Things to Do with Kids in Amsterdam

Amsterdam may have a reputation for canals, art and nightlife but for families it has a softer side. Kids see it as a place of bridges and boats, pancake houses and hidden gardens, giraffes by the river and playgrounds next to the museums. Parents love how compact the city is. You can get from one activity to another with minimal stress. That’s what makes a holiday here fun and manageable. Whether you want to spend the day cycling through leafy streets, visit one of the interactive museums or relax in a park where ducks swim past your bench, Amsterdam has it all. Families like the variety. One day is different from the next. Children keep their energy high and parents get to explore the city without constant compromises. This guide takes you through the best things to do with kids in Amsterdam, mixing the classics with the simple pleasures.

Contents

1. Canal Cruise Adventure
2. NEMO Science Museum
3. ARTIS Royal Zoo
4. Vondelpark Playgrounds
5. Rijksmuseum Family Route
6. Anne Frank House with Teens
7. Bike Ride with a Bakfiets
8. Micropia Museum
9. Pancake Cruise
10. Tropenmuseum Junior
11. National Maritime Museum
12. Hortus Botanicus
13. Play at TunFun
14. Amsterdamse Bos Forest
15. Van Gogh Museum with Family Guide
16. Kinderkookkafé Cooking
17. Free Ferry to NDSM

Canal Cruise Adventure

For kids a boat ride along the canals feels like entering a storybook. The view changes constantly. One moment you see a row of crooked houses, the next a hidden courtyard or a bridge with flowers. Families can choose the classic glass-roofed boats or the small open ones that glide closer to the water. Some tours even have headphones with kids commentary. Little ones will press their faces to the glass to spot ducks and other boats. Cruising is not just transport, it’s a playful way to get the rhythm of the city. Parents also find it practical since little feet get to rest while the sights glide by, it’s sightseeing and downtime in one. Children will laugh as boats pass under bridges that feel low enough to touch and they never forget the chance to wave at other passengers. Many tours also include stories and trivia which engage kids with fun facts about Amsterdam’s history and famous landmarks, making the journey an interactive experience.

• Location: Boats depart from Central Station, Damrak and Leidseplein piers
• Opening hours: Daily, usually 09:00–22:00
• Entrance fee: From €12–20 per child, €15–25 per adult

Tip: Evening cruises are sparkly but daytime is better for kids

NEMO Science Museum

A green ship-shaped building hides one of the most fun museums in Amsterdam. At NEMO children touch, push, build and experiment. From bubbles bigger than your head to a lab where you make simple chemistry tests, the hands-on approach keeps attention high. Families love the rooftop too with panoramic city views and interactive water games in summer. NEMO proves science can be cool. Parents often have as much fun as the kids. The design encourages exploration without rules, so kids can be real scientists for a few hours. Curiosity leads the way and every floor has surprises—robots that react, puzzles that stretch the mind or experiments that make your hair stand up. Interactive exhibits make abstract concepts tangible, learning is an adventure. Families find the museum informative and fun.

• Location: Oosterdok 2, near Central Station
• Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday 10:00–17:30
• Entrance fee: €17.50, free under 4 years

Tip: Get there early, afternoons get busy

ARTIS Royal Zoo

Amsterdam’s zoo is one of the oldest in Europe but feels modern. Families stroll along tree-lined paths where giraffes, elephants and zebras appear within minutes. There’s a planetarium, aquarium and even a butterfly house. Kids love the playgrounds inside. Parents like that you can mix learning with relaxed walks. A visit can fill half a day. The layout makes it easy to follow themed areas and children never get bored as each corner reveals something new. You might see penguins diving in clear pools then spot lions napping in the sun. Interactive shows and animal talks add an educational side, cafes and picnic spots help families pace the day without rush. The zoo is small enough to feel leisurely but packed with attractions that will captivate kids of all ages. Besides animals you can explore themed exhibitions like the tropical rainforest or delve into the conservation efforts the zoo supports.

• Location: Plantage Kerklaan 38–40
• Opening hours: Daily 09:00–18:00 (summer longer)
• Entrance fee: €25–27 adult, €21 child (3–12)

Tip: Bring snacks; zoo cafes are busy at midday

Vondelpark Playgrounds

Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s backyard. Its open lawns, ponds and long paths invite children to run free. Families find playgrounds hidden inside, each with swings, climbing frames and sand areas. On warm days kids join locals splashing at paddling spots. Parents sit on benches or grab coffee at small kiosks. Renting a cargo bike for the park is another thrill. Vondelpark lets kids burn energy while adults take a break from sightseeing. Beyond play there are occasional outdoor shows or puppet theaters in summer. Ducks and swans swim close enough to feed and wide lawns invite frisbee games or kite flying. It’s a place where kids can just be kids without timetables. The park also hosts outdoor concerts and performances so it’s lively year-round while parents appreciate the calm lake views as kids take center stage.

