Explorium: National Sport and Science Centre

About the museum

Explorium describes itself as Ireland’s National Science Centre. It stands on Blackglen Road in Sandyford, with views over the city from the foot of the Dublin Mountains, and brings science, sport and adventure together under one roof.

The centre has three separately ticketed areas. Junior Explorium, for children aged 2 to 7, offers indoor and outdoor play zones, creative activities and simple science experiments in timed sessions. The Science zone, recommended for ages 8 and over, has more than 250 hands-on exhibits where visitors can build and tinker in maker labs, take on sports-science challenges, and see shows such as the Tesla Lightning Show and a robot dog demonstration. Adults can try exhibits such as the F1 car and the G-Force bike. The Activities zone offers guided climbing sessions and virtual reality experiences.

Explorium also runs workshops for schools and groups, birthday parties, corporate team-building and a sensory room, and it describes its mission as making science accessible to people of all abilities and ages.

Highlights

• More than 250 hands-on science exhibits
• Junior Explorium play and science zone for ages 2 to 7
• Tesla Lightning Show and robot dog show
• Guided climbing and virtual reality activities
• Sensory room, free parking and full wheelchair access

Permanent exhibition

• Science zone – More than 250 hands-on exhibits on science, technology and sport, with maker labs, an F1 car, a G-Force bike and live shows.

Operated by

Explorium Ireland

Admission & discounts

Junior, Science and Activities are ticketed separately, and a Junior ticket is valid for two hours from its start time. Prices are shown only in the online booking system. Booking in advance is strongly recommended because no walk-in tickets are sold when the centre is full; tickets are non-refundable, and changes need to be requested by e-mail at least 48 hours ahead.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

Explorium is described as fully wheelchair accessible and buggy friendly, with a drop-off area at the entrance and accessible parking bays close to the door. A sensory room and social stories with photographs of each area help visitors with additional needs prepare. Some activities include steps, crawling or confined spaces.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Hands-on stations
• Stroller-friendly
• Baby changing facilities
• Playground / play area
• Kids’ birthday parties

Junior Explorium is designed for ages 2 to 7 and the Science zone is recommended from age 8. Baby changing stations are spread across the building and there are nursing-friendly spaces and family-friendly dining.

Getting there & parking

The centre is a short distance from Dublin city centre and can be reached by car or public transport.

Amenities & dining

• Café
• Restaurant

The Tasting Lab is the main restaurant, and the Curiosity Café at Junior Explorium serves coffee, snacks and treats. Outside food is not allowed.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Private parties
• Corporate events

Corporate groups, team-building days, birthday parties and school groups are catered for.

Plan your visit