What if the story of Ireland’s greatest export isn’t its whiskey or shamrocks, but its people? Over 10 million Irish souls embarked on journeys across the globe. They left farms, fishing villages, and bustling ports with nothing more than hope in their hearts and a hunger for a better life.
Some fled famine. Others chased dreams. All carried Ireland within them, and left an indelible mark wherever they landed. At EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, in Dublin’s historic CHQ Building, their stories are not just remembered, they’re felt.
The Heartbeat of the Irish Diaspora
Step through the doors, and you’re stepping into centuries of courage, struggle, and triumph. From the 17th century to today, the Irish have crossed oceans, rebuilt cities, changed governments, and shaped cultures far from their green homeland. EPIC doesn’t simply tell you what happened. It asks you to walk in their shoes.
20 Galleries of Immersive, Unforgettable Storytelling
This isn’t a “read-the-plaque” kind of museum. EPIC is alive, a pulse of history powered by cutting-edge digital technology, layered soundscapes, and rich, interactive displays.
1. The Irish Identity
- Discover how Irish culture and character evolved across borders and generations.
- See how music, folklore, and language survived, and thrived, on distant shores.
2. Global Impact
- From U.S. Presidents to Nobel Prize–winning scientists… from Broadway legends to Olympic champions, see how the Irish shaped the world stage.
- Hear stories of innovation, bravery, and creativity that began on small Irish lanes.
3. Personal Stories
- Letters stained with tears.
- Weathered passports.
- Voices reading words written a century ago.
Every artifact pulls you into a life lived far from home, but never without Ireland.
4. Interactive Stations
- Stamp your emigration passport.
- Try your hand (and feet) at Irish dancing.
- Navigate your own “voyage” through stormy seas.
The Genealogy Centre
For many visitors, EPIC isn’t just about history, it’s about family. At the on-site Irish Family History Centre, you can:
- Get expert guidance on tracing your lineage.
- Access rare records and archives.
- Even take a DNA test to uncover hidden ancestral links.
Whether you’re 100% Irish or just suspect there’s a shamrock or two in your family tree, the experience is deeply personal.
Plan Your Visit
- Location: CHQ Building, Custom House Quay, Dublin 1
- Opening Hours: 10 am – 6:45 pm (last entry 5pm)
- Tickets: Available online at epicchq.com for best rates
Give yourself at least 90 minutes to truly explore, and more if you’re diving into genealogy.
The Call That Echoes Across Generations
If you’ve ever wondered “Where do I come from?” or wanted to understand what it means to be part of the Irish story… EPIC is where those answers live. Here, you’ll see that the greatest export of Ireland isn’t a product. It’s its people, and you might just be one of them. Come walk their journey. Come find yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
EPIC is an award-winning, state-of-the-art museum dedicated to telling the remarkable story of Irish emigration and its lasting impact on the world. Through 20 interactive galleries, it celebrates the achievements, resilience, and cultural influence of the Irish diaspora from the 17th century to the present day.
You’ll find EPIC in the historic CHQ Building, Custom House Quay, Dublin 1, right along the River Liffey and just a short walk from Dublin’s bustling city centre. The location is easily accessible by bus, train, or Luas (tram).
The museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:45 PM, with the last entry at 5:00 PM to allow visitors enough time to fully enjoy the experience.
On average, visitors spend around 90 minutes exploring EPIC, but many choose to linger longer, especially if they take part in the genealogy services or interactive exhibits.
Absolutely. EPIC is designed to be engaging for visitors of all ages, with hands-on activities, digital games, and fun interactive features like passport stamping. Families will find plenty to keep children entertained while learning.
Yes! The on-site Irish Family History Centre offers expert genealogy consultations, access to unique historical records, and even DNA testing to help uncover your family’s Irish roots.
Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. It’s best to check the latest offers directly on epicchq.com before your visit.
Photography policies may vary depending on the exhibit. Generally, personal photography is permitted, but it’s best to confirm with staff upon arrival to ensure you don’t miss any restrictions.
Yes, EPIC’s central location makes it easy to pair your visit with other Dublin highlights such as:
- The Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship (next door)
- Trinity College & The Book of Kells (15-minute walk)
- Guinness Storehouse (short bus or taxi ride)
Tickets can be bought online at epicchq.com, often at a discounted rate, or in person at the museum’s reception desk. Booking online also allows you to secure your preferred time slot.
Emergency Roofers Dublin To EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
10 min (4.0 km) via R147 and R802
Emergency Roofers Dublin
130 Quarry Rd, Cabra East, Dublin 7, D07 V5X0
Head southeast on Quarry Rd - 16 sec (67 m)
Drive along R147, N Circular Rd/R101 and R802 - 15 min (4.0 km)
Turn left
Destination will be on the right - 14 sec (24 m)
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
The Chq Building, Custom House Quay, North Wall, Dublin 1
12 min (5.2 km) via R802
Emergency Roofers Dublin
130 Quarry Rd, Cabra East, Dublin 7, D07 V5X0
Head southeast on Quarry Rd - 16 sec (67 m)
Take Faussagh Rd, Connaught St and R108/R135 to Whitworth Rd - 7 min (2.3 km)
Turn left onto Whitworth Rd - 2 min (850 m)
Drive along R802 - 8 min (2.0 km)
Turn left
Destination will be on the right - 14 sec (24 m)
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
The Chq Building, Custom House Quay, North Wall, Dublin 1
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