I often lament the fact that I can't be in Ireland all the time. Thankfully there are so many Irish-Americans (and those who wish they were!) that we can usually find some pretty good craic close to home.
This spring the fair city of Dublin, Ohio invited us to discover the Irish attitude of this Columbus suburb.
The Irish Attitude in Dublin, Ohio – Fun, Food, and Festivals
Named after the Irish capital, Dublin, Ohio is one of the oldest communities in the central part of this state that straddles the Midwest and the East Coast. Today the Dublin Historic District, along High and Riverview streets, is a National Historic District with a very Irish attitude that charms visitors and locals alike.
Irish Fun in Dublin, Ohio
No matter when you visit Dublin, Ohio, you're sure to find Irish inspired fun.
The Dublin Historic District, beyond being the birthplace of the city, is also where you will find the famous – and fabulous- Fairy Doors of Dublin. Begin at the Dublin Visitor & Information Centre to pick up your trail guide and snap your fairy pic at the beginning of the trail. Two more things to pick up while you're here: The Dublin, Ohio Coupon Book (it will come in handy as you stop in shops along the Fairy Trail) and the Dublin Destination Guide for more suggestions around the city.
Enjoy the shops that line the streets of the Dublin Historic District as you search for the tricky pixies. Take time to browse Ha'Penny Bridge Imports of Ireland, where you can acquire your very own Irish Fairy Door as well as authentic Irish clothing, gifts, and even snacks.
Your hard work pays off- so be sure to return to the visitor center to drop off your completed Fairy Doors passport to receive your official Fairy Finder t-shirt.
Really, no matter where you pop into around Dublin you'll find a bit of Irish attitude. Stop into boutique shops where you can try your hand at creating a bit of art or visit the ice cream shops where you can enjoy special ‘Irish approved' treats. And be sure to check the events calendar for fun local craic like Irish Thursdays at Brazenhead featuring live music on the patio or Irish Second Saturday which promises music, fun crafts, and shopping discounts!
Irish Food in Dublin, Ohio
The pubs and restaurants around Dublin do a terrific job of serving up Irish cuisine with a fabulous American flair. The Dublin Village Tavern does their fish & chips a treat, and their sticky toffee pudding is tasty, as well. But their Irish Kettle Dinner is something you won't find many places. Meats & potatoes boiled with cabbage and carrots, it's Irish comfort food at its finest.
At the other end of the Historic District the Brazenhead Pub is definitely a lively spot, so I recommend climbing the stairs just inside the door to the 2nd level where the tables have a bit more privacy and the crowd may be a bit lighter. You'll find traditional pub fare here but the real reason to come are the amazing house-cut chips. Truly addictive and wonderful with a cold pint.
Because breakfast is the most important meal of the day I want to be sure to mention the Sunny Street Cafe where my husband and eldest daughter devoured their Corned Beef Hash and eggs. Personally I highly recommend the Banana Bread Oatmeal.
Now, you aren't limited to Irish food in Dublin so I have to mention two places that you should be sure to search out.
The first is Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, a local, natural ice cream that gives my Irish favorite, Murphy's Ice Cream, some serious competition.
The second is La Chatelaine French Bistro which serves lovely pastries, gorgeous breakfast sandwiches, and bowls of hot cocoa sized for sharing.
Irish Festivals in Dublin, Ohio
Though you'll always find mighty craic in Dublin, twice a year the fun is turned up a wee bit.
St. Patrick's Day festivities take an entire weekend and include live music at local establishments, a parade that winds throughout the city, and the great ‘Blarney Bash'- a half-day event filled with fun for the entire family including magicians, Irish dancers, live music, and some of the city's best food trucks.
The first weekend of August welcomes the Dublin Irish Festival, a 3-day event that covers over 20 rolling acres. Irish dancers from across the country come to compete at the Columbus Feis (Irish dance competition), Pipe & Drum Corps from across Ohio gather, and dozens of Irish bands from the US and Ireland take their turns across seven stages, providing the soundtrack for a grand party. Visit cultural stages to learn a bit of Irish history, music, and heritage or try your hand at Gaelic sports before cheering on a local team as they take to the turf.
No matter when you visit Dublin, Ohio, you'll leave with a bit of their Irish attitude- and look forward to your return.
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Click here to learn more about the Irish Attitude in Dublin, Ohio, and plan your own visit. Find the best Dublin hotel for you on Trip Advisor we had an incredible stay at Hilton Garden Inn |
Our thanks to the Dublin, Ohio, CVB for inviting us to visit their fair city for St. Patrick's Day.
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