VISITOR ATTRACTION: what’s new and what’s cool at Dublin’s EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, located in the vaults of the CHQ Building at Custom House Quay, Dublin 1 (D01 T6K4), is a state-of-the-art, fully digital museum that tells the story of Ireland’s diaspora and the 10m people who left the island, shaping the world through their contributions in science, politics, arts, sports, and more. Opened in May 2016 and voted Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction at the World Travel Awards in 2019, 2020, and 2021, EPIC offers an immersive, interactive experience celebrating the resilience and global impact of Irish emigrants.

Self-Guided Tour Through 20 Galleries: The museum’s 20 themed galleries, spread across the historic 1820 CHQ Building, guide visitors through 1,500 years of Irish emigration history under four themes: Migration (Galleries 1–2), Motivation (Galleries 3–7), Influence (Galleries 8–18), and Diaspora Today (Galleries 19–20). Exhibits use cutting-edge technology—touchscreens, motion sensors, audio-visual displays, and immersive projections—to bring stories to life. Highlights include:
A sculpture of transportation methods (ships, planes) at the entrance.
Poignant displays like packing a suitcase with an emigrant’s “entire life.”
Stories of notable figures like James Hoban (White House architect), Cedric Gibbons (Oscar statuette designer), and 23 U.S. presidents with Irish ancestry.
The Music & Dance gallery, where visitors can try Riverdance steps with an interactive dance teacher.
A futuristic science gallery showcasing Irish contributions to astronomy and sub-atomic research.
Visitors receive a “passport” to stamp in each gallery, adding a fun, interactive element. The self-guided format allows 90 minutes to 2 hours for exploration, with the flexibility to linger or move quickly. Reviews praise the “bite-by-bite” approach, which prevents overwhelm and suits all ages, including teenagers, though very young children may find the reading-heavy exhibits less engaging.
Irish Family History Centre (IFHC): Located within the museum, the IFHC offers personaliised genealogy consultations (from €50 for 30 minutes, book in advance) with expert genealogists like Kayleigh Bealin. Visitors can trace their Irish roots using records, DNA testing, and online databases, uncovering stories like dog licenses or ancestral origins (e.g., Ó Chríocháin, meaning “descendant of a short person”). The centre is a highlight for those with Irish ancestry (over 70m worldwide), though results depend on available documentation, as many Irish records were lost in a 1922 fire.
Emotional and Educational Impact: The museum balances joy and tragedy, covering the Great Famine (1845–1849), religious oppression, Magdalene Laundries, and modern achievements like Ireland’s legalization of gay marriage. Exhibits like the Wall of Names in the final gallery allow visitors to add ancestors’ names, creating a personal connection. Reviews describe it as “incredibly moving” and “a cause of pride,” with stories of emigrants’ struggles and triumphs, from single mothers forced to leave to scientists shaping the world. The museum avoids stereotypes, offering a nuanced, upbeat perspective on the diaspora’s global influence.
Facilities and Atmosphere: The CHQ Building’s restored vaults create a cave-like, immersive setting, with clean, safe facilities and friendly staff. The museum café offers coffee and light bites, while nearby CHQ food outlets provide dining options. The gift shop stocks Irish-themed souvenirs, books, and postcards via LoveFromIreland.ie. The museum is accessible for wheelchairs and prams, with a lift and well-organized layout. Tickets (€16.50 adults, €14 students/seniors, €8 children 5–12, free under 5, €40 family of four) include a 10-day return visit, ideal for breaking up the experience with a nearby Jeanie Johnston famine ship tour (combo tickets available). Allow 2–3 hours for a full visit, including the IFHC.
Location and Practicalities: Situated in Dublin’s Docklands, EPIC is a 10-minute walk from O’Connell Street, opposite the Jeanie Johnston and Famine Sculptures, near the River Liffey and Sean O’Casey Bridge. It’s accessible via Luas Red Line (George’s Dock stop) or Big Bus hop-on-hop-off (stop 29). Open daily 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (last entry 5:00 PM). No on-site parking; use nearby IFSC or Point Square car parks. Combine with attractions like Dublinia, the Custom House, or a Liffey river cruise for a full day. Booking online at epicchq.com is recommended due to popularity (120,000 visitors in its first year, aiming for 500,000 by 2026).

What’s New:

New Temporary Exhibition:, EPIC will feature a new temporary exhibition, following the success of past displays like Irish migration to the Caribbean. This could focus on lesser-known diaspora stories, such as Irish contributions to Latin America or Asia, using updated digital displays to maintain freshness.
Enhanced Genealogy Services: The IFHC is expanding its digital offerings, with improved online access to records and DNA testing, responding to demand from the 25% of visitors identifying as Irish-American or Irish-Canadian. New consultation packages or virtual genealogy workshops will be introduced to cater to international visitors.
Sustainability Initiatives: Aligned with Ireland’s eco-friendly tourism push, EPIC may highlight sustainable practices, such as energy-efficient digital displays or partnerships with local green businesses in the CHQ Building, enhancing its role as a community hub.
Potential Event Programming: Building on its cultural exports focus (e.g., Irish pubs, music), EPIC may introduce new events like live music performances or storytelling sessions, tied to Saint Patrick’s Day or other diaspora celebrations, to boost its goal of reaching 500,000 annual visitors by 2026.
Improved Visitor Flow: Following feedback about overwhelming information, EPIC is likely refining its layout or digital guides to streamline the experience, ensuring accessibility for diverse audiences, including those with sensory sensitivities.

Practical Information

CHQ Building, Custom House Quay, Dublin 1, D01 T6K4.
Contact: +353 (0)1 906 0861, info@epicchq.com, www.epicchq.com.
Tips: Book tickets online to secure spots. Allow 2–3 hours, splitting visits if combining with Jeanie Johnston (2-minute walk). Use the audio guide (free via QR code) for non-English speakers. Visit early to avoid crowds. Combine with nearby attractions like the Famine Sculptures or Dublinia for a full day. Check epicchq.com for event schedules and new exhibitions.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum offers an immersive, technology-driven journey through Ireland’s diaspora, with new exhibitions, enhanced genealogy services, and sustainable initiatives enriching its award-winning experience. For the latest details, visit www.epicchq.com.