Galway City Museum

Galway City Museum
4.5 (2,736)
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About

A free, modern museum on the banks of the River Corrib, right behind the iconic Spanish Arch, telling Galway's story from prehistoric stone forts to the 1916 Rising through engaging displays and a rooftop view.

Things to Do

Surrounded by Stone – Ancient Galway

Trace Galway's remarkable stone monuments from 1100 BC to AD 1750, from the prehistoric stone forts of the Aran Islands to the carved medieval buildings of Galway City. Features rare artefacts including finds from Dún Aonghasa.

Surrounded by Stone – Ancient Galway

Revolution in Galway, 1913–23

A compelling multimedia exhibition exploring Galway's role in Ireland's revolutionary decade. Includes eyewitness films, original artefacts, and detailed accounts of the 1916 Rising in the west, when rebels held out from Moyode Castle near Athenry.

Revolution in Galway, 1913–23

Keepers of the Gael

Discover Gaelic society and culture between 1200 and 1600 AD through the lens of hereditary learned families — historians, lawyers, physicians, poets and musicians who shaped the Gaelic world. Includes interactive displays on customs, lordships, and maritime life.

Keepers of the Gael

An Tír Faoi Thoinn – The Land Beneath the Waves

An underwater-themed exhibition exploring the hidden world beneath Galway Bay. Features a submarine area that delights children and adults alike, plus interactive displays on sea science and marine heritage.

The Claddagh Village

Immerse yourself in the story of Galway's famous fishing village, from post-Famine times to the early 20th century. See the full-sized Galway Hooker boat 'Máirtín Oliver' and learn about the community that gave the world the Claddagh ring.

Rooftop Viewing Deck

Head to the top floor for spectacular views over the Claddagh, the Spanish Arch, the River Corrib, and Galway Bay — a perfect photo stop and a reminder of Galway's geography as you explore.

Museum Lates

On the last Thursday of every month the museum stays open late as part of Galway's Night-Time Economy Programme, with music, talks, and evening access to exhibitions.

Plan Your Visit

  • Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10am – 5pm. Sundays (Easter to mid-September), 12pm – 5pm. Closed Mondays. Closed Christmas Day, St Stephen's Day, St Patrick's Day, and Good Friday. Galleries close at 4:45pm.
  • Admission: Admission is FREE for all. No booking required. Suggested donation €5.
  • Parking: No dedicated museum car park. Paid parking at Jury's Inn car park directly across from the museum and on Merchant's Road. Accessible spaces available in both. Limited pay-and-display street parking on Spanish Parade (1–2 hour limits). Passenger drop-off at Spanish Parade.
  • Food: The Kitchen Café, on the ground floor, serves breakfast (€5–11) and lunch (€8–13) Tuesday to Saturday, and Sundays from Easter through September. Menu changes seasonally with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Closed Mondays.

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