The museum is housed in an elegant and expansive seventeenth century Royal Hospital building, which was designed as a retirement home for soldiers. In addition to paintings and sculptures from the national collection, the IMMA showcases dynamic temporary exhibits with videos, live performances, and interactive installations. Irish artists Louis Le Brocquy, Sean Scully, and Kathy Prendergrass are well-represented as well as global greats like Pablo Picasso and Roy Lichtenstein. Hop on a free guided tour or sign up for an educational program to get the full experience. The Itsa Café and bookshop in the original hospital crypts are also worth a stop.
Time Out tip: Even if you aren’t in the mood for art, the cobblestone courtyard and expansive gardens in front of the museum are the perfect place to unwind – and people watch.
Nearby:
Kilmainham Gaol: For tours of the prison where Irish revolutionaries were held during the Civil and Anglo-Irish Wars
Guinness Storehouse: To learn to pour the perfect pint and enjoy it among panoramic views of the city
Phoenix Park: For a breath of fresh air among a herd of friendly fallow deer