Amsterdam is often celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and picturesque canals, but did you know it’s also a fantastic destination for families? If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam with kids, you’ll find plenty of exciting, educational, and downright fun activities that cater to young explorers. Here’s my ultimate guide to the best spots in Amsterdam for kids that will ensure your family adventure is both memorable and enjoyable.
1. NEMO Science Museum
One of the most popular attractions for kids in Amsterdam is the NEMO Science Museum. This five-story museum is packed with interactive exhibits that make learning about science and technology a hands-on experience. From conducting chemistry experiments to building structures and exploring the universe, NEMO provides endless fun for curious minds. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views of the city and a giant cascading water exhibit.
Location: Oosterdok 2, 1011 VX Amsterdam
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 5:30 PM (and Mondays in school holidays)
2. Artis Royal Zoo
Artis Royal Zoo is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands and a favorite among families. Home to over 900 species of animals, including elephants, lions, and giraffes, Artis offers a delightful day out for children of all ages. The zoo also features an impressive aquarium, a planetarium, and a butterfly pavilion. The beautiful, historic gardens and playgrounds provide ample space for kids to run around and explore.
Location: Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, 1018 CZ Amsterdam
Opening hours: Daily, 9 AM – 6 PM
3. Vondelpark
No trip to Amsterdam with kids is complete without a visit to Vondelpark. This expansive urban park is perfect for picnics, bike rides, and leisurely strolls. The park features several playgrounds, an open-air theatre, and even a paddling pool for hot summer days. Families can rent bikes or skates and enjoy the lush green spaces, making it a great spot to unwind and let the kids burn off some energy.
Location: Vondelpark, Amsterdam
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
4. The Amsterdam Dungeon
For kids who enjoy a good thrill, The Amsterdam Dungeon offers a unique and slightly spooky adventure. This interactive experience combines live actors, special effects, and rides to bring 500 years of Amsterdam’s dark history to life. While it’s not suitable for very young children, older kids and teenagers will love the eerie stories and dramatic performances.
Location: Rokin 78, 1012 KW Amsterdam
Opening hours: Daily, 11 AM – 6 PM
5. Anne Frank House
While the Anne Frank House might not be the first place that comes to mind for a child-friendly activity, it’s an important and educational visit for older children. This museum offers a powerful insight into the life of Anne Frank and the Jewish experience during World War II. The visit can foster meaningful conversations about history, tolerance, and human rights.
Location: Prinsengracht 263-267, 1016 GV Amsterdam
Opening hours: Daily, 9 AM – 10 PM
6. Canal Cruise
Exploring Amsterdam by boat is a must-do activity, and there are plenty of family-friendly canal cruises available. These cruises offer a unique perspective of the city’s architecture and history while keeping kids entertained. Some boats even have special audio guides for children, making the experience both educational and fun.
Location: Various departure points around Amsterdam
Opening hours: Varies by company
7. Maritime Museum
Discover 500 years of Dutch maritime history and its connection to today’s society and the future. The National Maritime Museum in Amsterdam houses one of the largest and most prominent maritime collections in the world, including paintings, ship models, navigational instruments, and sea charts.
For families and children, there is always something to experience at The National Maritime Museum. Enjoy the Story of the Whale, take the junior audio tour or the look-and-do fan, or visit ‘the great ship,’ the East Indiaman VOC ship Amsterdam.
Location: Kattenburgerplein 1, 1018 KK Amsterdam
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM
8. Wereldmuseum Junior
The Wereldmuseum (formerly known as Tropenmuseum) Junior offers an interactive and immersive experience that introduces children to different cultures around the world. Each exhibition is designed as a hands-on adventure, allowing kids to engage with stories, costumes, music, and art from various cultures. It’s a fantastic way to educate children about diversity and global traditions.
Location: Linnaeusstraat 2, 1092 CK Amsterdam
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM
9. NoordOogst
NoordOogst is an urban farming project in Amsterdam-Noord that is accessible to everyone, where anyone can come to be inspired to eat consciously and live sustainably. At NoordOogst, you can find the largest natural playground in Amsterdam-Noord! There is plenty to climb, explore, and enjoy. The newly renovated sloping inner garden near the old tractor is also a true discovery spot for young and old, surrounded by the always enthusiastic entrepreneurs.
Location: Meteorenweg 272, 1035 RN Amsterdam
Opening hours: Daily, 7:30 AM – 12 AM
10. Jeugdland
Jeugdland is the largest free adventure playground and children’s workshop in Amsterdam. You can play freely, build in the hut village, join workshops, rent a space, or celebrate your party there. In addition to plenty of nature for your own exploration, Jeugdland has all kinds of play equipment: from swings, slides, and a zip line over the water to a water play area where you can build dams. In the hut village, you can build your own castle, house, or spaceship. You can borrow tools from them.
Location: Valentijnkade 131, 1095 KH Amsterdam
Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10 AM – 6 PM
More spots for kids in Amsterdam:
- Beatrix Park. The park has a nice water area and a kiosk for drinks and snacks.
- Kid-oh, this inspiration center offers workshops and also has a cafe with freeplay area.
- Kinderkookcafe, with a do-it-yourself bar where kids can create their own dishes that is open daily.
- Boerderij Meerzicht, pancake restaurant at the Amsterdamse Bos
- Speeltuin Amstelpark, playground meets amusement park
- Geitenboerderij Ridammerhoeve, this goat farm in the Amsterdamse Bos is home to many animals
These are the best waterfront terraces in Amsterdam.
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