Looking for a fun day out in the Netherlands with kids? A museum might not be the first idea that pops into your head—but maybe it should be. All across the Netherlands, there are museums created especially for children. These aren’t the kind with endless glass cases and “do not touch” signs. Instead, think hands-on exhibits, exciting scavenger hunts, fun experiments, dress-up areas, and adventures your kids can step right into.
Whether you’ve got a toddler who just wants to play, a curious little explorer, or a teenager who’s always up for something active, there’s a museum out there that fits perfectly. From dinosaurs to trains, and from creative art to fascinating science and technology—there’s something for every interest and age group. And it’s not just about keeping busy on a rainy day either—many of these museums include outdoor areas or are even completely open-air, making them ideal for sunny family outings.
In this blog, we’ve rounded up the very best museums in both Amsterdam and the rest of the Netherlands for kids. You’ll find helpful information about each location, practical tips to make your visit easier, and a clear, easy-to-use map to help you plan your day out. That way, you’ll know exactly where to go—and which museums are the best fit for your family.
How to visit ‘adult’ museums with kids
You don’t need to stick to children’s museums to enjoy a fun and meaningful day out with your kids. In fact, some of the most memorable moments can happen in museums that weren’t designed with children in mind—if you’re willing to see things through their eyes. I often visit museums with my eldest daughter, even when there’s no kid-friendly exhibit or play area, and we always end up having a great time.
We’ve been going to museums together since she was a toddler, simply taking the time to explore, talk, and discover things on her level. When we visited the Mauritshuis in The Hague, for example, we didn’t worry about famous names or iconic masterpieces. Instead, we searched for what caught her attention—vibrant flower paintings, animals hidden in the background, or spotting who was wearing those big white collars. She’d often point out little details I had completely missed. At a modern art museum, she loved naming the colors in abstract paintings and imagining how the people in portraits might be feeling. It turned every visit into a fun and eye-opening experience for both of us.
Many “grown-up” museums actually offer ways to make the visit more enjoyable for younger visitors—like scavenger hunts, activity cards, or special kids’ audio tours. But even if those aren’t available, you can still create your own adventure. Give your child a fun little challenge, like “find three angry faces” or “spot a dog in a painting.” Let them take photos of what they love most, or come up with a story together about a scene in a painting. Simply by looking closely and talking about what you see, even a quiet gallery filled with classic art can become a playful journey. You don’t have to be an art expert—just bring your curiosity and let your child’s imagination lead the way.
Overview Map of Family-Friendly Museums
The 25 Best Kids-Friendly Museums in the Netherlands
#1 Nijntje Museum – Utrecht
The Nijntje Museum in Utrecht is a wonderful destination for young children between the ages of two and six. Here, everything revolves around discovery, play, and learning—right in the heart of Dick Bruna’s charming world. Each room invites little explorers into a new mini-adventure, whether they’re pretending to be a doctor, wandering through the zoo, learning about traffic, or shopping in a miniature store. Every space is interactive and set at toddler height, so even the youngest visitors can fully join in on the fun.
The museum is thoughtfully laid out, safe, and completely geared toward small children. You won’t find flashy screens or loud distractions here—just hands-on objects, simple shapes, and spaces that invite kids to touch, imagine, and explore. It’s the ideal setting for a child’s very first museum experience! You’ll find the museum right across from the Centraal Museum, at Agnietenstraat 2 in Utrecht. Don’t forget to book your tickets online in advance, as reservations are required.
#2 Spoorwegmuseum – Utrecht (The Railway Museum)
The Railway Museum (Spoorwegmuseum) in Utrecht is one of the most exciting days out for kids who are crazy about trains. But even if your child isn’t a die-hard train fan, this museum is packed with fun and adventure from the moment you arrive. Set in the beautifully restored Maliebaan Station, your visit begins in the best possible way—with a ride on a special shuttle train from Utrecht Central Station that delivers you straight to the museum’s doorstep.
