Not to worry. If you’re inspired to plan an Ireland vacation for your family, but you aren’t sure where to begin, you’ve come to the right post!

Our Ireland expert contributor Jody Halsted, author of Planning the Ireland Vacation of Your Dreams, has provided great overviews and turn-key guides to help you plan your family’s best possible trip to any of these six amazing Ireland destinations (including Northern Ireland).

To get started, just browse Jody’s introductions to some of the best Ireland family vacation destinations below, then click the links to read more about any destinations that sound of particular interest to you. You’ll jump to her Ireland Family Vacation Guides for each with additional tips and recommended activities, lodgings, and dining to help plan your best Ireland family vacation possible.

1. Dublin

Dublin’s HaPenny Bridge, a must to see when visiting Dublin with kids

Dublin, the capital city of this enchanting land, is often the first and last place the traveler to Ireland sees. From one of the largest walled city parks in Europe to some of the smallest and oldest artifacts in the world, exploring Dublin with kids is a must during your Ireland holiday.

You’ll find plenty to keep your family occupied in Dublin, but these 4 activities are the ones my own children chose for our Dublin city adventure, along with my own recommendations for 1 great place to stay and 1 great place to eat during your visit. –JH

-> Continue reading Dublin with Kids Ireland family vacation guide.

2. County Kerry

Ireland is an ideal vacation destination for families. Yet in this land filled with ‘must visit’ destinations, the county of Kerry may have a few more ‘musts’ than most.

Located in Ireland’s ‘Sunny Southwest’, County Kerry is revered for its incredible scenery. Stunning coastline, historic castles, and sparkling caves are only the beginning of the wonders you’ll find as you explore County Kerry with kids. –JH

-> Continue reading County Kerry with Kids Ireland family vacation guide.

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3. County Galway

Ireland is a land where myth and reality combine, a seamless merging of tradition and current culture, woven to create a place that is unique to itself. On the western coast, the county of Galway seems to amplify the magic that emanates from the Irish land.

The city of Galway is the shining centerpiece of a deceptively large county; it stretches from the country’s midlands before reaching far into the Atlantic Ocean. You may need four days just to take in all the activities you’ll want to undertake on your visit to County Galway with kids. –JH

-> Continue reading County Kerry with Kids Ireland family vacation guide.

4. County Cork

As Ireland’s largest county, Cork is difficult to place into a specific box. Does it have castles? Yes, in fact one of the most famous in all the land is located here. Does it have sheer stone cliffs that tumble into the pounding ocean? Yes, and the most dangerous areas are topped with picturesque lighthouses. Does it have mountains draped in purple heather? Valleys with lakes so clear you can see the deceptively deep bottom? Or brightly colored cottages lining seaside village streets? Yes, yes, and yes.

Trying to sum up Cork with 6 highlights is a difficult task, so my best advice is to use these points as just a beginning to your adventure in Ireland’s “Rebel County”. –JH

-> Continue reading County Cork with Kids Ireland family vacation guide.

5. County Clare

Thatch-roofed cottages amid a maze of stone walls. Fluffy sheep sprinkling the rocky hills. Towering cliffs marching in formation to meet the crash of the ocean. And the promise of unrivaled craic and entertainment. County Clare, in the heart of Ireland’s western shores, awaits visitors with all with the stuff of Irish travel dreams. Find your castles, megalithic tombs, majestic abbeys weathered by time, and then some.

As home to Ireland’s second international gateway, Shannon Airport, it’s easy to plan your Ireland itinerary to start or end with a stay in County Clare. Either way, these are my top recommendations for what to do, where to stay, and where to eat when you do visit County Clare with kids. –JH

-> Continue reading County Clare with Kids Ireland family vacation guide.

6. Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is a juxtaposition of cultures. It’s both Irish and British, lush and sparse, regal and disreputable all at the same time. And though there have been clashes in the past, the Northern Ireland of today stands ready to welcome travelers eager to explore its distinct culture, mythology, and history.

But be warned: you won’t want to rush through ‘the North’. It is worth your time and not just as an ‘add on’ to an Ireland family vacation. For those planning a visit to Northern Ireland with kids, here are my top 4 activities I suggest you put at the top of your list, along with recommendations of 1 great place to eat and 1 great place to stay while you are there. –JH

-> Continue reading Northern Ireland with Kids family vacation guide.

DON’T MISS IT:

Are you ready to plan your own amazing Ireland family vacation? You’ll also want to be sure to read:

Ten Things You Should Know Before Traveling to Ireland with Kids

And don’t miss Jody’s very helpful site: Ireland Family Vacations!

