It’s springtime in Amsterdam and my favorite time of the year in our incredible city. The trees are blooming, the sun is shining (finally!), and rising temperatures mean you no longer must wear two coats every time you leave the house. And let’s face it, it’s been a LONG two years.
It’s also that special time of year when the clocks are turned forward making your children wake up earlier and stay up later. In the spirit of solidarity in parenting, I’ve compiled some of the best child-friendly activities guaranteed to cause naps (or your money back!).
Nemo Science Museum
Nemo: Okay, this one is a little obvious but it’s worth mentioning especially if you have the museum kaart. The museum is interactive, informative, and educational. And I’m not just talking about the kids. Children and adults alike are welcomed into a scientific and technological environment where science is truly fun. On a warm day, the lovely café on top floor can’t be beat for views of the old city, good food and some splash-pad fun for the kiddos.
Monkey Town
One of the advantages of Monkey Town is that you don’t need a reservation to visit. It also tends to rain just a teeny bit in the Nederlands this time of year so I love Monkey Town to call an “audible,” on a rainy day. An audible is a spur of the moment play change in American football. I apologize for that reference. ? Toddler, handicapped, and big-kid friendly; they offer something for everyone.
I mean, laser-tag and free parking… Who could ask for more?
Oh yeah, the entrance fees are low, too. Win/win.
Noord Oogst
Nature Playground: Okay, I’ll admit- I haven’t officially been to this one yet. It comes as the recommendation of our amazing owner, Chantal. But we’re going next weekend and I’m so excited. Totally free, open all day and I hear it’s a great place to get dirty. My girls will love it. They have a water course and splash pool, a climbing course and plenty of room for parties and picnics.
Farm Polderzicht
This is a family owned working dairy-farm loaded with experiences for springtime activities. Open to the public on Sundays (10AM-6PM) and Wednesdays (10AM-5PM), you and the kiddos can play “golf (wooden clubs with clogs attached- so cute!),” rent bicycles, tour the milk carousel and get a close-up of cows, chickens, goats and more. Look out for cowpies, though! The terrace is ideal for coffee and a snack; parents can relax and kids can enjoy the playground. Finish your day by purchasing some local goodies such as cheese and fresh eggs and you’ll feel like Old MacDonald, himself after this refreshingly fun day.
Woeste Westen
This is a place where children are encouraged to play the “old-fashioned way.” Do your kinderen love to play in the sand? Catch frogs? Play in a stream? That’s what you’re going to find at Woeste Westen- just nature and the instinct to play and explore. Children up to age 13 can romp through the bushes and sail on a raft with playground managers in attendance daily. They have drinks, snacks, and a terrace. TIP! On the weekends and Wednesdays, kids can grill their own tosti over the campfire for two Euros.
Do you have any favorite places to take your littles this time of year? Let us know in the comments. We’d love to include you in our next piece!
Geschreven door: Austin Wildmann