Stepping inside the beautifully restored nineteenth-century brick vaults of the CHQ Building reveals EPIC, a cutting-edge interactive museum dedicated to the history of the global Irish diaspora. Instead of traditional display cases, this highly modern museum utilizes digital touchscreens, motion sensors, and immersive audio-visual displays to tell the stories of the millions of Irish people who left their homeland. The galleries trace the reasons for emigration, the impact of Irish travelers on global music, science, and politics, and what it truly means to be Irish.
What makes this museum visit exceptional is the highly personal and interactive nature of the exhibits. You can research your own family history, test your knowledge of famous Irish writers, and experience the emotional journeys of those who crossed oceans in search of a new life. It is a modern, inspiring space that celebrates the global influence of a tiny island nation.
One fun fact people love:
The museum has been officially voted as Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction at the World Travel Awards for three consecutive years.
Where in Dublin is it?
Located in the Custom House Quay building in the Docklands district, situated just east of the city center.
How to reach:
Easily accessible by taking the Luas tram line to the George's Dock stop, which is located right outside the entrance.
Best time to visit:
Year-round; the indoor, heated vaults offer a perfect, high-tech escape on rainy or cold winter days.
Best time of day:
Mid-afternoon around 2:00 PM to enjoy the interactive galleries at your own pace before the museum closes.
Entry fee:
Tickets cost approximately 18.50 to 19.50 EUR per adult, with discounts available for families and students.
Commute difficulty:
Easy; centrally located on a flat, paved waterfront plaza with excellent public transport connections.
Things nobody tells you about this place:
- You are given a souvenir passport at the entrance that you can stamp at different interactive stations as you walk through the galleries.
- The museum shares space with the Irish Family History Centre, where you can book a consultation with a genealogist to trace your own Irish roots.
- The surrounding docklands feature several excellent modern restaurants and cafes, making it a great spot for lunch after your museum tour.