Reader’s note: An earlier version of this post was published in March 2018. It’s since been updated and revised.

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The post Six Amazing Ireland Family Vacation Destinations (With Tips from an Expert) appeared first on Family Travel 411.

SOUTH DAKOTA, Black Hills and Mount Rushmore with Kids – Southwestern South Dakota is known primarily for one thing, and while you won’t want to miss your chance to see that massive monument carved into the side of a mountain, you may be wondering what else there is to do in the area–especially if you’ll be visiting Mount Rushmore with kids?

With over 5 million acres of hiking and cycling trails, rock climbing, caves, and paleontological sites, you won’t run out of options as you explore nature’s playground on your South Dakota family vacation. In fact, I suggest you begin your vacation planning early and be sure to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy these highlights of a Black Hills family vacation. 

1. Visit the Mount Rushmore National Memorial 

Nearly 3 million tourists visit the Mount Rushmore National Memorial each year, making it South Dakota’s most popular attraction. It’s awe inspiring to view in person, each granite head as tall as a 6-story building, gazing over the Avenue of Flags below. 

But there is more to a visit to this monument than the view. If you’re visiting Mount Rushmore with kids, be sure to pick up your Junior Ranger booklets first. Then begin your tour in the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center, where the tools used to carve the mountain are displayed. Kids will love the ‘hands on’ cranes and the chance to virtually blow things up.

Then move on to the studio space of Gutzon Borglum, where you can view the scale model of the sculpture while seeing the finished project on the mountain. It’s surreal. Finish your visit with a stroll along the half mile Presidential Trail. Stop often to enjoy the views and the informational plaques that help bring the monument to life. 

Tip: Many tourists rush to visit as the gates open. If your schedule allows plan your visit later in the day and stay for the evening lighting ceremony (during the summer months).

2. Dig the Mammoth Site

The world’s largest Mammoth research facility is just an hour south of Mount Rushmore, yet only a small percentage of visitors to the Black Hills know about The Mammoth Site near Hot Springs. This ongoing archaeological dig has unearthed 61 mammoths so far, and it’s the only place in the world where both Columbian and Woolly Mammoths have been found together. 

Each visit begins with a 30 minute tour. Your guide will ‘introduce’ you to Elvis, Clem, and Beauty, as well as lead you through the geology that created the sinkhole that captured so many mammoths, as well as other Ice Age creatures. After the tour you can wander the site for yourself. Because this is an ongoing dig you’ll see volunteers hard at work with brushes, spray bottles, and tiny picks, slowly unearthing fragments from the dried mud. 

As you leave the dig wander through the Ice Age Exhibit Hall. Replica skeletons of Ice Age animals look miniature next to the full sized mammoth model. One of the most intriguing displays is the mammoth bone hut, a replica of dwellings found in the Ukraine. It may put you in mind of prehistoric Lincoln Logs. A paleontology lab is on site, and the Children’s Room adjacent to the gift shop offers young children a chance to ‘dig’ for fossils and do crayon rubbings. 

Tip: Junior Paleontology programs are available for children 4-12, and advanced programs are offered for kids 10 and up, from Jun 1 thru mid-August. Book this in advance to avoid disappointment.

3. Go Deep in the Caves

Beneath South Dakota’s vast prairie are two of the longest cave systems in the world. 

Jewel Cave National Monument is the third longest cave in the world with over 195 miles of mapped and surveyed passages. Its calcite crystals sparkled like jewels in the lantern light of early explorers, thus giving it its name. Jewel Cave was developed as a tourist attraction before the National Park Service purchased it in 1908.

At Wind Cave National Park your cave tour begins with a 20-story elevator ride straight down. As stairs and pathways wind through caverns 204 feet beneath the earth, visitors are introduced to cave formations with names like boxwork, frostwork, and popcorn. If you’re traveling with small children or have limited abilities, this cave has both easy and moderate tours.  

Guided cave tours are offered daily on a first-come-first-served basis at both sites. Arrive early to book your tour as they often sell out during the summer months. Know that you may have a long wait between your arrival and your tour. 

Tip: Since both of these caves are part of the National Park Service, you can grab your Junior Ranger books and earn your badges during your visit.

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4. Visit All the Animals!

The Black Hills are an incredible spot for animal encounters. Custer State Park is known for their large herd of bison and friendly burros. From the Wildlife Loop Road you may also view big horn sheep, pronghorn, and elk. And, of course, prairie dogs.

If you prefer horses you can visit Windcross Conservancy where they work to preserve the nearly extinct Spanish Mustang or make a reservation for a tour with the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary where the herds run free. You’ll also find plenty of trail riding opportunities across the Black Hills. 

