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Things to Do in Ennis

What’s your pleasure: fast-paced action or relaxing country drive? Fun in the sun or a refreshing drink on the patio? No matter how you unwind, you’ll find a captivating combination of exciting and rejuvenating things to do in Ennis, Texas.  Read on to see what this North Texas destination has to offer, then plan your next getaway here.

Follow the Bluebonnets

Ennis is the “Official Bluebonnet City of Texas,” and every spring, Ellis County comes alive with the vibrant beauty of Texas’ lovely state flower. Armed with your camera and a map from the Ennis Welcome Center , hit the road and follow the famous Bluebonnet Trails, 40-odd miles of wildflower-laden scenery. For the ultimate experience, check out the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival in April. The festival greets visiting bluebonnet hunters with three days of live music, food, arts and crafts, kids’ activities, and more. If you’re planning to visit Ennis during bluebonnet season, keep in mind that peak time is generally in the third week of April.

Enjoy Bardwell Lake

Whether you’re looking to make some waves with your boat, land a trophy bass, or cool off with a refreshing swim, Bardwell Lake is the place to be. The 3,500-acre lake has a swim beach, campsites, picnic areas, fishing piers, a marina and boat ramps, covered pavilion, and more. Stage your day of fun from the adjacent High View Park on the western shore of the lake, which provides a nice mix of both sun and shade for picnicking, camping, and wildlife watching.

Put the Pedal to the Metal

For the intoxicating aroma of burning rubber and gasoline and all the fast-paced excitement of racing, Ennis is the place to be. Watch stock cars race around the oval dirt track from March through October at Big O Speedway , the oldest racing facility in Ellis County.  If pulse-pounding, blow-your-hat-off racing is what you’re after, head to Texas Motorplex , the National Hot Rod Association’s first-ever “super track” and world-renowned drag racing facility. Watch hot rods race at speeds of more than 300 mph during one of the many events hosted at the track, including the annual NHRA Fall Nationals that feature some of the biggest names in drag racing.

Catch a Drive-In Movie

Forget about crowded theaters and sky-high ticket prices. The best way to see a movie in Ennis is from the comfort of your own car at the Galaxy Drive-In . Seven nights a week, “rain or stars,” you and the family can catch a double feature at a great price. Choose from one of more than seven screens showing the latest Hollywood films, order a hamburger and some nachos from the concession's menu, and enjoy the show. Not only is the Galaxy one of the last drive-in theaters you’ll find anywhere, it may be one of the only ones in the world that screens 3D movies outdoors. That alone should have you planning your trip to this unique attraction.

Dance the Polka

Ennis was strongly influenced by its German, Czech, and Polish settlers, and you can still see their impact today every time someone breaks out an accordion. The city hosts two authentic polka festivals during the year, with the Ennis Czech Music Festival kicking things off in February and the long-running National Polka Festival rocking the town for three days in May on Memorial Day Weekend. Be on-hand for either event and you’ll have an unforgettably good time with music, dance, food, and fun.

Fans of the theater will find lots to enjoy in Ennis, with two troupes of local actors offering year-round performances. One such group is the Ennis Public Theatre , which is well-known in the Dallas and Fort Worth area for its lively and entertaining shows. The group conducts six performances every year with a different show every other month, so you’ll always see something new every time you visit. Meanwhile, Theatre Rocks! puts on high-quality productions of classics like The Importance of Being Earnest and Snow White, and newer hits like “Texas tragicomedy” Cabin Fever . Look at each theater company’s website for a full schedule and to purchase tickets.

Raise a Glass

Texas is becoming one of the largest wine producing regions in the world, and the Sugar Ridge Winery in Ennis is very much a part of that trend. Opened in 2011, the winery is known for its sweet wines made primarily from grapes grown in Texas and New Mexico. Visit on a weekend and you’re likely to catch a live band providing the soundtrack for a laid-back afternoon of sampling wine and making new friends.

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Enjoy the state flower at the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival this weekend

Can't get enough of the state flower? Then it's worth the drive 30 miles south of Dallas on Interstate 45 to Ellis County.

