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Dublin has more to offer than pubs — from karaoke nights and zip-lining to art galleries and food trucks.
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Dry January activities in Dublin are perfect for staying social, adventurous and healthy without alcohol.
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The city’s growing selection of non-alcoholic bars, outdoor events and cultural experiences proves that sober fun is anything but boring.
You don’t need a pint of Guinness to enjoy Dublin! The city is packed with alcohol-free activities that showcase its charm, culture, and history. Whether you’re exploring picturesque parks, visiting iconic landmarks, or joining a lively comedy show, there’s plenty to keep you entertained without a drop of alcohol. Here’s your guide to the best alcohol-free fun in Dublin. Dublin isn’t all about pubs and pints! Explore the city’s best alcohol-free activities, from cultural landmarks to scenic walks, for a memorable experience.
Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is a vibrant and lively city that offers a wide range of entertaining activities. However, sometimes it can be challenging to find exciting places to visit with friends that don't involve consuming alcohol. That's why we have put together this comprehensive guide of the best places to have a craic in Dublin with your friends without alcohol.
Many people decide to take a break from drinking after the holidays, committing to stay alcohol-free for 30 days. The Dry January movement has gotten more and more supporters in the last years around Ireland, but we know that joining it can seem like a challenge when living or visiting Dublin. The city is full of pubs, and having pints with friends seems like the main thing to do - but we can promise you it is not! Here’s a complete guide of things to do and see in Dublin during January if you are trying to stay away from the booze:
Karaoke Box: Unleash your inner Rockstar
Next up is the Karaoke Box, where you can sing your heart out with your mates. With a vast selection of songs and private rooms, it's the perfect place to showcase your hidden talent.
Rainforest Adventure Golf
Experience muuuch fun on the Mini Golf in Dundrum! Grab your friends for a great time at our exciting mini golf course. Discover laughs, challenges, and great moments. As they said: from kids to bigger kids.
Virgin Mary
Who said you cannot have delicious cocktails during Dry January? Well, you can if you visit Dublin’s first non-alcoholic bar, Virgin Mary, located on Capel Street, City Center. Open from Thursdays to Saturdays, there you will find a variety of cocktails to choose from, all made with unique combinations and no alcohol.
Viking Splash Tours: Roar like a Viking
Experience Dublin's history with a twist on the Viking Splash Tours. Don a Viking helmet, roar like a Viking and learn about the city's rich heritage.
Zipit Forest Adventures: Calling all thrill-seekers
Zipit is your ticket to treetop challenges and adrenaline-pumping zip lines through Dublin's lush forests. Conquer your fears and bond with your pals.
Dublin Ghost Bus Tour: Spooky fun
Finally, for those who enjoy a good scare, the Dublin Ghost Bus Tour offers a thrilling journey through the city's haunted history.
Dublin Zoo: Connect with nature
Who doesn't love a day at the zoo? Dublin Zoo, one of the oldest and most respected zoos in the world, offers a unique opportunity to get up close with exotic animals. It's a fun-filled day out for friends of all ages.
National Leprechaun Museum
Opened in 2010, the National Leprechaun Museum is a memorable location where you can learn about Irish folklore and myths. Explore giant furniture and imagine life as a mythical creature at this spot.
Silent Disco Walking Tour
Get on your dancing shoes and indulge in a unique experience with Silent Adventures. Put on your headphones and bust your best moves while walking through the streets of Dublin. You'll get to dance your way to the most popular locations in Dublin while wearing funky outfits.
Jump Zone: Bounce off the walls
Unleash your inner child at Jump Zone, Ireland's first indoor trampoline park. This indoor trampoline park is an adrenaline junkie's dream, featuring wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball duels, and foam pit plunges. It's an excellent place for a friendly dodgeball match or just bouncing around.
Escape Boats: Test your teamwork
Escape Boats is Dublin's first-ever escape room in Dublin on a boat. Work together with your friends to solve puzzles and escape before time runs out. It's an adrenaline-pumping, sober activity that tests your teamwork skills.
The Comedy Cellar: Need a good laugh?
The Comedy Cellar is one of the best spots in Dublin for stand-up comedy. Enjoy hilarious performances and hilarious comedians.