Once inside, children can clamber into real historic locomotives, take a spin on a mini roller coaster, or dive into hands-on attractions like The Fire Test (De Vuurproef), where they can experience what it’s like to drive a train. The mix of grand old trains and exciting modern exhibits makes this place a hit with kids aged four and up—but there’s more than enough to keep younger ones entertained too.
With both indoor and outdoor spaces to explore, there’s room to run, play, and discover at your own pace. You’ll find the museum just a short walk from the city center, at Maliebaanstation 16—a must-visit for a family day full of energy, imagination, and adventure.
#3 Maritiem Museum – Rotterdam
At the Maritime Museum in Rotterdam, you’ll plunge into the captivating world of ships, harbors, and seafaring adventures. One of the main highlights for children is Professor Plons, an interactive experience where kids can roll up their sleeves and get involved—whether it’s tying knots, loading containers, or learning the ropes of steering a ship. The entire exhibit is hands-on, making it feel as if your child is right in the middle of a busy port. The Professor Plons area was completely revamped in October 2024, making it even more exciting and engaging! If you’ve been on Instagram lately, you’ve probably seen the buzz around the reopening—everyone was thrilled by the changes.
Read More: 30 Best Things to Do in Rotterdam with Kids
Outside the museum, you can explore a collection of historic ships and towering cranes, offering a glimpse into life on the water. Inside, there are rotating exhibits that take you from the world of pirates and submarines to Rotterdam’s significance as a major global port. For older children, there are virtual reality experiences and fascinating tales about legendary explorers.
Situated right in the city center, next to the picturesque Leuvehaven, the museum is easy to get to. After exploring, you can relax at the charming café with its inviting terrace, or browse the delightful gift shop filled with ship models and maritime books. It’s the perfect place to spend a few hours—where fun and learning come together in an unforgettable way.
#4 NEMO Science Museum – Amsterdam
The NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam is the perfect spot for curious kids, especially those between the ages of six and fourteen. Set in a striking green building that resembles a ship, NEMO offers five exciting floors full of hands-on experiments, interactive exhibits, and fascinating technology.
Children are encouraged to dive right in and explore: they can build bridges, blow giant bubbles, create electrical circuits, test the power of water, and even perform chemical reactions. Everything is designed to be touched, tinkered with, and experimented on. For younger kids, there’s a special area just for toddlers and preschoolers, so even the littlest explorers can join in on the fun.
At the top of the building, there’s a spacious rooftop terrace with breathtaking views of Amsterdam. There’s also a fun water play area where kids can splash around and cool off. The museum is conveniently located at Oosterdok 2, just a short stroll from Central Station.
#5 Kinderboekenmuseum – Den Haag (Children’s Book Museum)
The Children’s Book Museum (Kinderboekenmuseum) in Den Haag is a true haven for young book lovers. Everything here is designed to spark imagination, celebrate language, and inspire creativity. The museum’s interactive exhibits bring famous children’s stories to life, allowing kids to step right into the pages of their favorite books. For instance, they can crawl through a world filled with tasty treats, just like the Very Hungry Caterpillar, and magically transform into a butterfly, or even hop into a fire truck for a fun ride. When we visited, the area dedicated to the much-loved character, Frog (Kikker), was a major hit with our little ones. There’s so much to see and do, and it’s easy for kids to spend hours playing, exploring, and learning.
Nestled inside the Royal Library building, the museum is just a short walk from Den Haag Centraal, so it’s incredibly easy to reach by train. This museum is perfect for even the youngest children—our son was only one year old when he first visited and had a blast exploring.
#6 Naturalis – Leiden
Naturalis in Leiden is one of the most awe-inspiring museums in the country for anyone fascinated by dinosaurs, nature, and science. The museum takes visitors on an incredible journey through the story of life on Earth, from its very first forms to the present day. It’s a place where children can not only look and learn but also engage, explore, and discover. This interactive approach is what makes the museum truly stand out.