Ennis the "Official Bluebonnet City" of Texas is home to some of the best and most abundant bluebonnets in the state, and this year is no different.

ENNIS BLUEBONNET TRAILS FESTIVAL

The bluebonnets in the Ennis area are at their peak just in time for the 72nd Annual Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival sponsored by the Ennis Garden Club April 19-21.

Daily admission for the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival is $5 per person with children 12 and under free.

During the festival, there will be more to see than just beautiful bluebonnets. Downtown Ennis will have arts and crafts, a kids' fun area, bluebonnet souvenirs for sale, food and live music.

Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival

Friday, April 19 - 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Saturday, April 20 - delayed 11 a.m. start to 10 p.m.

Sunday, April 21 - 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For daily bluebonnet updates and information about the festival contact the Ennis Welcome Center at (972) 878-4748 or follow Visit Ennis , Texas on Facebook , Instagram and X (formerly known as Twitter) . Bluebonnet fans can also follow Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival on Facebook . 

NO CHARGE FOR THE BLUEBONNET TRAILS AROUND ENNIS

There's no charge though to take in the state flower along the 40 miles of driving trails around Ennis all month long.

You can stop by the Ennis Welcome Center at 201 NW Main Street, to get a map of the trails and information about the festival.

"Whenever you come to the Welcome Center to get your trail map, you're gonna be greeted with a big 'Hi y'all!,'" said Ennis communications director Ashley Colunga. "You're going to get some one-on-one attention, the map, they'll tell you the best places to go."

If you're still not sure where to set up your totally Texas family portrait, you're encouraged to download the Ennis Y'all app to find the best route to the most picturesque spots on the day of your visit.

IS IT ILLEGAL TO PICK BLUEBONNETS?

While it's a myth that you'll be arrested for picking bluebonnets, it's best to leave them where they are it is wise to allow them to fully seed so that next year's flowers will be abundant. Picking them or mowing them before they go to seed could impact wildflower production next year.

There are, however, a few ways your visit with the bluebonnets could get you in trouble in the eyes of the law. Some beautiful fields of flowers are on private property, meaning you could be trespassing while taking photos of the flowers. If your flower spot is on the side of the road, take traffic laws into consideration --  which the Texas DPS details here  -- in order to stay safe and ticket-free.

12 Of The Best Things To Do In Ennis (And Plenty Of Places To See Nearby)

By Author James March

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

If you’re looking to things to do in Ennis, then you’ve landed in the right place.

County Clare’s largest town is small but it packs a mighty punch. With a ton of history, some fine spots for a pint and plenty of charm, you’ll be sure to get a warm welcome in Ennis.

It’s also a good base for exploring Clare’s stunning windswept landscape and much of the Wild Atlantic Way (see out guide to things to do in Clare for more!).

Table of Contents

The best things to do in Ennis

Photo by shutterupeire (Shutterstock)

From the gorgeous Cliffs of Moher to the ruined medieval grandeur of Clare Abbey, we’ve got you covered.

In the guide below, you’ll find a handful of things to do in Ennis along with several worthwhile places to visit within handy driving distance.

1. Clare Museum

Photo via Clare Museum

Set inside a former Sisters of Mercy Convent in the centre of Ennis, Clare Museum opened to the public in 2000.

Documenting the history of Clare over 6000 years, the museum covers some serious ground for its size.

From archaeological sites to Clare’s musical tradition, taking in religious and social history along the way, the Riches of Clare exhibition is a treasure trove of Irish history.

Traveller tip: Looking for free things to do in Ennis? Get yourself to Clare Museum – admission won’t cost you a penny!

2. The best Vol-Au-Vents in the land at the Old Ground Hotel

Photo via the Old Ground Hotel

Oozing old-world charm, this old-school hotel (and I mean that in the best possible sense!) is set in an immaculately restored 18th-century building.

Expect Great Gatsby-esque 1920’s glamour mixed with the usual warm Irish hospitality, making for the most comfortable of stays in Ennis.

Head to the ornate Poet’s Corner bar and settle into one of the cosy alcoves with a pint of plain and a book for a class escape at the Old Ground Hotel.

Related read:  Check out our guide to the best hotels in Ennis (with something to suit most budgets).

