Are you excited about planning a family trip to Amsterdam? You can explore so many great attractions and museums in Amsterdam. Also, you can experience outdoor activities to enjoy the raw beauty of the city. You can visit every attraction with your family. Kids will have an educational experience through the visit to Amsterdam.
So, if you are still thinking of going to Amsterdam with your family, but you are not sure what is waiting for you in the city. You must read the article. In this article, I will show you the top things to do in Amsterdam with family. It includes city museums, historical places, and cultural activities.
Key takeaways
- Best Museums: NEMO Science Museum, Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House
- Outdoor Fun: Vondelpark, Artis Royal Zoo, Amsterdamse Bos
- Unique Attractions: A’dam Lookout, This is Holland, Electric Boat Rental
- Free Activities: Floating Flower Market, Free Ferry to NDSM Wharf
- Day Trips: Zaanse Schans, Efteling, Muiderslot Castle
Best Things to Do in Amsterdam with Family
Amsterdam offers a variety of family-friendly activities that are perfect for all ages. You can visit interactive spots like the NEMO Science Museum and the Van Gogh Museum. You can also enjoy a calm cruise along the iconic canals. For outdoor fun, you can visit Vondelpark, where kids can play and picnic. Then, you can visit Artis Zoo to see exotic animals. Below the article, I will explain all the details of the best Amsterdam attractions for families.
Checklist for Travel to Amsterdam with Family
You need some essential things to travel to Amsterdam. Here I show a checklist for your convenient travel. You can follow the checklist and make a perfect trip without mistakes.
| CHECKLIST for the Amsterdam Trip | |
 Get a Travel Adapter | Get Travel Insurance  |
Book Your Flight Ticket  | Buy your SIM card in advance  |
Buy Convenient Luggage  | Purchase Comfortable Shoes  |
Pack Winter Jacket  | Take Documents Wallet  |
 Hotel Booked |  Buy Tickets- Top Amsterdam Attractions |
| Booking.Com | Van Gogh Museum- Book Now |
| Airbnb | Rijksmuseum- Book Now |
| Hostel World | Stedelijk Museum- Book Now |
Top Museums and Cultural Experiences for Families
Amsterdam’s museums offer wonderful cultural adventures for families. You can find tidy exhibits and fascinating history that everyone can enjoy. It is a great chance to explore art, science, and culture. You can enjoy these experiences in fun ways.
The art in the exhibitions is perfect for kids and adults. Make sure to explore the city’s amazing museums during your visit to Amsterdam with your family.
NEMO Science Museum – Hands-On Fun for Kids
Nemo Science Museum is one of the top attractions for kids in the Netherlands. Most of the kids are curious to visit the Museums. Because they can do science experiments, build robots, and even play in a rooftop water exhibition.
Why Visit the Nemo Science Museum?
The NEMO Science Museum is a must-see for families in Amsterdam.
- It provides a fun and educational experience for kids. They can explore hands-on science exhibits.
- Children can create their experiments.
- Children learn through play. It makes science exciting and fun for kids.
- There are options to learn about space, energy, and technology.
- Children and adults can play in the water and air exhibits.
- You can enjoy the panoramic views of the city from the rooftop terrace with your family.
Here I share some tickets to get easy entrance to visit NEMO Science Museum.
| Ticket Types | Ticket Prices | Booking Link |
| NEMO Science Museum Ticket | $22.12 | Book Now |
| 1-Hour Canal Cruise & NEMO Science Museum | $30.87 | Book Now |
Rijksmuseum – Art & History Made Family-Friendly
The Rijksmuseum is one of the main museums in Amsterdam. It offers a family-friendly experience with activities. For example, the fun scavenger hunt turns the exploration of Dutch masterpieces into an engaging adventure.
You can explore the largest collections of paintings from the Dutch Golden Age. It’s a perfect way for families to enjoy art and history together in an interactive, accessible way.
Why Visit the Rijksmuseum?
- The Rijksmuseum is one of the main gems in Amsterdam. It offers a rich art and history experience to its visitors.
- The museum offers fun tours and activities designed for kids. These activities make art enjoyable and easy to explore for young visitors.
- The Rijksmuseum is home to The Night Watch. Also, you can see Rembrandt’s world-renowned painting up close.
- You can see the masterpieces at the Rijksmuseum. For example—the Night Watch, The Milkmaid, the Serenade, etc.
- This is a great way to show children art, culture, and history. They can learn by doing, which makes it fun!
- There is plenty of room for families to explore, relax, and enjoy together.