The star of the show is Trix, the towering skeleton of an actual Tyrannosaurus rex. But there’s so much more to explore: from ancient fossils and skeletons to hands-on exhibits that dive into the Ice Age, the wonders of the underwater world, and the fascinating lives of insects. The museum’s modern, spacious design ensures that even young children can easily navigate through the exhibits, making it a fun experience for all ages.
For children aged four and up, the museum offers plenty of exciting activities to keep them entertained. Scavenger hunts, workshops, and special events during school holidays add to the fun. Naturalis is conveniently located near Leiden Central Station, so it’s easy to get there by train from Amsterdam or anywhere in the country.
#7 Dutch Open Air Museum – Arnhem
The Dutch Open-Air Museum in Arnhem is one of the most engaging and varied museums for children in the country. Set across a sprawling outdoor space, this museum offers a unique opportunity to step back in time, with historic farms, workshops, windmills, and homes dating from the 16th to the 20th century.
Children will be entertained for hours as they grind flour, try on wooden shoes, bake bread, or hop aboard a historic tram for a ride through the past. There are live demonstrations of traditional crafts, and at the children’s farm, little ones can explore what life was like for kids in earlier times, all through hands-on play. While the museum is particularly suited for children aged four and up, even the youngest explorers will find plenty of fun as they roam freely and discover interactive exhibits.
The museum is located just outside Arnhem, with ample parking and easy access via public transport from Arnhem Central Station. With so much to explore both indoors and out, it’s the perfect destination for a family day out, especially when the sun is shining.
#8 Villa Zebra – Rotterdam
Villa Zebra in Rotterdam is a museum where you’re not just a spectator—you’re invited to get involved! Focused on art and creativity, it’s a vibrant space designed especially for children aged three to twelve. The exhibits are fun and hands-on, and you’ll find no “do not touch” signs here—everything is meant to be explored.
For the younger ones (ages three to six), there’s ‘SELF!’, a world where they can build, draw, and play to their heart’s content. Older children (seven and up) can take part in creative workshops where they can express themselves and create their own works of art. The best part? There’s no right or wrong way to do it—anything goes!
Situated right by the Maas River, the museum also boasts a cozy indoor garden, perfect for some quiet time. If you need a break, the café offers a relaxing spot to sit down and enjoy a treat. It’s the ideal place for a rainy day or when your kids are looking for something different from the usual playground.
#9 Museum Speelklok – Utrecht
The Museum Speelklok in Utrecht is a vibrant and charming museum where music and movement take center stage. Inside, you’ll discover a captivating collection of mechanical instruments—everything from music boxes and player pianos to clocks and street organs—many of which have been playing their melodies for centuries. This is far from a quiet museum; music fills the air from every direction, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
The guided tours are both fun and informative, with live demonstrations that bring the instruments to life. Children will be spellbound as an entire automated band unexpectedly starts playing. For younger visitors, there’s a delightful treasure hunt, and during school holidays, the museum often hosts extra activities to keep everyone engaged and entertained.
The museum is set in a historic church building in the heart of Utrecht, just a short walk from the iconic Dom Tower. With easy access by train, bus, or bike, it’s the perfect place for a family outing filled with fun, music, and a touch of history.
#10 Wereldmuseum – Rotterdam
Travel the world without leaving Rotterdam! At the Wereldmuseum, you can immerse yourself in the cultures of every corner of the globe. We visited this museum frequently before having children, but with the family in tow, it’s even more fun and engaging.
One of the standout attractions for kids is the Superstraat! This recreated street, designed just for little ones, brings cultures to life at their level. Children can shop for ingredients at Aga’s corner store, learn an exotic dance from Rodney, and even whip up delicious international dishes in Winston’s Feast Kitchen. And that’s just the beginning—there’s a whole world to explore through interactive exhibits that encourage kids to do, discover, and learn rather than simply look.
