The Aqua Dome in Tralee is one of Ireland’s biggest indoor water parks, offering a fun diversion from the historical stops and coastal scenery of the Wild Atlantic Way. There’s something for all ages to enjoy here, including water slides, a lazy river, children’s pools, an adults-only spa, gym, café, and a mini-golf course.
Though oral tradition holds that the original Cromwell’s Bridge was built by monks back in the 11th century, the current structure is believed to date back to around 1700. The exaggerated curve of the rubble-stone arch is thought to have been designed to accommodate the fluctuating tidal range of the Finnihy River, which babbles below.
A must for aviation enthusiasts of any age, Atlantic Air Adventures features an ultra-realistic B737 flight simulator, in which visitors can test out their flying skills. Located on Wild Atlantic Way near Shannon, the simulator was constructed from the cockpit of a real aircraft—a C-GAPW, ex Canadian Air 737—and its flight deck is composed of many of the airplane’s original parts.
An 18-acre (7.2-hectare) green space flanking the River Lee, Fitzgerald’s Park boasts a peaceful atmosphere, a fun playground for kids, and public art including a range of sculptures. Many visitors come here to visit Cork Public Museum, then stop to enjoy the shady benches, stroll among the blooming flowers and scenic fountain, or to have a riverside picnic.
Consisting of 15 heavy stone slabs set out in an oval shape, Kenmare’s Stone Circle—known locally as the Shrubberies—is among the biggest of the 100 or so such sites scattered throughout Ireland’s southwest. Though its original function remains unknown, the site most likely held spiritual significance for its Bronze Age builders.
A scenic beach in County Kerry, Banna Strand is a 7-mile (11-kilometer) stretch of sand that’s popular for beach walks, swimming, and surfing. Along with its inviting setting for activities ranging from family picnics to kite-surfing, the beach is known as an important landmark in local history—in the lead-up to the 1916 Easter Rising, it’s the location where Irish revolutionary Roger Casement was captured.
Discover a rare collection of antiquarian books, maps, manuscripts, and prints during a visit to the Bolton Library. See this collection of around 12,000 books from the 13th to 18th centuries including works by Dante, Swift, and Machiavelli in its new home at the University of Limerick. Visits are available by appointment only.
Set on a grassy outcrop with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, the remote Leacanabuaile Fort is a worthwhile addition to any tour of the beautiful Ring of Kerry. The original fort, thought to date back to the ninth or 10th century, has been partially reconstructed to give a better sense of its original features.
Located in the County Kerry town of Tralee, the Siamsa Tíre National Folk Theatre is housed in an all-brick, ring-shaped building and its outside appearance is almost as special as the spectacular Irish folk dancers, singers, and other performers that take the stage every April through October. With shows highlighting Celtic music and Irish dance, Siamsa Tíre is a wonderful place to soak up local and traditional culture.
