Let’s start where it all began in Dublin at Arbour Hill Cemetery. On June 28, 1963, JFK paid his respects to the Irish revolutionaries who fought for Ireland’s freedom. Arbour Hill is the final resting place of many Irish leaders, and it was here that Kennedy took a moment to reflect on the deep connection between his heritage and the struggles of Ireland. The cemetery is nestled in the heart of Dublin, offering a quiet spot away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Next, head south to Dunganstown in County Wexford. Catch a glimpse into the humble beginnings of the Kennedy family’s journey to America. Here you’ll find his ancestral home, which Kennedy’s great-grandfather, Patrick Kennedy, left in the 1840s for America. The house in Dunganstown is still owned by his relatives, making it an iconic stop on the trail.
Kennedy was warmly welcomed by the locals, who proudly greeted him as “one of their own.” The house remains a popular destination, filled with memorabilia from his visit.
Just a short drive from Dunganstown, you’ll find New Ross, a charming town in Wexford, where JFK arrived by boat. The JFK Memorial Park and the Famine Ship are located here, commemorating the Kennedy family’s emigration from Ireland. The John F. Kennedy Arboretum, located nearby, is a beautiful place to explore and pay your respects.
JFK’s arrival in New Ross brought a sense of pride to the local community. The memorial park continues to attract visitors every year eager to explore his Irish roots.”
Cork warmly welcomed JFK with an honorary Freedom of the City ceremony, recognizing his pivotal role in U.S.-Irish relations. The motorcade that accompanied him through the city is a moment frozen in time, captured in photographs that continue to excite Irish locals.
You can walk in JFK’s footsteps around Cork City Gaol, a former prison that was part of the motorcade route, and Collins Barracks, a historic military site that played a significant part in the city’s history.
For a unique experience, take the JFK Motorcade Tour along the streets where his convoy passed. Immerse yourself in the excitement and grandeur of his historic visit!
Next, head to the west of Ireland, where the city presented JFK with a replica of the Galway Grand Mace—a symbol of honour and respect. The mace was given to Kennedy as a token of Galway’s appreciation for his visit.
Today, Eyre Square in the heart of Galway serves as a wonderful starting point for exploring the city. You can wander through Salthill, where JFK’s motorcade also passed, and take in the stunning views of Galway Bay, which he also admired during his trip.
Now head south to Limerick, where you can learn more about JFK’s ancestry at the Thomas Fitzgerald Centre. It is named after his grandfather, Thomas Fitzgerald, who emigrated from Ireland to America. This centre provides a fascinating look into the lives of JFK’s Irish ancestors and celebrates his deep roots in Limerick.
You can also visit King John’s Castle or stroll along the River Shannon for beautiful views of this historic city, which embraced its connection with JFK and continues to honour his legacy.
One of the most memorable moments in JFK’s Irish visit was when he landed at Greenpark Racecourse in Limerick. JFK’s helicopter touched down here as part of his whirlwind tour of Ireland. It’s a unique stop on the JFK Kennedy Trail that captures the excitement of the President’s journey through Irish cities.
Finally, no JFK tour would be complete without a visit to Shannon Airport, where Kennedy departed Ireland, bidding farewell to the country that embraced him so warmly. The airport, which has since grown into one of Ireland’s busiest, remains a place of great historical significance.
The JFK Kennedy Trail is not just a trip through the heart of Ireland—it’s a journey through history, honouring the incredible bond between Ireland and the United States. From the charming streets of Dublin to the ancestral homes of Wexford, Cork and Limerick, every stop on this trail allows you to connect with the one of the most beloved U.S. Presidents in Irish history.
So, whether you’re a history buff, a fan of the Kennedys, or simply looking to experience Ireland’s beautiful landscapes and rich culture, the JFK Kennedy Trail is the perfect way to dive into the heart and soul of Ireland’s special connection to John F. Kennedy.
