The family of Generator Hostels features eight different properties throughout Europe, including this one in Dublin. The six-story venue has a brick wall facade and a large sign overhead -- it’s hard to miss. Though it may appear average on the outside, Generator Dublin is by no means a typical hostel and is quite famous for its young, hip social scene. Inside, there’s a bar fitted with inventive light fixtures, a lounge with pink and orange seating, and a cafe wall covered with funky graffiti art. Generator Dublin is similarly priced to comparable hostels, including the Dublin International Hostel, but has way more amenities and a vibrant social scene.

Generator Dublin is located in a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood on Smithfield Square, a once quiet historic district that’s become an artsy area with its fair share of bars and nightlife. Examples include Cobblestone Pub, with its traditional Irish music, and The Twisted Pepper, a nightclub great for dancing. The hostel is around the corner from the Old Jameson Distillery and situated blocks away from the River Liffey, Christ Church Cathedral, and Collins Barracks, among other locales. The Stoneybatter neighborhood, filled with quaint shops, bars, and sights, is about a 15-minute walk away, as is the famous Guinness Storehouse, one of Dublin's top attractions. Also convenient is the nearby Airlink with a route to the airport.

Generator Dublin offers a variety of rooms: private rooms with single or twin beds, private triples or quads, and dorms. The minimalist interior design includes warm wooden flooring as well as exposed brick, black steel, recycled fixtures, and funky art. Each floor has shared showers, but suites have private bathrooms. Group of women can opt for a ladies dorm, which also includes a hot tub suite.

Unlike other hostels, guests cannot bring outside food or drink into the rooms. There’s no AC and rooms can get very hot in the summer. Lock boxes are available for a fee.

Generator Dublin has a lively bar cleverly decorated with chandeliers made from Jameson whiskey bottles -- a nod to the nearby distillery -- as well as curated art. In the lounge, leather sofas, orange stools, and billiards tables warm up the vibe. A movie room is on hand as well. The cafe serves food all day, including a continental breakfast. A laundry facility is also on-site for a fee. Tourist guides are available in the lobby.