Out and About: Discover Amsterdam with the Whole Family
The most beautiful memories are made together. Amsterdam is the perfect destination for a day out with the entire family. From nature to culture, animal encounters, creative experiences and restaurants that will delight both children and adults – our capital city has it all. Here are some of our favourite family-friendly outings, including spots to eat that everyone at the table will enjoy.
Musical and Cultural Experiences
Looking for something cultural? Enjoy music together at the Royal Concertgebouw, located on Museumplein. This iconic venue regularly hosts interactive children’s concerts and family performances, often with live orchestras, storytellers and workshops beforehand – perfect for young music lovers.
At the Rijksmuseum, both kids and adults can take part in inspiring workshops and courses. Children can sketch among the Dutch Masters or join an interactive family tour. The Teekenschool (the museum’s dedicated art studio) regularly offers creative workshops for ages six and up – from drawing portraits to painting like Rembrandt or crafting stained glass.
Visual Fun & Discovery
Looking for engaging activities the whole family can enjoy? Visit WONDR Experience or STRAAT Museum. WONDR is a colourful, immersive world where kids and adults can explore playful art installations, bounce in a marshmallow pool or dance under confetti rain – no translations needed. STRAAT, the museum of street art, is located in a huge warehouse and is visually impressive for all ages.
The interactive NEMO Science Museum lets kids discover science, energy and technology through play. On sunny days, its rooftop offers a panoramic view of the city, along with a playful water zone to splash around in.
For something more adventurous, This is Holland offers a spectacular 5D flying experience over the Netherlands – tulip fields, canals, windmills and all – and it’s suitable for most children.
See Amsterdam from the Water
A canal cruise is one of the most relaxing (and fun) ways to explore the city together. Several operators offer family-friendly tours with open-air decks in summer and cosy covered boats in cooler months. It’s a great way to still see a lot of Amsterdam’s iconic views while giving little legs a break from walking.
Dutch Traditions: Taste & Dress the Part
Step inside the Cheese Museum Amsterdam, where children can dress up as cheese farmers and sample different types of Dutch cheese. It’s a fun (and tasty) peek into local traditions. You can also join a hands-on workshop to paint your own Delft-blue tile or decorate wooden clogs, which makes for a unique and creative souvenir to take home.
Don’t miss out on Dutch treats the whole family will love – from warm stroopwafels freshly made at local markets to sweet poffertjes dusted with powdered sugar. A must-try for young and old alike.
Outdoor Fun: Parks & Picnics
Rent bikes and explore Amsterdam like the locals do. From Oosterpark, you can easily cycle to the leafy Plantage neighbourhood, along the Amstel River, or all the way to Amstel Park – perfect for a picnic or playground stop. Alternatively, rent a bakfiets (cargo bike) and tour the city together – a typically Dutch and fun way to explore with small children comfortably seated up front.
Need something delicious for your outing? Stop by De Kaaskamer or Slagerij de Leeuw, two popular delicatessen shops with excellent picnic provisions.
Animal Encounters: Zoo & Micropia
A visit to ARTIS Zoo is a family classic. Located in the green Plantage district, it’s one of the oldest zoos in Europe, home to everything from giraffes and sea lions to an impressive aquarium. Right next door, Micropia offers a fascinating – and surprisingly fun – look into the invisible world of microbes.
Family-Friendly Dining Spots
After a day full of culture and adventure, it’s time to settle in for a meal that pleases all ages. Luckily, Amsterdam offers many restaurants where parents and children are equally welcome.
Spring Café Brasserie, located right by Oosterpark, offers a dedicated kids’ menu and a spacious garden where children can play freely while you enjoy your meal.
Looking for something more playful? Try one of the city’s famous pannenkoeken restaurants – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for children and adults alike.
Stay in Comfort: Pillows Maurits at the Park
At the 5-star Pillows Maurits at the Park, located right on the edge of Oosterpark, you can unwind in comfort after a day of exploring.
Children are warmly welcomed, with baby cots on request, connecting rooms for larger families, child-friendly dishes, and tailor-made suggestions for family outings.
Our concierge team will personalise your itinerary to craft the perfect family experience, recommending memorable activities like a relaxing canal cruise, exploring a working windmill in the city, or joining a stroopwafel-making workshop.
