EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
Dublin, Ireland · Museum
About EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum is an innovative, fully digital museum located in Dublin's historic Docklands. Housed in the restored 19th-century CHQ Building vaults, it tells the dramatic stories of over 300 Irish emigrants who helped shape the wider world. It has repeatedly been voted Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction due to its engaging, cutting-edge exhibits on Irish culture and history.
Don't miss
- Stamp your souvenir passport at digital kiosks as you journey through the twenty themed underground vaults.
- Learn about famous people of Irish descent, from world leaders and artists to pioneering scientists and notorious outlaws.
- Experience the vibrant celebration of Irish music, literature, and sport through immersive audio-visual displays.
- Visit the interactive whispering library, where recorded voices bring classic Irish storytelling directly to your ears.
Plan your visit
Weekday mornings are the best time to visit to avoid crowds and enjoy the interactive screens at your own pace. Visiting on a rainy afternoon also makes for a cozy, fully indoor Dublin cultural experience.
Admission is paid, and it is recommended to book your tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time slot. Combined tickets with the nearby Irish Family History Centre or the Jeanie Johnston famine ship are often available.
From central Dublin, it is a pleasant 15-minute walk eastward along the River Liffey quays from O'Connell Bridge. You can also take the Luas Red Line tram to the George's Dock stop, which sits directly outside the building.
Tips for visiting
- Collect your physical passport booklet upon entry to stamp at interactive stations throughout the galleries.
- Wear comfortable footwear, as the entire self-guided route takes you through twenty separate subterranean vaults.
- Bring wired headphones if you prefer personal audio, though exhibits are equipped with clear directional speakers.
- Pair your visit with a stop at the Irish Family History Centre next door if you want to research your own Irish ancestors.
- Grab a bite to eat inside the CHQ Building, which hosts several cafes, bakeries, and food stalls.
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum FAQ
Is EPIC suitable for young children?
Yes, EPIC is very family-friendly thanks to its interactive touchscreens, videos, and passport-stamping trail. Children usually enjoy the hands-on displays, though older kids will get the most out of the historical stories.
Is the museum accessible for wheelchair users?
The entire museum is fully wheelchair accessible with flat floors, ramps, and elevator access down into the vault spaces. Accessible restrooms are also located within the main CHQ Building complex.
Can I trace my genealogy at EPIC?
While the museum focuses on general diaspora history, the Irish Family History Centre is located on-site in the same building. You can book an appointment with professional genealogists there to research your Irish heritage.
Is there a place to store luggage or coats?
Yes, limited locker facilities are available for storing small backpacks and coats during your visit. For larger suitcases, check with the visitor services desk upon arrival.
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AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: NakNakNak, jraffin on Pixabay.