If whiskey is your poison, get ready to indulge to your heart's content. After the educational tour of the distillery, and your careful attention to the historical overview, retire to the in-house pub and make a little whiskey history of your own. There's also a restaurant with fixed price menus for lunch and dinner. Whether you want to learn more about the whiskey making process, indulge in hearty food or taste new spirits, a visit to Old Jameson Distillery won't let you down.
This former prison is one of Dublin's most historic buildings. Dating back to 1796, the Kilmainham Gaol is a massive building that housed men, women and even child prisoners. Most notably, the Gaol is known for incarcerating famous rebels and prisoners of war. Today the building serves as a museum with exhibits, artifacts and docent-led tours.
The National Concert Hall sits imposingly close to St Stephen's Green. This large building was formerly home to University College Dublin but became the city's main concert venue in 1981. There are two halls. The acoustics in the main auditorium are not the best by any means, but the John Field Room next door offers better sound and a more intimate setting. The Hall attracts the best of classical performers to the city. The fine National Symphony Orchestra and National Concert Orchestra also perform here regularly. If you don't have time for an evening performance, you might be able to squeeze in a lunchtime recital at this attractive and comfortable venue.
Located at Stephen's Green, this little non-profit museum revives 20th Century Dublin for visitors. The little museum focuses, among other things, on the cultural transition that took place during the entire existence of the nation. There's a surprising amount of things to discover here, such as the Golden Age of Dublin, contribution of women in significant socio-economic movements, and a special exhibit dedicated to U2, Ireland's biggest rock band. Overall, it is a great way to acquaint yourself with how far the great city has come, and it is highly recommended to join one of their super engaging tours.
Founded in 1908 by art enthusiast Sir Hugh Lane, this elegant gallery houses Sir Hugh's collection of paintings by Dégas, Monet and Courbet; in addition to Rodin sculptures and a fine selection of modern Irish paintings. A magnificent stained glass room includes panels by Evie Hone and Harry Clarke: most notable of late, however, is the Lane's acquisition of Francis Bacon's studio, which is now reproduced in the gallery untouched. Free classical music concerts are held here on winter Sundays, lectures are frequently given: the Hugh Lane is worth a visit all year long. They also have a cafe and a bookshop that are open all the hours of the operation of the museum.
First established in the late 1960s, the Project Arts Center was 'the' place to see fringe and visiting theatre performances in Dublin, and was also one of the few organizations brave enough to establish itself in the then-derelict Temple Bar area. The Project was not without its shortcomings, however; it was cramped, acoustics were poor and its infamous tin-roof seemed like it would literally fly off when the wind rose during performances. The four-storey Project boasts two spacious performance studios, numerous spaces for art exhibits, and a cafe/bar, the Project is set to become a focal point for the performing arts in Dublin. See their website for details for forthcoming events.
Completed in 1779, the City Hall designed by Thomas Cooley housed the Royal Exchange. It is an elegant reminder of the wealth and opulence of Dublin in the city's 18th-century heyday. Today, City Hall is managed by the Dublin Corporation, which has restored the building beautifully. The great central atrium, complete with gold-leafed dome and mosaic floor, is one of the most impressive public spaces around. The history of Dublin is told in a vivid, computer-aided series of exhibitions.
First established in the late 1960s, the Project Arts Center was 'the' place to see fringe and visiting theatre performances in Dublin, and was also one of the few organizations brave enough to establish itself in the then-derelict Temple Bar area. The Project was not without its shortcomings, however; it was cramped, acoustics were poor and its infamous tin-roof seemed like it would literally fly off when the wind rose during performances. The four-storey Project boasts two spacious performance studios, numerous spaces for art exhibits, and a cafe/bar, the Project is set to become a focal point for the performing arts in Dublin. See their website for details for forthcoming events.
The original structure of Smock Alley Theatre dates back to the 17th Century that operated till the 18th Century and was left unused later. This classic building was renovated in 2012 and starting functioning as a space for entertainment again. Though the venue exudes a medieval charm, it is equipped with modern lighting and acoustics that ensure a pleasant experience for audience. The theater property has rental spaces with different capacities that can be hired for small and large-scale events. Smock Alley Theatre hosts a plethora of events from the fields of dance, drama and music. You can enjoy a delicious bite before or after the event at its in-house bar. All in all, you are sure to leave with a wonderful memory after attending a show here.
This non profit venue is the only gallery in Ireland devoted exclusively to photography. It holds around ten exhibitions a year and hosts work by both Irish and international photographers. The building's glass façade is one of the finest examples of contemporary architecture in the city. It also offers a variety of seminars and workshops. Spread over four floors, the gallery is also an excellent source of photographic gifts, books and cards. The shop has an excellent selection of original prints from Irish and international photographers and the stock changes regularly.
As one of the most successful developments in Temple Bar, the Irish Film Institute (IFI) will keep the most discerning culture-vulture entertained for hours. Film buffs will enjoy the two art-house cinemas and fairly comprehensive bookshop. The café/bar/restaurant is worth visiting in its own right if only to marvel at the award-winning architecture, as this light-filled building was constructed from the space between two older houses. The IFI also regularly hosts festival screenings, seminars, and workshops. A fun and relaxing place in which to spend an hour or two.