Family-Friendly Fun: Top Activities for Kids in the Netherlands

Looking for the perfect destination for a family vacation? The Netherlands is full of fun, educational and unforgettable experiences for kids. Here you can find magical theme parks and interactive museums, so that your children are the happiest kids ever! The only thing you need is to take everything essential and to download a free phone number tracker for their safety. Now we will tell you more about the experiences you can present your little loved ones.

Your New Favorite Places

1. Efteling Theme Park

Here is your world of magic and wonder at Efteling Theme Park! This one of the oldest and most beloved theme parks ever. Efteling brings fairy tales to life with its beautifully designed rides and attractions. Your route for a holiday:

1. The first stop is Fairy Tale Forest. Wander through a mystical forest where classic fairy tales come to life with life-sized, animated scenes. Meet characters like Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella and the Frog Prince.

2. Then go to the Python Roller Coaster. This thrilling ride twists and turns with multiple loops and offers an adrenaline rush for older kids and adults.

3. The Aquanura Water Show may be the end of this visit. Finish your day with a spectacular show combining water, light, and fire set to enchanting music, creating a mesmerizing display.

Tips: Visit on weekdays to avoid the crowds and indulge in Dutch pancakes at Polles Keuken for a delightful treat. By the way, don’t forget your location tracking app (e.g., Number Tracker) for more safety and confidence.

2. NEMO Science Museum

Curious minds will thrive at the NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam. This interactive museum is packed with hands-on exhibits that make learning science fun for children.

1. Energetica is perfect for beginning. Explore renewable energy in an outdoor playground that features giant solar panels, windmills and waterwheels.

2. Of course, visit the Chemistry Lab. Here you can conduct real-life experiments and watch chemical reactions unfold in a safe, supervised environment.

3. The Rooftop Terrace is a place where you can enjoy panoramic views of Amsterdam while playing with giant bubbles and other interactive exhibits.

Ideal for: Kids of all ages. Plan to spend a full day to explore all the exhibits.

3. Artis Royal Zoo

Discover the wonders of wildlife at the Artis Royal Zoo. This historic zoo was founded in 1838. It can be an amazing educational experience in a beautifully landscaped setting. Don’t be afraid: all the animals are treated as they are family members. 

1. The Aquarium may become your first stop there. Dive into the underwater world with exotic fish, coral reefs and even a walk-through tunnel surrounded by aquatic life.

2. The Planetarium is also a must. Explore the cosmos with interactive shows that take you on a journey through space.

3. The Butterfly Pavilion is a place where you can wander through a lush, tropical environment filled with colorful butterflies, and where your kids can get a magical experience.

Family-friendly facilities: Plenty of picnic spots and playgrounds for the little ones.

4. Keukenhof Gardens

Experience a burst of color at the Keukenhof Gardens. It is famous for its stunning displays of tulips and other flowers. Spanning 79 acres, this floral paradise is a perfect place for visitors of all ages.

1. Start with Scavenger Hunts. Keep kids engaged with fun and educational scavenger hunts that guide them through the gardens.

2. There are many playgrounds in the gardens. Let the kids run wild in the beautiful outdoor play areas equipped with slides, swings, and climbing frames.

3. Kids can also visit the Petting Zoo and interact with adorable farm animals. It may be a hands-on experience for younger children.

Best time to visit: Spring, when the tulips are in full bloom.

5. Madurodam Miniature Park

See the Netherlands in miniature at Madurodam. This park is a perfect blend of education and entertainment that shows detailed replicas of famous Dutch landmarks.

1. There are miniature landmarks. Explore intricate models of the Rijksmuseum, Schiphol Airport, and the Port of Rotterdam, each bustling with tiny moving parts.

2. Interactive exhibits give you an opportunity to operate the miniature port, create electricity and experience the flood simulation, teaching kids about Dutch engineering and history.

3. Learn about the rich history and culture of the Netherlands through engaging, interactive displays.

Fun for all ages: Kids and adults alike will be amazed by the tiny details.

6. Dutch Water Dreams

Don’t miss an opportunity to dive into adventure at Dutch Water Dreams. It is an indoor water sports complex with exhilarating activities for the whole family. Here’s what you can do there:

1. Bodyboarding: Ride the waves in a safe, controlled environment suitable for beginners and advanced riders.

2. Tubing: Enjoy a thrilling ride down the rapids, perfect for adventurous kids and teens.

3. Surfing: Whether you're a beginner or a pro, catch the perfect wave in the indoor surfing facility.

Safety measures: Lifeguards on duty and equipment rentals available ensure a safe and fun experience for everyone. And use your location tracking apps just in case. 

7. Drievliet Family Park

Drievliet Family Park is an amusement park in The Hague. It is suitable for families with children of all ages. You can find the following in the park:

1. Kids Park: Gentle rides and playgrounds designed for the youngest visitors, e.g., carousels and mini-trains.

2. Roller Coasters: Exciting rides like the Formule X, a high-speed launch coaster (thrills for older kids and teens).

3. Water Rides: Cool off on a hot day with splash-tastic fun on rides, e.g., the Jungle River and the Splash Battle.

Visiting tips: Check the park’s schedule for special events and shows to add even more excitement to your visit.

8. Miffy Museum (Nijntje Museum)

For the youngest travelers, the Miffy Museum in Utrecht is a whimsical wonderland that is dedicated to the beloved Dutch character, Miffy.

1. Your children can play in Miffy’s house, garden, and more, with each room designed to spark creativity and imagination.

2. Enjoy enchanting tales of Miffy and her friends in a cozy, storybook setting.

3. Engage in creative activities inspired by Miffy, allowing kids to express themselves artistically.

Perfect for: Toddlers and preschoolers (a gentle and engaging introduction to museums).

9. De Hoge Veluwe National Park

Explore nature at De Hoge Veluwe National Park. It is a big area of forests, heathlands and sand dunes. This park is a haven for outdoor fans and families who love nature. Here are just a few examples of activities you may do there:

1. Rent white bicycles for free and explore the park’s extensive network of bike trails.

2. Enjoy a family picnic in a beautiful natural setting, surrounded by stunning landscapes.

3. The Kröller-Müller Museum is worth a visit. Discover world-class art with an extensive collection of Van Gogh’s works, right in the heart of the park.

Outdoor adventure: Ideal for families who love nature and outdoor activities.

10. Zaanse Schans

Step back in time at Zaanse Schans. It is an open-air museum that shows traditional Dutch life from the 18th and 19th centuries.

1. Tour the historic windmills, some of which are still in operation, grinding spices, sawing wood, and producing oil.

2. Clog-making demonstrations will be interesting not only for children. Watch how artisans create wooden shoes (a quintessential Dutch craft).

3. Don’t miss the cheese tasting. Sample delicious Dutch cheeses and learn about the cheese-making process.

…and even more!

Best times to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the busiest times and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

Have a Nice Trip!

The Netherlands is definitely a place where you can find activities for your children during your family vacation. The most important thing is to keep safety in mind: download tracking apps to always know where your children are, even when they are out of reach, for example if you get separated. For more safety precautions, read our next articles. Enjoy your vacation and be protected!