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 Dublinia – The Dublinia exhibition in Christ Church Cathedral covers the formative period of Dublin's history from the arrival of the Anglo-Normans in 1170 to the closure of the monasteries in the 1540s. There are many exhibits which include videos, models and reconstructions and the ground floor houses a large-scale model of Dublin around 1500, a display of artefacts from Wood Quay, and some historical reconstructions. All in all Dublinia is an interesting and enjoyable experience is for any tourist.
 Kilmainham Gaol – Built in 1792, it is Ireland's most famous disused prison. Throughout the years the prison held many famous Nationalists and Republicans. The leaders of the 1916 Ester Rising were executed here. The prison was closed in 1924 and tours now run in the building give a good insight into the history of Irish Republicanism.
 Dublin Castle – this complex represents some of the oldest surviving architecture in the city, and was the centre of English power in Ireland for over seven centuries until it was taken over by the Irish Free State in 1922. Highlights include the 13th-century record tower, the largest visible fragment of the original Norman castle and the State Apartments, once the residence of English viceroys and now the focal point for government ceremonial functions, including the inauguration of Ireland's presidents. The castle is only a 13 minute walk from the hotel and is the perfect way to experience some of Dublin's heritage.
GAA Museum, Croke Park – Located in Ireland’s premier sports stadium, Croke Park situated within a 10 minute walk from the Academy Plaza, this museum plots the history and culture of the GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) since its establishment. A must for anyone interested in Irish culture or sport.
Other Attractions
The Mansion House, the National Gallery, Aras An Uachtarain (Presidents Residency), Abbey and Peacock Theatres, Ardgillan Castle & Demesne, the National Library of Ireland, Custom House, Dublin City Hall, the James Joyce Museum, the National Botanic Gardens, Malahide Castle, the National Museum, the Olympia Theatre, the Shaw Birthplace, and the Old Jameson Distillery. More details on any of these attractions as well as information about other attractions can be attained at the Dublin Tourist Office located around the corner from the Academy Plaza hotel on O'Connell Street.
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O’Connell Street – We are located just off the city’s main thoroughfare, which has enjoyed a complete renovation recently including the addition of the contemporary and striking ‘Spire’ as it’s new centrepiece. O'Connell Street is situated in the very heart of Dublin city with adjoining roads serving many of the capital's main attractions such as, Trinity College, Temple Bar and Dublin's main retail high streets, Grafton St. and Henry St. making it an ideal meeting place for all tourists.
Temple Bar – The city’s main quarter for eating, drinking and browsing the markets, shops and cobble-stoned streets. Very popular with tourists and only a five minute walk from the hotel.
 Trinity College – One of Ireland’s leading historical sites, attracting half a million visitors every year. The university is Ireland’s oldest and located on 40 acres of rich architecture and open green space. The Book of Kells is a 9th century manuscript of the gospels and is on display here. Trinity College is only a five minute walk for guests at the Best Western Academy Plaza hotel.
Grafton Street – No trip to Dublin is complete without a visit to Dublin’s premier shopping strip. From small boutiques to large department stores Grafton Street is a haven for all those retail addicts.
 St. Stephens Green – Located at the top end of Grafton Street, take a stroll through this oasis of calm and tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of Dublin city. Enjoy a break by the lake and watch the swans and ducks swim by.
 Guinness Storehouse – The home of Guinness at St. James Gate, Dublin 8. Ireland’s number one visitor attraction. Follow the history of Guinness and experience the process first hand. Then relax with a complimentary pint of the black in Gravity Bar - the highest bar in Dublin, with 360 degree views over the city. Easily accessible by bus
The Old Jameson Distillery – Only a short journey away form the Best Western Academy Plaza on the LUAS, the Old Jameson Distillery set in the heart of the Capital, captures the imagination and spirit of Ireland. Expert guides lead visitors through the fascinating story of Jameson, the world's prefered quality whiskey. The tour includes following the path of the different stages in the distilling process and concludes with whiskey tasting in the Jameson bar.
 Dublin Writers Museum – Situated in a magnificent eighteenth century mansion just around the corner from The Academy Plaza. The collection features the lives and works of Ireland’s greatest literary genius. Dublin is famous as a city of writers and literature, and the Dublin Writers Museum is an essential visit for anyone who wants to discover, explore or simply enjoy Dublin’s immense literary heritage.
James Joyce Cultural Centre – Located just around the corner from the hotel, near Parnell Square and the Dublin Writers Museum, this Joycean centre gives literary enthusiasts one more reason to visit Dublin's. The newly restored 1784 Georgian town house contains various exhibits, an archive, and a reference library.
 Phoenix Park / Dublin Zoo – The Phoenix Park is the largest municipal park within a city’s limits in the world. A wonderful place to visit full of flora and fauna and home to wild deer. Set in the midst of the park is Dublin Zoo - Established in 1830, this is the third-oldest zoo in the world. This 12-hectare (30 acre) zoo provides a naturally landscaped habitat for more than 235 species of wild animals and tropical birds. Highlights for youngsters include the Children's Pets' Corner and a train
ride around the zoo.
 General Post Office (GPO) – Built in 1818, the GPO became a symbol of the 1916 Easter Rising. Members of the Irish Volunteers and Irish Citizen Army seized the building on Easter Monday (24th of April) and Patrick Pearse read out the Proclamation of the Irish republic from its steps. The rebels remained inside for almost a week, but shelling from the British eventually forced them out. Inside the building is a sculpture of the legendary Irish warrior Cuchulainn, dedicated to those who died for their part in the Easter rising. This important piece of Irish history is less than a minute away from the hotel situated in the half way down O' Connell Street.
* Tickets for the Dublin City Bus Tour can be purchased at the hotel's reception* |
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