Dublin Zoo is one of the main attractions in the park. It is the third oldest zoo in the world having been opened in 1830. It is home to animals such as hippos, rhinos, orangutans and lizards as well all the other regular zoo animals.

Áras an Uachtaráin is also in the Phoenix Park. Home to the Irish President, it was where the British representative also stayed prior to the Free State. Built in 1751, there have been many extensions to the building including the most major one being in 1816 by the architect Francis Johnston. It was outside this building that the brutal murder of the Chief Secretary, Lord Cavendish and his understudy took place in 1882. The crime was attributed to an extreme nationalist group called the Invincibles. The American ambassador to Ireland also has his residence in the Phoenix Park.

The headquarters of the Garda Síochana, also in the park, contains the small but interesting police museum.

The Phoenix Park is under the care and management of the Office of Public Works. They have in the last 10 years taken on a program of tree replanting with over 10000 trees having been planted since the program was started.

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self drive or Escorted vacations please contact one of our Ireland based Guides who can provide you with a free quote.