The Little Museum of Dublin

Updated On: February 18, 2024 by   Ciaran Connolly

If you’re heading to Ireland’s Capital City soon make sure to visit the Little Museum of Dublin. It has become one of the best-loved museums in Dublin. The museum explores the incredible story around the Irish Capital. Tripadvisor also voted the attraction as the number one museum in Ireland.

If you want to uncover Irish history ‘The Little Museum of Dublin offers an amazing experience.

The People’s Museum

The Little Museum of Dublin has often been referred to as the ‘Peoples Museum’, dedicated to the great people of Dublin and the city itself. This charming museum explores the fascinating history of Dublin throughout the 20th century.

Most of the items found at the Little Museum of Dublin have been donated by the general public such as photos, memorabilia and artefacts. Amazingly over 5,000 items have been donated from locals.

While at the museum you can explore the incredible collection that’s spread over many rooms. Offering visitors an intimate and very informative look at life in Dublin during that century.

The museum was formed by its director Trevor White and Curator Simon O’Connor in April 2011. Officially opening its doors in October of the same year. The Little Museum of Dublin is registered as a charity. Governed by representatives from Dublin City Council and Failte Ireland – the national tourism development in Ireland.

Things to See at The Little Museum of Dublin

Without a doubt, you won’t be bored with a visit to this museum as it’s filled with fascinating exhibitions. Their famous tours run every hour, filled will endless stories about this much loved Irish city.

Wings of Ireland

In a new exhibition ‘Wings of Ireland’ explores this history of Aviation and how the Irish people helped play a part in its history. The brilliant exhibition pays tribute to the explores, tycoons and brilliant minds who became the pioneering aviators.

Wings of Ireland is a must- experience where visitors can follow the flight of Irish Aviation from the beginning and how the Irish have helped revolutionise a world-class industry.

Women’s History of Ireland

If you have a keen interest in the history of women in Ireland, every Monday at 1 pm, the Little Museum of Dublin runs an informative chat by Sarah Costigan.

Women’s role in Ireland’s history is an important one but often than not their contributions haven’t always been acknowledged as they should be. Sarah Costigan offers visitors an insight into some of Ireland’s famous female pioneers.

Here you will discover the story of some of the most influential Irish women. This is definitely a worthwhile experience for anyone whos interest in women’s history.

 St. Stephens Green Walking Tour

Starting at this museum you can take part in the superb walking tour of St. Stephens Green, every Saturday and Sunday morning from 11 am. St. Stephen’s Green is a beautiful park area in Dublin that has played a key role in Irish history.

The tour offer visitors an insight into how St. Stephens Green played a fundamental role in Irish history. Such as, many people might not know the famous writer James Joyce studied here. The square has long played a dramatic backdrop for public and private events.

The tour begins with an introduction back at the museum, then a 60-minute local guided tour of St. Stephens Green. Always a popular attraction, so make sure you buy tickets online to avoid disappointment.

 

U2: Made in Dublin

Next up is one of the most popular exhibitions at the museum, dedicated to all things U2. Often referred to as Ireland’s greatest rock band to ever exist. This exhibition explores the amazing 40 years of the band.

If you’re a U2 fan then you’ll love what’s on offer from signed albums, iconic photos and memorabilia. The exhibition was actually created by some of U2s biggest Irish fans. Some of Ireland’s great photographers and artists helped to also contribute to the exhibition.

It’s a lovely tribute to the band and celebration of all their achievements. Also, the exhibition looks at their role in the music industry and how they helped pave the way for other Irish bands and artists. If you’re not a fan of U2, you 100% will be after visiting this attraction.

The Little History of Dublin

Another unmissable thing to explore at the museum is the ‘Little History of Dublin’. An easy to follow guide that tells you all about Dublin City in 15 bite-sized clips.

The series of videos are fun and informative, a great way to learn about the history of Ireland. The video series covers a variety of Irish topics that bring the story of Dublin to life in a way that’s exciting and compelling.

The Editors Room

Lastly, check out the Editors Room on a visit to ‘The Little Museum of Dublin’. It offers you a fascinating insight into the history of the Irish Times Newspaper when it was run by Robert ‘Bertie Smyllie. He was one of the papers most successful and famous editors ever.

This exhibition includes some of his personal items like his old typewriter given to the Irish Times by Irish author Maeve Binchy.  You can also check out his old desk and one of his famous front pages from 1945. This is one of the more interesting attractions at the museum with lots to discover and history to be revealed.

A trip to this magnificent museum is one that will not be quickly forgotten and the perfect way to spend your time in Dublin.

Where is the Little Museum of Dublin?

This museum is located at 15 St. Stephen Green, on the very north side of the square, on the corner of Dawson Street. The Little Museum of Dublin is only a short two minutes walk from Grafton Street and many other popular Dublin attractions.

The Little Museum of Dublin Opening Times

The great thing about this Dublin museum is that it’s open seven days a week, so no matter when you’re visiting the city you’ll have something to do.

• Monday: 9.30am – 5pm
• Tuesday: 9.30am – 5pm
• Wednesday: 9.30am – 5pm
• Thursday: 9.30am – 8pm
• Friday: 9.30am – 5pm
• Saturday:9.30am – 5pm
• Sunday: 9.30am – 5pm

Nearby Dublin Attractions:

The list of things you can do in Dublin is endless, so here are some of our personal recommendation for places to visit. Once you have visited the ‘Little Museum of Dublin check out these tourist attractions:

• The Book of Kells: Take a visit to Trinity College and check out the incredible illustrated Christian Gospel ‘Book of Kells’ dating back to 800AD. It’s considered one of Ireland’s National Treasures and one of the world’s most famous manuscripts.
• Dublinia Viking Museum: This is another great museum located in Dublin that explores the history of the Vikings in Ireland. The Viking experience is one of the top things to do in the city.
• Grafton Street: If you’re looking for a place to shop in Dublin then this is the place to head. It’s one of the most famous shopping streets in Dublin with endless amounts of shops from designer to high street shops and unique boutiques.
• Marsh’s Library: Take a trip to the oldest library in Ireland, located in Dublin. Here you’ll find exceptional collections of books and manuscripts. A beautifully designed library that hasn’t lost any of its history along the way.
• Jeanie Johnston: Visit the replica of Jeanie Johnston, an Irish Emigrant Ship that gives you an in-depth experience of what many Irish people had to go through as they made their way to a new life in America.

Have you got a favourite Dublin attraction? Let us know below in the comments below! 🙂