Take a three mile drive through Bear Country USA, a drive-thru wildlife park that has bears, wolves, bobcats, badgers, porcupine, otters, and other animals who roam the Great Plains. 

Tip: The animals look cute and bison look slow but remember these are wild animals and should not be approached.

Best Place for Families to Stay near Mount Rushmore: Covered Wagon Glamping at Rushmore Shadows

Spend your nights in the historic style of the Old West–at least on the outside. On the inside, these custom Conestoga covered wagons feature a king size bed and bunks, with space for a family of 4 or 6. Electricity, heat and air conditioning, and even a coffee pot, offer comforts the pioneers could never have imagined.

Outside your wagon you can enjoy a private campfire, or join the large community fire pit. A private bathhouse in Old West style is completely modern with bathrooms and shower rooms. Families will find plenty of activities at this camping resort including a pool, mini golf, and playground. Click here for more information about Rushmore Shadows and reservations.

Tip: Rushmore Shadows can help you arrange activities including a Hot Dog Roast, Chuckwagon Dinner & Show, and even Old West outfits for picture perfect photos at your covered wagon.

Best Place for families to Eat in the Black Hills: The Hitchrail in Pringle

Don’t let the exterior of this one-time biker bar scare you away. Inside, you’ll find the best food to be had in the Black Hills. Award-winning chef Dennis Boitnott creates his menu from scratch daily based on availability of ingredients, so everything is fresh and local. This isn’t a spot to visit if you’re in a hurry, but it is the perfect place to relax. Take your time and kick back on the patio, and enjoy the flavors of South Dakota. Check the Hitchrail Facebook page for daily specials.

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The post Mount Rushmore with Kids & The Black Hills | South Dakota Family Vacation Guide appeared first on Family Travel 411.

Sitting atop the contiguous United States like a crown, its mountain peaks rising above the fir trees, snow and glaciers sparkling like jewels, Glacier National Park has been a bucket-list destination from the moment it became a National Park in 1910. Covering over a million acres of land, its mountainous surroundings and remote location are both a draw and a deterrent.

The most important factor to your vacation success is to begin planning early (6 months to a year depending on your lodging preferences) and have, at least, a general itinerary to make the most of your vacation to Glacier National park with kids. Here’s how I recommend you begin. This post contains affiliate links.

1. Take a Ride in Red Bus with a Jammer

These iconic red buses have been driving tourists along Going to the Sun Road since 1936 — and yes, these are the original buses, refurbished, of course! Choose the Western Alpine Tour for a relaxing ride up Going to the Sun Road with plenty of photo stops and intriguing storytelling from your Jammer. Be sure to bring a jacket because only the coldest, rainiest weather will cause the roll-back top on the bus to be closed.

Are you wondering why your guide is called a Jammer? It goes way back to when the buses had manual transmissions and the drivers had to ‘jam’ the gears as the bus made its way up the mountains. Find out more: Glacier National Park Red Bus Tours

Tip: Book your Red Bus Tour at least 4 weeks in advance during the busy summer months, and plan the tour for your first day so you have those ‘insider tips’ on places to visit during the rest of your stay.

2. Spend Time On or In Lake McDonald

Walk to the edge of Lake McDonald and look down. The water is so pure and clean that the colored stones in the bottom shine like jewels. Slipping off your shoes you step in, gasping as the frigid water covers your feet and ankles.

Carved by glaciers, and filled with glacier water, Lake McDonald never truly gets warm. But don’t let that stop you from enjoying the largest lake in Glacier National Park. At 10 miles long – and nearly 500 feet deep- there is plenty of space for everyone.

In Apgar Village, on the lake shore, you’ll find Glacier Park Boat Company with kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes for rent. If you want to get out on the lake without the fear of capsizing take a tour on one of the historic wooden boats that leave from Lake McDonald Lodge. Click here to see more fun family activites at Lake McDonald.

Tip: The farther you go from Apgar Village and Lake McDonald Lodge the lighter the crowds. Follow the less-traveled road on the west side of the lake. 

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3. Explore Glacier National Park’s Hiking Trails

Glacier National Park has over 700 miles of hiking trails of varying distance and difficulty. Trail of the Cedars, an accessible trail, is one of the most popular. Combine it with the Avalanche Lake Trail for a 2-3 hour hike.  

