No trip to Dublin, Ireland would be complete without a visit to the Guinness Storehouse. Millions of visitors flock to this attraction each year. While that might make some travelers wary about visiting this landmark, we show you why you should follow the crowd in our 5 Things You Will Love about the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin. On our recent cruise from the city, we made sure to schedule a stop at this popular attraction and are glad we did!

The Five Things You Will Love About the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin

Touring at Your Own Pace

The Guinness Storehouse is an interactive experience that spans several floors. While other brewery tours might rush you through the different exhibits, visitors at Guinness can tour all of the included floors at their leisure. This means each visit is different as you can focus on the specific areas that interest you.

If you have any time constraints, we recommend skipping the ground level attractions and heading to level one or two where the more interactive experiences begin. This will also help to by-pass the crowds which tend to congregate at the ground level taking pictures. Depending how in-depth you want to explore each exhibit, we recommend allowing at least 2 hours for your visit to Guinness Storehouse.

The Hands-On Exhibits

There is a lot to see, and of course taste, during the 7-story tour of the Storehouse. A popular stop on the second level is the tasting room. A general tasting is included with your ticket, while other more in-depth tasting experiences are available for an additional charge. There is also the Guinness Academy, of which I am now a proud graduate, where you get to play bartender and learn how to pour the perfect Guinness.

There are other elaborate displays to explore as well. One of our favorites on the third level was the World of Advertising exhibit that displays some of the brand’s unique advertising cartoons and collectibles from over the years. History buffs will enjoy the Arthur Guinness Story which details the founding and early days of the brewery, and those wanting to know more about brewing the dark stout can take their time reviewing the Brewing Story on the lower levels.

The Shopping

If you want to purchase ANYTHING that has the Guinness name or logo on it, then you will want to visit the Storehouse. The massive flagship store is home to the self-proclaimed “largest selection of memorabilia and exclusive merchandise” in the world. Needless to say, there are plenty of options from t-shirts to glassware and bar accessories, and yes ornaments (for us) and other souvenirs too. From touristy to exclusive one-of-a-kind wares, beer collectors and enthusiasts will want to set aside plenty of time to shop the massive retail area.

The Views

When you think of a brewery tour, the last thing you probably imagine are great city views. Luckily, a visit to the Guinness Storehouse gives you access to the Gravity Bar, which offers 360-degree views of the city of Dublin. While the venue does get very busy, especially later in the day, you should make your way up to this rooftop bar with a camera to snap some photos of the city’s landmarks.

Several iconic sights are labeled to help you get your bearings as you gaze out over the city and out to the River Liffey. Even if you don’t want to have a drink, not sure why you wouldn’t, this bar is still worth the ride to the top for the fantastic views.

The Drinks

Okay, this is a given. Your ticket to the Storehouse includes one drink coupon to be used at the Gravity Bar (or the Guinness Academy). Your drink options include a Guinness or one of my new favorite beers, the Hop House 13. Unfortunately, this new beer is limited to the Storehouse and a few select bars in Dublin. There is also a non-alcoholic selection for those who do not drink beer. You can also relax in one of the three additional eateries/lounges on the fifth floor, which sell food, beer, and other drinks.

What You Need to Know about Guinness Storehouse in Dublin

The Storehouse is open virtually every day of the year, except for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and St. Stephen’s Day. The venue opens from 9:30 am to 7:00 pm (last admission is 5 pm) most of the year, with extended hours during the peak months of July and August. You can purchase tickets online or in-person. If you are sure of the day and time you will visit, book your tickets ahead of time to save up to 5 euro when compared to the standard “walk-up” admission of $25 euro.

The earlier you arrive, the smaller the crowds and the cheaper the ticket price. Adults 18 years or older (with an acceptable ID) will be allowed to consume alcoholic beverages. Those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Minors from 13 to 17 years of age pay a discounted rate to enter the Storehouse, while children under the age of 12 are free.

You must have a paid ticket to enter the Storehouse, which includes the restaurants and the retail area. All tickets include one complimentary beverage.

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