76 Family Activities in Amsterdam

Dive into a world of interactive science exhibits and hands-on experiments across five floors. This museum is designed to spark curiosity and learning for all ages, with a fantastic rooftop terrace offering panoramic city views.

Tip: Perfect for a rainy day, with plenty to keep kids engaged for hours.

Explore one of the oldest zoos in the Netherlands, home to a diverse range of animals and beautiful gardens. It's a classic family outing with something to delight everyone, from young children to adults.

Tip: Consider getting a subscription if you plan on visiting multiple times.

Step aboard a replica 17th-century ship and discover the rich maritime history of the Netherlands. Kids can explore the ship and a dedicated play area, making history come alive.

Tip: The interactive elements make it engaging for younger visitors.

Discover the fascinating world of microbes at this unique museum, perfect for all ages. It offers an amazing collection of microscopic life and interactive activities that are both educational and awe-inspiring.

Tip: A truly unique experience that will amaze and educate.

This expansive park offers a fantastic playground, a maze, and even a small amusement park area, making it a favorite for families. It's a great spot for kids to run around and have fun.

Tip: Great for toddlers and younger children, especially on a sunny day.

Learn about the process of making famous Dutch chocolate and even create your own custom chocolate bar. It's a sweet and interactive experience for the whole family.

Tip: A delicious way to learn about fair trade chocolate.

Explore a vibrant world of street art and graffiti at this unique museum. It's an engaging and colorful experience that kids will love, featuring impressive works from global artists.

Tip: Look out for their treasure hunt for an extra layer of fun.

Discover this exciting new indoor hotspot offering a day full of adventure and fun. It's a themed and interactive space designed to keep children entertained for hours.

Tip: Great for a day when the weather isn't cooperating.

Immerse yourself in stunning digital art exhibitions that transform the space into magical, moving worlds. The 'The Sea' exhibition, for example, makes you feel like you're swimming with marine life.

Tip: A truly captivating experience that feels like stepping into another world.

This vast green oasis offers endless opportunities for outdoor fun, including canoeing, kayaking, boating, and even tree climbing. It's the perfect place for an active family day out.

Tip: Rent a canoe or kayak for a peaceful exploration of the waterways.

Visit this charming petting zoo located in the heart of the city, offering a delightful experience for young children to interact with farm animals.

Tip: A simple, enjoyable outing for toddlers and young kids.

The central library boasts a large, engaging children's area perfect for toddlers. It's a great indoor option with cozy seating for reading together and plenty to explore.

Tip: A free and fantastic option for a rainy day or a quiet escape.

This popular swimming pool is a fantastic place for families to spend hours of fun. It's a great option for kids to splash around and cool off, especially during warmer months.

Tip: Expect to spend a lot of time here if you live in Amsterdam!

While the Rijksmuseum itself is a must-see, its beautiful gardens offer a lovely space for kids to play. You can find a charming fountain here that's perfect for a bit of water fun.

Tip: A nice spot to relax and let kids burn off some energy.

This is a fantastic toy store that also offers a play area, making it a hit with younger children. It's a great place for kids to explore and engage with creative toys.

Tip: A great stop for both playtime and unique souvenirs.

Another delightful toy store with a play space, Kleine Parade is a wonderful spot for children to discover imaginative toys and enjoy some playtime.

Tip: Perfect for finding unique gifts and letting kids have some fun.

Experience the thrill of Mario Kart in the streets of Amsterdam! This unique activity lets you race through the city in a go-kart styled like your favorite characters.

Tip: Book in advance for this popular and exciting city adventure.

Explore the human body in a unique and educational way. This exhibition uses real human bodies to showcase anatomy and physiology, offering a fascinating glimpse into our inner workings.

Tip: An eye-opening experience that's both informative and thought-provoking.

Discover a world of oddities, curiosities, and unbelievable artifacts. This attraction is packed with strange and wonderful exhibits that are sure to capture the imagination.

Tip: Prepare to be amazed by the bizarre and the unbelievable.

Step into a vibrant, immersive world designed for pure fun and wonder. This interactive experience features colorful rooms, playful installations, and unique sensory adventures.

Tip: A highly Instagrammable experience perfect for creating fun memories.

Enjoy a delightful pancake cruise along Amsterdam's canals. It's a fun and tasty way to see the city while indulging in delicious Dutch pancakes.

Tip: A relaxed and enjoyable way to experience Amsterdam's waterways.

See Amsterdam from its iconic waterways on a relaxing canal cruise. It's a classic way to experience the city's charm, bridges, and historic canal houses.

Tip: Many companies offer family-friendly options, some with audio guides.

Get up close and personal with lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and Dutch icons. It's a fun opportunity for photos and a unique museum experience.

Tip: A fun way to interact with famous personalities.