For a more challenging hike, use the east entrance of the park to access the Grinnell Glacier Trail. This steep hike does get narrow in spots, but the views overlooking the impossibly blue water of Grinnell Lake are worth every step (see the view in the lead photo for this feature). Find out more: Glacier National Park Hiking Trails

Tip: Be sure to prepare for your hikes. Take water, snacks, and bear spray. Wear sturdy shoes and consider a walking stick for steep terrain. Study the trail maps online to choose the best routes for your family and be sure to check trail status before setting out. 

4. Attend a Ranger-Led Program

No one knows more about the parks than the Park Rangers! During the summer months you’ll find everything from guided walks and boat tours to Native American cultural activities and night time star parties.  

And don’t forget about earning your Junior Ranger Badge! This free program (available at all National Park Service sites) is available for kids up to 13 years of age. Pick up an activity book when you arrive at the park, and return it, completed, before you leave. After raising your right hand and taking  the official park oath you are awarded with an official Glacier Junior Ranger Badge.

Ranger led activity schedules are available about 2 weeks before the start of the following month, so don’t forget to check the website prior to your visit. Find out more: Glacier NP’s Ranger-Led Activities a and (scroll down page) Glacier National Park Junior Ranger Program

Best Place to Stay with Kids in Glacier National Park?

West Glacier KOA – You don’t have to be a camper to love this place! This huge campground is just a couple of miles from the West Glacier entrance and has everything you need for a fabulous stay in Glacier National Park with kids.

Campers will like the spacious, well maintained pull-through sites while non-campers will love the deluxe cabins with kitchen and bathroom. Two pools (one is adults only) are available and free evening entertainment includes birds of prey demonstrations and magic shows.   

Don’t want to cook? Both breakfast and dinner are available at the campground. You can even get an afternoon treat at Scoops Ice Cream Shop or a little pick-me-up at Lazy Bear Espresso. 

Tip: Book campsites 4-6 months in advance. Cabins should be booked at least 6 months in advance, more if possible. 

Best Place to Eat (Dessert) with Kids in Glacier National Park: Eddie’s Cafe

For such a popular destination there really aren’t a lot of dining options in and around Glacier National Park, and those that are there are, overall, quite forgettable. But what you won’t forget are the huckleberries.

You’ll find everything huckleberry, from candy to beverages to desserts. And the best place to go for these is Eddie’s Café in Apgar Village. You may have to wait for a table at this popular spot, but it is worth it for the warm huckleberry cobbler topped with vanilla ice cream. Get a few spoons and share. 

Tip: If you don’t want to wait for a table, line up outside at the ice cream shop for a scoop of Huckleberry Ice Cream and enjoy it as you wander down to Lake McDonald. 

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Even if you just have a long layover at DFW, consider catching the Grapevine Visitor’s Shuttle, which runs daily from the Grand Hyatt DFW to Historic Downtown Grapevine, Grapevine Mills, and Bass Pro Shops (it’s much more fun than sitting in the airport for hours). But if you have more time to explore Grapevine with kids, here are 4 great activities my daughters and I recommend, along with 1 great place to stay and 1 great place to eat while you are there.

Activity 1: Step Back in Time at Grapevine’s Museums

Grapevine Cotton Ginner’s Museum, Grapevine, Texas.

Grapevine became a city before Texas became a state and, as the oldest town in the county, was an early meeting place and center for trade. Begin your tour where the city began, at Nash Farm (lead photo). Now nestled into the rows of houses between Texas Highway 114 and Grapevine’s Historic Main Street, this “living history farm” offers amazing insight into what life was like for early settlers on the Texas prairie in the mid-1800s. Try to visit during one of the many seasonal events for the chance to be part of daily life on the Texas frontier.

A stroll down Grapevine’s Historic Main Street brings you to storefronts now filled with boutique shops, wineries, and tasty eateries, reveals historic buildings dating to 1888. Kids bored? Lock them in the calaboose – the city’s historic jail.

Down the street, nestled behind the visitors’ center (where the armed train robbers make 4-times daily appearances) are the Settlement-to-City Museums and the Grapevine Historical Museum, offering a view of how a town on the Texas prairie developed from dairy, cotton, and cantaloupe farming to a small, bustling city.

Activity 2: Take a Ride on a Steam Powered Train

All aboard the Grapevine Vintage Railroad.

Hop aboard the Grapevine Vintage Railroad to experience travel in the days of the Wild West. The most important decision on this restored Victorian train is not whether you will enjoy the cushioned seats of the First Class coach or the wooden seats, but the open air experience (weather permitting) of the Touring Class coach (I can tell you which most kids vote for).

The ride, approximately 90 minutes each way, takes you to the Fort Worth Stockyards where you can meet real cowboys and have your photo taken on a Texas Longhorn. Just be careful riding the train on summer weekends as bandits have been known to stop the train.

Tip: Special event trains throughout the year offer a different, themed experience. Call ahead to find out what may be offered during your visit (number at website linked above).

Activity 3: Step Inside Grapevine Mills

Sea Life Grapevine Aquarium at Grapevine Mills.

Grapevine Mills is more than just a shopping destination. For families in particular, it’s an entertainment destination. Begin with fishy fun at SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium. The 45,000-square-foot aquarium will delight fans of Octonauts and Shark Week alike. Exhibits, guide you from shore and harbor through shipwreck and shark tunnel.

Follow this with a bricktacular building experience at LEGOLAND® Discovery Center. This ever-evolving experience features LEGO® favorites like Ninjago and Friends, miniland models of Dallas and Star Wars, as well as plenty of building spaces, rides, a 4D theater, and an outdoor waterpark.

Have a teen who rolls their eyes at this type of ‘kiddie’ entertainment? Promise them a round of glow-in-the-dark Lunar Golf or the opportunity to lead your family through The Escape Game.

Activity 4: Create Memorable Holiday Moments

At the Gaylord Texan Resort, Grapevine.

In 2009 the Texas State Senate officially named Grapevine the Christmas Capital of Texas. The city boasts over 1400 events during the 40 days surrounding Christmas. Historic Main Street is strung with millions of lights to set the holiday mood, and all through the town holiday themed activities are taking place. One of the most popular are the holiday train rides: the magic of Christmas comes to life on the North Pole Express, while adults will love the escape on the Christmas Wine Train (both trains sell out as early as August, so plan ahead). Be sure to visit ICE! at the Gaylord Texan Resort where two million pounds of ice are transformed into a classic walk-through Christmas tale. Find out more: The Christmas Capitol of Texas.

Part of the water park at Great Wolf Lodge–a great place to stay in Grapevine with kids.

If it’s true that kids rank their favorite hotels based on the pool, then there’s one clear choice of where to stay in Grapevine with kids. Great Wolf Lodge has two amazing water parks on site. But even water babies need a break from swimming, so the hotel also offers other fun activities to soak up. Sample the ice cream-themed spa for kids, arcade, and MagiQuest interactive game, as well as free activities with Wiley and his friends. Rooms at Great Wolf Lodge all feature a North Woods inspired theme. Specialty suites give kids their own space in tents, cabins, or even wolf dens. You can get a look at the Great Wolf Lodge room types in this video tour of Great Wolfe Lodge in Grand Mound, Washington.

Main Street Bistro & Bakery.

Grapevine is a city filled with incredible, local eateries. I’ve yet to have a bad meal in the city. But the one place I never miss when we visit is Main Street Bistro & Bakery. Meals are a wonderful blend of French cuisine with definite Texas flair. Stop in for a meal (be prepared to wait for seating during peak times at this popular spot), or just grab one of their delicious pastries to eat at a sidewalk table as you enjoy your visit to Main Street.

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But be warned: you won’t want to rush through ‘the North’. It is worth your time and not just as an ‘add on’ to an Ireland vacation. For those planning a visit to Northern Ireland with kids, here are my top 4 activities I suggest you put at the top of your list, along with recommendations of 1 great place to eat and 1 great place to stay while you are there.

Activity 1: Visit the Titanic in Belfast

Visit the shipyard where the Titanic was built, now a contemporary museum.

There is a saying in Belfast about the Titanic, “The ship was fine when she left here.” Decide for yourself the verity of that statement as you discover the full story of the Titanic at the place she was built. Explore the shipyard and walk the full length of Titanic and her sister ship, the Olympic, before joining a tour that leads you through the golden age of ship building and separates truth from legend of the ‘unsinkable’ Titanic.

Before leaving the shipyard be sure to take a guided tour of the SS Nomadic, dry docked in front of Titanic Belfast. The last remaining ship in the White Star line, the Nomadic ferried passengers to her ‘big sister’ in high style. A guided tour by one of the volunteer “Titaniacs” brings the history of this little ship to life.

Activity 2: Discover the Causeway Coast and Glens

Ruins of medieval Dunluce Caslte on the Causeway Coastal Route.

Explore some of the most storied and mythical lands in Ireland along a 120 mile coastal route. Begin with the Irish mythology of Finn McCool as you tread along the polygonal stones of the Giant’s Causeway. Follow that with years of fishing history as you cross a rope bridge to a small island of stone, before indulging in a bit of fantasy at the Dark Hedges. Beyond these well known sites you’ll find breathtaking cliff-top castles, wonderful sandy beaches, a fairy land of magical waterfalls, and the world’s oldest distiller of uisce betha, the ‘water of life’, aka whiskey.

