Booked a trip to Amsterdam with the kids but unsure on the things to do with them? Whilst cycling around Amsterdam and soaking up the sunshine in its parks, is perfect for a summer trip. However what is there to do indoors with kids when the weather is not so great? Which museum or activity should you choose to fill the day with your kids? If you are looking to take the family on an active and entertaining weekend break, Amsterdam should be at the top of your list. Small in size, it’s a breeze to explore by bike or boat, and there’s a great choice of large public parks too. And with Eurostar services now running from London, you can be there in under four hours, without any of the airport hassle.
Therefore, BabyBreaks has researched the best things to do in Amsterdam with your kids.
Family Friendly Hotels and Apartments in Amsterdam
Kids Friendly Restaurants in Amsterdam
1. Tropenmuseum
Tropenmuseum is a museum about people, human diversity and cultural heritage. It is asking visitors to have an open view of the world. Current exhibitions include Cool Japan and Fashion Cities Africa. Certainly a fantastic place to start a dialogue with your children and shape their naturally accepting and generous nature towards others.
There is also a dedicated children’s museum, Tropenmuseum Junior, which encourages kids to learn through interactive activities. So let them see, touch, experience and participate, and they will come away with a head full of knowledge and an open heart!
Address: Linnaeusstraat 2, 1092 CK Amsterdam
Opening Times: Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am – 5 pm.
2. Van Gogh Museum
Let the kids explore their inner artist whilst you admire the world’s largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh, at this popular Amsterdam museum. The children’s workshops are on each weekend for ages 6-12 years, and begin with a tour of the museum, then they then get to work as artists themselves in a real studio!
Address: Museumplein 6, Amsterdam
Opening Times: Main museum open daily from 9 am – 5 pm. (On Fridays until 9 pm)
Children’s workshops: Saturdays 12:30–2:30 pm, and Sundays 3–5 pm.
3. Het Scheepvaartmuseum – National Maritime Museum
Showcasing 500 years of maritime history, the National Maritime Museum shows visitors how the sea has shaped Dutch culture. A winner of Trip Advisor’s Certificate of Excellence (2017) this museum is consequently really popular with families thanks to its interactive exhibitions, games and activities, including climbing aboard a life-size replica of an 18th century ship; ahoy!
Address: Kattenburgerplein 1, 1018 KK Amsterdam
Opening Times: Open daily 9 am – 5 pm
4. Rijksmuseum
The national museum of the Netherlands tells the country’s history from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Visitors can admire works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Frans Hals, and more, including Rembrandt’s famous masterpiece, The Night Watch. Entry is however free for children under 18, and there are Escape Games, Rembrandt Drawing Lessons and Family Guided Tours. (Additional charges apply)
Address: Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam
Opening Times: Open daily 9am – 5 pm, including all holidays.
5. Nemo Science Museum
This striking waterside building offers five floors of hands-on activities and exhibitions, showcasing the marvels of science and technology. Kids will love getting stuck in with the experiments, and parents will be sure to learn some fun facts too!
Last but not least, on the rooftop you will find an open-air exhibition, a large outdoor terrace and a restaurant, alongside magnificent views of the city and docklands. (Access to rooftop depends on the weather)
Address: Oosterdok 2, 1011 VX Amsterdam
Opening Times: Tuesday to Sunday, from 10am – 5pm
During school holidays, it is also open on Mondays.
6. Artis Amsterdam Royal Zoo
Open 365 days a year, this centrally located zoo had to be number one for our family Days Out in Amsterdam. It is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands, and since 1838 has been home to a vast array of species from around the world. Certainly a must-visit for animal lovers, you can enjoy a guided walk through the park, or listen to the zookeper’s fascinating talks on lemurs, lions, jaguars or butterflies. Lastly, don’t miss the Aquarium and Planetarium, both included in the entry price.
BabyBreaks Tip: Buy your tickets online and save 2 Euros per person.
7. Canal Cruise
What better way to explore a city famous for its canals, than by boat? This semi-open boat (heated during winter) takes a leisurely 1.5 hour cruise past some of Amsterdam’s most famous landmarks. For example, some highlights include Anne Frank’s House and Bloemenmarkt – the beautiful floating flower market. You can board and disembark at any of the 5 stops along the route, which gives you great flexibility if the kids get restless.
8. Vondelpark
Located near Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, this is a fantastic place for the kids to let off some steam and run about after a morning of culture! It is indeed the largest park in Amsterdam, and much loved by locals and tourists alike. Originally opened in 1865, the sprawling landscaped grounds now encompass an open-air theatre with free performances in the summer, a Pavilion restaurant, waterside café and a children’s playground. You can also rent roller skates from Snoephuisje (near Amstelveenseweg entrance).
Address: 1071 AA, Amsterdam
Opening Hours: 24 hours a day, all year round.
9. Oosterpark
Located in East Amsterdam, this green open space is much less crowded than some if the city’s other parks, and has a large new playground that’s sure to be a big hit with the kids. There’s an undulating obstacle course designed like a rollercoaster, tyre swings and fun slides – perfect for active little monkeys! It is just 0.6 miles from Artis Amsterdam Royal Zoo and 0.2 miles from the Tropenmuseum. Perfect for a days out in Amsterdam!
Address: 1092 CA Amsterdam
10. Jeugdland
Last but not least, Jeugdland is a large, adventurous nature playground on the edge of the Flevopark. Encouraging children to build, create and get back in touch with nature, this is a fantastic place for creative little minds. There are carpentry huts, watersports, a petting zoo, and cooking stations to bake buns on an open fire. A really unique place for kids!
Address: Valentijnkade 131, 1095 KH Amsterdam
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