
Dierenrijk Mierlo
A family-friendly zoo near Eindhoven with diverse animals, engaging playgrounds, and exciting themed events like Dino Weeks.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Dierenrijk Mierlo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A family-friendly zoo near Eindhoven with diverse animals, engaging playgrounds, and exciting themed events like Dino Weeks.
"Kids will adore the water playground and sandpit areas, providing hours of entertainment and a refreshing break."

🎯 Dino Weeks are a Hit!
Don't miss the Dino Weeks for an extra dose of prehistoric fun with rangers and activities!
💧 Water Playground Fun
Pack swim gear for the water playground; it's a huge hit with kids!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dino Weeks Adventure
Throughout the park
Experience over twenty life-sized dinosaurs, including impressive herbivores, during special themed weeks. A must-see for dinosaur enthusiasts!

Close-Up Animal Encounters
Various enclosures
Enjoy unique opportunities to see animals like tigers and chimpanzees up close, sometimes without cages, offering an immersive experience.

Interactive Playgrounds
Designated play areas
Kids will adore the water playground and sandpit areas, providing hours of entertainment and a refreshing break.

New Tiger Habitat
Tiger enclosure
Explore the recently updated tiger habitat, designed to be more naturalistic and provide better viewing opportunities for visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Plan for Playtime Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Dino Weeks are a Hit!
Don't miss the Dino Weeks for an extra dose of prehistoric fun with rangers and activities!
💧 Water Playground Fun
Pack swim gear for the water playground; it's a huge hit with kids!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes for exploring the zoo and playgrounds.
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the heat and crowds by arriving at opening time, especially in summer.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Dino Weeks are a Hit!
Don't miss the Dino Weeks for an extra dose of prehistoric fun with rangers and activities!
💧 Water Playground Fun
Pack swim gear for the water playground; it's a huge hit with kids!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes for exploring the zoo and playgrounds.
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the heat and crowds by arriving at opening time, especially in summer.
🦁 Check Feeding Times
Animal feedings are great, but check schedules as they might not be in English.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dierenrijk Mierlo is praised as a great family-friendly zoo with excellent playgrounds and unique animal viewing opportunities, including immersive Dino Weeks. However, some visitors find the ticket prices high for the number of animals and note that food options are basic.
"The best zoo I’ve ever visited!
It’s not too big, which makes it perfect for a relaxing walk without having to walk long distances. The whole area is beautifully green, making it a lovely place for a stroll while enjoying the animals. There are lots of animals, and most of them are very easy to see. One of the best things is that you can enter some of the animal areas and watch them without cages or bars, which is amazing. It’s also a great place for kids, with plenty of attractions for them. I highly recommend it!"
Paulina M
"A great day with the family but it’s a very hot day, few animal feedings during the day, but none of it in English so kids lost interested. Couldn’t see a few animals like red pandas as it’s hidden somewhere. Food is very basic with chips, fish cake & sausages. There is indoor playground, some sand pitch to play. Good enough for the family. Gift shop is not much impressive."
Day Day Play
"Honestly, I expected more from Zoo Eindhoven. The ticket price is way too high for the small number of animals and limited attractions. It just didn’t feel worth it. On the bright side, the parking area is big and easy to find. But overall, I wouldn’t go back."
Anna
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dierenrijk Mierlo is located at Heiderschoor 24, 5731 RG Mierlo, near Eindhoven. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transport options include bus routes from nearby towns, though driving is generally more convenient.
Yes, there is a large and easy-to-find parking area. Note that parking tickets may incur an additional cost.
While public transport is an option, it might involve multiple transfers and longer travel times. Check local bus schedules for routes serving Mierlo.
Absolutely! Dierenrijk Mierlo is a popular day trip destination from Eindhoven, easily reachable by car in a short amount of time.
Use your GPS and input the address: Heiderschoor 24, 5731 RG Mierlo. The zoo is well-signposted in the local area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but expect to pay around €22.50 for visitors aged 3 and up. Children under 3 are typically free. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons or special events like Dino Weeks, to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Dierenrijk Mierlo website for the most up-to-date information on daily opening and closing times.
Discounts may be available through specific promotions, family passes, or partnerships. Keep an eye on their website or social media for any offers.
Yes, parking is often an additional cost on top of the admission ticket. Some reviews mention needing an exit ticket as well, which is unusual.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Dierenrijk Mierlo features a variety of animals including tigers, lions, chimpanzees, penguins, rhinos, and more. They also host special events like the popular Dino Weeks.
Yes, Dierenrijk is highly recommended for families with children. It boasts excellent playgrounds, including a water playground, and offers interactive experiences.
Absolutely! Dierenrijk has fantastic playgrounds, including a water playground and sandpit, which are often a major highlight for younger visitors.
Some enclosures allow for very close viewing, with opportunities to see animals without cages or bars, creating an immersive experience.
A visit typically takes at least 2 hours, but many families spend half a day or more, especially if enjoying the playgrounds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options are generally basic, often including fries, fish cakes, and sausages. You might want to pack snacks or plan for a simple meal.
While not explicitly stated, bringing your own snacks and drinks is usually permitted in Dutch zoos, which can be a budget-friendly option.
Information on specific dietary options is limited. It's best to inquire upon arrival or consider bringing your own food if you have specific dietary needs.
Yes, there are food facilities available, offering typical zoo fare.
Food prices are typical for a zoo attraction, which can be on the higher side. Packing your own snacks can help manage costs.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for areas with good natural light and clear views of the animals. The updated tiger habitat and enclosures with open viewing areas offer great photo opportunities.
Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed throughout the zoo. Be mindful of any specific signage regarding flash photography or protected areas.
A camera with good zoom capabilities is helpful for capturing distant animals. A smartphone with a decent camera will also suffice for most visitors.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in zoos to avoid disturbing the animals and for safety reasons. Always check the zoo's official policy.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide softer light and more active animals, making them ideal for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing swim gear for the water play and comfortable shoes for everyone. While animal feedings are available, note that they might not be in English, so focus on the visual experience and the fun of the playgrounds.
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dino Weeks Experience
Beyond just viewing the models, the Dino Weeks often feature interactive activities. Visitors can join dino rangers on expeditions, participate in bone digs, and learn fascinating facts about the dinosaur era. Completing these activities can even earn you a dino ranger diploma, making the experience even more memorable for kids.
It's important to note that the Dino Weeks are a special event, typically running for a limited time, often during spring holidays like Easter and the May holidays. Checking the Dierenrijk Mierlo website for specific dates and any additional event-related ticket information is highly recommended to plan your visit accordingly.
Family Fun & Playgrounds
Many reviews highlight that children can spend a significant amount of time enjoying these play areas, sometimes even preferring them over exploring the animal exhibits. This makes Dierenrijk a great option for families with diverse interests, ensuring that all children can find something to enjoy. The presence of sandpit areas further adds to the play opportunities.
When planning your visit, it's wise to allocate ample time for playground fun. Packing appropriate clothing, such as swimwear and a towel for the water playground, is advisable. This focus on interactive play alongside animal viewing makes Dierenrijk a well-rounded destination for a family day out.
Animal Viewing & Enclosures
While many animals are easily visible, some reviews mention that certain species, like red pandas, can be elusive or hidden. The zoo has also invested in improving habitats, such as the new tiger enclosure and a new water playground area, aiming to create more naturalistic environments and enhance visitor viewing.
It's worth noting that some visitors have expressed a desire for larger enclosures for certain animals, suggesting that space can sometimes appear limited. However, the overall impression from many reviews is that the animals are well-kept, clean, and cared for, contributing to a positive viewing experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit