From an adrenaline-pumping ride to an eye-opening trip to one of the oldest zoos in Europe, here are some activities the whole family can enjoy in the Dutch capital
1. Swing sky-high
Perched more than 100m above the banks of the River Ij, Over the Edge at A’Dam Lookout has the dizzying distinction of being the highest swing in Europe. Daring kids and teens will love this pulse-pounding thrill ride up in the air.
2. Have breakfast for lunch and dinner
Whether simply dusted with powdered sugar or loaded up with extras such as caramelised apples, bananas or Nutella, pannenkoeken (Dutch pancake) is the ultimate kid-friendly treat. Try the sweet or savoury version at The Pancake Bakery, a legendary institution.
3. Visit one of the oldest zoos in Europe
A trip to Artis Amsterdam Royal Zoo, which dates back to 1838 and hosts about 700 species of fauna, makes for an ideal family outing. Spend an afternoon with the creatures, from snow monkeys to leopards, and watch the children’s eyes light up.
4. Go to the movies
Visit the admission-free, architecturally stunning Eye Film Museum for a chance to catch classic Hollywood flicks. Children can star in their own silent movie by performing in front of a green screen. Make sure you stock up on all manner of movie memorabilia at the gift shop.
SEE ALSO: 5 great museums that kids and the young-at-heart will love
5. Play in the park
Situated on the outskirts of the city, the sprawling, 47ha Vondelpark offers the perfect place for little travellers to play. With an open-air theatre in summer, not to mention all sorts of eateries and a playground, it’s easy to spend the whole day here.
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6. Learn about science
State-of-the-art interactive exhibits at Nemo Science Museum are entertaining enough to capture the attention of kids. Watch as your young ones spend hours absorbed in unravelling everything from the mysteries of the brain to the secrets of sustainable energy.
7. Ride the canal boats
Exploring Amsterdam’s UNESCO-lauded canal ring by boat is the best way to see the city’s sights without wearing out little legs. Sit back and relax on one of Amsterdam’s canal cruises and watch the world float past.
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8. See world-class art
The peerless collection of paintings by old masters at the Rijksmuseum never fails to fascinate any age group. Families will appreciate the fact that entrance is free for children below 18 and that the museum offers special tours and games to engage budding young art aficionados.
– TEXT BY DIANA HUBBELL
PHOTOS: RIJKSMUSEUM, NEMO SCIENCE MUSEUM, EYE FILM MUSEUM, ARTIS AMSTERDAM ROYAL ZOO, THE PANCAKE BAKERY, A’DAM LOOKOUT
This article was originally published by Singapore Press Holdings.