3. Ennis Friary (one of the best-known Ennis attractions)

Photo by Borisb17 (Shutterstock)

You’ll find the medieval ruins of Ennis Friary right in the heart of town. Established in the 13th century by the ruling O’Brien clan, the monastery became a Church of Ireland place of worship in the early 17th century.

It then fell into disrepair by the end of the 1800s, following the end of religious worship at the Friary in 1871.

It’s now open to the public and the nave has been roofed so it can display some beautiful 15th century stone carvings.

4. A fine feed (and very creamy pints) in Brogan’s Bar

Photo by The Irish Road Trip

While there are many things to do in Ennis, you’re going to need a bit of relaxation at some point and there are few better places to do that than Brogan’s – one of our favourite pubs in Ennis .

Settle in for a few of Clare’s smoothest pints or dig into their cracking gourmet food. Or both. In fact, definitely both.

Whether you go for one of their generously filled sandwiches or a hearty main, you’ll see why Brogan’s is now an Ennis institution.

Editors note:  As you can see from the very dodgy photos above, we were in Brogan’s in Ennis recently (we paid – this isn’t an ad or any of that craic) – the food (the ribs are unreal), the pints (creeeeamy) and the service are all top-notch!

5. Ennis Cathedral

Soaring over 200 ft above Ennis, the spire of Ennis Cathedral is one of the town’s most recognisable sights.

The building of the cathedral had a troubled history so while construction began in 1828, it wasn’t completed until 1874, in part thanks to the devastation of the Great Famine in the middle of the 19th century.

Located to the south of the town centre, a visit here is a handy one if you’re in search of things to do in Ennis when it’s raining.

6. Great food galore

Photo left via McHugh’s Bar on Instagram. Photo right via Mondo Coffee Shop on Facebook

There’s an almost endless number of great restaurants in Ennis , with everything from early morning eats, lunchtime feeds and relaxing dinners on offer.

When it comes to pub-grub that packs a punch, you can’t go wrong with Brogan’s. If you’re after a hearty feed, the folks at the Market Bar will make your belly happy.

For a more casual bite-to-eat, you can’t go wrong with Souper Cafe and Sweet N Green. Discover lots more in our Ennis food guide .

Things to do near Ennis

Photo by shutterupeire (shutterstock)

OK, so we’ve tackled things to do in Ennis Town – now it’s time to take a look at the various places to visit nearby.

Ennis is a lovely little base to explore Clare from. Below, you’ll discover the  many  different places that are a stone’s throw from the town.

1. Clare Abbey

Photo by 2checkingout (Shutterstock)

Another stark medieval ruin can be found on the outskirts of Ennis, although this one has a slightly more gruesome history than Ennis Friary, for those who like that sort of thing.

Founded in 1189, Clare Abbey was the scene of a legendary bloody massacre in 1278 following a civil war between feuding members of the O’Brien clan (them again!).

Things have calmed down since then and it’s a cool site to see that’s only a short drive from Ennis.

2. Surfing in Lahinch

Photo by shutterupeire/shutterstock.com

Lahinch Beach is widely regarded as one of the best places to go surfing in Ireland , and that’s saying something, as there’s some stiff competition!

The conditions will be colder and harsher than typical hotspots like Australia and California, but the experience is unique and challenging.

And that’s why we travel, isn’t it? If surfing doesn’t tickle your fancy, there are plenty of other things to do in Lahinch , from walks indoor activities to loads of great places to eat.

Traveller tip: If you’re looking for things to do in Ennis / nearby with a group of friends, book in for surfing lessons in Lahinch. They take place even if it’s raining, which is handy!

3. The Cliffs of Moher

Photo by Burben (shutterstock)

Little introduction is needed for the spectacular Cliffs of Moher but you’re going to get one anyway.

Stretching for 9 miles and rising to a maximum height of just over 700 ft, they’re one of Ireland’s biggest tourist attractions.

If the sun’s out, try to get there for late afternoon/early evening for that iconic golden sunset photo.

Traveller tip: If you’re wondering what to do in Ennis / nearby, a trip to the cliffs will take you no longer than 45 minutes by car.