For football fans, a visit to the home of Ajax Amsterdam offers a glimpse into the world of professional soccer. Stadium tours provide an exciting look behind the scenes.

Tip: Check for stadium tour availability in advance.

Amsterdam's largest park is a beloved green space perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, and outdoor play. It often hosts free concerts and events, especially in the summer.

Tip: Look for the Melkhuis for a nice cafe and playground area.

This urban farm offers a delightful experience of picking your own fruit (seasonally) and enjoying the fresh produce. It's a lovely rural escape within the city.

Tip: A charming spot for a relaxed visit and to enjoy nature's bounty.

Embark on a real-world treasure hunt using GPS coordinates to find hidden containers (geocaches). It's an adventurous way to explore the city and its hidden spots.

Tip: A fun and active way to discover new places in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam is known for its excellent skateboarding scene, with numerous spots and parks catering to all skill levels. It's a great city for skaters to explore.

Tip: Many areas are naturally suited for skateboarding due to the city's design.

Enjoy a day of outdoor activities at Twiske, a beautiful recreational area perfect for walking, swimming, cycling, and boating. You can rent canoes, kayaks, or other boats.

Tip: Ideal for a family day trip with various water and land activities.

Before or after your flight, head to this free public viewing area at Schiphol Airport to watch planes take off and land. It's a thrilling spot, especially for aviation enthusiasts and kids.

Tip: A great way to entertain kids while waiting for a flight.

This museum offers an interactive and engaging experience for children, focusing on the Dutch Resistance during WWII. It's a powerful way to learn about history.

Tip: A poignant and educational visit for older children.

Challenge your family to a round of glow-in-the-dark mini-golf. It's a fun and quirky activity that's perfect for a bit of friendly competition.

Tip: A great option for a fun evening activity.

This indoor playground is a fantastic place for kids to burn off energy with various play structures and activities. It's a reliable option for family fun, regardless of the weather.

Tip: Perfect for younger children to explore and play freely.

Experience an adventure park with various treetop courses and zip lines. It's an exciting outdoor activity that challenges participants with climbing and balancing.

Tip: Book tickets in advance, especially during peak times.

During the winter months, this venue transforms into a magical winter wonderland with ice skating, attractions, and cozy food spots. It's a festive experience for the whole family.

Tip: Check the dates as this is a seasonal event.

Enjoy ice skating on a picturesque rink located on Museumplein, offering iconic views of Amsterdam's museums. It's a classic winter activity that brings a magical feel to the city.

Tip: A beautiful setting for a classic winter pastime.

During the darker months, Amsterdam's canals are illuminated by stunning light installations created by artists from around the world. A canal cruise offers the best way to experience this.

Tip: Best viewed from a boat on the canals.

Located in the Amsterdamse Bos, this farm offers a delightful experience for young children to interact with animals in a natural setting.

Tip: A peaceful and engaging spot for toddlers.

Take a trip to this impressive medieval castle located just outside Amsterdam. It offers a glimpse into the past with its historical exhibits and grounds.

Tip: Accessible by public transport for an easy day out.

Located in Utrecht, this charming museum is dedicated to Miffy (Nijntje) and her world. It's a delightful and interactive experience for young children.

Tip: A worthwhile day trip for fans of the beloved character.

Take a free ferry across the IJ river to the NDSM wharf. It's a short, scenic ride where you might spot large ships, offering a different perspective of the city.

Tip: A quick and fun way to see some of Amsterdam's maritime activity.

Within the ARTIS Zoo, a newly opened playground offers a fantastic space for children to play and expend energy after exploring the animal exhibits.

Tip: A great addition to a day at the zoo.

This playground within Amstelpark is a popular spot for families, offering a variety of equipment for children to enjoy.

Tip: A classic choice for a fun afternoon with kids.

Step into the glamorous world of Barbie at this immersive experience. It's a playful and visually stunning attraction that's fun for all ages.

Tip: A fun and whimsical experience, especially for Barbie fans.

Explore Amsterdam at your own pace with this hop-on hop-off bus service. It's a convenient way to see the city's major attractions with family.

Tip: Kids up to 3 years old travel for free with a paying adult.

Experience an immersive digital art exhibition that transports you underwater. Swim alongside whales and dolphins in this breathtaking visual spectacle.

Tip: A magical and unforgettable artistic journey.

While New Year's Eve in Amsterdam can be intense with fireworks, there are often designated family-friendly events earlier in the evening, offering a more controlled celebration.

Tip: Check local listings for specific family-friendly NYE events.

Visit a charming goat farm located within the expansive Amsterdamse Bos. It's a delightful spot for children to see and interact with goats.

Tip: A peaceful and enjoyable outing for young children.