Activity 3: Walk atop Derry’s City Wall

Take a guided tour of Derry, one of Ireland’s oldest continuously inhabited places.

A few hundred years ago Irish cities were protected by massive walls with gated entry points. Today Derry is the only city whose walls remain completely intact. A walk atop the Derry city wall is like walking through time, cannons placed for protection hundreds of years ago now overlook the civil rights murals that decorate the buildings of the Bogside below.

Derry (aka Londonderry) is also a place noted for unrest, from the Nine Years War and Plantation of Ulster through the end of the 20^th century. The Troubles, the Battle of the Bogside, Bloody Sunday, and the Good Friday Agreement are all points in time that have shaped the city, and Northern Ireland. The best way to wrap your head around the history and culture of this city is with a guided walking tour. Gleann Doherty of Derry Guided Tours will guide you from the city’s founding by St. Colmcille in the 6^th century, through the Plantation period, and into the more recent history in a way that is understandable but not overwhelming for children.

Activity 4: Discover Fabulous Fermanagh

An ancient stone circle dating to 2250 BC.

Northern Ireland’s most south-westerly county, Fermanagh is divided by Upper and Lower Lough Erne, creating an outdoor paradise for vacationers. As a relatively overlooked county, tourists may feel like they have discovered an untouched bit of Ireland. Begin your explorations in Enniskillen, a town built around a castle located on an island between the two lakes. Military history runs deep here, with the castle hosting English regiments from 1689 through World War II.

Pssst! Don’t miss the map of our Northern Ireland recommendations and pinnable at the end of this feature.

But it is around- and even beneath- the surrounding countryside that Fermanagh shares its true treasures. As you circle Lower Lough Erne you’ll discover a stone circle dating to 2250 BC as well as ancient Celtic carvings. A castle still exists in Castle Caldwell Forest, though you have to look hard to find it, and nearby Belleek is home to the famed pottery. Explore beneath the surface of County Fermanagh at Marble Arch Caves Geopark, a stunning show cave that is one of the longest in Europe, stretching into the Republic of Ireland.

1 Great Place to Stay : Lakeside Lodges at the Killyhevlin Hotel in Fermanagh

Killyhevlin Hotel’s waterside cabins.

If you’re looking for a truly tranquil getaway there is no place better than on the shore of Lough Erne in one of the lodges at the Killyhevlin Hotel. The self-catering cabins offer the best of both worlds- loads of privacy and space with the luxury of the resort just a short stroll away.

Our lodge, with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a large open living area, and full kitchen, was a welcome break from busy hotels and bed & breakfasts. We enjoyed the uniqueness of grocery shopping in Ireland, and laughed as we attempted to understand gas marks on the oven. But what really made the stay memorable was the absolute stillness of the lake each morning, as I sat on the small jetty, tea in hand, as birds welcoming the sun and gentle waves lapped the shore.

1 Great Place to Eat: St. George’s Market

Sweet treats at St. George’s Market, Belfast.

For a true taste of Northern Ireland plan to visit St. George’s Market in Belfast. A large weekend market, you’ll find foods ranging from fresh – fish stalls and local produce- to ready-to-eat. Local food producers and restaurants have stalls interwoven with local crafters, book sellers, and antiques dealers. Arrive hungry and work your way through the maze of booths tasting, trying, and buying. Enjoy a meal here and take away cheeses, breads, and sweet treats for later.

Get more! Click here to see all of our 411 features on Ireland.

Map for your trip planning:

More features to help with your Ireland travels:

Ten things you should know before traveling to Ireland with kids

The 411 on Dublin with kids

How to live like a local family during travel

The 411 on County Clare with Kids

Ten things you should always pack for travel

The 411 on County Cork with Kids

Ten things you should do before booking family vacation rentals

The 411 on County Galway with Kids

Six amazing Ireland family vacation destinations

The 411 on Northern Ireland with Kids

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The post Northern Ireland with Kids – UK Family Vacation Guide appeared first on Family Travel 411.

But planning your first trip to Ireland can be a little overwhelming. Who knew there was so very much to see and do? After working with hundreds of families to create perfect Ireland itineraries and authoring Planning the Ireland Vacation of Your Dreams, I’ve found it helpful for families to know these ten tips before planning travel to Ireland with kids.

1. There is no bad time to visit Ireland!

It’s true! Ireland has a temperate climate that rarely climbs above 75°F or below 35°F. That’s not to say it can’t get hot or cold, but mostly the temperatures stay in that 40 degree range.

