Top Things to do in the Netherlands with kids
People describe the Netherlands as just the right blend of traditional and innovative. It certainly seems true; old windmills and romantic cafés coexist with modern design.
Lucky for us, this free-flowing and creative spirit makes the Netherlands a wonderful place to explore with the family. From fairy tale parks to outdoor museums and safari adventures, you’ll find kid-friendly attractions that are both fun and educational.
Keep in mind that there are plenty of things to do in the Netherlands with kids that are outside of the usual cities. Don’t just hang around Amsterdam! If you have days to spare, I highly recommend doing a road trip across the provinces.
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Things to do with Kids in Holland
Holland used to be synonymous with ‘The Netherlands’, but these days, it properly refers to 2 of 12 provinces. Famous cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague fall within North and South Holland.
For first-timers traveling with kids in the Netherlands, Holland is the perfect launching pad.
MiniWorld Rotterdam
Don’t have time to pop over to Rotterdam? Step into MiniWorld Rotterdam instead. Experience a full day in Rotterdam in just 24 minutes, watch it sleep, and come awake again. You’ll have a blast watching trucks loading cargo at Europe’s largest-tiny port; maybe even do a scavenger hunt. If you have curious kids, definitely sign up for a behind-the-scenes tour.
NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam
At the heart of Amsterdam lies the largest science center in the country, the NEMO Science Museum. Over 17,000 technological objects and hundreds of games are on the menu to keep the little ones curious! From interactive DNA swatching to flying cars and fun science experiments, it’s never too early to put those goggles on.
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Scheveningen
Good news for the big kids adults – you get to accompany your little ones to the best family day out in the Netherlands. Featuring a LEGO city, 4D cinema, LEGO workshops, and test zones; there are plenty of creative outlets at LEGOLAND. Kids will love to roam the Lego-built buildings, beaches, roads, and a super cool ninja training zone.
Madurodam
Even tiny tots feel larger than life when they step into Madurodam. This miniature world is great for sightseeing the Netherlands with a family since it contains small-scale replicas of its most famous landmarks, historical cities, and even windmills. Of course, take advantage of its location for a Scheveningen beach visit combo.
Linnaeushof
Located between Haarlem and Keukenhof is Europe’s biggest playground, Linnaeushof – with 350+ playsets and attractions! It’s an overwhelmingly fun place for kids, from calmer activities like pedal boating and cable cars to Pirate’s Nests and obstacle courses. In the summer, the water playground is perfect to take kids to in the Netherlands. Everything’s child-powered. Just be sure to book ahead of time!
Off-the-beaten tracks family-friendly activities in the Netherlands
Why stick to Holland when there are so many more family-friendly things to do in the Netherlands?
Beekse Bergen Safari Parks
Who wouldn’t want to spy on zebras, lions, giraffes, and other wild animals in their natural habitat? Over 1,000 animals wander through the wooded surroundings; observe on foot, in a boat, or via safari drives at Beekse Bergen. Sleepovers are a ‘yes’ at their Safari Resort. It’s the perfect itinerary for kids of all ages.
Center Parcs
The Center Parcs franchise is made for family bonding. Not only do these holiday villas offer recreational activities to the max (like water sports and escape rooms), they actively engage with the local setting. The Kempervennen location offers safari jeep rides for kids aged 5 to 11, while Park Zandvoort’s sandy beach encourages those water legs.
GeoFort
Take your fun outdoors with GeoFort. Packed with mazes and secret bunkers, this remote “museum” gives kids the chance to explore freely. Forget stuffy maps! Your child will pick up tips on navigation and maybe, a keen eye for investigation.
Best Amusement Parks for Kids in the Netherlands
Amusement parks are hands-down one of the top things to do with kids in the Netherlands. Apart from Holland’s Madurodam and Linnaeushof, plan your Netherlands family trip around these destinations.
Efteling
‘Dutch Disneyland’ just doesn’t have the same ring as Efteling. After all, it carries a different kind of magic. Face your own fire-breathing dragon or make friends with talking trees. Fairies flutter around the Dreamflight ride as older kids challenge The Flying Dutchman. From theatrics to water shows and enchanting overnight stays, this theme park does it all. No wonder it’s such a popular attraction in the Netherlands for families!
Walibi Holland
If you’re looking for chaos and fun screams, Walibi Holland tops my personal list. You don’t have to try the Skydive bungee drop to feel your stomach flip; roller coasters Goliath, Lost Gravity, and UNTAMED do the same job. For kids too young to be thrown around in the air, don’t worry – there are tamer rides.
Sprookejeswonderland
Yet another fairytale-like park for kids aged 2-8 is Sprookejeswonderland. Forget nail-biting rides and elaborate stunts – this theme park is about carousel nostalgia and floating boats. Trails with red toadstools lead to Hansel and Gretel’s house, while the small petting farm keeps tantrums away. Manageable and affordable, it’s an ideal place if you don’t fancy big crowds.
Educational Fun in the Netherlands
Learn with your kids! Make your family trip fun and educational with these attractions.
Corpus Experience
Yes, you’re literally walking through a gigantic human body. The Corpus Museum in Leiden is a mind-blowing experience for the kids (and probably you too). Kids aged 6 and over can take a close look at how the body functions by journeying as a red blood cell or jumping on a tongue.
Spoorwegmuseum
Transport museums are always great fun, especially when you step into full-sized models. Hop on and off historical trains at this railway museum and compare the different types of cabins at the Spoorwegmeseum in Utrecht. Special activities include the children’s Jumbo Express ride and a rather intriguing Orient Express play.
Openluchtmuseum
It’s important to immerse in the culture and history of wherever they’re visiting – and Openluchtmuseum is the best textbook there is. The Dutch Open Air Museum in Arnhem literally brings you back in time. Farms, factories, and authentic buildings from the good ol’ days transport you to different regions in the Netherlands. Spend the entire day out with family, whether that’s watching a blacksmith at work or cracking the code with resistance fighters!