Nestled in a stunning historic building by the Maas River, the museum is conveniently located near the famous Erasmus Bridge. It’s a lovely spot to take a walk along the water afterward. Just a heads-up: the Superstraat isn’t open every day, so it’s worth checking the schedule before you go. We found it especially fun for kids from about two years old and up.
#11 Loevestein Castle – Poederoijen
Loevestein Castle is everything you’d imagine a medieval fortress to be: thick stone walls, towering turrets, and a deep moat surrounding it. But what truly sets this castle apart for kids is that it’s not just a place to look at—it’s a place to get involved. Kids can take part in an exciting treasure hunt, exploring hidden rooms, solving puzzles, and listening to captivating tales that bring the castle’s history to life.
The adventure continues with a costume chest, a scavenger hunt through the entire fort, and, of course, the famous book chest of Hugo de Groot. For those who love a bit of drama, you can even reenact Hugo’s daring escape! Outside, children can climb the castle walls, splash around in water features, or simply relax with a picnic while taking in the breathtaking views of the fortress.
Loevestein Castle is open daily and is beautifully located by the Waal River. You can easily reach it by car or ferry. Just be sure to check the castle’s website for up-to-date opening hours and activities—there’s always something extra to entertain kids.
Looking for more castle adventures? Check out the 12 best castles in the Netherlands to visit!
#12 Archeon Museum Park
Archeon is one of those rare places where kids completely forget they’re in a museum. This immersive outdoor park transports visitors through time, taking you from the prehistoric era, through the Roman period, and into the Middle Ages, all with realistic scenes unfolding at every turn. There are no boring signs filled with dry facts—here, you’ll encounter people dressed in period costumes, showcasing real skills and encouraging you to dive right in.
Bake bread over an open fire, take a shot at archery, or prove your sword-fighting skills. Kids are welcome to ask questions, dress up, and sometimes even roll up their sleeves to help in a medieval workshop. Explore a Roman arena, wander through a tranquil monastery, and relax in an authentic bathhouse. It’s all about living history, discovering the past through hands-on, interactive experiences.
Archeon is ideal for children from around four years old, though even older kids will find plenty to keep them busy for hours. Conveniently located just outside the center of Alphen aan den Rijn, it’s easy to reach by both train and car.
#13 Zuiderzeemuseum – Enkhuizen
The Zuiderzee Museum in Enkhuizen offers an exciting journey back in time to the days when life revolved around the former Zuiderzee. As you explore the open-air section, you’ll wander through a charming, fully recreated fishing village, complete with authentic houses, quaint shops, and old workshops. Children can experience firsthand how people lived, worked, and played during the 19th century.
What makes this museum especially fun for kids? It’s all about getting involved! They can paint wooden shoes, smoke fish, weave rope, or embark on a scavenger hunt through the village. While I haven’t yet visited with my own children, I have fond memories of spending many days here on family holidays when I was a child. We even made a special trip to the campsite in Enkhuizen just to visit the museum. During holidays, the museum often offers extra activities, such as a traditional Dutch games area or craft demonstrations. From the very beginning, the experience is a delightful adventure—visitors take a small boat from the entrance to the open-air museum section, setting the tone for the fun to come.
Inside the museum building, you’ll find rotating exhibits, many with interactive elements that engage visitors of all ages. The Zuiderzee Museum is a perfect destination for families, with something for everyone to enjoy. Enkhuizen is easily accessible by train, and the museum is just a short walk from the station, making it a convenient and enjoyable day trip.
#14 GeoFort – Herwijnen
GeoFort in Herwijnen is far from your typical museum—it’s an interactive adventure park where everything is focused on the Earth, technology, and innovation. Set in a historic fort, this extraordinary venue is designed with curious children in mind, especially those aged five and up. Here, they can explore, create, and test their ideas—getting wonderfully messy along the way.
Inside the fort, kids can dive into hands-on exhibits where they’ll learn about earthquakes, climate change, and the science of navigation. Outside, there’s a sprawling adventure garden packed with rope bridges, diggers, water channels, and even a fragrant maze. In the “climate maze,” children discover how global warming affects the planet, while in the Minecraft zone, they can roll up their sleeves and build their own sustainable city.