Need more inspiration? You can read the article – Rijksmuseum Tickets: Your Complete Guide
You can book your tickets in advance to skip the line. Here I will make a ticket list-
| Ticket Types | Ticket Prices | Booking link |
| Rijksmuseum Reserved Access Ticket | €33.75 | Book Now |
| Rijksmuseum Audio Guided Access Tickets | €42.53 | Book Now |
| Rijksmuseum Guided Tour With Access | €110.75 | Book Now |
Anne Frank House – A Meaningful Experience for Family Travelers
The Anne Frank House provides a wonderful opportunity for families to learn together. You can visit the secret annex where Anne Frank wrote her diary, which inspired everyone. It helps kids and adults think about her history. Visiting the Frank House teaches them about resilience and empathy. It’s a meaningful journey that inspires important conversations about tolerance and human rights.
Why Visit the Anne Frank House?
- The Anne Frank House is a must-visited landmark with deep historical significance.
- In this house, children can learn about the harsh realities of World War II.
- Exploring the Life and Diary of Anne Frank is so inspiring for children.
- Walk through the actual annex, where Anne Frank and her family went to hiding.
- The story of Anne Frank encourages reflection on human rights and tolerance.
To get more information read the article- Anne Frank House Tickets and Insider Tips
Tip: To secure your tour book tickets online in advance!
| Ticket Types | Ticket Prices | Booking link |
| Anne Frank House Reserved Entrance Tickets | €21.60 | Book Now |
Van Gogh Museum – Interactive Art for Family Kids and Adults
The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam has the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings and artworks in the world. The museum offers different family-friendly activities in Amsterdam. Kids can enjoy an exciting audio tour that makes his art come alive. Also, they can join interactive workshops to learn about art or paintings. Furthermore, older kids and teens can engage in Van Gogh’s exciting life and art journey.
Why Visit the Van Gogh Museum?
- You must see the masterpieces of Van Gogh’s paintings. For example, the famous Sunflowers, The Bedroom, and Wheatfield with Crows.
- The Van Gogh Museum has family-friendly exhibits. You can enjoy exciting activities with your kids.
- You can enjoy the audio tours and workshops at the Van Gogh Museum for children and adults.
- Kids can explore Van Gogh’s struggles and creative journey in detailed exhibits.
- You can experience the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh’s artworks. In the exhibitions, you can find 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 800 letters.
- You can explore the special exhibitions. Every month there are changing displays that show new views of Van Gogh’s art and impact.
Read More: How Long Does Van Gogh Museum Take to Visit in Amsterdam?
Tips: You can book the entrance ticket in advance to skip the line. Also, You can find last-minute tickets available on the website.
| Ticket Types | Ticket Prices | Booking Link |
| Van Gogh Museum Ticket | $26.80 | Book Now |
| Van Gogh Museum Reserved Access With Audio Guided | €37.47 | Book Now |
| Van Gogh Museum Guided Tour With Access | €197.65 | Book Now |
Outdoor Adventures & Parks in Amsterdam
Vondelpark – Playgrounds, Picnic Spots & Bike Rides
The Vondelpark in Amsterdam is an iconic park, and it’s perfect for families. It has several playgrounds, and the park is also popular for picnic spots. There is a cute puppet theater; its activities may be liked by your kids. The park is a perfect destination for old and young.
Why Visit the Vondelpark?
- There you can find a variety of playgrounds perfect for kids and others.
- Vondelpark offers delightful bike rides and rollerblading. Besides, you can walk through the park with your family.
- The park is considered a perfect picnic spot for a family.
- You can explore the interesting puppet theater! It’s sure to enchant young kids’ imaginations.
- The central location of the park is close to Amsterdam’s city center. So it’s easy for everyone to visit and enjoy.
Artis Royal Zoo – One of Europe’s Oldest Zoos
Artis Amsterdam Royal Zoo is a perfect destination for families. You can see there more than 900 animal species, a planetarium, and a butterfly garden. It has interactive exhibits and fun learning for kids. This feature makes it a great spot for family visits in Amsterdam.
Why Visit the Artis Royal Zoo?
- You can see very close to elephants, lions, giraffes, and more in naturalistic habitats.
- You can explore a fascinating underwater aquarium world with hands-on exhibits for children.
- You can discover the wonders of space in an engaging, educational experience.
- You can enjoy special areas and activities designed for younger children.
