VISITOR ATTRACTION: what’s new and what’s cool at Dublin’s National Wax Museum Plus

Located at 22-25 Westmoreland Street, junction of Westmoreland and D’Olier streets just off Temple Bar, Dublin 2, D02 EH29, the National Wax Museum Plus is a vibrant, interactive attraction in the heart of Dublin, offering a unique blend of lifelike wax figures, immersive exhibits, and family-friendly activities. Housed in the historic Lafayette Building, this museum spans three floors and 13,000 square feet, delivering an entertaining and educational journey through Irish history, culture, and global pop culture. The National Wax Museum in Ireland was originally established in June 1983 by Patrick Dunning in Granby Row, Dublin, before moving to the current site in 2017.

Themed Exhibits:

Great Irish Writers Room: Located at the entrance with stunning views of Dublin’s O’Connell Street, this room honors Ireland’s literary giants like Samuel Beckett, Oscar Wilde, and James Joyce, immortalized in wax. It’s a tribute to the nation’s literary heritage, ideal for literature enthusiasts.
Time Vaults of Irish History: A sensory-rich journey through Ireland’s past, from Viking settlements to the Good Friday Agreement, featuring wax figures of historical figures like Wolfe Tone, Michael Collins, and Irish presidents such as Éamon de Valera and Mary McAleese. Interactive elements enhance the experience.
Chamber of Horrors: A thrilling basement exhibit with wax figures of iconic villains like Hannibal Lecter, Dracula, and Buffalo Bill. This section is intense and may not be suitable for young or sensitive children, though it’s a hit with thrill-seekers.
Children’s Fantasy World: A colorful, family-friendly zone with wax figures of beloved characters like Harry Potter, Homer and Marge Simpson, Sleeping Beauty, and Star Wars’ Rey, designed to spark kids’ imaginations with interactive displays.
Science and Discovery Zone: An engaging area highlighting Irish scientists and inventors, with hands-on exhibits explaining scientific principles, appealing to curious minds of all ages.
Music and Entertainment Hall: Features wax figures of Irish and international stars like Liam Neeson, U2, Phil Lynott, Colin Farrell, and James Bond, alongside global icons like Princess Diana and a 3D reenactment of Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper.
Enchanted Forest: An immersive experience diving into Ireland’s folklore and mythology, bringing legendary tales to life.
Father Ted Room: A unique tribute to the iconic Irish comedy series, featuring Dermot Morgan’s character and humorous displays that resonate with fans.

Interactive Attractions:

Wax Factor Studio: Visitors can record themselves in a music video, stepping into the shoes of their favourite artists, a fun activity for all ages.
Murder Mystery Tour: Available Thursday to Sunday from 5:00 PM, this self-guided tour challenges visitors to solve a crime using clues and a museum map. A smartphone is required, and it’s suitable for ages 16+ (solo, couples, or groups).
Wax Hands: Located in the gift shop, this attraction lets visitors create a colorful wax mold of their hand as a unique souvenir.
Green Screen Photo Studio: Capture professional photos with famous wax figures, perfect for memorable keepsakes.
Mirror Maze: A fun, disorienting path leading to the Hall of Fame, adding a playful element to the visit.
Wax Magic AR App: Enhances the experience with augmented reality, bringing select wax figures to life, offering bonus information, hidden videos, and point collection. The museum is designed for interactivity, making it a hit with families, tourists, and groups. Expect a 1–2-hour visit, with well-signed routes and friendly staff. Reviews praise the variety of exhibits and engaging activities, though some note the wax figures’ quality varies, with Irish historical figures often more detailed than international ones. The museum’s quirky, sometimes campy vibe adds charm, but it may not match the polish of larger wax museums like Madame Tussauds. It’s a perfect rainy-day activity, conveniently located near Trinity College (150m) and Temple Bar (2-minute walk).
Amenities and Accessibility: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (last admission 6:00 PM), except December 24–26 and early closure at 5:00 PM on December 31. The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with lifts and adapted facilities. Photography is permitted, encouraging selfies with wax figures. The gift shop offers wax-based souvenirs, and nearby dining options like J.W. Sweetman’s complement the visit. Tickets cost €19 for adults (18+), €17 for students (with ID), €15 for teens (12–17), €13 for children (5–11), and €59 for a family (2 adults + 2 children). Online bookings via www.waxmuseumplus.ie offer up to 10–20% discounts, and Dublin Pass holders enter free.
Getting There: Located at Westmoreland Street, facing O’Connell Bridge, the museum is easily accessible:
Public Transport: Tara Street DART station (5-minute walk), Westmoreland tram stop (Green Line, 1-minute walk), Jervis Luas Stop (Red Line, 8-minute walk), or bus routes (1, 16, 25, 46a, etc.) to Westmoreland or D’Olier Street.
By Car: Paid parking is available nearby (check Google Maps for garages).
Walking: A 3-minute walk from Bachelors Walk bus stop (Bus 26 from West County Hotel) or 8 minutes from Moss Street (Bus P29).

What’s New:

Santa Visits: Following 2024’s success, Santa will return in December 2025 with free gifts for children and up to 15% off admission (including Wax Hands) when booked via YourDaysOut. These festive events are family-focused, with sensory-friendly sessions for visitors with hidden disabilities like ASD.
Summer Deals: Expect continued discounts of up to 15–20% on tickets, including Wax Hands, for August 2025, ideal for budget-conscious families.
Exhibit Updates: The museum frequently refreshes its displays, with 2025 likely to see new wax figures or enhanced interactive elements based on visitor feedback and cultural trends.
Augmented Reality Enhancements: The Wax Magic AR app may receive updates, adding more interactive content or new figures that “come to life,” enhancing the immersive experience, especially in the Writers Room and Time Vaults.
Improved Accessibility and Inclusivity: The museum continues to prioritise inclusivity, with sensory-friendly sessions and group discounts for schools, tour operators, or large families. Expect refined offerings, such as tailored tours or workshops, building on 2024’s inclusive initiatives.

Practical Tips:

Best Time to Visit: Arrive early (10:00–11:00 AM) to avoid crowds, especially in summer or during festive events. Winter visits offer a quieter experience, ideal for the Murder Mystery Tour.
Booking: Pre-book tickets online for discounts and guaranteed entry, especially for groups (10+ get special rates via hello@waxmuseumplus.ie or +353 1 6718373).
Plan Ahead: Allow 1–2 hours. Skip the Chamber of Horrors for young kids (it’s intense). Bring a smartphone for the Murder Mystery Tour and AR app.
Combine with Nearby Attractions: Pair with a visit to Trinity College (177m), Grafton Street (303m), or Dublin Castle (411m) for a full day in Dublin’s city center.

The National Wax Museum Plus promises a dynamic, interactive experience with its blend of Irish heritage, pop culture, and family fun, enhanced by seasonal events, potential new figures, and a focus on inclusivity, making it a must-visit in Dublin’s vibrant cultural scene