Are you looking for an exciting and fun-filled trip to Amsterdam with your kids? You’re in luck! There are plenty of fun activities and attractions for kids to enjoy in this beautiful Dutch city. From exploring the canals and visiting world-famous museums, to family friendly entertainment and outdoor activities, there is something for everyone. Read on to discover the top 10 activities for kids in Amsterdam.
1) Visit Westerpark
One of the top things to do with kids in Amsterdam is to take a trip to Westerpark. Located in the western part of the city, Westerpark is a popular spot for families and locals alike.
This vibrant park boasts plenty of things to do, including playgrounds, sports fields, and a skate park. In addition, the park hosts various events and activities throughout the year, so be sure to check out what’s on before your visit.
Take a stroll around the park’s beautiful gardens and green spaces, or enjoy a picnic on the grass. For a fun family outing, rent a bicycle and explore the park’s many paths and trails.
There are also several restaurants and cafes within the park where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a refreshing drink. From outdoor concerts to food festivals, Westerpark offers a great mix of family fun and cultural events.
2) Visit Artis Royal Zoo
If you’re looking for a great family activity, a trip to Artis Royal Zoo is a must-do. Not only is it one of the oldest zoos in Europe, but it’s also home to over 700 different animal species! From lions to giraffes, and even sharks, there is no shortage of things to see and learn about at this zoo. In addition to the animals, Artis Royal Zoo also has a planetarium and an aquarium that are sure to be a hit with the kids. They offer special programs and activities for children, so be sure to check out what’s on before you go.
3) Enjoy a boat ride on Amsterdam’s canals
One of the most iconic and family-friendly things to do with kids in Amsterdam is taking a boat ride on the city’s canals. It’s the perfect way to explore the city while enjoying some quality family time. You can choose from a variety of boats and tours, depending on your preferences. From small traditional boats to larger modern ones, there are plenty of options available.
If you’re wondering what’s on during your stay in Amsterdam, don’t miss out on this classic activity. Not only will you get to see some of the city’s most picturesque views, but you’ll also learn about Amsterdam’s history and culture. You’ll pass by charming bridges, traditional houses, and iconic landmarks like the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum.
There are several places to go for a canal ride, but we recommend booking a tour with Blue Boat Company. They offer a 75-minute cruise that’s perfect for families. During the tour, your guide will keep your little ones entertained with fun facts and stories about Amsterdam. Plus, you can enjoy snacks and drinks while taking in the views.
4) Take a trip to NEMO Science Museum
If you’re looking for an interactive and educational experience that the whole family can enjoy, NEMO Science Museum should be at the top of your list of places to go. With over 5 floors of interactive exhibits, there’s always something new and exciting to discover.
Wondering what’s on at NEMO Science Museum? Some of the most popular exhibits include the Human Body section, where kids can explore the anatomy of the body through interactive games and activities, and the Water World section, where visitors can learn about the importance of water in our lives and experiment with different water-based activities.
In addition to the permanent exhibits, NEMO Science Museum also hosts temporary exhibits throughout the year, so there’s always something new and exciting to discover. Whether your child is interested in astronomy, chemistry, or biology, they’re sure to find something that piques their curiosity at NEMO Science Museum.
5) The De Pijp Petting Zoo
When it comes to things to do with kids in Amsterdam, visiting a petting zoo is always a great choice for some family fun. The De Pijp Petting Zoo, located in the south of Amsterdam, is a small and charming place that kids will love. Here, they can interact with all kinds of farm animals, including goats, sheep, rabbits, chickens, and more.
Not only is it a great way to introduce children to the world of animals, but it’s also an educational experience where they can learn about the animals and their habits. Additionally, the De Pijp petting zoo often has what’s on events for children, such as pony rides or petting sessions with some of the animals.
Visiting the De Pijp petting zoo is one of the many great things to do with kids in Amsterdam. It’s a fantastic way to get some fresh air, enjoy the outdoors, and have some quality family time. Make sure to add it to your list of family fun activities in Amsterdam.
6) Spend a day at the Amsterdamse Bos park
Looking for a place to spend some quality family time? Look no further than Amsterdamse Bos, the city’s largest park with over 1,000 hectares of nature to explore. With so much on offer, there is never a dull moment in this sprawling green space.
There is plenty of “what’s on” at Amsterdamse Bos for families looking for a day out. Take a leisurely bike ride on the park’s many bike paths, rent a canoe and explore the waterways, or enjoy a picnic with the family. The park also hosts a range of activities and events throughout the year, including concerts, theatre performances, and festivals.