This unique spot is a hit with toddlers, offering a fun and engaging environment. It's best to visit early in the morning before it gets too crowded.

Tip: Go early to avoid crowds and maximize enjoyment for little ones.

A nice playground located near Heinekenplein, offering a good space for children to play and have fun outdoors.

Tip: A convenient spot for kids to burn off energy.

Explore one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, featuring a diverse collection of plants from various climates. It's a peaceful and educational outing.

Tip: A beautiful place to wander and learn about nature.

This is an indoor trampoline park and arcade, offering a high-energy environment for kids and teens to jump, play games, and have a blast.

Tip: Great for burning off energy, especially on a rainy day.

Consider sailing lessons for a unique and adventurous experience. Many schools offer courses suitable for various ages, providing a chance to learn a new skill on the water.

Tip: A memorable way to experience Amsterdam's relationship with water.

This is a well-known skatepark in Amsterdam, offering a dedicated space for skateboarding enthusiasts to practice their skills.

Tip: A popular spot for skaters of all levels.

While not a formal attraction, the fountain on Oosterdokseiland can be a fun spot for kids to splash around on warmer days, offering a simple water play opportunity.

Tip: A casual spot for kids to cool off.

This toy store features a dedicated play area, making it a fun destination for children to explore and interact with toys.

Tip: Combines shopping with playtime for kids.

Similar to Kid-Oh, Kleine Parade is a toy store with an integrated play space, offering a delightful experience for young visitors.

Tip: A charming spot for kids to enjoy themselves.

While primarily an educational institution, some Montessori schools may have accessible play areas or events that are child-friendly. This specific mention suggests a local connection to child-friendly spaces.

Tip: Inquire locally about any public access or events.

The fountain at Heinekenplein is a lively spot where children can often be seen playing and cooling off on warmer days.

Tip: A central and accessible spot for a quick splash.

For the adventurous, the Amsterdamse Bos offers opportunities for tree climbing, providing a fun and challenging outdoor activity.

Tip: A great way to experience the forest from a different perspective.

Combine sightseeing with a boat tour using the City Sightseeing service. It's an easy way to navigate the canals and see key landmarks.

Tip: Offers a guided way to see the city from the water.

Experience the joy of ice skating at this popular winter event, which offers a festive atmosphere and fun for the entire family.

Tip: A must-do during the winter season for a festive experience.

While primarily known for shopping, these charming streets offer a picturesque setting for a stroll, with unique boutiques and cafes that can be interesting for families to explore.

Tip: A lovely area for a leisurely walk and window shopping.

A short trip from Amsterdam, Zaanse Schans offers a glimpse into traditional Dutch life with windmills, wooden houses, and craft demonstrations. It's a picturesque and educational excursion.

Tip: Consider renting e-bikes in advance for an easier journey.

Amsterdam has numerous small farms scattered throughout the city, often located near playgrounds. These offer a charming rural touch and a chance for kids to see animals.

Tip: Look for 'kinderboerderij' signs for these charming spots.

This indoor attraction provides a day filled with adventure and fun, featuring themed areas and interactive elements designed to engage children.

Tip: A great option for keeping kids entertained indoors.

Enjoy a game of mini-golf in a unique glow-in-the-dark setting. It's a fun and engaging activity for families looking for some lighthearted competition.

Tip: A fun twist on a classic game.

Beyond the playground, Amstelpark also has a small amusement park area that offers rides and attractions suitable for younger children.

Tip: A nice addition to a day at Amstelpark.

This urban farm provides a delightful experience for families, offering opportunities to pick fruit (seasonally) and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Tip: A peaceful escape with a focus on fresh produce.

Explore the waterways of the Amsterdamse Bos by canoe. It's a serene and active way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Tip: A peaceful way to experience the canals.

Step into a breathtaking digital art experience that immerses you in the ocean. Swim with marine life in this visually stunning and captivating exhibition.

Tip: A truly magical and unforgettable artistic journey.

While not strictly in Amsterdam, this fairy-tale theme park offers a magical winter experience with lights and shows, making it a popular day trip destination.

Tip: A popular day trip for a magical experience.

For those craving snow, SnowWorld offers indoor skiing and snowboarding with real snow, providing a unique winter sports experience year-round.

Tip: A fun option for winter sports enthusiasts regardless of the season.

During the holiday season, Museumplein hosts Christmas markets offering festive food, gifts, and seasonal treats, creating a charming winter atmosphere.

Tip: A delightful place to soak up the holiday spirit.

Get lost and have fun in the maze located within Amstelpark. It's a classic park activity that provides a bit of playful challenge.

Tip: A fun diversion for kids in the park.

This large playground by the water is a local favorite, offering ample space and equipment for children to play and enjoy the outdoors.

Tip: A great spot for kids to run around and play.