Of course some seasons are busier than others and a couple months may offer a bit more sun than rain…

• Shoulder season – after Easter to early June and September to mid-October – sees fewer visitors so prices on everything from airfare to car rental to lodging are less.
• Summer, when most people take their ‘big’ vacation and kids are out of school, is the busiest. Thus, higher prices due to higher demand.
• Late August thru early September is nearly ideal. There is a saying in Ireland that the weather gets nice just as the kids go back to school.
• November can be a wonderful time to visit. Yes, the weather is a bit cooler and the days shorter, but crowds are thin and attractions are still open.
• December thru February are the least busy in regards to tourism. Most attractions will remain open through the end of the year, but smaller and private attractions may close for the slowest months of January and February before March kicks off a rush of tourism around St. Patrick’s Day.

Dublin’s HaPenny Bridge, a must to see when visiting Dublin with kids

2. Your flight will most likely arrive in Ireland as the sun rises.

It can be difficult to relax as your plane flies across the Atlantic– you’re going to Ireland, after all! But do try to get a little bit of rest, even if it’s just to close your eyes, shut out the noise, and meditate.

You will be tempted to arrange early check-in at your lodging, but don’t do it! Beat jet lag by freshening up at the airport- wash your face, brush your hair and teeth- and getting active right away. Both Dublin and Shannon airports are near to great places to get outside and explore. Drink lots of water and power through the day, then you’ll be ready to turn in early for a solid night of sleep and wake on “Ireland time” tomorrow.

3. Driving is the best way to see the country.

Yes, I know it’s a bit intimidating to think about driving on the ‘wrong’ side of the road. But it is really quite easy to manage if you have a good navigator and have a rough idea of your route beforehand.

Know that most cars in Ireland are a manual transmission (stick shift), so if you can’t drive one be sure to reserve an automatic transmission (costs are usually higher). Also, auto insurance in Ireland is mandatory and a bit tricky as most credit cards do not offer coverage, and some that do offer coverage are not accepted in Ireland. I recommend learning all you can about car insurance in Ireland so you aren’t surprised by fees at the airport.

If you just can’t imagine driving in Ireland, consider hiring a driver guide from a company like Ireland Chauffeur Travel. Or stay in larger cities like Dublin, Galway, and Killarney and hire a daily drive guide or take organized day tours from there.

View from the garden of Knappogue Castle in County Clare

4. Unless you have unlimited time, you can’t see it all.

The easiest way to ruin a family trip to Ireland is with too much driving and not enough doing. You will not miss places you didn’t see, but you may always regret leaving a location too soon, before you really had a chance to explore it.

Ireland is not a country made for zipping from site to site. Point A to Point B may only be 100 miles, but those miles include narrow, winding roads through mountains, small villages, and picturesque farmland edged by stone walls which hug the road. Explore, enjoy, and embrace slow travel to get the best of what Ireland has to offer.

5. Pack for any weather.

The Irish like to say that the can have four seasons in one day. While you shouldn’t see snow, it’s likely you’ll experience sun, clouds, wind, and rain, all in varying degrees. The best rule of thumb is to dress in layers.

This is entirely dependent on the type of vacation you plan, but this basic list works for 95% of visitors.

• Jeans or travel pants, a light shirt, a heavier shirt or sweater, and a jacket are a good daily outfit. Plan to re-wear pieces; mix & match.
• Most Ireland vacations involve a fair amount of walking. Bring sturdy shoes or boots that have a bit of water resistance.
• Pack extra pairs of warm socks. Alternately, wool socks make wonderful souvenirs.
• Invest in a good water resistant jacket. It doesn’t have to be a trench coat, just able to repel water for a reasonable amount of time.
• A roomy, comfortable bag to carry all day. It needs to carry your necessities (camera, wallet, umbrella, layers you remove).
• If you have a castle stay planned be sure to check the dress code for the on-site restaurants.

For city breaks add a pair of comfy and attractive walking shoes that go with anything.

Exploring the Latin Quarter in Galway, Ireland.

6. There is more to see than castles and coastline.

For such a small country Ireland is bursting with family-friendly activities and attractions!

Choose a few ‘must visit’ sites and plan your itinerary around those. Plan activities and destinations based on what your family enjoys–not what others say you must see. Yes, the Cliffs of Moher are incredible, but if your family enjoys science over scenery you may find that Birr Castle is a better option.

Not sure how to decide what to see? Begin by determining your family’s goals for the trip and interests. Then use the interactive map on Ireland Family Vacations to discover attractions around Ireland.

