If you’re booking family accommodation in Dublin and want to spend time outdoors with your kids, you’re in luck. Dublin is packed with family-friendly parks and playgrounds, many of which are free, accessible, and close to serviced apartments like PREMIER SUITES Ballsbridge.

Here’s a no-nonsense list of the best parks and playgrounds near Ballsbridge to help you plan.

Herbert Park – Just Around the Corner

Only a 5-minute walk from your serviced apartment, Herbert Park is ideal for a quick outing or a full afternoon. It’s a favourite for locals, and it’s easy to see why:

• Large, modern playground with separate toddler and older kid areas
• Duck pond with a small bridge
• Sports fields, tennis courts, and table tennis
• Wide paths for scooters, bikes, and buggies
• Coffee vans and benches nearby

There’s loads of space here, and you’ll find other families doing exactly what you’re doing—enjoying a break from the city noise.

Merrion Square Park – Small but Mighty

About 20 minutes away on foot or 10 by bus, Merrion Square is great if you’re already heading to the National Gallery or Natural History Museum. It’s smaller than Herbert Park but offers:

• An enclosed playground with plenty of climbing frames
• Oscar Wilde statue and quirky quotes around the park
• Lovely green space for a picnic
• Close proximity to cafés and public toilets

It’s handy if you’re combining cultural sights with a bit of fresh air. Ideal for younger kids who just need 30 minutes of play.

St Stephen’s Green – Central and Classic

Right in the city centre, St Stephen’s Green is about 25 minutes away by bus from your family accommodation. While the playground is modest, the park is worth it for:

• Beautifully kept gardens and flowerbeds
• Duck ponds and fountains
• Wide paths perfect for buggies and scooters
• Shaded benches and toilets

This one is less about high-energy play and more about peaceful walks, feeding the ducks, and taking a breather before or after a visit to Grafton Street.

Phoenix Park – The Big One

This is Dublin’s largest park and one of the biggest city parks in Europe. It’s a 30-minute bus ride, but absolutely worth it for a half-day trip. Highlights include:

• The Phoenix Park Playground – huge, with slides, zip lines, and climbing frames
• Dublin Zoo – located within the park, ideal for a treat day
• Victorian flower gardens and tea rooms
• Free-roaming deer
• Cycle paths and bike rental options

If you’re in serviced apartments for a few nights and want to plan one major outdoor day, this is the one.

Sean Moore Park & Sandymount Strand – Sea Air and Swings

About 20 minutes’ walk from Ballsbridge, this local gem combines beach views with a decent playground. You’ll find:

• Swings, slides, and climbing frames
• Sandymount Strand promenade – great for a scenic family walk
• Plenty of space for football or kite flying
• Free parking and public toilets

It’s quieter than other city centre parks and gives kids a taste of the coast without leaving Dublin 4.

Bushy Park – For Active Families

This one’s a bit further out (30 minutes by car or bus), but it’s a strong option for older kids and active parents:

• Skate park and multi-sports courts
• Forest walks and a river for paddling
• Tree trails and plenty of climbing trees
• Regular food market on Saturdays

Bushy Park feels more wild than manicured, which gives kids a bit more freedom to roam and explore.

Ringsend Park – A Hidden Gem

Close to Grand Canal Dock and only a short cycle from Ballsbridge, Ringsend Park is a local spot worth visiting:

• Clean, well-kept playground
• GAA and soccer pitches for impromptu games
• Tennis courts and a small exercise area
• Community vibe without the crowds

It won’t appear on every tourist list, but that’s part of the appeal.

Staying in Serviced Apartments Makes It Easier

When travelling with kids, staying in serviced apartments gives you more space, a kitchen for picky eaters, and the flexibility to keep nap schedules and routines in place. At PREMIER SUITES Ballsbridge, you’re right in the middle of one of Dublin’s greenest, safest neighbourhoods. Most of these parks are walkable or just a short bus ride away.

You can:

• Prep a picnic in your suite
• Store bikes and scooters easily
• Skip crowded hotel lobbies
• Come back for naps or downtime whenever needed

Dublin’s playgrounds and parks cater to every type of kid, from tiny climbers to moody teenagers who just want some air. Being based in Ballsbridge puts you close to some of the best ones. You don’t need to overplan; just pack snacks, layers, and a few wet wipes, and let the city do the rest.

If you’re looking for family accommodation that gives you both comfort and location, PREMIER SUITES Ballsbridge is a smart choice. And with parks like Herbert Park and Sandymount Strand just down the road, you’ve plenty of outdoor options without ever needing to get in the car.