Galway, the last and my favorite stop on my Ireland tour, was an absolute gem. Overflowing with even more live music and pubs, this coastal town exudes culture and vibrancy through its people. With only one full day in the city, my only regret from my trip to Ireland was not extending my stay in Galway.
People watching in Eyre Square
Eyre Square is a perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee while soaking in the sights and sounds of Galway. Officially known as the John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, it’s the location where Kennedy delivered a speech to 100,000 Galway residents on his last trip before his assassination. I sat here for a bit to reflect on my trip and daydream about becoming a Galway resident myself.
Carroll’s Bar
Carroll’s Bar was my favorite pub I visited during my week in Ireland. The beer garden in the back was beautiful, featuring a collection of hollowed-out caravans arranged in a semicircle. The drinks were delicious, the food was tasty, and the overall vibe was just perfect. A live musician sang some fantastic renditions of throwback Ed Sheeran songs, and, yes, I sang along very loudly.
O’Connells Bar
O’Connells Bar was another fantastic outdoor spot with lively music and overflowing pints. A DJ provided a refreshing break from the local Irish music performers we saw throughout our trip, offering a taste of good ol’ American pop music. The beer garden’s design was super unique, replicating a charming street-front. Surrounded by “store fronts” (which were essentially beautifully decorated walls), I couldn’t help but feel like I had stepped onto a set for a Guinness commercial.
