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We've compiled the best of the best in The Southwest - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
With its selection of more than 60 Irish and 30 Scottish whiskeys and a vast range of Irish craft beers, this family-run traditional bar in the town center is an excellent spot for discovering Ireland's distilling and brewing traditions. A favorite of local and visiting musicians, it hosts live traditional sessions Monday to Thursday in season, with live contemporary music every Friday night.
Informally known as "the sweetshop Pub" this much-loved Killarney landmark, bang in the center of town, dates from 1870 and was recently given an inspired makeover. The sweets are still there in jars, but one side of the pub now serves coffee, cakes, and light snacks, while the other is a regular pub. Both sides of the establishment are decorated with a fascinating collection of memorabilia. It's a great place to meet the locals.
Supposedly the oldest inn in town---it has served ale to locals from its low-ceiling quarters in a narrow slip lane by the west end of Thomond Bridge since 1794 (the building dates back over a hundred years earlier). JJ Bowles offers wonderful views from its riverside beer garden. It has a good reputation for the quality of its Guinness, making it a good stop on a chilly day if you can find a seat by the warm glow from its fireplace. And, being midway between the city center and Thomond Park Stadium, expect lively crowds during rugby season.
There's traditional fireside music at this busy pub year-round on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday in the front bar starting at 9 pm.
An Daingean's pubs are well-known for their music, but among them O'Flaherty's, a simple, stone-floor bar at the entrance to town, is something special and a hot spot for traditional musicians. Spontaneous sessions occur most nights in July and August, less frequently at other times. Even without music, this pub is a good place to compare notes with fellow travelers.
An old-fashioned pub, this one is typical of the age of Frank McCourt's Angela's Ashes. There's no music, but you'll find big-game rugby matches playing live on TV. Drop by for hearty bar food and a drink while the local side, Munster, is playing.