4. Quin Abbey

The 14th century Quin Abbey is located just outside of Ennis, and it makes for a great mini excursion from town. 

The Abbey was constructed between 1402 and 1433, on the site of an earlier monastery that was burned down in 1278.

There’s a wealth of history to be discover here and you can nip into a little visitor centre near the entrance where you can learn all about the history and architecture of the Abbey. 

Two things you need to know about Doolin: Its proximity to a bunch of breath-taking sites and its collection of great pubs.

You can spend the day at the Cliffs of Moher, Doolin Cave , Doonagore Castle or on a trip to the Aran Islands .

And by night, tell tall tales of your adventures over a few creamy pints at Gus O’Connors, McGann’s, McDermott’s or Fitzpatricks’s – 4 of the finest pubs in Doolin !

Discover more: Hop into our guide to 13 of the best things to do in Doolin  to discover heaps more places to visit in this gorgeous little town.

6. The Burren

Photo by Remizov (shutterstock)

The mystical limestone landscape of The Burren (Gaelic for ‘stony place’) is about as far from those clichéd green Ireland postcards as it’s possible to get.

Only a 15-minute drive north of Ennis, its harsh karstic terrain takes on a Martian-like purple hue on some evenings and is one of Clare’s most interesting spots.

It also contains over 70% of Ireland’s flower species, including some of the country’s rarest examples. You can explore it on the Burren Way or via one of the shorter Burren walks .

7. Loop Head

Photo © The Irish Road Trip

Owning some of the most spectacular scenery along the Wild Atlantic Way , Loop Head is a dramatic promontory thrusting out at the north entrance of the Shannon Estuary.

The drive out to Loop Head Lighthouse over an hour from Ennis but the payoff is worth it. The tumbling cliffs, historic lighthouse and ocean views all form a remarkable scene.

And don’t forget to stop off at the picturesque natural arches of the Bridges of Ross on the way down.

8. Bunratty Castle

Photos via Shutterstock

Last but not least is the historic Bunratty Castle and its much-loved folk park. You’ll find the 15th century Bunratty Castle in the heart of Bunratty Village.

It’s a stone’s throw from Shannon Airport, which makes it the first stop for many tourists flying into Ireland for the first time.

Named after the River Raite which runs alongside it, the site on which Bunratty Castle stands has been constantly occupied for over 1,000 years. Learn more here .

Related read: If you visit Bunratty, carve out some time to check out some of the many other   things to do in Shannon (walks, pubs and more!).

What to do in Ennis: What have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out plenty of worthwhile things to do in Ennis from the guide above.

If you have an attraction (or a bar or restaurant) to recommend, give us a shout in the comments section below.

FAQs about the top things to do in Ennis

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from what to do in Ennis when it’s raining to which Ennis attractions are most worth a visit.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best things to do in Ennis?

Visit Ennis Cathedral, see Ennis Friary, try some of the best Vol-Au-Vents in the land at the Old Ground Hotel and head for a ramble around Clare Museum.

I’m wondering what to do in Ennis when it’s raining?

A visit to Clare Museum is one of the best rainy-morning spots if you’re looking to wait-out some bad weather.

What are the best things to do near Ennis?

One of the beauties of Ennis is that it’s a stone’s throw from many of Clare’s top attractions, like the Cliffs of Moher, Lahinch and more (see above).

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Concern for 22-year-old last seen being picked up by taxi

Gardaí are seeking the public’s assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 22-year-old Robert Dawson who has been missing from the Ennis Road area of Limerick since Friday.

Robert is described as being approximately 6’1 in height, of a medium build, with brown hair.

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Robert was last seen being picked up by a taxi from the Vereker Gardens area of Ennis Road at approximately 1:15pm on Friday afternoon.

He was wearing a white jacket and grey trousers at the time of his disappearance.

Gardaí and Robert’s family are now concerned for his welfare.

Gardaí are particularly looking to speak with any taxi drivers who may have picked up a fair in Vereker Gardens at the above mentioned time.

Anyone with any information on Robert’s whereabouts is asked to contact Henry Street Garda station on 061 212400, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

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