Explore Dundalk (2 Day Itinerary)

One of Ireland’s largest towns, Dundalk has so much to see and do on a daytrip or short break.  There are historic and cultural sites to explore, and beautiful beaches and nature walks right on its doorstep.  Something to suit everyone!

DAY 1

Morning

Spend the morning discovering the popular Seek Urban Art Murals which illustrate Dundalk’s story and aspects of the town’s rich heritage and culture.  Some of the world’s best outdoor muralists and urban artists have taken part in the annual SEEK festivals, leaving behind a colourful outdoor art gallery featuring local characters and landmarks for all to enjoy.  Explore the murals at your leisure on a self-guided tour, or book a Guided Walking Tour from the Tourist Office at the Market Square on the first Friday of each month, to hear the history and stories behind each of the murals from a friendly knowledgeable guide.

Afternoon

Stop off at one of the many cafés and restaurants located in the town centre for a spot of lunch, before choosing one of the following activities:

• Explore the County Museum, located in a beautifully restored late 18th century warehouse at Roden Place.  The museum offers an extensive programme of permanent exhibitions and temporary displays.  Its collection chronicles the historical development of County Louth from the Stone Age up to the present, through a combination of artifacts and computer interactives.

• Take a walk in nature at Ravensdale Forest Park located the foot of the Cooley Mountains just a short drive from Dundalk.  There are a number of woodland walkways leading up the mountain side with lovely countryside views. Or pay a visit to Stephenstown Pond near Knockbridge, a popular nature park with lakeside walkways and large playground.

Evening

Choose from the following options

• Enjoy dinner in one of Dundalk's many fine restaurants, with lots of different cuisines to experience.  If seafood is your favourite, there are lots of Dundalk restaurants participating in the ’sea louth’ Scenic Seafood Trail, so you will be spoiled for choice!

• Experience an evening of excitement and fun at Dundalk Stadium, Ireland’s only all weather horse track and dual racecourse. There are packages to suit all budgets from general admission to dining in The View restaurant with panoramic views of the racing circuit and Cooley Mountains.  Kids are more than welcome to this family friendly venue.

DAY 2

Morning

Begin your morning at St. Helena’s Park (Fairgreen Road, Dundalk) with recreation areas and playground facilities.  Alternatively, head to see the Proleek Dolmen situated on the grounds of the Ballymascanlon Hotel just a short spin outside the town.  The dolmen is one of the finest examples of its kind in Ireland.  Legend has it that a wish will be granted to anyone who can throw a pebble onto its capstone so that it stays there!

Afternoon

After enjoying a leisurely lunch, choose from one of the following activities:

• Visit the Dundalk Gaol which housed patriots, volunteers, agitators and petty thieves, whilst witnessing secret weddings, executions & daring escapes.  Learn more on a free guided tour, available Wednesday to Saturday only.

• Relax for the afternoon in the picturesque seaside village of Blackrock.   Treat yourself to an ice cream and take a leisurely stroll along the lovely promenade, admiring the panoramic views across Dundalk Bay to the Cooley Mountains.

Evening

• Following dinner, why not watch a show at An Táin Arts Centre, the hub of arts and culture in Dundalk with a diverse programme of local arts, national tours and in-house productions, or alternatively catch a gig at the Spirit Store on Georges Quay, a very popular intimate live music venue.

Accommodation:  Dundalk and the surrounding area offers a great range of first-rate accommodation for visitors to choose from, ranging from Four Star hotels to cosy B&Bs and guest houses, as well as self-catering and glamping options.  For a listing of accommodation in Louth click here (and filter by town).

Restaurants: For a list of restaurants in Dundalk, click here (and filter by town).

Note: Opening hours and booking requirements should be confirmed with individual attractions and restaurants in advance of visiting. 

Keep Discovering

Why not explore more of County Louth, there is so much to see and do, from outdoor adventures, historic attractions, blue flag beaches and seafood trails to miles of mountain & coastal walks.  Plan your visit here or check out other Visit Louth itineraries here.