Free things to do in Amsterdam with kids
Free Things to Do in Amsterdam with Kids – Budget-Friendly Family Fun
Planning a trip to Amsterdam with your kids? We totally get it — traveling with a family is amazing, but let’s be honest: it can also get expensive fast. Between meals, museum tickets, transport, and souvenirs, your budget can disappear quicker than you can say stroopwafel.
But here’s the good news: Amsterdam is packed with fun, free, family-friendly activities that won’t cost you a single euro — and still guarantee big smiles, great memories, and plenty of adventures. Whether you're visiting for a day, a weekend, or a full week, these free activities in Amsterdam with kids will keep everyone entertained.
📚 1. OBA Central Library – A Hidden Gem for Families
Just a 5-minute walk from Central Station, the main public library of Amsterdam (OBA) is one of the city’s best-kept secrets for families. The kids’ floor is bright, colorful, and full of cozy reading nooks, playful corners, and even a mini stage for storytelling events. It’s a great place to take a breather, especially on rainy or chilly days.
What makes it extra special? The rooftop terrace. Head upstairs for a stunning panoramic view over the city, including the canals and the iconic NEMO Science Museum.
🧡 Tip: There’s also a café with reasonably priced snacks — perfect for a quiet moment while the kids read or color.
🐱 2. Visit the Floating Cat Sanctuary – De Poezenboot
Yes, Amsterdam has a cat boat — and it’s exactly as charming as it sounds. De Poezenboot is a floating animal shelter on a houseboat moored along the Singel canal, just around the corner from Central Station.
Families can pop in for a free visit (donations are appreciated) and meet the resident rescue cats, hear their stories, and support a lovely cause. It's calm, quiet, and perfect for young animal lovers.
⏰ Open on select afternoons — check their website before visiting to avoid disappointment.
💦 3. Splash in Amsterdam’s Free Paddling Pools
Visiting during spring or summer? Then the pierenbadjes (public paddling pools) scattered throughout Amsterdam’s parks are a must. These shallow splash zones are a paradise for toddlers and preschoolers.
You’ll find great ones in Vondelpark, Oosterpark, and Beatrixpark, where kids can cool off while you relax in the grass with an ice cream or picnic.
🧴 Pack swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel — and maybe a change of clothes too!
🌿 4. Get Muddy at Het Woeste Westen – Nature Playground
In Westerpark, there’s a wild corner called Het Woeste Westen, a natural playground where kids can run free. There are rope bridges, water pumps, mud kitchens, rafts, and hidden trails — basically, a dream for every child who loves to explore.
It’s completely free and open during good weather. Don't be surprised if your child ends up soaked or muddy — that's kind of the point!
🎒 Bring old clothes and maybe a towel if you’re planning to continue sightseeing afterwards.
🎭 5. Catch a Traditional Puppet Show on Dam Square
Every Sunday afternoon (weather permitting), you might stumble upon a charming little puppet show on Dam Square — right in the heart of the city. These traditional performances are a lovely surprise and offer a great moment of unexpected joy for little ones.
There’s no ticket needed, and the vibe is casual and nostalgic. Just grab a spot on the pavement and enjoy.
🎪 Times vary — check social media or ask around locally to confirm.
🐭 6. Discover The Mouse Mansion – Sam & Julia’s Tiny World
Based on the popular Dutch children’s books, The Mouse Mansion (Het Muizenhuis) is a magical miniature world located in the Jordaan. You’ll find incredibly detailed scenes — think tiny cafés, bedrooms, bakeries — all built by hand to tell the story of Sam & Julia.
Kids can peek into the miniature rooms, meet the creators, and even shop for DIY kits to make their own little mouse homes. The best part? It’s completely free to visit!
📍 Location: Muntplein 8
🔍 7. Go on a Treasure Hunt at Tolhuistuin
Hop on the free ferry from Central Station to Amsterdam Noord, and you’ll land near Tolhuistuin — a cultural garden space full of art, greenery, and quirky surprises.
Every Saturday and Sunday, kids can join the Stout Konijn (Naughty Rabbit) treasure hunt, following clues around the garden while solving little challenges. It’s playful, active, and a great way to explore nature in the city.
🛳️ And yes — the ferry ride itself is already an adventure for kids!
🌸 8. Wander Through the Beautiful Rijksmuseum Gardens
You don’t need a museum ticket to enjoy the Rijksmuseum’s stunning gardens. These beautifully landscaped grounds are open to the public and feature sculptures, fountains, and plenty of space for kids to run around.
In the warmer months, there’s often a playful fountain installation that’s perfect for a bit of splashing. Parents can relax on a bench while the kids explore.
📍 Right next to Museumplein, and easy to combine with nearby attractions.
🦩 9. Chill at Artisplein – An Urban Oasis with Flamingos
Tucked beside the Artis Zoo entrance is Artisplein, a peaceful public square that’s free to enter — no zoo ticket needed. It’s an unexpected pocket of calm in the city, where you can see flamingos and parrots walking freely on the other side of the fence.
There’s also a lovely café where you can grab a coffee while the kids play under the trees. It’s perfect for a quiet reset in between bigger adventures.
🌿 Ideal for families who want a calm break without missing out on special sights.
🏦 10. Explore the Old Money Vault at De Nederlandsche Bank
If you’re looking for something unique (and educational), head to the Visitor Centre of De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB). It’s free to enter and suitable for older kids.
The highlight? A peek inside a real old money vault — with giant doors and cool lighting that make it feel like a movie set.
💸 Great for older kids with curious minds!
✨ Final Thoughts: Amsterdam Adventures Without Breaking the Bank
You don’t need a big budget to enjoy Amsterdam with your family. From floating cat shelters and puppet shows to secret playgrounds and magical mini-mansions, the city is full of free activities that kids (and parents!) will love.
So grab your backpack, load up Google Maps, and start exploring. Whether it’s your first time in Amsterdam or your tenth, there’s always a new hidden gem waiting around the corner — and it might just be free.
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