Some days it can be a real struggle to get out the door due to teething and tantrums.
Sometimes, it's the total cost of a day out can prevent many from exploring the wonderful experiences we have to offer across the Emerald Isle.
Fret not because today we have compiled a little bucket list of free days out where children under three go free - and it even extends to public transport in some cases.
Did you know kids under the age of five can travel on both the Luas and Dublin Bus free of charge when accompanied by a fare-paying adult provided that during busy periods, the child does not occupy a seat?
So pack a picnic and leave the car at home and head to one of these exciting experiences where children under three go free.
National Aquatic Centre, Dublin
Aquazone is the perfect family day out with something for everyone including a wave pool, lazy river and a dedicated pirate ship water play area for the littles.
While admission for children under three may be free, they recommend that a dedicated adult is in attendance in the water for each child in attendance. Swimming hats are compulsory in all water areas and they request all under 5's wear floatation devices such as armbands when in the water.
Airfield Estate, Dublin
Airfield is an urban working farm located just minutes from Dundrum Town Centre with lots to do for toddlers including cow milking, egg collecting, calf feeding, animal feeding and donkey grooming.
It's a wonderful day for all and even includes an adventure playground, interactive indoor play area and walking trails.
Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, Kerry
A popular attraction where the ocean comes to life on the Dingle Peninsula with a variety of fish including Sand Tiger sharks, Gentoo penguins, Asian Short-Clawed otters and a kids' touch pool. Oceanworld host regular daily interactive activities from reptile encounters, talks and feedings.
Galway Atlantaquaria
Located a stone's throw from the Salthill promenade, Ireland's largest aquarium is an undersea wonderland for tiny tots. Take a tour or enjoy it at your own leisure.
There are talks throughout the day including 'Big Fish' feeding, rock pool tours and freshwater fish feeding. The admission fee for adults and older kids includes an entry for the day, so patrons are allowed to come and go as they please throughout any one day.
W5, Belfast
The W5 in Belfast is the perfect indoor adventure with hundreds of interactive science and discovery exhibits where children as young as two and three can explore the world through games and play. Little ones can build roads, cars, houses and railway lines at the interactive discovery centre and there is no limit on your day.
Fota Wildlife Park, Cork
With something for everyone, it is a fantastic day out full of outdoor activities and exploring. Take the park tour train, discover the many playgrounds or feed the resident ducks. Wander the zoo at your own leisure and learn about the amazing range of wildlife residing at the beautiful resort.
Dublin Zoo
One of Ireland's most popular and memorable attractions complete with fulfilled and stimulating experiences including daily talks and activities. Home to over 400 animals, we personally recommend a visit to the Sea Lion Cave, Orangutan Forest, Zoorassic World and the Family Farm where a dairy cow gets milked every day.
Tayto Park
There is a minimum height requirement of 84cm for all rides at Tayto Park but in saying that there are heaps of other activities for your toddler to enjoy. Unbeknownst to many, there is an Ice Valley display, Dinosaur Alive, a playground, mazes, water play areas, face painting, a steam train ride, the factory tour, the Talking Tree, a meet and greet with Mr Tayto, Walk With Lemurs experience, World of Raptors show and of course, the zoo to enjoy.
Sea Life Bray, Wicklow
Located on the Bray seafront, Sea Life in Bray is a small aquarium but it is perfect for little ones. Get up close to creatures of the sea and meet giant spiny starfish or learn about albino lobsters. Daily talks and touch pools take place throughout the day and guests are welcome to come and go as they please throughout the day. Book in advance online off-peak for the best deals for accompanying guests.
Explorium, Dublin
Explorium is a dedicated space of interactive fun for children of all ages, however, Junior Explorium has indoor and outdoor fun so it is perfect for any weather. It includes a mini-mart, aquarium, maker's lab and a multi-sensory room amongst many other activities which will stimulate all senses. Junior Explorium is free for children under two when visiting with a child aged between 2 and 6. Adults are also free midweek.
