We're planning on doing the two day blitz tour of Dublin RS suggests in the Ireland guide. Do any of the places mentioned need tickets to be pre-purchased before leaving the States? Thanks.
No, they don't. If the Book of Kells is on the list, though, it would be best to do that first thing in the morning before any line forms.
You don't have to purchase them online, but doing so will save you 10% on Guinness Storehouse Tickets. It will also save you from standing in a potential line.
You'll save money and time by skipping the Guinness Storehouse all together. You don't see the brewing process -- it's basically one big advertisement (and souvenir-purchasing opportunity), which makes the "free" pint at the end rather expensive.
Ditto on the Guiness Storehouse, unless you consider yourself a devotee of the black stuff. However, if you have a clear day... it might just be worth it for the view of Dublin and the surrounding Wicklow Mountains from the Gravity Bar.
And if you just want to visit the gift shop to buy that set of Guiness-themed billiard balls you always wanted (amongst tons of other Guiness-related merchandise), you don't have to purchase a ticket.
I think the Guiness tour is skippable as well. However, I will say that my husband, who loves his beer, enjoyed it.