Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is often associated with its adult-oriented attractions. However, this vibrant city offers a wealth of family-friendly activities that make it an excellent destination for travelers with children. From interactive museums to sprawling parks and unique experiences, Amsterdam has something to captivate visitors of all ages. In this article, we’ll explore the best things to do in Amsterdam with kids, ensuring your family vacation is filled with fun, education, and unforgettable memories.
1. Museums and Educational Activities
Amsterdam boasts a rich cultural scene with numerous museums that cater to young minds. The NEMO Science Museum is a must-visit for families. This five-story interactive science center allows children to conduct experiments, learn about technology, and explore various scientific phenomena through hands-on exhibits. The striking ship-shaped building itself is a marvel that kids will love.
For a dose of history, the Anne Frank House provides a poignant and educational experience for older children. While the subject matter is serious, it offers an important historical lesson. Be sure to book tickets in advance, as this popular attraction often sells out.
Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Van Gogh Museum, which offers special programs for children. The museum provides interactive audio guides and workshops designed specifically for young visitors, making the world of art accessible and engaging for kids.
2. Outdoor Adventures and Parks
Amsterdam’s abundant green spaces offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. Vondelpark, the city’s largest park, is perfect for picnics, cycling, or simply running around. The park features several playgrounds, an open-air theater with free performances in summer, and a lovely rose garden.
For a unique outdoor experience, visit the Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest). This massive recreational area is three times the size of New York’s Central Park and offers activities like canoeing, swimming, and even a goat farm where children can feed and pet the animals.
3. Family-Friendly Attractions
The Amsterdam Dungeon provides a thrilling experience for families with older children. This interactive attraction combines live actors, special effects, and rides to bring 500 years of dark history to life in a fun and slightly scary way.
For a more whimsical adventure, head to Madame Tussauds Amsterdam. Kids will be amazed by the lifelike wax figures of their favorite celebrities, historical figures, and characters from popular culture.
ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo is another fantastic option for animal-loving families. As one of the oldest zoos in Europe, it houses a diverse collection of animals and also features a planetarium and an aquarium.
4. Culinary Experiences
Introducing children to Dutch cuisine can be a fun and delicious adventure. Visit the Albert Cuyp Market, Amsterdam’s largest outdoor market, where you can sample local treats like stroopwafels (syrup waffles) and poffertjes (mini pancakes).
For a hands-on experience, consider taking a family-friendly Dutch pancake-making workshop. These interactive classes are a great way to learn about Dutch culinary traditions while creating a delicious meal together.
5. Canal Tours and Water Activities
No visit to Amsterdam is complete without experiencing its famous canals. According to the travel experts from Amsterdam Canal Cruise, the cruises in the canals of Amsterdam is one of the main attractions among the travelers in Netherland. Many canal tour companies offer child-friendly options with entertaining guides who share interesting facts and stories about the city’s history. Some even have special “pizza cruises” that combine sightseeing with a family-friendly meal.
For a more active water adventure, rent a pedal boat. These four-person boats are easy to navigate and provide a fun way for families to explore the canals at their own pace.
6. Cycling Adventures
Amsterdam is known as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, and cycling is an excellent way for families to explore. Many bike rental shops offer child seats, tag-alongs, or family bikes. Take a guided family bike tour or create your own route through the city’s numerous bike paths.
For a unique cycling experience, visit Amsterdamse Bos, where you can rent special “whisper boats” – silent, electric boats that allow you to explore the forest’s waterways while enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
7. Day Trips from Amsterdam
While Amsterdam offers plenty to keep families entertained, there are also great day trips from Amsterdam options. Zaanse Schans, just a short train ride away, is an open-air museum where children can see traditional Dutch windmills, watch artisans at work, and even participate in clog-making demonstrations.
Another popular day trip is to the charming fishing village of Volendam. Here, families can don traditional Dutch costumes for photos, visit the Volendam Museum, and take a boat trip to the nearby island of Marken.
8. Seasonal Activities
Depending on when you visit, Amsterdam offers unique seasonal activities for families. In spring, take a trip to the nearby Keukenhof Gardens, where millions of tulips create a breathtaking display of color. During winter, enjoy ice skating on the canals if they freeze over, or visit one of the city’s temporary ice rinks.
9. Transportation Tips
Amsterdam’s compact size and excellent public transportation system make it easy to get around with kids. The tram network is extensive and stroller-friendly. Consider purchasing an I Amsterdam City Card, which offers free public transport and admission to many attractions.
10. Interactive and Creative Spaces
For creative kids, the KinderKookKafé is a unique restaurant where children can prepare their own meals under supervision. It’s a fun way to engage kids in cooking while parents relax.
The Tropenmuseum Junior offers immersive exhibitions that allow children to experience different cultures through interactive displays and workshops.
11. Rainy Day Options
Amsterdam’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s good to have some indoor options. The Amsterdam Public Library (OBA) has a fantastic children’s section with English books, storytelling sessions, and a great view of the city from its top floor cafe.
TunFun is an indoor playground located in a converted tunnel under Centraal Station. It’s an excellent place for kids to burn off energy on a rainy day.
Amsterdam offers a perfect blend of education, adventure, and fun for families traveling with children. From world-class museums and beautiful parks to unique attractions and culinary experiences, the city provides endless opportunities for creating lasting family memories. By mixing cultural experiences with outdoor activities and interactive attractions, you can create a well-rounded itinerary that caters to various interests and ages.
Remember to pace yourselves and allow for downtime between activities. Amsterdam’s laid-back atmosphere encourages a relaxed approach to sightseeing, so don’t feel pressured to rush from one attraction to another. Take time to wander the picturesque streets, enjoy a leisurely canal-side picnic, or simply watch the world go by from a cozy café.
With its family-friendly attractions, rich history, and welcoming culture, Amsterdam proves to be much more than just an adult playground. It’s a city where families can bond, learn, and create unforgettable experiences together. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare for an amazing family vacation in one of Europe’s most charming and kid-friendly capitals.
