Family-Friendly Activities in Amsterdam: A Guide for Parents
Sprinkled with winding canals, pockets of green space, and power-packed cultural centers, Amsterdam is much more than its red-light district and coffeeshops. It’s a surprisingly fantastic destination for families, thanks to a deluge of kid-friendly museums and fun-filled attractions.
Rent a bike and pedal around Vondelpark
Amsterdam’s version of New York’s Central Park is a hodgepodge of picnic spots, lakes, outdoor cafes, and summer concert venues. Vondelpark is the best place in the city for kids to run and play. Rent a bike to weave through the park and enjoy lunch at one of the family-friendly cafes. Het Groot Melkhuis is a hot favorite, featuring a glorious outdoor deck by the pond and a large adjoining play area. Additionally, Kinderkookcafé lets little ones unleash their culinary creativity by making their own pancakes or pizzas.
Go on a voyage of discovery at NEMO Science Museum
Housed in a prominent green building in the eastern docklands, NEMO is a hugely popular spot for families visiting Amsterdam. Its five floors are filled with demonstrations, workshops, and constantly updated exhibitions. Everything here is interactive, allowing kids to experiment and learn in an engaging way. Visitors of all ages can join in the fun!
The museum’s biggest surprise is its sloping roof. Designed by Renzo Piano, it serves as an elevated piazza, featuring an outdoor café, flowing water fountains, and fantastic views of Amsterdam’s city center.
For sky-high thrills, head up to A’DAM Lookout
Situated on the top floor of A’DAM Tower in Amsterdam Noord, this observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views of Amsterdam. From here, you can spot the city’s historic center, its bustling port, and the unique Dutch polder landscape.
If the kids are not overly excited about the views, they’ll surely be impressed by the swing on the sky deck—Over the Edge. It’s Europe’s highest swing, giving thrill-seekers the opportunity to swing 100 meters (328 feet) above the ground. This is not for the faint-hearted! The minimum height for the swing is 120cm (47in), while the maximum weight is 150kg (331lb).
Hop on a cruise to explore the canals
To truly appreciate the extensive canal network crisscrossing Amsterdam, getting on the water is essential. Hunter for pirates? Enjoy canal cruises that include a special pirate-themed audio guide, a delightful booklet, and binoculars for young adventurers aged 5 to 12.
Moreover, for a truly unique experience, take a kid-friendly boat trip that offers an all-you-can-eat pancake buffet, complete with a ball pit beneath deck, ensuring fun for children of all ages.
Play with cute goats at Amsterdamse Bos
Families who love nature cannot miss Amsterdamse Bos, a 1000-hectare forest and nature park located on the city’s southern fringe. This gorgeous park offers multiple outdoor play areas for kids, including De Ridammerhoeve, a working farm where children can feed, milk, and play with adorable goats.
Additionally, the park features Boerderij Meerzicht, another family-friendly farm with friendly deer to feed, dining options, and an expansive playground. Right at the entrance, Fun Forest climbing park is a hit with kids aged six and older.
Stay in the city’s best neighborhoods for kids
Colorful and hip, De Pijp offers a bohemian neighborhood experience, allowing families to immerse themselves in Amsterdam without feeling overwhelmed by tourist crowds. This area is still conveniently located within walking distance of most of the city’s attractions. Outdoor enthusiasts will adore the playground in Sarphatipark, while adventurous eaters can indulge in classic Dutch stroopwafels and various cheese options at the Albert Cuypmarkt.
On the east side of town, De Plantage is an elegant, family-oriented district packed with regal gardens and the renowned Artis Royal Zoo. Nearby, Micropia offers intriguing exhibits focused on biology, perfect for older kids. Families may also enjoy the lush Hortus Botanicus, a stunning botanic garden, and Dignita Hoftuin, a local favorite for brunch.
Getting around Amsterdam with children
The tram system in Amsterdam is fast, efficient, and easy to navigate, even for families with prams or strollers. Each tram features a designated area for buggies at the back entrance. Tickets and day passes can be purchased on every tram, with children aged four and under traveling for free while those aged four to 11 can enjoy reduced fares.
While Amsterdam offers a metro system too, accessibility for strollers may be limited. Bike rentals are another option, although it’s important to note that helmet rentals are less common, so prior research is essential to ensure everyone’s safety.
