This is only a short selection of the many places of interest in the Emerald Isle.
- Rose of Tralee Festival - The seaside town of Tralee in County Kerry is known for its aquarium, beautiful sandy beaches, the busy harbor and the nation's largest restored windmill. But by far its claim to fame is the annual Rose of Tralee Festival. This late August festival is part beauty pageant and part parade. It commemorates two ill-fated lovers torn apart by war and circumstance. Mary O'Connor, the actual Rose of Tralee, is buried in the old cemetery in nearby Cloherbrien. Even if you can't make the festival it is highly recommended that you check out the scale model of medieval Tralee, which visitors can tour in a theme park-style ride at the Kerry County Museum above the town tourist office. Or, if you want a longer journey, take the 20-minute ride on a restored narrow-gauge railway that leaves from the Ballyard Railway Station.
- Guinness Brewery Hopstore - In every Irish pub, conversation eventually turns to what makes a "perfect pint of Guinness" so perfect. Some say it's the way the beer is poured; others insist it's the time you give it to settle in the glass. You can decide for yourself at the Hopstore, the Irish brewer's four-story monument to beer making. Although you won't see the brewery itself -- that's off limits -- you will learn everything else you ever wanted to know about brewing. You can even sample the liquid wares at a cozy bar.
- Kylemore Abbey & Garden - A day in and of itself, from the amazing neo-gothic church on the grounds, to the abbey still in use and the victorian garden, this attraction has a full view of the culture and life of Ireland. The grounds and environment are well maintained and friendly, and experience not to forget.
- Glendalough - a 6th century monastic site that was founded by St. Kevin. It is nestled into the heart of the Wicklow Mountains and offers a truly spectacular setting. It has a stone tower that stands 110 feet tall, several churches, a cathedral, and many other monastic buildings, ruins and sites. There is a visitor center and guided tours are available.