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Top 5 Indoor Activities in Amsterdam for Kids

5 Tips to make the most of a rainy day in Amsterdam with your kids


Amsterdam may be famous for its historic canals and outdoor beauty, but when the clouds roll in, the city remains one of the best destinations for families. If you are looking for the best activities in Amsterdam to keep the children engaged, active, and dry, here are the top five indoor adventures that offer a perfect blend of education and play.

1. NEMO Science Museum
The NEMO Museum is the largest and most popular science center in the Netherlands, designed specifically for curious young minds. Spread across five floors, this museum encourages children to touch everything and learn through hands-on discovery.

• The Highlight: In the NEMO Laboratory, kids can wear lab coats and safety goggles to perform experiments using everyday items like baking soda and vinegar.
• Daily Demos: Don't miss the daily "Chain Reaction" demonstration, which explores potential and kinetic energy in a spectacular visual way.

2. Het Scheepvaartmuseum (The National Maritime Museum)
For those seeking adventurous activities in Amsterdam, stepping back in time to discover naval history is a must. The Scheepvaart museum features multiple exhibitions tailored specifically for families and young children.

• The Experience: Kids can board a full-scale replica of the VOC ship, the Amsterdam, where they can lie in hammocks, stand behind the steering wheel, or even hoist cargo in the hold.
• Modern Tech: Children aged 8 and up can experience the VR journey "Dare to Discover," which uses virtual reality to take visitors back to the city's 17th-century Golden Age.

3. Wereldmuseum Junior
Formerly known as the Tropenmuseum Junior, the Wereldmuseum Junior is the oldest children's museum in the Netherlands and is famous for its interactive concept. It focuses on stimulating an open mind toward different cultures through play and discovery.
• Current Feature: The "Raad van de Raaf" (Council of the Raven) exhibition teaches children aged 6 and up about global climate change through tasks like balancing in a kayak or stepping onto a life-sized dog sled.
• Cultural Discovery: Families can also visit FEEST! Wereldwijd, a vibrant area where kids can learn about celebrations from around the world through music, dance, and costumes.

4. Allard Pierson Museum
If your children enjoy mystery and ancient history, the Allard Pierson Museum is one of the most fascinating indoor activities in Amsterdam. It houses a massive collection of artifacts from Ancient Egypt, including real mummies.
• The Quest: Families can participate in the "Stargazers" scavenger hunt, where children use Egyptian gods and an ancient clock to solve puzzles while learning how people viewed the night sky thousands of years ago.

5. Candy Castle (Indoor Playground)
When the kids need to burn off some energy, Candy Castle offers a play experience like no other. This indoor playground is uniquely located inside a restored monumental church.
• Active Play: Children aged 0 to 12 can climb, slide, and jump through various zones designed to help develop their motor skills and creativity.
• Perks for All: The facility includes a dedicated "mini-zone" for the youngest travelers and even an indoor kart track for older kids, while parents can enjoy a coffee on-site.

Whether you’re exploring ancient mummies or conducting your own science experiments, these engaging activities in Amsterdam ensure your family trip remains filled with wonder and discovery, proving that a rainy day is just another opportunity for an unforgettable indoor adventure.


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