There are countless things to do in Killarney with kids, regardless of what age they are.
The bustling town of Killarney is a great destination for families year round with heaps of activities for both warm weather and those dreaded rainy days!
In the guide below, you’ll find everything from farms and kid-friendly tours to some very unique things to do in Killarney for families.
The best things to do in Killarney with kids
Photos via Shutterstock
The first section of our guide is packed with the more popular things to do in Killarney for families.
Below, you’ll find everything from horse riding and outdoor attractions to some of the more unique family activities in Killarney.
1. Spend a morning at Kennedys Pet Farm
Photos via Kennedys Pet Farm on FB
Kennedys Pet Farm is located around a 10 minute drive from the town centre. The farm is home to a plethora of farm animals and even some exotic pets including a peacock named ‘Prince’.
Visiting the farm is both a fun and educational experience where you and your kids can learn about animals and farm life.
The pet farm also has multiple indoor and outdoor playgrounds making it a great destination no matter the weather.
2. Zip around on the waterbus
Photos via the MV Lily of Killarney on FB
Lough Leane is the largest lake in Killarney and it features islands and waterfalls along its banks making it the perfect place to explore by boat.
This tour leaves from Ross Castle which is just a 5 minute drive from the town centre or a half hour walk through the national park.
The one hour tour offers stunning views of the national park and surrounding mountains. Boaters will be able to see the picturesque O’Sullivan Cascade as well as the ruins of a 13th century abbey on Innisfallen.
If you’re looking for things to do in Killarney with kids when it’s raining, this is a handy option as the Waterbus has a cover!
3. Try a very unique treasure hunt
Ciar’s Quest is one of the more clever, low-effort things to do in Killarney with kids.
This free app-based trail starts at Ross Castle and takes you on a 3km buggy-friendly treasure hunt, where you’ll “meet” virtual wildlife, take photos, and learn a few quirky facts along the way.
It’s designed for families, fun in any weather, and you don’t need to book. Just download the app, follow the markers, and let the kids lead the way.
4. Cinema Killarney for those rainy days
Photos via Cinema Killarney on FB
If you’re wondering what to do in Killarney with kids when it’s pouring down, the cinema is a handy option.
This independent cinema located on East Avenue Road was recently refurbished, making it the perfect place to watch new releases on the big screen.
The cinema also hosts a kids club every Saturday and Sunday with discounted tickets for the latest family friendly films.
5. Rent bikes and explore at a gentle pace
One of the more adventurous kids activities in Killarney is to explore by bike.
Rent a bike from the bike rental spot on the Muckross Road (there’s plenty of parking) and then head off on your merry way.
The area has ample cycle lanes but, if you’re a novice cyclist, you’re best off avoiding the town centre!
6. Do one of the kid-friendly trails
Killarney National Park is filled with large paved car-free roads, perfect for a family cycling trip (you can book a bike rental online here).
From there you can head into the National Park where you can visit the ruins of Muckross Abbey, explore Muckross House and Gardens or take a leisurely cycle along the banks of Muckross Lake.
One of the beauties of having a bike is the freedom – if you’re visiting during summer, it’s almost impossible to get parking beside Torc Waterfall (there’s plenty of space to lock up your bike, though!).
7. Take them horse riding in the park
Photos via Shutterstock
There are many ways to explore Killarney National Park but one of our favourite ways is by horseback. This guided tour of the park is perfect for all horse lovers no matter their riding ability.
The stables are located off the Ring of Kerry (N72) towards Killorglin just a 5 minute drive from the town centre.
The one hour tour takes you through the national park past Lough Leane and over park trails with stunning views of the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks.
8. Take a boat tour of the Gap of Dunloe
Photos via Shutterstock
If you’re exploring Killarney with kids and you’re weary of little legs tiring out quickly, this tour covers a lot of ground without much effort.
It’s a 5 hour tour that meets in Killarney Town and then brings you to Kate Kearney’s Cottage by bus.
From there, you’ll climb into a Jaunting Car and trot up through the Gap of Dunloe, soaking up the views and plenty of stories along the way.
You’ll then get into a boat near Lord Brandon’s Cottage and take a 2-hour spin around the Lakes of Killarney where you’ll be given a unique perspective on one of the most scenic corners of Kerry.
9. Spend a wet afternoon at Escape Killarney
Photos via Escape Killarney on FB
Escape Killarney is a another good option for those of you in search of things to do in Killarney with kids when it’s raining.
