If you’re traveling to Amsterdam with kids, you may be wondering what to plan for activities. While it’s true, Amsterdam is known for its Red-light district and the legalized smoking of marijuana, it is actually a family-friendly city with a lot to offer. It is, in fact, one of Europe’s most popular destinations.
Butterfly Pavilion at the Artis Zoo
Artis Royal Zoo
The Artis Royal Zoo is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands and has been in existence since 1838. Along with the animal attractions, the zoo also features a breathtaking zoological garden right at the center of Amsterdam.
The zoo also hosts the Artis Aquarium which introduces visitors to the aquatic life that lives within Amsterdam’s canals. Following a visit to the Aquarium, take the kids to the Planetarium House to enjoy free flying birds or take in the beauty of hundreds of butterflies in the Butterfly Pavilion.
Canal Cruises are popular with all ages.
Canal Cruises
Amsterdam canal cruises are a popular attraction for all ages, because it’s a great way to take in many of the city’s sites from a different angle. Canal cruises can be booked online to avoid lines, and are available in a number of languages. Children are welcome, but in a few cases there are age restrictions, so be sure to check ahead.
There are themed cruises ideal for kids, too, such as the pancake boat cruise (ages 3-12) where passengers get to eat all the pancakes and ice cream they want. An alternative to a canal cruise is renting a canal bike. These four-seater pedal boats can be rented from one mooring to another as you make your way around the city.
TunFun indoor playground and more.
TunFun Speelpark
TunFun Speelpark is an indoor playground for ages one to 12. It’s an ideal environment that’s both active and creative. It provides a safe place to climb, crawl, and burn up some of that energy. The TunFun Speelpark features all kinds of play equipment includes climbing structures, trampolines, slides, ball pools and more.
This just scratches the surface of things to do in Amsterdam with kids. The city offers a wealth of museums and historical attractions and, depending on the time of year, there are a number of festivals and special events to take advantage of.
Photo credits: travel.nytimes.com, amsterdamsights.com, e-nemo.nl
Many North Americans may not have considered Amsterdam a family town. Good to know there are lots of fun things to see and do there. Would love to get there someday.