For families seeking a bit of “family fun”, the park has plenty to offer. Children will love the play areas scattered throughout the park, which feature climbing frames, slides, swings, and sand pits. In addition, there is a playground, a petting zoo, and an open-air theatre where you can watch a puppet show.
Whatever your family’s interests, Amsterdamse Bos is sure to delight. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat in nature or a day of exciting activities, there is something for everyone at this incredible park. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to create lasting memories with your loved ones!
7) Go on a treasure hunt at the Van Gogh Museum
If your kids are budding art enthusiasts, a visit to the Van Gogh Museum is a must. Not only will they be able to see some of the most iconic paintings by one of the most celebrated artists in the world, but they can also go on a treasure hunt to discover what’s on behind the scenes.
The treasure hunt is a great way to keep kids engaged while exploring the museum. It’s designed to take visitors on a journey of discovery through the different rooms and exhibitions, encouraging them to explore and engage with the art on display.
What’s on the treasure hunt, you ask? The Van Gogh Museum provides a map and clues to help kids find hidden symbols and motifs within the paintings. By completing the treasure hunt, kids can earn a special Van Gogh-themed prize, such as a bookmark or postcard.
Not only is the treasure hunt a fun activity for kids, but it also helps them learn about art interactively and engagingly. So, next time you’re in Amsterdam, be sure to take your little ones on a treasure hunt at the Van Gogh Museum. Who knows what they’ll discover?
8) Visit Efteling Theme Park
For a truly magical day out with your little ones, make sure you head over to the Efteling Theme Park. This enchanting attraction offers an immersive experience for all ages, with a host of rides, shows, and attractions to explore. So, what’s on offer at this fabulous theme park?
First and foremost, make sure you don’t miss out on the fairy-tale forest. This magical woodland is filled with beloved storybook characters, including Little Red Riding Hood, Snow White, and Hansel and Gretel. Kids will be in awe as they explore this enchanting world, complete with talking trees, hidden pathways, and plenty of photo opportunities.
If your little ones love a good thrill, then be sure to try out one of the park’s roller coasters. From the speedy Baron 1898 to the immersive Symbolica, there’s something to get your heart racing. And for those who prefer a gentler ride, check out the family-friendly Droomvlucht or the classic carnival-style attractions in the Fairy Tale Forest Square.
But it’s not just about rides at Efteling; the park also offers a host of shows and performances. Be sure to catch a performance of the spectacular Aquanura water show, where fountains, lights, and music combine to create a mesmerizing display. Or head over to Raveleijn, an outdoor arena where a live-action show featuring knights and horses is sure to thrill kids and adults alike.
9) Have fun at the TunFun indoor playground
If you’re looking for a fun-filled adventure for your kids in Amsterdam, TunFun indoor playground should be on your list. TunFun is a unique indoor play centre located in an old traffic tunnel in the city centre.
With over 4,000 square meters of space, TunFun has something for every child.
So, what’s on at TunFun? The playground features various exciting activities such as ball pits, trampolines, a zip line, a climbing wall, slides, tunnels, and much more. There are also fun workshops such as pottery painting and puppet shows for kids to enjoy.
Parents can relax at the TunFun cafe while their children enjoy themselves. The cafe offers a wide selection of food and drinks, so you don’t have to worry about your child’s hunger.
TunFun is a perfect spot to keep kids entertained during rainy days or for those seeking a break from outdoor activities. The playground’s vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff ensure a memorable experience for the whole family.
10) Explore the historic and interactive Anne Frank House.
If you’re looking for a unique and educational activity to do with your kids in Amsterdam, the Anne Frank House is a must-visit. This historic museum is dedicated to telling the story of Anne Frank, a young Jewish girl who hid with her family during the Nazi occupation of Amsterdam.
What’s on display at the Anne Frank House is truly remarkable. Visitors can explore the secret annexe where Anne and her family lived for two years, as well as view artefacts and personal belongings that belonged to the Frank family. The museum also has interactive exhibits that help bring the story to life, such as a virtual reality experience that takes visitors on a journey through the annexe.
The Anne Frank House is a great opportunity for kids to learn about history and gain a deeper understanding of the impact of the Holocaust. It’s also a chance to reflect on the importance of tolerance, acceptance, and standing up against injustice.
Make sure to plan your visit in advance, as the Anne Frank House is a popular destination and tickets can sell out quickly. With so much to see and experience, the Anne Frank House is an activity that is sure to leave a lasting impression on your family.
Consider buying a Go CIty pass to get access to lots of great attractions including museums, canal cruises and stadium tours – all for one great price.