GeoFort is a fantastic mix of outdoor fun and indoor education. It’s the perfect place for kids who love to build, problem-solve, and experiment. Set in the peaceful Betuwe region, surrounded by lush fields, the fort is open on weekends and often during school holidays too, making it an ideal destination for a family day of discovery and adventure.
#15 Tropenmuseum – Amsterdam
The Wereldmuseum (also known as Tropenmuseum, it’s old name) in Amsterdam, with its vibrant Wereldmuseum Junior, is home to one of the city’s most exciting and immersive children’s exhibitions. Here, the focus is on world cultures—and the fun of learning from one another. Forget about dull glass cases and dry labels; instead, you’re invited on a colorful journey filled with stories, lively music, fascinating scents, and much more.
Kids don’t just look at exhibits—they step into a whole new world. Armed with a passport, they meet a guide and set off on an interactive adventure. The museum offers a variety of workshops, games, and hands-on exhibits that explore everything from global celebrations and traditional foods to the everyday lives of children around the world. Many of the guides are young people with roots in these cultures, bringing an authentic and personal touch to the experience.
Tropenmuseum Junior is perfect for children ages six and up. Located just outside Amsterdam’s city center in the East, it’s easy to reach by tram or bike. If you’re planning to visit during weekends or school holidays, be sure to book tickets for the children’s tours in advance, as they often sell out.
#16 Museon-Omniversum – Den Haag
Museon-Omniversum in The Hague is an exciting combination of a science and nature museum and a massive dome theater where you can experience nature documentaries on an enormous screen. It’s the perfect place for curious kids eager to explore the wonders of the world, from the creatures that live in it to the mysteries of the skies above.
In the museum, children will discover how volcanoes erupt, why bees are essential to our planet, and how plastic pollution impacts the oceans. With interactive displays and hands-on activities, kids are invited to dive into learning by experimenting, building, and even taking part in quizzes. After exploring the exhibits, they can unwind in the dome theater, watching captivating films on topics like space, the deep ocean, or other awe-inspiring subjects—feeling as though they’re right in the middle of the action.
Museon-Omniversum is an ideal experience for children aged five and up, and even older kids will find it just as fascinating. Located near The Hague’s Peace Palace and Gemeentemuseum, it’s easily accessible by tram or bus.
#17 Aviodrome – Lelystad
Aviodrome in Lelystad is a dream destination for kids who are captivated by airplanes. Even if your child hasn’t shown much interest in aviation yet, they’ll probably leave with a newfound passion for flying. This exciting aviation park boasts a collection of real aircraft, from vintage planes to a full-size Boeing 747, which you can actually walk through.
At Aviodrome, children can sit in the cockpits, press buttons to their heart’s content, try out a “junior pilot training” program, or even learn how to use Morse code. There are scavenger hunts, interactive displays, and a massive airplane-themed playground to explore outdoors. It’s all about hands-on discovery, with plenty of explanations to make sure the experience is as educational as it is thrilling.
The park is ideal for children around four years old and older. Aviodrome is conveniently located right next to Lelystad Airport, making it easy to reach by car. Just a quick tip: a large part of the park is outdoors, so be sure to bring a jacket if the weather isn’t great—or take advantage of a sunny day by enjoying a picnic among the planes in the summer.
#18 The National Maritime Museum– Amsterdam
The National Maritime Museum (Het Scheepvaartmuseum) in Amsterdam is a wonderful destination for children who are drawn to adventure and tales of the sea. Set in a stunning historic warehouse by the water, the museum is home to an impressive collection of ship models, nautical maps, globes, and maritime paintings. But what truly brings the place to life is the way it invites kids to dive in, explore, and actively take part in the experience.
