Our picks of the best activities with kids in Amsterdam
Top Family Activities in Amsterdam: Fun Things to Do with Kids of All Ages
Amsterdam offers almost limitless possibilities for children of all ages to enjoy. Whether you're cruising the canals on a family-friendly boat tour, exploring the hands-on exhibits at the NEMO Science Museum, or discovering the incredible wildlife at Artis Zoo, there’s always something exciting to do in this vibrant city.
From interactive experiences to outdoor adventures, Amsterdam is the perfect destination for family vacations. Here are a few of our favorite things to do with children in Amsterdam, ensuring a fun and memorable time for the whole family.
Want more fun things to do in Amsterdam with children? Don’t miss our blog — packed with tips, hidden gems, and local favorites!
Pannenkoekenboot
The Pancake Boat in Amsterdam offers a unique and exciting experience for families, especially for children! Set sail on a fun-filled cruise along the IJ river, while enjoying all-you-can-eat pancakes. Kids will love the chance to choose from a variety of toppings and make their pancakes just the way they like them.
The boat provides a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, with plenty of space for children to move around and enjoy the views of Amsterdam’s waterfront. It's a great way to combine sightseeing with a delicious treat.
You can complement this with our family-friendly walking tour, which will take you through the NDSM area.
Canal Cruise
A canal cruise through the Amsterdam canals is a fantastic experience for you and your kids! You’ll love gliding along the water, passing historic buildings, charming bridges, and bustling houseboats. Many boat tours offer kid-friendly audio guides or interactive elements, making it a fun and engaging way for children to learn about the city’s history and landmarks.
Nemo
The NEMO Science Museum is an amazing destination for kids, packed with hands-on exhibits that make learning about science and technology fun and exciting. Children can experiment, play, and discover in interactive displays that cover everything from physics to chemistry. It’s a place where curiosity comes alive, making it a favorite spot for families in Amsterdam! At NEMO, there’s plenty of fun for preschoolers, but the experiments and exhibitions are designed for children aged around 6 or 7 and up to… well, any age really!
Anne Frank house
The Anne Frank House offers a meaningful experience for older children, providing a glimpse into history through the story of Anne Frank and her family. Walking through the secret annex where Anne wrote her diary, kids can learn about her life, courage, and the impact of World War II. It’s a powerful, educational visit that helps children understand the importance of tolerance, resilience, and human rights.
The Amsterdam Museum
The Amsterdam Museum’s "Het Kleine Weeshuis" (The Little Orphanage) is a fascinating experience for children, offering a glimpse into what life was like for orphaned children in 17th-century Amsterdam. Through interactive exhibits, kids can explore the daily routines, chores, and games of the children who once lived there. It’s an engaging way for young visitors to connect with history and imagine life in Amsterdam centuries ago.
Scheepvaart Museum
The National Maritime Museum (Scheepvaartmuseum) is an exciting adventure for kids, filled with interactive exhibits that bring Dutch maritime history to life. Children can explore a real 18th-century ship, learn about sea voyages, and try hands-on activities related to navigation and ship life. It's a fun and educational experience that inspires kids to imagine the thrilling adventures of sailors and explorers from centuries past.
Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is one of the most famous museums in the world, and it's a fantastic place for children to explore art, history, and culture. It offers a variety of fun and engaging activities, making it a perfect spot for young visitors. One of the highlights is the famous "De Nachtwacht" by Rembrandt, which can be admired in the stunning Gallery of Honour. Children can enjoy learning about the painting’s history while taking in the details of this iconic masterpiece. The museum also features lifelike dollhouses, some of which are life-sized, providing an exciting and unique experience for children to explore. With interactive exhibits and activities designed especially for kids, the Rijksmuseum makes it a memorable and enjoyable visit for the whole family.
Historical Museum Tram
How fun is it to ride in an old tram from the previous century, surrounded by the scent of polished wood and nostalgia, through the even older center of Amsterdam? You can do this every Sunday with the Museum Tram. The Museum Tram runs every Sunday from April 7th through October, departing from Haarlemmermeerstation to the Amsterdam Forest. Go to Parcs and playgrounds to read more about the fun activities to do in the Amsterdam Forest.
