Amsterdam Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Amsterdam
This itinerary balances free exploration with key family-friendly attractions, emphasizing interactive experiences and comfortable pacing for families with young children. Public transport is highly recommended for getting around Amsterdam.
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, February 20Petting Zoo Visit
Enjoy a visit to Kinderboerderij De Pijp, a charming local petting zoo.
Children can get up close with various small domestic and farm animals like sheep, chickens, goats, rabbits, and guinea pigs. It's a wonderful free outdoor activity for animal lovers.
Suitable for all ages, especially 3-12 years. Facilities include animal enclosures and open spaces. Allow 1.5-2 hours. Staff are usually friendly and happy to answer questions about the animals.
Easily accessible by public transport to the De Pijp neighborhood. Limited street parking may be available but is often paid.
Casual Ramen Dinner
Savor a delicious and warm ramen dinner at Fou Fow Ramen, known for its authentic Japanese noodle soups.
It's a popular spot offering hearty and budget-friendly meals suitable for the whole family.
Good for families. Ramen can be customized to children's preferences. Expect a lively atmosphere. Allow 1-1.5 hours. Several locations are available; this one is centrally located.
Centrally located, walkable from many areas or accessible via tram lines to Leidseplein or Jordaan area.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, February 21NEMO Science Fun
Dive into a world of discovery at NEMO Science Museum, Amsterdam's largest science center.
It features five floors of interactive, hands-on exhibits designed to make science and technology fun and accessible for all ages. Children can experiment, explore, and learn through play.
Ideal for children aged 4-12. Exhibits encourage hands-on interaction. Stroller-friendly with lockers available for bags. Allow 3-4 hours for a full experience. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
Located near Central Station, easily reachable by walking (approx. 15 minutes), bus, or tram. Parking garage available nearby (Oosterdok Parking).
Rooftop Lunch
Enjoy a convenient lunch at NEMO's rooftop café, offering a great selection of food and drinks with panoramic views over Amsterdam.
Offers a variety of family-friendly options. Ideal for a quick and scenic lunch break after exploring the museum. Allow 1 hour.
Located within the museum, no additional travel needed.
Chocolate Festival
Indulge your sweet tooth at the Amsterdam Chocolate Festival.
This event features over 100 chocolate makers from around the world, offering tastings, workshops, and insights into the 'bean to bar' process. A delightful experience for families.
Engaging for children with tasting opportunities and potentially kid-friendly workshops. Allow 2-2.5 hours. Specific program details for 2026 should be checked closer to the date.
Centrally located, a short walk from Central Station. Easily accessible by various public transport lines.
Vondelpark Playtime
Unwind and let the kids burn off energy at the expansive Vondelpark.
This famous city park features multiple playgrounds, including a large fenced area near Groot Melkhuis, and natural play areas with wooden forts and a canopy walk suitable for different ages.
Multiple play areas cater to various age groups (3-12). Public restrooms and water fountains are available. Allow 1.5-2 hours.
Accessible via tram lines to Leidseplein or Museumplein, with several entrances to the park. The main playground is near the Amstelveenseweg entrance. Can be reached by bike or foot.
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, February 22ARTIS Royal Zoo
Spend your morning at ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo, the oldest zoo in the Netherlands.
Explore diverse animal habitats, including an African Savannah, butterfly gardens, an aquarium, and a planetarium (included with admission). It’s an intimate zoo perfect for families.
Engaging for all ages, especially 3-12. Children 0-2 years old enter for free. Plan for 3-4 hours to see the main attractions. Stroller-friendly.
Accessible by tram line 14 (Artis stop) or a 15-20 minute walk from Waterlooplein metro station. Limited paid parking is available.
Zoo-side Lunch
Have a relaxed lunch at one of the cafes or restaurants within ARTIS Zoo, or explore a budget-friendly option in the surrounding Plantage neighborhood.
ARTIS offers various dining choices suitable for families.
Convenient for continuing your zoo visit. Many options include sandwiches, salads, and hot meals. Allow 1 hour.
Located inside ARTIS Zoo.
Library Exploration
Visit the OBA (Openbare Bibliotheek Amsterdam) Central Library.
This modern library has a fantastic children's floor with books, cozy reading nooks, and play areas. You can also enjoy panoramic views of the city from the rooftop terrace, a hidden gem for families.
Free entry. Excellent for winding down, especially on a chilly day. Suitable for all ages, with dedicated areas for younger children. Offers a café with reasonably priced snacks. Allow 1-1.5 hours.
Very close to Amsterdam Centraal Station, easily walkable.
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