Recommendations:

• Best time: Morning or late afternoon
• Bring: Picnic blanket, ball and snacks
• Watch out: Cyclists share some paths, keep an eye on little wanderers

Rijksmuseum Family Route

A big museum might be too much for kids but the Rijksmuseum has a family route. With maps in hand children search for knights’ armor, giant ship models and paintings with curious details. Audio guides for kids tell stories in a fun way. The museum garden outside is a place to relax after art exploration. A mix of culture and open space makes the stop work for families. The treasure-hunt style approach keeps children engaged for longer, turning what could be a long gallery walk into a fun mission. Parents like that children come away having absorbed culture without even realizing it. The interactive route is designed to spark curiosity with a focus on famous art pieces that appeal to younger eyes—like the "Night Watch" and Van Gogh’s brushstrokes.

• Location: Museumstraat 1
• Opening hours: Daily 09:00–17:00
• Entrance fee: €22.50 adult, free under 18

Tip: Start with the Gallery of Honour; it shows the highlights quickly

Anne Frank House with Teens

Not every attraction is suitable for young children but older kids benefit from the Anne Frank House. Walking through the secret rooms sparks questions about history and resilience. Exhibits use quotes, film and original items. Families often read excerpts from the diary together beforehand. It’s a powerful moment that balances fun days with reflection. Teens connect with Anne’s story which makes them think about courage, freedom and human rights. The museum doesn’t just tell Anne’s story; it helps families reflect on the past and discuss meaningful topics, making it a meaningful experience for older kids who can understand the weight of history.

• Location: Prinsengracht 263–267
• Opening hours: Daily 09:00–22:00
• Entrance fee: €16 adult, €7.50 child (10–17), free under 10

Tip: Tickets only available online, book weeks in advance

Bike Ride with a Bakfiets

Amsterdam is cycling country and for families the bakfiets—cargo bike with a front box—is fun. Kids sit in front, parents pedal and everyone enjoys the view. Ride along the Amstel River or through Westerpark. The speed is slow enough for kids to chat, point and laugh. Rent one for a few hours and you get a new perspective on the city. Exploring areas like Jordaan or Vondelpark by bike is a delight where kids feel part of the city’s rhythm. Families often stop at playgrounds or cafes along the way. The bakfiets turns the whole family into part of the cycling culture, kids feel like they’re really part of the action.

Recommendations:

• Best areas: Parks and quiet canals, not busy streets
• Safety: Helmets recommended for children
• Bonus: Kids love being “driven” around in what feels like their own carriage

Micropia Museum

Next to the zoo is Micropia, the only museum dedicated to microbes. Children look through microscopes and see invisible life on big screens. It’s both strange and fascinating. Parents like the clear explanations and creative displays. For many kids this is the first time they realize the world is alive. The museum turns science into an adventure, mixing curiosity with wonder. Children learn about microscopic creatures in our lives, from bacteria that make food to fungi that decompose. Interactive exhibits let kids get hands-on and make their own discoveries, sparking scientific interest for years to come.

• Location: Plantage Kerklaan 38–40
• Opening hours: Daily 10:00–17:00
• Entrance fee: €17.50 adult, €15 child (6–9), free under 6

Tip: Combine with ARTIS zoo next door

Pancake Cruise

Dutch pancakes are a hit with kids and combining them with a boat ride makes for a fun day out. Onboard the Pancake Boat kids stack plates with sweet or savory toppings while the boat sails along the IJ River. A small play area keeps them busy once they’ve finished eating. Parents enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and city views. The Pancake Boat mixes the fun of a meal with the excitement of a tour. As the boat moves along the river kids can explore while parents relax with a coffee. The trip allows families to see the city from a different angle while enjoying a Dutch treat.

• Location: Departures from NDSM Wharf
• Opening hours: Several sailings daily
• Entrance fee: Around €20 child, €30 adult (includes pancakes)

Tip: Book early on weekends, popular with local families

Tropenmuseum Junior

Part of the larger Tropenmuseum, the Junior wing brings world cultures to life for kids. Exhibitions focus on storytelling, crafts and interactive elements. Children might try music, dress up or explore recreated houses from far-off lands. Parents see them absorbed in activities that feel playful yet informative. The exhibits open kids’ minds to new cultures in a way that’s accessible, engaging and fun. The museum is designed to encourage exploration through touch and play, to foster a sense of curiosity about the world around them. Activities like building models or playing traditional instruments let families connect with global traditions firsthand.

• Location: Linnaeusstraat 2
• Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday 10:00–17:00
• Entrance fee: €17 adult, free under 18

Tip: Check schedules for guided workshops

National Maritime Museum

A replica of an 18th-century ship outside the museum is the main attraction for kids. They climb on deck, peer into cabins and imagine life at sea. Inside exhibits include globes, maps and models. Families learn how Amsterdam was a trading port. Kids who dream of pirates or sailors leave with shining eyes. The museum lets kids explore history hands-on by jumping into the world of sailors and explorers. Kids can explore the replica ship, learn about navigation and experience the maritime past in a fun and interactive way.

