f you’re planning a family trip to the Netherlands, you’re in for a treat! There’s so much more to this beautiful country than tulips and windmills—especially if you’re looking for activities to keep the kids entertained. From magical theme parks to hands-on museums, the Netherlands offers a fantastic array of child-friendly destinations. Today, I’ll walk you through some of the best places to visit, starting with the well-known Efteling and moving on to some lesser-known gems.

Efteling: The Magical World of Fairytales

Let’s kick things off with Efteling, which is the go-to family destination for both locals and tourists. It’s a magical theme park located in Kaatsheuvel, perfect for kids (and the grown-ups who never quite grew up). With its charming fairytale forests, thrilling roller coasters, and enchanting shows, there’s something for every age group. You can easily spend a full day here and still have more to see! But while Efteling is fantastic, it’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to fun family activities in the Netherlands.

NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam

Now, if you have curious little minds who love to learn through play, you absolutely must visit NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam. This massive, futuristic-looking building is full of interactive exhibits where kids can experiment with science and technology. You’ll find everything from workshops to hands-on displays that explain things like how water purification works or how the brain processes information. It’s educational and fun, and there’s even a rooftop terrace with great views of the city.

Duinrell in Wassenaar: Theme Park and Water Fun

If your kids are craving a bit of action and adventure, head to Duinrell, a family-friendly theme park in Wassenaar. There are roller coasters and other thrill rides, but the park is also home to Tikibad, the largest indoor waterpark in the Benelux. So pack your swimsuits! It’s a fantastic option for a day of non-stop fun and is sure to wear the kids out.

Naturalis Biodiversity Center in Leiden

At Naturalis in Leiden, kids can embark on a journey through nature. This museum is dedicated to the wonders of the natural world and has recently been revamped to be even more engaging for families. From gigantic dinosaur skeletons to displays about wildlife and ecosystems, it’s a fascinating way for children to learn about the planet’s biodiversity. There’s plenty of hands-on activities for them to get involved with, making it both fun and informative.

European Space Agency & Space Expo in Noordwijk

For something truly out of this world, head to Noordwijk and visit the European Space Agency’s visitor center. It’s an amazing experience where children can learn about space missions, astronauts, and what it takes to launch rockets into space. The interactive exhibits will ignite their curiosity about the universe, and if they’re lucky, they might even get a chance to see a space launch simulation. Perfect for any little future astronauts!

Maritime Museum in Rotterdam

Rotterdam’s Maritime Museum is a great spot for families who are fascinated by ships and the sea. The museum is full of interactive exhibits that tell the story of Dutch maritime history. Children can climb aboard historic vessels, explore the inner workings of ships, and even try their hand at piloting one through simulations. It’s an educational adventure that captures the imagination of kids and adults alike.

 

Rotterdam Zoo: A Wildlife Adventure

A visit to Rotterdam Zoo (Diergaarde Blijdorp) is a wonderful way to introduce kids to the animal kingdom. This beautifully landscaped zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, from majestic elephants and lions to playful penguins and exotic birds. The zoo also features an impressive aquarium, Oceanium, where children can explore marine life up close. With plenty of walking paths, playgrounds, and animal feeding sessions, Rotterdam Zoo guarantees a fun-filled family day.

Omniversum and Museon in The Hague

In The Hague, you’ll find Museum Omniversum, a giant-screen IMAX cinema that’s perfect for a relaxing but awe-inspiring experience. The films are often nature-related, showcasing everything from underwater worlds to outer space. It’s a wonderful way to wind down after a busy day of exploring, and the immersive experience is something the whole family will love.

Lelystad Airport: A Day of Aviation

For those with little aviation enthusiasts, Lelystad Airport in Lelystad offers a fun day out where children can watch planes take off and land. The airport also hosts a fascinating museum about aviation, with old aircraft on display and lots of information about the history of flight. It’s a smaller, more intimate setting, which means the kids can get up close and personal with planes they might have only seen from afar.

Museum Card: A Must for Families

If you’re planning on visiting several museums during your trip, the Museumkaart (Museum Card) is a smart investment. This card grants you access to over 400 museums across the Netherlands, including some of the ones I’ve mentioned, like Naturalis and NEMO. You can buy the card at participating museums, but be sure to check the list in advance to make sure your chosen destinations are included. It’s perfect for families who want to soak up as much culture and learning as possible without breaking the bank!

Wrapping it Up

The Netherlands is truly a treasure trove of family-friendly activities. From the fairytale magic of Efteling to the wonders of science at NEMO, and the thrill of space at Noordwijk, there’s something for every interest and age group. So, pack up the kids and get ready for an adventure they’ll never forget!

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So, start planning your Dutch family holiday today, and don’t forget to explore more ideas at our Instagram page @holimadetravel