Amsterdamse Bos – Canoeing & Petting Zoo
Amsterdamse Bos is near the city. It’s a great spot for families to enjoy nature together. Kids can enjoy the outdoor activities and fun activities in Amsterdam for teens. You can go canoeing and rent bikes to ride with your children. Then you can visit the cute petting zoo with its friendly goats. It’s a great way to keep memories in a beautiful setting!
Why Visit the Amsterdamse Bos?
- You can enjoy canoeing, biking, and nature walks in a beautiful garden and an expansive park.
- It is the Best places to visit in Amsterdam with kids. You can seek free and do family-friendly activities.
- There are large open spaces that allow kids to explore nature and their pets.
Unique & Fun Attractions for Kids and Teens
A’dam Lookout – Thrilling Views & a Sky-High Swing
A’dam Lookout gives stunning 360° views of Amsterdam. It’s a must-visit for adventurous families. Teens and thrill-seekers can enjoy the “Over the Edge” swing. This ride lets you swing high above the city. It promises an unforgettable and exciting adventure.
- You can enjoy d the VR ride provides an exciting experience.
This is Holland – A Virtual Flight Over the Netherlands
This is Holland, which provides an exciting virtual flight. You can see the beauty of the Netherlands in just minutes. Soar over iconic landmarks and landscapes for an unforgettable adventure.
- You can enjoy the virtual roller coaster 5D flight experience.
- You can see famous landmark sites from above in a unique, family-friendly attraction.
City Canal Cruise – A Family-Friendly Canal Experience
Why not enjoy a delightful family outing with a City Canal Cruise? You can rent an electric boat and explore the beautiful canals of Amsterdam at your own pace. It’s a great way to make wonderful memories together! It’s a private, relaxed way to discover the city’s stunning architecture and scenic views.
- By a private canal cruise, you can navigate the canals with your family at your own pace.
- You can enjoy Amsterdam’s picturesque bridges, buildings, and waterways.
- The cruise is quiet, eco-friendly, and takes an electric boat for a calm experience.
Book Now: Amsterdam City Canal Cruise Tickets
Free & Budget-Friendly Activities in Amsterdam
Explore the Floating Flower Market
The Floating Flower Market in Amsterdam is a unique beauty of the Netherlands. You can see the Dutch tulips and many other flowers in this market. The stalls lined along the canals offer a burst of color and the chance to pick up unique souvenirs. It offers memorable experiences for both adults and kids.
Take a Free Ferry to NDSM Wharf
You can take a free ferry from Amsterdam Central Station to NDSM Wharf. This cool area is full of street art; it also includes vibrant graffiti murals. You can visit its vintage markets, explore, and unwind at outdoor cafes, and soak up the creative vibe. You can enjoy the places with your families and see the raw beauty of Amsterdam.
Best Day Trips from Amsterdam with Kids
Zaanse Schans – See the Iconic Windmills
Zaanse Schans is a lovely Dutch village. You can reach the village in around 30 minutes from Amsterdam. The village is famous for its windmills. You can see the windmills and how they are working. You can also go to clog-making workshops with your kids and enjoy cheese tastings. It’s a perfect spot to experience traditional Dutch culture and picturesque countryside.
Efteling Theme Park – A Fairytale Adventure
Efteling Theme Park is a beautiful destination offering fairytale-themed attractions and thrilling rides. It is perfect for family visits; it offers magical castles, forests, and fantasy lands. It gives you one of Europe’s best theme park experiences for a day trip of fun and excitement.
Muiderslot Castle – A Medieval Adventure
Muiderslot Castle is located just outside of Amsterdam. It is a perfect spot for families to step back in time. Kids can dress up as knights and explore the medieval towers, dungeons, and gardens. The castle provides a fun, hands-on way to explore history for young adventurers.
FAQ About Things to Do in Amsterdam with Family
What are the best free things to do in Amsterdam with family?
Visit Vondelpark, explore the floating flower market, and take a free ferry to NDSM Wharf.
What’s the best way to get around Amsterdam with kids?
Use trams, rent a cargo bike, or take a canal boat for a fun experience.
Is Amsterdam good for a family vacation?
Yes! Amsterdam is a family-friendly city with safe bike paths, engaging museums, and kid-friendly attractions.
What’s the best season to visit Amsterdam with kids?
Spring and summer are great for outdoor activities, while winter offers Christmas markets and ice skating.
Conclusion
Amsterdam is an amazing family-friendly destination, offering a perfect mix of educational museums, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re visiting Vondelpark, Anne Frank House, or taking a day trip to Zaanse Schans, there’s something for everyone. Ready to plan your Amsterdam family itinerary? Be sure to book activities in advance and enjoy an unforgettable trip!
