Autumn is a perfect time to get out and explore the stories that have shaped Ireland. Whether you're planning a family outing, meeting friends, entertaining visitors, or simply looking for a day of inspiration, the National Museum of Ireland offers a unique opportunity to connect with Ireland's past, present and natural world.
From remarkable archaeological treasures and fascinating wildlife displays to decorative arts, military history and beautiful grounds, a visit to one of our museum locations can turn an ordinary autumn day into a memorable adventure.
Here is our guide to making the most of an autumn day of discovery at any of our museum sites in Dublin and Mayo.
1. Explore Ireland's Greatest Treasures
Autumn is an ideal time to immerse yourself in the Museum's changing programme of exhibitions and displays. Whether you're interested in history, art, sport, nature or behind-the-scenes museum work, there is plenty to discover across our Museum sites. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to rediscover a favourite Museum, these exhibitions offer fresh perspectives and memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.
For those looking for inspiration, we recommend:
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Changing Ireland Galleries | Collins Barracks - Interpreting Irish political, cultural and social history from 1900-2020.
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Harry Clarke’s Stained Glass | Collins Barracks – Admire six stunning panels from one of Ireland’s most celebrated artists at Collins Barracks.
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Echoes Through the Hallowy | Collins Barracks – Explore the rich history of the Benburb Street Dwellings and the generations of people who made their homes there.
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19th Century Ardagh Chalice Replica | Turlough Park – See a beautiful replica of the Ardagh Chalice - the inspiration for the famous Sam Maguire Cup.
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Soapbox dreams in 1950s Ireland | Turlough Park - This exhibit tells a story of youthful dreams of sporting glory at local, national and international level.
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The Dead Zoo Lab | Collins Barracks - This unique space offers visitors an opportunity to observe conservation in action and learn how museum professionals care for delicate specimens from the Natural History collection.
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Glendalough: Power, Prayer and Pilgrimage | Kildare Street - Discover the story of one of Ireland's most important monastic sites through remarkable artefacts and fascinating insights into the saints, pilgrims, kings and communities who shaped medieval Ireland.
2. Enjoy Seasonal Activities
From creative workshops and discovery trails to cultural events and interactive family activities, there are plenty of opportunities to learn, explore and have fun during your visit. Please Note: Due to ongoing insustrial action our programme of tours, workshops and trails have been rescheduled or cancelled, please check our Event Calendar before your visit.
Highlights include:
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My Favourite Object Activity Booklet | Collins Barracks - Explore the Museum, searching high and low through all the different galleries. When you've chosen your favourite object, use this activity book to learn more about your chosen artefact.
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Fright at the Museum Halloween Trail | Collins Barracks - Solve riddles, find artefacts and sink your teeth into the frightfully fun Museum collections at Collins Barracks.
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Rainbow Trail | Collins Barracks - Learn about various artefacts in Collins Barracks connected to LGBTQIA+ historical figures and significant moments, with this free Museum trail.
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Find Peadar and his Friends - Gallery Trail | Turlough Park - Peadar is a Pygmy Shrew who lives at the Museum with his seven friends. Can you find their hiding spots in the Museum galleries using our fun, self-guided activity sheet?
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Woodland Explorer Nature Trail | Turlough Park - Pick up a ‘Woodland Explorer’ activity booklet from Museum reception to explore a self-guided nature trail through the grounds of Turlough Park.
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My Favourite Object Activity Book | Turlough Park - Search the exhibitions to find your favourite object in the National Folklife Collection at Turlough Park
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Talk: Mayo Lives from the Archives | Turlough Park - Join the Mayo Genealogy Group for its annual series of talks, showcasing ongoing research into the lives and stories of Mayo people, with new insights from the 1926 Census returns.
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My Favourite Object Activity Book | Kildare Street - Follow the My Favourite Object Activity Book trail through the Museum, uncover fascinating stories, and let your creativity shine as you record your favourite discoveries.
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My Favourite Animal Activity Book | Dead Zoo Lab - Visit the Dead Zoo Lab at Collins Barracks and discover over 1000 different kinds of animals and fossils for you to see up close!
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3. Follow Your Curiosity
Take time to wander through the galleries at your own pace and discover some of the Museum's most captivating treasures. Marvel at the mesmerising Corleck Head on Kildare Street, admire the iconic slippers belonging to Michael Collins at Collins Barracks, or come face to face with the frightful Ghost Turnip at Turlough Park. Young visitors can become explorers on a quest for hidden details, while adults can delve deeper into the fascinating stories behind the objects on display. Every gallery offers a new perspective and the chance to uncover something unexpected around every corner.
4. Pause and Reflect
Autumn invites us to take things a little more slowly. Find a quiet moment to absorb the atmosphere, reflect on the stories you've encountered and enjoy the unique spaces that make each museum experience special. Throughout the museums, quiet seating spaces are dotted among the galleries, offering the perfect place to pause and take in your surroundings. Sit for a while, absorb your surroundings and reflect on the stories, people and traditions you've encountered along the way.
5. Take an Engaging Tour
Our experienced guides will lead you through Ireland’s past—from the fierce world of the Vikings to the heart of Prehistoric Ireland. Discover the resourcefulness and resilience of rural communities in the Irish Folklife Collections, or see how everyday objects reveal the political, cultural, and social story of Ireland from 1900 to 2020.
Please Note: Due to ongoing insustrial action our programme of tours, workshops and trails have been rescheduled or cancelled, please check our Event Calendar before your visit.
6. Venture Out After Dark
Wrap up your day and venture into Dublin city for an evening of culture with Dublin by Dusk at the National Museum of Ireland. Held on the last Thursday of each month, this special after-hours programme offers late opening at Collins Barracks and Kildare Street, with a vibrant mix of exhibitions, workshops, talks and cultural events. Whether you're looking for inspiration, entertainment or a unique night out, it's the perfect way to experience the Museum in a relaxed and atmospheric setting after dark.
Please Note: Due to ongoing insustrial action our Dublin by Dusk programme of tours, workshops and trails may have been rescheduled or cancelled, please check Dublin by Dusk | Collins Barracks & Kildare Street before your visit.
7. Explore Beyond the Galleries
Make the most of your visit to Turlough Park by stepping beyond the museum galleries and into the great outdoors. Wander scenic woodland trails, discover beautiful gardens, lakeside views and wildlife habitats, let little adventurers loose in the natural woodland playground, or enjoy a family cycle along the 10km Museum Greenway linking Castlebar to the museum grounds. With so much to explore, Turlough Park offers the perfect blend of culture, nature and outdoor adventure.
Autumn at the National Museum of Ireland | Turlough Park
8. Reconnect, Chat and Shop!
Across all museum sites, there are opportunities to extend your visit with a relaxing stop at the café or a browse through the gift shop. Enjoy a coffee, light lunch or sweet treat at Synge & Byrne Café at Collins Barracks and Turlough Park, the perfect place to pause and recharge during your visit. Don't miss a visit to our Museum Shops, where you'll find a thoughtfully curated selection of Irish-made crafts, books, gifts and collection-inspired souvenirs, making it easy to take home a memento of your day or pick up a unique seasonal gift.
Browse more upcoming events at the National Museum of Ireland