Things to Do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam • Family Friendly Activities

Ideal for families, Artis Royal Zoo in Amsterdam offers a chance to explore a unique blend of history and nature. Established in 1838, it is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands, showcasing a wide array of animal species, including elephants, giraffes, and exotic birds. Children can engage with animals at the petting zoo while learning about conservation. The site's stunning 19th-century architecture and beautiful gardens enhance the experience, particularly in spring when the gardens are in full bloom. Tickets are available online or at the entrance.

Amsterdam • Family Friendly Activities

Situated at Kattenburgerplein 1, Het Scheepvaartmuseum presents a deep dive into the Netherlands' rich maritime history. Occupying a historic naval storehouse, it features interactive displays and a replica of a Dutch East India Company ship, appealing to both children and adults. Families with kids aged six and older will find special programs and activities geared toward younger visitors. The museum is accessible for strollers, ensuring a comfortable experience for families. Spring is an ideal time to visit, as the pleasant weather and fewer crowds enhance the exploration.

Amsterdam • Family Friendly Activities

At the Amsterdam Dungeon, theatrical performances blend with special effects to reveal the city's darker past. With 11 shows, visitors delve into intriguing tales that highlight both the spooky and the gruesome aspects of Amsterdam's history. This attraction caters particularly well to families, welcoming children aged 10 and older. For those planning a visit, afternoons are ideal to sidestep the morning rush, and it's advisable to book ahead during weekends and holidays.

Amsterdam • Family Friendly Activities

Occupying a repurposed traffic underpass, this indoor playground caters to children aged 1 to 12, featuring slides, trampolines, and climbing structures for endless fun. The layout allows parents to relax in the café area while keeping an eye on their little ones. It’s a popular choice for families seeking an engaging indoor activity during rainy days. With its unique setting, the experience combines play and exploration within a safe environment.

Amsterdam • Family Friendly Activities

GlowGolf offers an engaging indoor mini-golf experience, illuminated by UV lights that enhance the colorful atmosphere. With 15 themed holes that draw inspiration from various global settings, it's designed for families with children of all ages. Special equipment for kids ensures that everyone can participate. The venue is accessible for strollers, providing convenience for families exploring Amsterdam. For a quieter experience, consider visiting during weekdays, and note that booking is recommended for groups.

Amsterdam • Indoor Activities

This escape room venue offers a thrilling experience for groups eager to solve puzzles and complete challenges in themed environments. Participants can dive into intricately designed rooms featuring storylines that range from heists to horror. It's a compelling choice for team-building events or a fun outing with friends or family. Advance booking is required, and the best times to visit are in the afternoon or evening, when the excitement of the challenges comes alive.

Amsterdam • Indoor Activities

The escape rooms at Sherlocked are designed with a strong emphasis on storytelling and intricate puzzles. Housed in a historic building, the venue features two main adventures: 'The Architect' and 'The Vault', providing challenges that require teamwork and creative problem-solving. Ideal for groups, each session typically lasts around 60 minutes. Advance reservations are essential through the website, and afternoons are the best time to enjoy these experiences.

Amsterdam • Indoor Activities

A modern kitchen serves as the backdrop for interactive cooking classes at De Kookfabriek. Here, participants can engage in preparing a variety of cuisines under the tutelage of professional chefs. Catering to both beginners and those with more experience, these sessions are suitable for couples, groups, or solo adventurers eager to improve their culinary skills. Classes typically last around three hours, with evenings being particularly popular for those looking to enhance their cooking repertoire. Reservations are necessary through the website.

Amsterdam • Indoor Activities

Located at De Ruijterkade, Aloha Amsterdam offers a unique indoor mini-golf experience with a Hawaiian theme. With 18 holes surrounded by tropical decorations and neon lights, it provides a lively atmosphere for families and groups. No reservations are necessary, making it easy to drop in for a game. In addition to mini-golf, the venue includes a bowling alley, enhancing the fun for visitors looking to escape the rain. Expect to spend around 1.5 hours enjoying this activity.

Amsterdam • Outdoor Activities

This canoe rental experience offers a chance to explore serene waters in a lush forest setting just outside Amsterdam. Paddlers of all skill levels can enjoy navigating the calm lakes while surrounded by a variety of wildlife, including ducks and herons. Spring and summer present the best conditions for a day on the water, with ample opportunities to appreciate the natural surroundings. It's a good idea to book in advance during busy periods to ensure availability.