Visit the website of the museumtram for more information Homepage - Electrische Museumtramlijn Amsterdam
Micropia
Micropia is a one-of-a-kind museum dedicated to the hidden world of microbes. It offers visitors an exciting and educational journey into the microscopic life that surrounds and inhabits us. Perfect for curious minds of all ages, Micropia provides a hands-on and interactive experience that’s especially engaging for children.
Kids can learn about the vital role microbes play in our ecosystems, health, and daily lives through fun activities and games. From viewing live micro organisms under a microscope to discovering the unseen creatures on their own skin, every exhibit sparks wonder and curiosity. Micropia is located in Artis the Zoo so you can combine the visit with the zoo.
Theatres
Amsterdam is home to charming theaters like Munganga and Black Cat Theatre, which specialize in captivating performances for children. These intimate venues offer magical storytelling, interactive shows, and creative workshops designed to spark the imagination of young audiences.
Munganga is a charming and cosy theatre in Amsterdam Oud Zuid. Munganga always offers a nice childeren show on sunday morning at 11am. No reservation is needed. You can simply walk in and purchase a ticket at the counter. The shows are nice for kids in the ages 2 till 8.
Programma Actueel | MUNGANGA theater
Black Cat Theatre in Westerpark primarily offers shows mostly on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The shows are suitable for kids in the ages 1-5. Show is between 30 till 60 minutes long. There is a spacious foyer where children can play with unique toys and food and beverages can be consumed. The theatre is easily accessible by public transportation and parkingspace in front of the theatre.
Agenda Kindervoorstellingen | Black Cat Theatre | Amsterdam
At Theatre De Krakeling, the most beautiful, funniest, and most exciting stories come to life. Through music, acting, multimedia, and dance, the performances take you into another world—just for a little while. Theatre de Krakeling in Westerpark offers different shows on different days for kids all ages. They offer special shows for Non Dutch speakers. Look for the "language no problem" shows.
Theatre de Toverknol is a delightful children's theatre located in the heart of Amsterdam. They host shows every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday for children aged 1 to 9. Before the performance begins, kids are welcome to dress up and immerse themselves in the magic!
Kindertheater De Toverknol | Utrecht, Amsterdam
Artis Zoo
Artis in Amsterdam is a fantastic destination for families, especially with young children. This historic zoo offers a wide range of exciting activities, from exploring the diverse animal exhibits to visiting the planetarium and the butterfly pavilion. Kids can enjoy interactive experiences, such as getting up close to the animals or taking part in fun educational workshops. The park also features a playground, a petting zoo, and beautiful gardens, making it an ideal spot for a day full of adventure and learning.
This is Holland
The This is Holland experience is an exciting and interactive attraction that brings the beauty and culture of the Netherlands to life. For children, it’s a thrilling adventure, offering a unique, immersive 5D flight simulation. Kids can explore the country's iconic landscapes, from windmills and tulips to the canals of Amsterdam, all while learning about Dutch traditions in a fun and engaging way. The colorful visuals and sensory effects make it extra fun! This is Holland is located in Amsterdam Noord. You can take the ferry from Central Station, and it's just a few minutes' walk from there. You can combine your visit with a trip to the Amsterdam Lookout Tower.The entrance is free with the Amsterdam City Card.
Amsterdam lookout tower
The A'DAM Lookout Tower offers stunning panoramic views of Amsterdam, and it's a fun experience for the whole family. For children, there's the thrilling "Over the Edge" swing, where you swing high above the city on the tower’s roof! The minimum height for the swing is 1.20m. The A'DAM Lookout tower has an experience lift that takes you from the 1st to the 20th floor of the A'DAM Tower in just 20 seconds. But this is no ordinary lift. With spectacular light and sound effects and a transparent ceiling, this lift offers a truly amazing experience. The A'DAM Lookout tower is located in Amsterdam Noord. You can take the ferry from Central Station, and it's just a few minutes' walk from there. You can combine your visit with a trip to The Holland Experience.
