Kenmare was designated a Heritage Town by Fáilte Ireland and the Kenmare Heritage Centre was offically opened in June 1994 by the then President of Ireland, Mrs Mary Robinson.

The Centre covers various themes including famous visitors to Kenmare, the nun of Kenmare, Kenmare's history and historical sites, the effects of the Great Famine on Kenmare and the Landlords of Kenmare. It also houses an exhibition of Kenmare Lace and there is a model and explanation of the nearby stone circle, which is one of the largest stone circles in the south of Ireland.

An integral part of the experience of the Kenmare Story is to visit the Historical sites after visiting the Centre. The Heritage Trail map will show you at first hand some of the delights of Kenmare. All the sites are within walking distance from the Centre and the trail takes about 40 minutes to complete.

There is ample parking outside the Centre.