Dubliners ‘going out differently’ as Dublin Nights Mapped passes 250,000 interactions

Dublin City Council’s ‘Dublin Nights Mapped’ has reached over 250,000 interactions in under three months, highlighting a growing shift in how people are experiencing the city after dark.

Launched in January 2026, the interactive map showcases a wide range of evening activities across Dublin, from late opening cultural spaces and cafés to social experiences and outdoor locations.

The milestone comes as longer, brighter evenings begin to draw more people into the city earlier, with many opting to build their nights around activities and experiences rather than traditional late-night routines. Footfall figures also appear to be moving in a positive direction, suggesting this shift may already be having an impact on how people use the city in the early evening.

It also comes alongside improving public sentiment around the city at night. According to Your Dublin Your Voice, the number of people who say they feel safe in Dublin at night has increased from 31% in October 2024 to 40% today, the highest level recorded in 15 years.

The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam said:
“Dublin is alive after dark, and Dublin Nights Mapped proves it. Our city is becoming more welcoming, more vibrant and more enjoyable in the evening, with everything from culture and heritage to cafés, outdoor spaces and new experiences on offer. As the brighter evenings arrive, this is a real opportunity to bring more people into the city, support local business and show Dublin at its very best.”

Ray O’Donoghue, Night-Time Economy Advisor for Dublin City Council, said:
“People aren’t going out less in Dublin, they’re going out differently. We’re seeing more people come into the city earlier, explore more of it, and shape their night around experiences rather than just one venue.

‘Dublin Nights Mapped’ is helping people discover what’s already there, whether that’s a walk along the old city walls, time in places like Blessington Street Basin, or visits to cultural spaces and social venues across the city.”

Data from the platform suggests increased interest in a broader mix of night-time options, including activity-led venues, late cafés and accessible outdoor spaces.

Popular experiences featured on the map include social gaming venues such as Flight Club and Lane7, as well as quieter city locations like the gardens at the Irish Museum of Modern Art and historic walking routes through the city.

With sunset now stretching beyond 8pm, ‘Dublin Nights Mapped’ is encouraging people to make the most of the city in the early evening hours.

“This is about giving people more choice and making the city feel open, welcoming and full of things to do at different times of the evening,” Ray O’Donoghue added.

The initiative also forms part of a wider strategy to support a more diverse and sustainable night-time economy, with further developments to be announced in the coming weeks.

Dublin Nights Mapped is available to explore via DublinNights.ie or by searching on Google Maps.