• Location: Kattenburgerplein 1
• Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday 10:00–17:00
• Entrance fee: €18 adult, €8.50 child (4–17)

Tip: Plan at least two hours, ship plus galleries take time

Hortus Botanicus

Amsterdam’s botanical garden dates back to the 17th century. Children discover giant water lilies, exotic butterflies and greenhouses with different climates. Paths lead past plants from all over the world. Families enjoy the relaxed pace after busier attractions. For kids spotting plants that look unusual or animals buzzing around is fun. The garden is full of magical moments—whether it’s a giant cactus that looks like a dragon or a glasshouse filled with orchids. Families wander paths that make the garden feel like a hidden treasure, with surprises around every corner.

• Location: Plantage Middenlaan 2a
• Opening hours: Daily 10:00–17:00
• Entrance fee: €12.50 adult, €6.50 child (5–17), free under 5

Tip: Combine with ARTIS or Hermitage nearby

Play at TunFun

Under a former traffic tunnel lies TunFun, an indoor play paradise. Slides, trampolines, climbing walls and ball pits fill the large space. Rainy days in Amsterdam become less of a worry with this spot. Parents appreciate a café corner while kids let off steam. It’s a practical stop if the weather turns grey. TunFun is for all ages, from toddlers to big kids, with activities for every energy level. The facility keeps children busy for hours, giving parents a chance to relax while their little ones bounce, climb and explore.

• Location: Mr. Visserplein
• Opening hours: Daily 10:00–18:00
• Entrance fee: €9–12 per child, adults free

Tip: Wear socks, required for play zones

Amsterdamse Bos Forest

South of the city lies a large forest bigger than Central Park in New York. Families rent paddle boats, visit goat farms or simply explore trails. Kids enjoy playgrounds hidden among trees. Parents find it a place to escape urban life without leaving the city. A picnic here feels like a countryside trip. The park offers biking, hiking and even rowing and with farm animals, kids will never lack something to do. The peaceful setting is perfect for children to roam and take in nature. Families can spend a full day here without feeling rushed.

Recommendations:

• Bring: Bicycles or rent on site
• Time needed: Half a day at least
• Highlight: Goat farm where kids can feed animals

Van Gogh Museum with Family Guide

Bright colours and bold brushstrokes often appeal to kids. The Van Gogh Museum has family guides that highlight paintings with playful explanations. Children look for hidden details like swirling skies or fields of sunflowers. The museum is smaller than others so easier for families. Parents appreciate that art here feels vibrant and accessible. The museum has interactive features like quizzes and games that encourage children to engage with each artwork. Even those who don’t usually like art can leave with a new appreciation for Vincent’s colourful world.

• Location: Museumplein 6
• Opening hours: Daily 09:00–17:00
• Entrance fee: €20 adult, free under 18

Tip: Book tickets online, lines get long

Kinderkookkafé Cooking

At Kinderkookkafé, kids become chefs. They cook simple dishes, serve them and even handle small change at the counter. Parents sit as guests while their children proudly present plates. It’s fun, tasty and gives children a sense of responsibility. Families leave with full bellies and good memories. Children can try everything, from making pancakes to creating their own sandwiches. It’s a great way to encourage independence and kids leave feeling accomplished. Parents also enjoy the relaxed atmosphere as they watch their kids in action.

• Location: Vondelpark 6B
• Opening hours: Wednesday–Sunday 10:00–17:00
• Entrance fee: Activities from €10–15 per child

Tip: Book in advance, especially weekends

Free Ferry to NDSM

The free ferries behind Central Station are a mini adventure. The 15-minute ride across the IJ River is a thrill for kids. They love standing on deck as bikes and people crowd on. On the other side, NDSM offers street art, wide spaces and quirky cafes. It feels like a quick escape from the busy centre. The ferry gives kids the excitement of crossing water and the destination is a contrast to the city centre’s hustle. NDSM is a creative hub where kids can spot murals, explore industrial buildings and have a peek into Amsterdam’s alternative scene.

Recommendations:

• Bring: Snacks for a riverside picnic
• Time: Ferries run every few minutes
• Bonus: Older kids enjoy exploring murals and old shipyard cranes

Amsterdam welcomes families with a surprising amount of options. Children never run out of things to do, from playful science labs to pancake cruises, quiet parks to thrilling ship decks. Parents appreciate how everything is close together, saving time and energy. The city mixes culture and fun, history and laughter, art and play. Whether your trip is two days or two weeks you’ll find plenty of things to do in Amsterdam with kids. Each memory – whether of a child steering a bike from a bakfiets box or of a shared pancake on a boat – becomes part of your family story. Amsterdam manages to balance curiosity, relaxation and joy. That’s why many call it one of the best family-friendly capitals in Europe.