Weekend in The Hague
This weekend itinerary for families in The Hague focuses on a balance of free, engaging activities and exciting, worthwhile ticketed experiences. We've included interactive museums, outdoor play areas, and special Children's Book Week events to ensure a weekend full of discovery and fun for kids aged 3-12, while keeping your budget in mind with family-friendly pricing and practical details.
Friday Evening - Book Adventure & Playground Fun
Friday, October 3Adventure in the Dark
Kick off the Children's Book Week with a unique interactive storytelling session, 'Adventure in the Dark with Paco and Matthijs'. This event is perfect for older children who love mysteries and engaging narratives, bringing stories to life in an imaginative way.
Suitable for children aged 7 and up. This is a special event as part of Kinderboekenweek (Children's Book Week) which focuses on 'Adventure'. Libraries are usually stroller accessible and have restrooms. The duration is about 1.5 hours, a perfect early evening activity before winding down. The event details did not specify if a Dutch language proficiency is required, but generally, children's library events in the Netherlands are in Dutch.
Public transport is available to Wateringse Veld. Limited street parking might be available nearby, but public transport or cycling is recommended if possible.
Local Playground Visit
Before the evening event, let the kids burn off some energy at a local playground.
The Paleistuin (Palace Garden) offers a charming setting with unique play equipment and plenty of space to run around, ideal for all ages. It’s a peaceful spot close to the city center.
Great for kids aged 3-12, with swings, slides, and open green spaces for imaginative play. Restrooms are typically available in public parks, and paths are stroller-friendly. Pack a small picnic or some snacks for a budget-friendly early dinner.
Located centrally, easily accessible by tram or bus. Parking garages are available in the city center, but may require a short walk. Consider cycling if you live locally.
Saturday - Miniature Wonders & Coastal Fun
Saturday, October 4Madurodam Miniature Park
Spend the morning exploring the Netherlands in miniature at Madurodam.
This interactive theme park features detailed replicas of famous Dutch landmarks, canals, and cities at a 1:25 scale. Kids will love the moving trains, interactive exhibits, and playgrounds, including an area dedicated to Dutch Masters where art comes to life. It's an engaging and educational experience for the whole family.
Ideal for children aged 3-12, with plenty of hands-on activities. Stroller accessible throughout. Facilities include restrooms, cafes, and a souvenir shop. Allow 2-3 hours for the visit. Booking online in advance is recommended for better prices and to avoid queues.
Madurodam has a parking area available next to the park. It is also easily reachable by Tram 9 (towards Scheveningen Noord) from The Hague Central Station, with a stop directly at Madurodam.
Scheveningen Beach Lunch
Head to Scheveningen Beach for a relaxed, budget-friendly lunch.
You can enjoy a picnic on the sand or grab affordable treats from one of the many cafes and food stalls along the promenade. The wide-open beach offers plenty of space for kids to run around and play.
Perfect for energetic kids to play in the sand and enjoy the sea breeze. Many eateries offer kid-friendly options like fries, sandwiches, and ice cream. Restrooms are available along the promenade. Stroller accessible boardwalk.
Accessible by car with several parking garages (paid) near the beach, or by public transport (Trams 1, 9, 11, and 17 stop at Scheveningen). Consider using public transport to avoid parking hassle.
Pier Fun & Trampoline Park
Continue the fun at Scheveningen Pier.
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, take a ride on the Ferris wheel for stunning views of the North Sea, or let the kids bounce and play at Play & Bounce, which offers a soft play area for younger children and a trampoline park for older ones. It’s an ideal way to combine free beach access with exciting paid entertainment.
Play & Bounce is suitable for kids up to 10 years for soft play and older for trampolines. The Ferris wheel is enjoyable for all ages. Public restrooms are available on the pier. Stroller access is good on the main pier.
Same as Scheveningen Beach – accessible by car (paid parking) or public transport (tram).
Early Dinner & Treats
Enjoy an early, kid-friendly dinner in Scheveningen.
Consider a pancake restaurant like 'Grandma Toos' (Oma Toos) which often have play areas, or a relaxed eatery with a kids' menu. Alternatively, treat the family to some traditional Dutch snacks or ice cream to end the day before heading home for early bedtimes.
Restaurants in Scheveningen often cater to families. 'Waterkant' in Westbroekpark is another excellent option with a playground nearby. Look for places with outdoor seating if the weather is good.
Accessible from Scheveningen Beach area by walking or short tram/bus ride. Parking available at restaurants or nearby garages.
Sunday - Relaxed Exploration & Aquatic Wonders
Sunday, October 5Park Play & Nature
Start Sunday with a relaxed visit to Clingendael Park.
This beautiful estate offers expansive parkland, walking routes, and a fantastic playground for children. While the famous Japanese Garden might not be open this time of year (it usually has specific opening months), the general park and playground provide ample space for kids to explore and play freely.
Great for all ages, with swings, climbing frames, and wide-open spaces. Pack a ball or frisbee. Stroller-friendly paths and public restrooms available. Enjoy the autumnal nature before the busy week begins.
Free parking may be available in designated areas near the park entrances. Accessible by bus from the city center.
SEA LIFE Aquarium
Dive into the fascinating underwater world at SEA LIFE Scheveningen.
Explore various themed zones, see sharks, sea turtles, penguins, and otters up close, and enjoy interactive touch pools. This indoor attraction is a perfect choice, especially if the weather is less favorable, offering an educational and exciting experience for children of all ages.
Engaging for kids aged 3-12, with daily feeding times and informative displays. Fully stroller accessible with restrooms and a small cafe on-site. The visit usually takes 1-1.5 hours. Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to guarantee entry and potentially save money.
Located directly on Scheveningen Boulevard, accessible by car (paid parking in garages) or public transport (Tram 1, 9, 11, 17 to Scheveningen).
Ice Cream Treat
Wrap up your amazing weekend with a special ice cream treat from a local parlor.
It’s a simple, delightful way to celebrate a fun-filled family weekend and provides a sweet end to your adventures before heading home for evening routines.
A perfect little reward for kids and parents alike. Look for parlors with a good selection of flavors and perhaps some outdoor seating if the weather permits. Easy to access from SEA LIFE or other central locations.
Easy walk from SEA LIFE Scheveningen or a short tram/bus ride if you choose a location in the city center. Parking is available in public garages.
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