One of the top highlights is the full-sized replica of the VOC ship Amsterdam, moored just outside the museum. Children can scramble aboard, explore the galley, and get hands-on with the cannons. Inside, younger visitors can enjoy the interactive “Diver Doris” exhibit, where they embark on an imaginative journey through an underwater world. Older kids will be drawn to “The Story of the Whale,” a fascinating exhibit about the history of whaling, made exciting with animations, lighting effects, and soundscapes.
During school holidays, the museum runs special family-friendly activities such as scavenger hunts and arts-and-crafts afternoons. And the location couldn’t be more convenient—just a short walk or a quick ferry ride from Amsterdam Central Station.
#19 Het Muizenhuis – Amsterdam (The Mouse House)
The Mouse Mansion (Het Muizenhuis) may be small in size, but it delivers a wonderfully big experience. Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam, just steps from the Munt, this enchanting little spot brings the magical world of The Mouse Mansion books by Karina Schaapman to life. Children can immerse themselves in the miniature universe of Sam and Julia, filled with tiny rooms, busy streets, charming shops, and even a whimsical circus.
The handcrafted models are incredibly detailed—every scene is a feast for the eyes. Wherever you look, mice are bustling about: shopping for groceries, putting on plays, or simply lounging at home. Kids will love taking their time to peer into every nook and cranny, spotting hidden details and imagining the stories behind them. There are also hands-on workshops where children can create their own mouse-sized door, a piece of furniture, or a little character to take home.
The Mouse Mansion isn’t a typical museum; it’s more of an experience store and miniature exhibition. Entry is free, and it’s the perfect little adventure to add to a walk through the city center. While it’s not a place where you’ll spend an entire afternoon, for fans of the books—or anyone who loves tiny worlds—it’s an unforgettable must-visit.
#20 Museum Village Orvelte – Orvelte
Orvelte isn’t your average museum—it’s a living, breathing village where the history of Drenthe comes alive all around you. Kids can wander through a world from long ago, a time before cars, smartphones, or supermarkets. You’ll discover historic farmhouses, old-fashioned workshops, a working blacksmith’s forge, and even a tiny village schoolroom—all still in use just like they were in the past.
All throughout the village, traditional crafts are brought to life in hands-on demonstrations—think wooden shoe carving, wool spinning, and candle dipping. During the summer holidays, there’s even more fun in store for kids, with special activities like baking bread, twisting rope by hand, or hopping aboard a horse-drawn carriage for a scenic ride. Almost everything is meant to be touched, tasted, or tried.
The museum village is best suited for children aged four and up, though toddlers are welcome to explore and watch the action at their own pace. Nestled in peaceful green countryside and completely car-free, Orvelte is safe, quiet, and full of charm. It’s an ideal day out for families looking for something real, hands-on, and outdoorsy.
#21 Natuurhistorisch Museum – Rotterdam
The Natural History Museum (Het Natuurhistorisch Museum) in Rotterdam may be small, but it’s packed with fun and fascinating discoveries for curious kids who love animals, skeletons, and the wonders of nature. Inside, young explorers can admire towering dinosaur skeletons, ancient fossils, and lifelike taxidermy animals, all while learning how plants and creatures have adapted to survive in different environments.
There’s plenty to do, too—children can take part in scavenger hunts or dive into the museum’s interactive screens, turning their visit into an exciting self-guided adventure. A definite favourite is the permanent exhibit Dead Animals with a Story, which showcases animals that met their end in strange—or often hilariously unexpected—ways. It’s perfect for kids who enjoy fun facts and a bit of the unexpected.
Set in the heart of Museumpark, right next to the Boijmans and the Kunsthal, the museum is easy to get to by tram or metro. Its compact size makes it ideal for a short visit or a spontaneous stop during a day of exploring the city.
#22 Veenpark – Barger-Compascuum
The Veenpark is a living museum nestled in the scenic Drenthe countryside, where history truly comes to life. Step into a village that looks exactly like it did a hundred years ago, complete with peat cottages, rustic farmhouses, and traditional workshops. Everything feels authentic and alive—and kids are welcome to get close, explore, and join in.
