gallery the Hugh Lane - free
Located on Parnell Square, this funky gallery is fresh, new, and exciting. Admire contemporary art, watch films, and stare in awe in a stained glass room. Check out the museum's event calendar and take a drawing class!
National Museum of Ireland - free
This is the mother of all Irish museum institutions. Visit the branch of archaeology on Kildare Street, the branch of natural history on Merrion Square, and/or the branch of decorative arts & history in Collins Barracks. This museum is spread throughout the city, with tons of unique excitement at each location!
National Leprechaun Museum
Love folklore and mythology? Head to the National Leprechaun Museum, located right near the Ha'Penny Bridge! Enjoy magical stories and fantastical fairytales at this unique museum.
Irish Whiskey Museum
Calling all whiskey lovers! Nestled in the heart of Dublin on Grafton Street is the Irish Whiskey Museum, a wonderland of interactive exhibits and all things whiskey. Treat yourself to a guided tour and learn all about the history of this traditional spirit. Finish off your visit with a tasting, of course!