Indoor Play

Kick off the weekend at De Ballebak, a massive indoor playground perfect for children aged 0-12.

Kids can enjoy multi-level climbing frames, ball pits, bouncy castles, and slides across four floors, making it an ideal spot to burn off energy, especially on a potentially chilly November evening. There are dedicated areas for younger children (1-4 years) and older ones (4-12 years).

Perfect for energetic kids aged 3-12. Facilities include clean restrooms and plenty of seating for parents. Stroller access is good. Expect to stay for 2-3 hours. It's an excellent rainy-day option. There are also food and drink facilities on-site.

Family Pizza Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed family dinner at Happy Italy Rotterdam Binnenrotte, known for its delicious Italian food and, importantly, its dedicated play area for children.

It's a popular choice for families looking for a casual meal where kids can have fun.

Kids will love the play area while waiting for food. The menu offers child-friendly options like mini pizzas and pasta. The atmosphere is lively and accommodating for families. Restrooms available, stroller accessible.

Zoo Expedition

Embark on a wildlife adventure at Diergaarde Blijdorp (Rotterdam Zoo), one of Europe's most beautiful zoos.

Explore diverse habitats, from the Amazonica butterfly garden to the expansive Oceanium with sharks and sea turtles, and the African Gorilla Island. Kids will love seeing polar bears, giraffes, and engaging with the interactive elements throughout the park.

Excellent for all ages, especially 3-12. Features play areas, baby changing facilities, and numerous food stalls. Allow 3-4 hours or more. It's a largely outdoor attraction, but the Oceanium and Amazonica are indoors, making it suitable for mixed weather conditions.

Zoo Lunch

Enjoy a convenient and kid-friendly lunch within Diergaarde Blijdorp.

The zoo offers various restaurants and snack points with options ranging from sandwiches and salads to hot meals and children's favorites.

Conveniently located within the zoo, allowing more time for animal viewing. Plenty of options for kids' meals. Restrooms and baby changing facilities are readily available throughout the park. Suitable for quick, budget-conscious meals or more substantial lunches.

Maritime Museum Play

Dive into the world of ships and the sea at the Maritime Museum Rotterdam.

Kids will particularly love 'Professor Plons' and 'Plons! The Future of the Sea,' interactive exhibitions where they can playfully explore the port, learn about different vessels, and even help clean a digital ocean. The outdoor museum harbor also offers a chance to see historic ships.

Highly interactive and educational for kids aged 3-12. The 'Professor Plons' area is a highlight. Stroller accessible, restrooms available. Allow 2-3 hours. Great for all weather conditions as the main exhibits are indoors.

Markthal Snack & Explore

Wind down your adventurous day with a visit to the iconic Markthal.

This architectural marvel is a covered market offering a vibrant atmosphere, diverse food stalls, and unique shops. It's a great place for a quick snack, a sweet treat, or just to soak in the lively ambiance. Kids will be fascinated by the colourful ceiling artwork and the variety of foods.

Free to enter and browse. Perfect for a casual stroll, an early light dinner, or an ice cream treat. Restrooms are available. Fully stroller accessible. A good indoor option.

Kinderdijk Windmills

Embark on a scenic journey to Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage site just outside Rotterdam, famous for its iconic 19 windmills.

Explore the area by walking or taking a boat tour, visit a museum windmill to see how families used to live, and let the kids participate in a scavenger hunt. It's a unique insight into Dutch water management history.

Suitable for all ages. Kids will enjoy the boat trip, going inside the mills, and the scavenger hunt. Pathways are easy for walking and stroller-friendly. Restrooms available at the visitor center (go before you head out to the mills, as facilities are sparse further along). Allow 3-4 hours. Dress warmly, as it's an open area.

Park Play & Picnic

After returning from Kinderdijk, head to Het Park, a beautiful green space near the Euromast.

Kids can enjoy the playgrounds, run freely, or you can find a nice spot for a late picnic if the weather permits. It's a relaxed environment to unwind and let children play before the school week.

Excellent for energetic kids. Free access. Plenty of space to run, various play equipment. Restrooms available in nearby cafes (Parqiet is popular). Stroller friendly. Consider bringing a frisbee or ball.

Casual Dinner

Conclude your weekend with an early, casual family dinner.

Juffrouw van Zanten is a great option, known for its healthy and delicious menu with a dedicated play corner or even a courtyard with toys and a sandbox at some locations, allowing kids to have one last burst of fun before heading home.

Known for being very kid-friendly with play areas. Offers breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner with responsible and delicious menu options for both adults and children. High chairs available, restrooms. Perfect for an early evening meal.