Amsterdam • Outdoor Activities

Bovenkerkerweg in Amstelveen is home to Outdoor Valley Amsterdam, where climbing enthusiasts will find an array of climbing walls designed for various abilities. This venue provides a blend of excitement and safety, supported by professional instructors and modern facilities. Spring and summer are the best times to experience the outdoor setting, allowing for enjoyable climbing and the option to relax with a picnic amidst scenic views. It's a fitting choice for both novices looking to try climbing and experienced climbers seeking a new challenge.

Amsterdam • Outdoor Activities

Zuidermarkt, located in Amsterdam, offers a chance to explore the city's canals by stand-up paddleboard or kayak. This outdoor activity caters to both newcomers and seasoned paddlers, thanks to the calm waters of the canals. Participants can enjoy the experience for about one to two hours, making it an ideal summer outing. All necessary equipment is supplied on-site, so there's no need to bring anything extra. The scenic surroundings enhance the enjoyment, making it a refreshing way to see the city from a different perspective.

Amsterdam • Outdoor Activities

Located along Keizersgracht, Amsterdam Canal Kayak provides a chance to paddle through the city's renowned canals. This experience allows you to glide past historic architecture and under picturesque bridges. Suitable for all skill levels, it offers a refreshing way to see the city, especially during the summer months when the weather is pleasant. Life jackets and basic instructions ensure that even beginners can enjoy this outdoor adventure. Advance booking is recommended, particularly on weekends, to secure your spot on the water.

Amsterdam • Outdoor Activities

Incorporating inline skating at Vondelpark into a day in Amsterdam allows for an active exploration of one of the city's key green spaces. The park features well-maintained paths that cater to skaters of all skill levels, making it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced individuals. Spring and summer bring a lively atmosphere, with locals and visitors enjoying the outdoors. You can bring your own skates or rent them from nearby shops. This unique space stands out as one of the few central locations in Amsterdam dedicated to inline skating.

Amsterdam • Sports Activities

Situated on Nieuwe Kalfjeslaan, the Amsterdamse Hockey & Bandy Club is among the oldest hockey clubs in the Netherlands. Established in 1892, this club is dedicated to fostering a strong community spirit, offering facilities suitable for both amateur and professional players. Regular matches and tournaments are part of the club's calendar, along with training sessions catering to all skill levels. The atmosphere during the hockey season, running from September to April, is lively, making it a fitting destination for sports enthusiasts.

Amsterdam • Sports Activities

A standout feature of Klimmuur Amsterdam is its sheer size, making it one of the largest climbing gyms in the Netherlands. With a variety of bouldering routes, it caters to both beginners and experienced climbers. The facility provides essential equipment rental and professional instruction to ensure a safe climbing experience. Regular competitions create a lively atmosphere, attracting climbing enthusiasts. For a quieter visit, weekdays are recommended, and it's wise to secure reservations on weekends.

Amsterdam • Sports Activities

Burgerweeshuispad is home to Sporthallen Zuid, one of Amsterdam's largest indoor sports complexes. The venue supports a wide array of sports, including basketball and volleyball, making it popular among both amateur and professional athletes. Throughout the year, especially in winter, it hosts various national and international tournaments. The modern facilities not only cater to competitive events but also welcome local teams for training sessions. Whether participating or spectating, visitors can enjoy a lively atmosphere that captures the spirit of sports.

Amsterdam • Sports Activities

Fun Forest Amsterdam is designed for families and thrill-seekers looking to enjoy outdoor activities. The park features a range of tree-top courses that cater to different skill levels, from beginners to more experienced adventurers. Trained instructors provide guidance and all necessary safety equipment, ensuring a safe experience. The beautiful forest surroundings enhance the adventure, making it a perfect outing during the warmer spring and summer months. Group bookings are available, allowing for a fun day out with friends or family.

Amsterdam • Sports Activities

Incorporating a visit to Jaap Eden IJsbaan into your day in Amsterdam offers a quintessential winter experience. This venue is notable as the only ice skating rink in the city with both indoor and outdoor options, catering to skaters of all ages and skill levels. Families and groups will find it particularly enjoyable, with opportunities for ice skating lessons and equipment rental available on-site. The rink becomes a bustling hub during the winter months, so be sure to book reservations in advance to ensure your skating experience.