Jewish Historical Museum
In the Jewish Museum, you embark on a journey through time. It begins 400 years ago when the first Jews settled in Amsterdam. Where did they come from? What traditions did they bring with them? And what traces of those traditions can still be seen today?
The Jewish Museum is located in a special building. In fact, it’s housed in four remarkable buildings. The museum consists of four old synagogues, which you can still recognize by the balustrades, tall windows, and ceilings—be sure to pay attention to these details. Later, the synagogues were connected to form one museum.
In the Jewish Museum, you will also find the Jewish Museum Junior. This museum for children aged 6 to 12 is set up like the home of the Jewish Hollander family. You are allowed to touch everything in their house.
Each family member experiences what it’s like to be Jewish in their own way and takes you along in their life. You can bake challah in the kitchen, learn to write your name in Hebrew, and in the attic, you’ll be introduced to Jewish music.
Discover The Mouse Mansion – A Magical Miniature World for Kids in Amsterdam
Looking for a unique and family-friendly museum in Amsterdam? Step into the enchanting world of The Mouse Mansion (Het Muizenhuis) – a delightful miniature museum that’s perfect for kids and curious minds of all ages.
Created by Dutch artist Karina Schaapman, The Mouse Mansion showcases a beautifully detailed mouse-sized world filled with tiny furniture, cozy rooms, and everyday scenes—completely hand-crafted with love and care. Children will be fascinated by the imaginative setting and the charming mouse characters who live their daily lives in this whimsical, storybook-style house.
Located in the heart of Amsterdam, The Mouse Mansion is part interactive museum, part toy store, and completely free to visit. It’s a great stop for families exploring the city, offering a mix of creativity, storytelling, and hands-on fun. Whether you're traveling with toddlers or school-aged kids, this magical little world is sure to leave a big impression.
Don't miss one of the most kid-friendly hidden gems in Amsterdam—The Mouse Mansion is a must-see for families looking to experience something truly special.
Family fun in Amsterdam - visit the LEGO store
Looking for kid-friendly things to do in Amsterdam while shopping? Turn an ordinary shopping trip into a fun-filled adventure with a visit to the LEGO Store Amsterdam, located right on Kalverstraat, the city’s busiest shopping street.
Perfect for families with children, this colorful and interactive LEGO store is more than just a place to shop—it's a playful experience. Kids will be amazed by the giant LEGO models, hands-on building areas, and creative displays throughout the store. One of the most popular highlights is the chance to design your own custom LEGO mini-figure, complete with your name printed on it. It’s the ultimate personalized Amsterdam souvenir for young LEGO fans.
Whether you're taking a break from sightseeing or need a rainy-day activity, the LEGO Store in Amsterdam offers fun for the whole family. It's one of the top family-friendly attractions in Amsterdam’s city center—a must-visit for kids (and grown-ups) who love to build, play, and explore.
Visit the Catboat – A Family-Friendly Stop in Amsterdam
Looking for family-friendly things to do in Amsterdam with kids? Make your trip unforgettable with a visit to the Poezenboot – the world’s only floating cat sanctuary, located right in the heart of the city. Moored on the beautiful Singel canal, this unique houseboat is home to dozens of friendly, rescued cats waiting to meet animal-loving visitors.
Founded in 1966, the Catboat has become a hidden gem for both locals and tourists. It's the perfect place for children to interact with animals, learn about pet care, and enjoy some quiet moments petting adorable cats in a peaceful setting.
A visit to the Poezenboot is not only fun for kids but also relaxing for parents. It’s one of the best indoor activities in Amsterdam for families, especially on rainy days. Admission is free, and donations are welcome to support the well-being of the cats.
Don’t miss this heartwarming and kid-friendly attraction in Amsterdam – the Poezenboot is a must-see for animal lovers of all ages!