Hop aboard a charming little peat train that winds through the boglands and into the heart of the historic village. Along the way, you’ll see peat cutters at work and even float across the water on a traditional peat barge. Once in the village, you can watch a baker pulling fresh bread from a wood-fired oven, or see a clog maker carefully shaping wooden shoes. Children are invited to take part, touch the tools, smell the baking bread, and experience just how tough—but also how fascinating—life was back then.
For families, the Veenpark makes for a relaxed, varied, and memorable day out. It’s a wonderful mix of outdoor adventure, living history, and hands-on activities. With a large playground, a special discovery trail for children, and plenty of green space for picnics, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.
#23 Museum Voorlinden – Wassenaar
Voorlinden might not be the first museum you think of when planning a family day out, but it offers an unexpectedly delightful experience for families with children. This contemporary art museum, nestled on a stunning estate in Wassenaar, beautifully blends art, nature, and architecture in a way that’s both accessible and engaging. Many of the exhibits are spatial, interactive, and thought-provoking—capturing the imagination of visitors of all ages, including the younger ones.
A standout attraction for kids is the iconic Swimming Pool by Leandro Erlich, where it appears as though you’re walking underwater. It’s a mesmerizing illusion that never fails to wow! Another striking piece is a giant, hyper-realistic artwork of a couple sitting under a parasol—so enormous, you feel as though you’re looking up at them in awe.
The museum itself is bright and airy, with a welcoming atmosphere. There’s a lovely shop to browse through, and the estate grounds provide plenty of space for exploration. It’s the perfect spot for families seeking a peaceful yet stimulating day out, where art, nature, and fresh air come together in harmony.
Tip: Just a short distance away from Museum Voorlinden, you’ll find the Louwman Museum, home to an impressive collection of classic and vintage cars. Although we haven’t visited it with our kids yet, it’s definitely a must-see for families with older children who have an interest in cars or history.
#24 Forteiland Pampus – Muiden
A visit to Forteiland Pampus begins with a boat ride from Muiden, instantly transforming the day into an adventure for children. Situated in the IJmeer, the island is part of the Amsterdam Defense Line, a 19th-century military fortification. On the island, you’ll discover a large, intriguing fort, filled with corridors, towers, and underground chambers—each waiting to be explored.
Kids are provided with a treasure hunt or can dive into the Pampus Xperience, an engaging interactive exhibit where projections and games bring the island’s captivating history to life. As you stroll through the fort, you’ll hear the stories of soldiers and cannons, allowing the past to unfold before you. Outdoors, there’s ample space for children to run, picnic, and take in breathtaking views of the water from the fort’s ramparts.
Forteiland Pampus is particularly suited for children around six years old and up. The island is accessible only by boat, but the well-organized trip from Muiden is an experience in itself, adding to the adventure. It’s a perfect combination of history, exploration, and the great outdoors.
#25 Trammuseum Rotterdam (RoMeO)
For kids who are fascinated by vehicles, the Tram Museum Rotterdam (officially known as RoMeO) is a real gem. This charming museum takes visitors on a nostalgic journey through the history of public transport. Inside, you’ll discover a collection of vintage trams, buses, and subway cars—all preserved in their original condition. In some of them, you can even climb aboard or sit behind the driver’s seat to get a feel for what it was like back in the day.
Children can learn how trams were operated in the past, see how tickets were punched, and explore what public transport looked like over a century ago. What makes the experience even more special is that on select days, you can take a ride on a genuine historic tram through the streets of the city. The tram runs on the modern network, but with wooden benches and the sound of ringing bells, it feels like stepping back in time to the 1920s.
Housed in an old depot in Hillegersberg, the museum offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. It’s especially magical on ride days when the museum truly comes to life, offering a hands-on experience that’s both fun and educational. While it’s a fantastic visit for children as young as five, even older kids, tech enthusiasts, or history buffs will find something to enjoy here.
