Weekend in The Hague
This budget-friendly family itinerary for The Hague blends iconic attractions with exciting, free local events and indoor play options, perfect for families with children aged 3-12. We've ensured a mix of educational, active, and relaxing experiences, with practical tips on transport, facilities, and family-focused pricing to make your weekend memorable. Keep an eye on official websites closer to the date for any last-minute schedule changes.
Friday Evening - Creative Kids & Cozy Bites
Friday, November 14Children's Book Museum
Dive into the magical world of children's literature at the Kinderboekenmuseum.
This interactive museum features playful exhibitions like 'Ik ben Kikker' (I am Frog) for preschoolers and 'Papiria' for children aged 7 and up, stimulating imagination and a love for reading through digital and physical experiences.
Perfect for all ages (0-12) with dedicated areas for toddlers and older children. Exhibitions like 'ABC met de dieren mee' are great for younger kids (0-6) while 'Papiria' is more suited for 7+. Restrooms and stroller access are available. Plan for 1.5-2 hours of interactive fun.
Located near The Hague Central Station, easily accessible by public transport (tram/bus). Paid parking is available in nearby garages.
Early Family Dinner
Enjoy a relaxed, budget-friendly family dinner at a restaurant in the city center.
Many options cater to families with children's menus and a welcoming atmosphere.
Look for restaurants offering early bird specials or specific children's meals. Many establishments are used to families and provide high chairs and space for strollers. Aim for a quick and enjoyable meal before bedtimes.
Walkable from the Kinderboekenmuseum. Public transport stops are plentiful in the city center.
Saturday - Sinterklaas Celebration & Coastal Fun
Saturday, November 15Sinterklaas Grand Arrival
Join the festive crowds for the traditional 'Intocht van Sinterklaas' (Arrival of Sinterklaas) in The Hague.
Sinterklaas and his Piets arrive by steamboat in Scheveningen harbor around 11:15 AM, followed by a grand parade through the streets of Scheveningen and into The Hague city center. This is a quintessential Dutch family experience!
This is a hugely popular, free event. Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially at the harbor. Kids will love seeing Sinterklaas and getting treats from the Piets. Dress warmly and be prepared for crowds. Portable snacks and drinks are advisable. Facilities will be available in the area, but may be busy.
Take public transport (tram 1 or 9, or bus 21, 22, 23) to Scheveningen Bad or Kurhaus stops. Parking in Scheveningen can be challenging and expensive on event days, so public transport is highly recommended.
Beachfront Lunch & Stroll
After the Sinterklaas arrival, grab a casual lunch from one of the many eateries along Scheveningen Boulevard or opt for a picnic on the beach if the weather permits. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the promenade and pier.
Plenty of family-friendly cafes and kiosks offer quick and affordable lunch options. The beach offers space for kids to run around. De Pier has shops, restaurants, and attractions like a Ferris wheel (extra cost). Restrooms are available along the boulevard and on the pier.
Easily walkable from the Sinterklaas arrival area. Accessible by foot and stroller along the boulevard.
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre
Step into a world of LEGO® magic at LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Scheveningen.
This indoor attraction features 7 themed zones, a 4D cinema, interactive rides, and millions of LEGO® bricks to build and play with. Kids aged 3-10 will especially love the MINILAND, DUPLO® Park, and LEGO® NINJAGO® Training Zone.
An ideal indoor activity, especially if the weather is chilly. Adults must be accompanied by at least one child aged 11 or under. Expect to spend about 2.5 hours here. Restrooms and a cafe are on-site.
Located directly on Scheveningen Boulevard, within walking distance from De Pier and public transport stops. Several paid parking garages are nearby (e.g., Parking Nieuwe Parklaan, Kurhaus).
Scheveningen Dinner & Sunset
Enjoy an early dinner at one of the many family-friendly restaurants on Scheveningen Boulevard, followed by a walk to catch the sunset over the North Sea (weather permitting) as a beautiful end to your day.
Many restaurants offer casual dining suitable for families. Look for places with outdoor seating options for a sea view. It's a lovely way to wind down and create lasting memories with the kids. High chairs are generally available.
Walkable from LEGOLAND Discovery Centre. Public transport available to head back towards your accommodation.
Sunday - Miniature Wonders & Park Play
Sunday, November 16Madurodam Miniature Park
Experience the Netherlands in miniature at Madurodam, where you can explore intricately designed replicas of famous Dutch landmarks, cities, and landscapes at a scale of 1:25.
It offers interactive exhibits and two themed playgrounds for children of different ages.
Madurodam is very family-friendly, suitable for all ages. Kids will love the interactive elements, miniature trains, boats, and the playgrounds. Plan for 2-3 hours to fully explore the park. Restrooms and dining options are available on-site.
Madurodam has its own parking (approx. €10-12 per day). Easily accessible by public transport: take bus 22 or tram 9 from The Hague Central Station directly to the 'Madurodam' stop.
Zuiderpark Adventure
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at Zuiderpark, one of The Hague's largest and most beautiful city parks.
It features multiple playgrounds, including the 'Ot & Sien' playground with a 6-meter-high play castle, and a nature playground where kids can play with water, sand, and mud. It's a fantastic spot for children to run, play, and burn off energy.
Ideal for children of all ages, with diverse play areas. Bring towels if visiting the nature playground where kids might get wet. There are open fields for ball games and walking paths. Cafe Boom offers refreshments within the park (check opening hours). Public restrooms are available.
Accessible by tram lines 9 and 16, and various bus lines. Free street parking might be available in surrounding residential areas, but check local signs. Parking at the Zuiderpark swimming pool is also an option.
Indoor Play Fun
Wrap up the weekend with some active indoor fun at Monkey Town The Hague - De Uithof.
This large indoor play paradise is ideal for children aged 1-10, featuring climbing structures, slides, trampolines, a giant ball pit, and a specially designed toddler zone. It's a perfect way for kids to let off steam before the school week.
Parents typically have free entry, making it more budget-friendly. Comfortable seating and a cafe are available for parents. Suitable for energetic kids, offering a safe and stimulating environment regardless of weather. Plan for 1.5-2 hours.
Accessible by car with ample parking (usually paid) or public transport (check specific bus routes to De Uithof area).
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