The Clockword Door: Board games social night
Not drinking shouldn't mean not socializing, and finding as many activities as possible will make January goes by even more quickly. Alternative Dublin sometimes hosts a Board Game Social Night at The Clockwork Door in Temple Bar with Over 100+ games. Tea, coffee, and biscuits plus the chance of meeting other people also taking part in Dry January.
Take a Wintery Hike in Dublin
Sure, if you are staying away from alcohol for a whole month, you might as well move your body a little bit during this time. Thankfully, Dublin has some beautiful places to go for a little wintery hike and enjoy some fresh air. Maybe get in contact with other friends participating in Dry January and make a group activity out of it. One of our favorite spots to go for a stroll during the winter season is the Dublin Mountains, with different paths to take, depending on your willingness to go uphill. If you are keen to see some snow during your time in Dublin, that’s definitely where you gonna find it. We have some more suggestions on the best hikes in Dublin in our blog, check it out.
The Hugh Lane
Finally, Dublin City Gallery - The Hugh Lane is an excellent spot for art enthusiasts. The gallery houses an extensive collection that includes works of Irish and European art. With free admission, the gallery remains accessible to all. Admission is free.
Try one of Dublin’s famous food trucks
Dublin is famous for its pubs, but it has a lot to offer that doesn't involve drinking - and you won't have a sore head the next day. We suggest that you visit one of Dublin’s many food trucks spread around the city, with options for all tastes and budgets. Some of our favorites: Órale, in Dun Laoghaire serves Contemporary Mexican Food, Janet's at the Yeatyard in Drumcondra prepares the best gyoza dumplings in the city, and Vietnom in Stoneybatter is the place to go for authentic Vietnamese street food. 
Dublin is a city that offers an incredible range of activities outside of drinking, and we hope this list has provided some inspiration for those looking for fun and exciting things to do. Whether it's a day at Dublin Zoo, an adventure through a silent disco in the city, or learning about Irish mythology, the opportunities are endless.
These extraordinary spots promise to make your Dublin experience an unforgettable one, where the spirit of adventure reigns supreme. Cheers to alcohol-free escapades in the heart of the Emerald Isle!
10 FAQs About Dry January in Dublin
1. What is Dry January?
Dry January is a month-long challenge where people choose to take a break from alcohol after the festive season. It’s a reset that helps boost wellbeing, energy and healthy habits, and Dublin has plenty of ways to make it fun!
2. Is it hard to do Dry January in Dublin?
Not at all! Although Dublin is famous for its pub culture, it’s also full of exciting alcohol-free activities, from karaoke nights and comedy shows to hiking trails and museums. There’s always something to do that doesn’t involve drinking.
3. What are the best alcohol-free things to do in Dublin during Dry January?
You can try Karaoke Box for a singing session, visit The Virgin Mary Bar for mocktails or join a Viking Splash Tour. If you love adrenaline, Zipit Forest Adventures and Jump Zone are great picks.
4. Are there alcohol-free bars in Dublin?
Yes! The Virgin Mary Bar on Capel Street is Dublin’s first-ever alcohol-free bar. It serves creative mocktails and offers a relaxed, classy setting for sober nights out.
5. What’s a good non-drinking night out idea in Dublin?
Try the Comedy Cellar for stand-up, a Silent Disco Walking Tour for high-energy fun or a board game night at The Clockwork Door. All perfect for socialising without alcohol.
6. Where can I find outdoor activities for Dry January?
Explore Dublin Mountains for a wintery hike, visit Phoenix Park or Dublin Zoo or join adventurous experiences like Zipit Forest Adventures, great options for some fresh air and movement.
7. Are there fun day activities in Dublin without alcohol?
Absolutely! Spend the day at The Hugh Lane art gallery, check out the National Leprechaun Museum or nibble your way through Dublin’s best food trucks for a relaxed, alcohol-free day.
8. How can I stay social during Dry January?
Join group activities like escape rooms, mini golf, or comedy shows. You’ll meet people, have a laugh and enjoy the sense of connection, all without needing a drink in hand.
9. Can tourists enjoy Dublin without drinking?
Definitely! Many of Dublin’s top attractions, like Viking Splash Tours, museums and parks, are ideal for visitors who prefer a sober trip while still soaking in Dublin’s culture and history.
10. What are the benefits of spending Dry January in Dublin?
You’ll discover a new side of the city, from hidden gems to creative events. Plus, you’ll save money, sleep better and start the year feeling refreshed and inspired.
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