After deciding on your ‘must visit’ sites, find other fun activities in the area to pad your itinerary, always keeping in mind that you may not experience everything.

7. Lodging options are as varied as the landscape.

How does your family prefer to travel? Do you insist on luxury all the way, or are you more comfortable in a holiday rental? You’ll find lodging to fit all needs and budgets across Ireland.

Consider a “mix & match” approach to your lodging: choose a welcoming B&B one night, followed by a self-catering cottage or family-friendly hostel for a few days to save money, then splurge on a 5* resort or castle stay for a night or two. Use this quick Ireland lodging guide to help you choose the best lodging for your family.

8. You can stick to a budget in Ireland.

Ireland can be an expensive place to visit- airfare, lodging, care rental… it all adds up. But there are quite a few ways to save money while in Ireland.

Food is always a big expense for families, so take advantage of breakfast at your B&B or hotel. The ‘Full Irish’ breakfast will power you through until tea time or an early dinner. Many pubs offer an early bird menu, and most post their menu and deals outside the building, making it easy to check. And do visit the grocery stores! Shopping for luncheon foods and snacks is fun in Ireland- so many new things to try!

The best deal in Ireland is the OPW Heritage Card. All sites managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW) – which includes the Rock of Cashel, Glendalough, and Dublin Castle- are included in purchase of this card.

If you will be in Dublin a few days, the Dublin Pass is an excellent savings and includes the hop-on hop-off bus, Guinness Storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol, and free airport transport into Dublin. You’ll also find incredible free sites in Dublin like the National Museum of Archaeology, Phoenix Park, and the National Gallery.

Most attractions offer a discounted family ticket for entry; do inquire about this if it isn’t offered.

If you use deal sites like Groupon or Living Social, check the offers in Ireland. Often you’ll find deals on attractions & dining.

Small bites with big flavor at Kilshanny House in County Clare.

9. You’ll eat like a king.

Irish food had a bit of a bad reputation for many years, but that has changed. You can expect fresh, hyper-local ingredients nearly everywhere, from the small village B&B to the most lauded restaurants in Dublin.

Each area of Ireland has its own flavor. Independent butchers will have their own recipe for black and white pudding, for example. Buttered eggs are a specialty in Cork. And each restaurant serves local goats’ cheese differently. Go outside your comfort zone and try something new. Encourage your kids to do the same. You may be surprised by what you really enjoy.

Two places to search out:

Murphy’s Ice Cream, handmade in Dingle with shops also found in Killarney, Dublin, and the Cliffs of Moher, creates the most delightful concoctions. Their slogan is “Ice Cream that knows where it’s coming from”- and for good reason. Local milk and cream, hand harvested honeycomb, they even harvest their own sea salt! My personal favorite is the Caramelized Brown Bread, with Caramel Honeycomb a close second. But I leave it for you to choose your own favorite (no one will judge you for daily visits!)

For quick, fresh, and delicious food look for an Avoca Café or Food Market. You’ll find wonderful sit-down meals, chilled items for the perfect picnic, or entrees to take and heat at your lodging. And all meet the Avoca standards of great natural ingredients, used adventurously, at a terrific value.

“Planning the Ireland Vacation of Your Dreams” by Jody Halsted, now available as an eBook–click here.

10. Yes, you can (and should) take the kids to a pub.

Ireland and pubs go together like fish and chips. You really can’t fully experience one without the other. Of course, Irish pubs and fish and chips go together quite nicely, too.

Travelers tend to see the Irish pub as an adult experience, but it is a place your entire family is welcome and can enjoy. The Public House (or pub) is a community gathering place. A place to relax, enjoy the craic (fun and entertainment), and (hopefully) catch some live music.

Practice good pub etiquette: choose a table near to the bar, but far enough away that your family won’t be in the line of food and drink delivery. Know that few pubs have table service, you’ll be ordering from the bar. And always ask if there is a time kids need to leave. Most village pubs will let you decide–as long as children are well behaved they can stay as long as you like.

For more help planning your trip to Ireland with kids, see:

The 411 on Dublin with Kids

How to live like a local family during travel

The 411 on County Clare with Kids

Six Amazing Ireland Family Vacation Destinations

The 411 on County Cork with Kids

Travel with Teens: Tips for getting and renewing U.S. Passports (15-17 yrs)

The 411 on County Kerry with Kids

Ten things you should always pack for travel

The 411 on County Galway with Kids

IrelandFamilyVacations.com

The 411 on Northern Ireland with Kids

Ten Things You Should Know Before Traveling to Ireland with Kids

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