St. Stephen's Green is a roughly 9-hectare (22-acre) Victorian public park at the top of Grafton Street in Dublin's city centre, and the largest of the city's Georgian garden squares. Reopened to the public in 1880 thanks to Arthur Edward Guinness (Lord Ardilaun) of the Guinness brewing family, it is still managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW) and preserves its original Victorian layout of tree-lined walks, a duck pond, a bandstand and numerous statues. As of 2026 it remains free to enter and open year-round, serving as a well-loved city-centre retreat and a natural place to start or pause a day of shopping and sightseeing.
Fusiliers' Arch, the main gateway at the top of Grafton Street, a monument to the Royal Dublin Fusiliers who died in the Boer War.
The duck pond and Victorian landscape, with an arched bridge, fountains, seasonal flower beds and a summer bandstand.
Statues of historic figures including James Joyce, Constance Markievicz, Robert Emmet, Wolfe Tone and Lord Ardilaun, plus Henry Moore's W.B. Yeats memorial.
The Great Famine memorial and the park's role as a 1916 Easter Rising battle site.
The Garden for the Blind, with Braille signage and aromatic plants meant to be touched, alongside a children's playground.
Good to know
SafetyPickpocketing and phone-snatching rose in central Dublin in 2026, especially in crowds around Grafton Street and the park gates. Don't keep your wallet in a back pocket and carry bags in front of you.
SeasonIrish weather is changeable and rain is frequent, so bring a waterproof jacket and an umbrella; in winter the shorter days mean earlier closing.
RulesThis is a gated park that locks at night. Closing time varies daily (roughly 16:00–21:00 by season), so check the gate notice board or the official site before you enter.
MannersKeep off flower beds and protected lawns and don't overfeed the pond birds; dogs must be kept on a lead.
CautionNear the gates you may meet people with charity or petition clipboards, or someone tying a 'friendship bracelet' on your wrist and then demanding money. Politely decline and keep walking.
SafetyThe park is generally safe but quieter after dark. Leave before closing, and be cautious late at night around the nearby Temple Bar area with its heavy drinking crowds.
Practical info
The Luas Green Line tram terminates at the 'St Stephen's Green' stop right by the park, and most city-centre buses stop nearby; it is a short walk from Grafton Street. Entry is free and the park opens year-round (Mon–Sat 07:30, Sun and Bank Holidays 09:30), with a free downloadable audioguide and pre-booked guided tours (max 20 people). Opening and closing times change by season, so confirm the latest details on the official site before visiting.
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