The Best Visitor Attraction in Dublin

Here are 8 reasons why the Guinness Storehouse is must see when visiting Dublin.

As one of the most popular destinations in Ireland, Dublin offers an abundance of things to see and do. From historical landmarks to cultural experiences, there is no shortage of attractions to visit. However, if you're looking for the best tourist attraction in Ireland, the Guinness Storehouse stands out as an iconic must-see destination.

The Guinness Storehouse is a seven-story museum located in the heart of Dublin's St. James's Gate Brewery. It tells the story of Ireland's most famous export, the Guinness beer, from its humble beginnings in 1759 to its global recognition today. The Storehouse is not only the home of Guinness but also a celebration of Irish culture, creativity, and entrepreneurship. There are not many places in Dublin able to boast about having so much to see and do in one place.

1. A Historical Landmark

The building was originally constructed in 1904 as a fermentation plant for the Guinness brewery, and its design was considered ground-breaking at the time. The building's steel frame and brick walls were revolutionary in the industry, and its sheer size and height (seven floors) made it a landmark on the Dublin skyline. The Guinness Storehouse played an important role in the development of Dublin's economy. It provided jobs for thousands of people and helped to establish Dublin as a major brewing centre.

View of the old exterior of the Guinness Storehouse

2. One of the Best Museums in Dublin

The story of Guinness is a living one. It is one that started with such optimism that its founder, Arthur Guinness, signed a 9,000-year lease on St. James’s Gate Brewery in Dublin. Guinness has a rich and unique history. The Archive tells the story of the brand, the brewery, and its people while reflecting societal developments over three centuries. The Guinness Archive holds a wealth of unique historic records, memorabilia, and other resources, tracing the rich and varied history of Guinness from its first foray into brewing to the present. Visitors can also explore the evolution of Guinness advertising and the stories behind some their most famous advertising campaigns. 

3. Fun Activities to do with Kids in Dublin

The Guinness Storehouse is most definitely suitable for visitors under 18 years of age. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or above whilst visiting the Guinness Storehouse. Tickets for children between the ages of 5-17 are only €10, while children under the age of 4 are completely FREE! Public transport is practical and perfect for getting there with the kids. Throughout the 7 floors there are many interactive activities to keep the little, and not so little ones, entertained, from the brewing process to the Guinness world of advertising.

4. Best Food & Drink Experiences in Dublin

We are all too familiar with how expensive it can be to be a tourist in Dublin. substantial there is the 1837 Bar & Brasserie, a full-service dining experience. Open from 1pm daily it’s advised to prebook. Then we have Arthur’s Bar, the perfect place to grab another drink after taking in the sights from the world-famous Gravity Bar. Lastly, but by no means least, there is the Brewer’s Dining Hall. An open kitchen boasting a delicious sea-food menu partnering just perfectly with a pint of the black stuff.

Table with 2 beautiful pints of smooth Guinness, a glass of chilled tap water, and a foamy espresso martini along with a succulent burger and chips, bangers and mash covered in a delicious homemade gravy, a fresh salad, and a tasty steak sandwich and chips.

5. Best Cultural Experience in Dublin

There is no place that better captures the modern and historical culture of Dublin City. The storehouse represents over two centuries of Irish brewing history and is an embodiment of Irish culture, creativity, and entrepreneurship. It is a symbol of Ireland's international reputation and its contribution to the global community. The storehouse plays an important role in promoting Irish culture and tourism, and its economic impact is significant. The Guinness Storehouse is not just a tourist attraction, but a cultural institution that holds a special place in the hearts of the Irish people locally, nationally, and internationally.

6. Best Festival and Events in Dublin throughout the year

The Guinness Storehouse plays host to numerous events throughout the year. It is one of the best event venues in Dublin thanks to its unique architecture, 7 spacious floors and variety of themed rooms. As expected, the St. Patricks Day Festival proves to be the most popular. Spanning over a period of 5 days, visitors are treated to a showcase of live Irish music, Irish art, food, beer, and entertainment. Whether you’re visiting from overseas or over the road, the Guinness Storehouse is the perfect place to toast with a pint around St. Patrick's Day!

A happy man with a drum attached to his waist with his hands in the air holding two drumsticks. In the background many people are gathering watching intensely and smiling as they listen to the man. There is also a DJ set up to the right, with a breath-taking view of Dublin behind him.

7. Best Places to Take Photographs in Dublin

Dublin is one of the most picturesque cities in Europe, but the Guinness Storehouse is one the best places in Dublin to take photographs. In fact, we have even gone as far as to give you advice on how to take the best photographs during your visit to the Storehouse which you can find here. Even better, we’ve recommended some locations too. Throughout the building there is plenty of opportunities to capture the perfect pic. It might be the Instagram worthy selfie enjoying a pint of the black stuff while gazing upon the Dublin skyline from our Gravity Bar or doing you best to pour the perfect pint at the Guinness Academy.

Two men and one woman smiling and chatting while holding perfectly poured pints of creamy Guinness. The background is a breath-taking view of Dublin city and specifically Trinity College as can be seen above the man’s curly hair.

8. Best Activities for Budget Travellers in Dublin

We know Dublin can be expensive for tourists, couples, groups, and families all looking for that memorable experience. While there is countless budget friendly and even free activities and attractions located around Dublin for you to choose from, none offers the variety and value for money the Guinness Storehouse does. Especially for those visiting with a young children or teens. Children under 4yrs go free while tickets for children between 5 and 17 are from €10. If the budgeting is going well and you feel like enhancing your Storehouse experience just a little, there is the Stoutie, the Guinness Academy, and the Connoisseur Experience available to book.

In conclusion, the Guinness Storehouse is the best tourist attraction in Ireland because of its immersive and interactive experience, unique tasting opportunities, food and drink options, and cultural events. Whether you're a beer lover or not, the Guinness Storehouse is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Dublin.

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