Escape Killarney offers two escape rooms experiences that each take an hour and are suitable for up to 6 players at a time.
Families should be aware that Escape Killarney recommends their escape rooms for children aged 13 and older.
10. And a dry one at Deerpark Pitch & Putt Club
Photos via Deerpark Pitch & Putt on FB
Deerpark Pitch & Putt Club is located in the middle of Killarney right across from Fitzgerald Stadium.
A great way to introduce some of the younger family members to golf, Deerpark offers a special discounted rate for families. The club provides clubs, balls and tees so all you need to do is arrive ready to play.
The 18 hole course takes around 90 minutes to complete and is a fantastic way to spend a sunny day outside.
11. Try family-friendly rock climbing
Photos via Shutterstock
Rock climbing with Kerry Climbing is a brilliant option for families with kids aged 8 and up who fancy a proper adventure.
Set in the stunning Gap of Dunloe, these guided sessions are tailored to all levels, whether your kid’s never climbed before or you’ve done a bit indoors.
They run half-day, evening, and full-day options, and all gear is provided.
12. Head for a dip (you can pay-as-you-go)
Photos via Killarney Sports & Leisure Centre
Killarney Sports & Leisure Centre is a great shout for a rainy day or when the kids need to burn off some energy.
There’s a 20m main pool plus a learner pool, and they welcome both members and pay-as-you-go visitors. Kids under 13 need to be accompanied by an adult, and swimming hats are a must.
Family rates are decent, and there’s even a pool hoist and induction loops for accessibility.
13. Enjoy views and gentle strolls right in town
Photos courtesy Fáilte Ireland by Sonder Visuals
If you’re looking for a scenic, low-effort stroll with the kids in Killarney, Killarney House and Gardens is a solid shout.
Just a few minutes’ walk from the town centre, this spot offers panoramic views, wide open spaces for little legs to run wild, and paths perfect for buggies.
It’s free to visit and ideal for a relaxed family afternoon that still feels like you’re deep in the National Park.
14. Take them to a lively Irish dance show
While there are some mighty pubs in Killarney, you’ll be very restricted with the little ones. So, for a lively evening with a difference, head for the Celtic Steps show.
It’s run by local performers and takes place just outside Killarney town. Kids will love the rhythm and movement, and parents get a solid dose of Irish culture that’s anything but boring.
It’s polished without being stuffy, and you’ll leave buzzing. Book ahead during the summer as it’s one of the more popular things to do in Killarney for families during peak season.
15. Visit Falconry Kerry
Photo via Shutterstock
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Killarney with kids, look no further! Falconry Kerry gives you the unique opportunity to interact with birds of prey.
Located on a working farm on the outskirts of Killarney about an 8 minute drive from the town centre, the farm is home to an array of birds including falcons, hawks and owls.
They offers family friendly hawk walks where you will have the chance to learn about falconry, hold a bird of prey and feed friendly owls.
16. Take a ramble over to Knockreer Playground
Photo via Google Maps
Knockreer Playground is situated just at the edge of the national park across from St. Mary’s Cathedral on the Port Road (R877).
This extensive playground was updated in 2020 and now includes inclusive and accessible playground equipment.
This is a great place to stop by if you are exploring the town by foot or cycling through the National Park.
17. Muckross Traditional Farm
Muckross Traditional Farm offers a unique glimpse into Ireland’s past, showing what farm life was like in the 1930s and 1940s.
The farm is located in the National Park just a 15 minute drive from the town centre. Visitors will take the N71 from Killarney towards Kenmare and turn off at the same turn for Muckross House.
Guides throughout the farm perform demonstrations from blacksmithing to baking brown bread. There is also a small petting farm and a woodland playground suitable for younger children.
18. Take them on a Jaunting Car ride
Photos via Shutterstock
Jaunting Cars are a quintessential part of experiencing this corner of Kerry and they’ve been one of the most popular things to do in Killarney for families for many years now.
Now, you can either walk up to one of the Jaunting Cars when you arrive or you can book a tour in advance (some recommended tours here).
Many of the tours take you out to Ross Castle on the banks of Lough Leane before exploring the park. These tours are a great way for little legs to see more of Killarney after a long day of walking or cycling.
Explore beyond the kids activities in Killarney
Now that you have a sense of what to do in Killarney with kids, it’s time to explore further afield.
The best day trips from Killarney are:
Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent much of the last 13 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 40 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.