Did you know that in Irish, whiskey is called uisce beatha and literally translates to "the water of life"? Chronicling the history of the Jameson family and the "water" they're known for, the Jameson Distillery no longer makes the hard stuff (that's done elsewhere) though it does offer tours that provide insight on just how to do it. Whiskey drinkers hail the 40-minute guided tour (and the included tastings) as informative and fun, with energetic guides and a beautiful refurbished facility.

Whether you're a fan of whiskey or not, learning about the history is sure to entertain anyone. Even non-drinkers say they enjoyed the informative tour. Like learning that the founder of the most famous Irish whiskey, John Jameson, was actually a Scotsman. Or that the Latin on the bottle's label, Sine Metu, means "without fear."

The Jameson Distillery sits on Bow Street. If you're taking the tram, the red line's Smithfield stop is a 2-minute walk to the distillery. The hop-on, hop-off bus also stops at Alight at Smithfield. Hours vary throughout the week, but generally the distillery is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The Jameson Distillery offers tours for 20 euros (about $24) for adults and 16 euros (about $18) for students and seniors. If you purchased a Dublin Pass, your admission fee is waived. Along with the tours, the distillery also offers whiskey blending and whiskey cocktail making classes. Note that due to licensing laws in Ireland, you can't buy alcohol before 12:30 p.m. on Sundays. For more information, visit the distillery's website.