Amsterdam with kids
Amsterdam with Kids is Currant’s curated guide to family life in the city—where play meets learning, and culture meets curiosity. From museum workshops and nature walks to design exhibitions, farms, and creative cafés, this page gathers the best things to do with children in Amsterdam. Updated throughout the year, it highlights experiences that are both educational and joyful, helping modern families explore the city through art, nature, and imagination.
On this page:
Artis
Artis Amsterdam
What is Artis?
Artis is Amsterdam’s historic zoo — the oldest in the Netherlands — where nature, science, and wonder meet. Located in the heart of the city, this lush green oasis offers an immersive experience for families, blending animal encounters, botanical gardens, and hands-on education. It’s a place where children can explore the natural world up close, from elephants and lions to tropical butterflies and coral reefs.
Why visit Artis with kids?
Because it’s one of the most engaging and educational spots in Amsterdam for families. Artis combines learning and play effortlessly — little ones can see animals they’ve only read about, wander through centuries-old tree-lined paths, and even step inside Micropia, the award-winning museum dedicated to the invisible world of microbes. Every part of Artis is designed to inspire curiosity and connection with nature.
What makes Artis special?
Unlike most urban zoos, Artis feels calm and intimate. The enclosures are beautifully integrated into the landscape, allowing you to feel close to the animals without overwhelming them. Beyond the wildlife, Artis features a planetarium, an aquarium (reopens in 2026), and art and architecture dating back to the 19th century. It’s more than just a zoo — it’s a cultural landmark where nature and history coexist.
Best time to visit Artis
Spring and early autumn are ideal, when the weather is mild and the gardens are in full bloom. Early mornings are quieter, perfect for families with young children. During summer, Artis also hosts ZOOmeravonden — long summer evenings with live music and outdoor dining, perfect for a relaxed family outing.
Why we love it
Artis remains one of Amsterdam’s timeless family favorites because it’s as engaging for adults as it is for kids — a place where learning and wonder go hand in hand. For children of all ages, it’s educational and fun: toddlers marvel at the elephants, school-age kids dive into the aquarium or Micropia, and older ones can explore the planetarium or learn about conservation. It’s one of those rare places where you can truly spend the entire day — wandering through gardens, watching feedings, enjoying a picnic, or simply slowing down together. In a city full of options, Artis is the one that always feels worth returning to.
We visited Artis on a sunny autumn Saturday morning. It couldn’t be more perfect. Rays of sun shining through the park, animals relaxing in the sun, and a happy toddler running around the park looking for her favorite animals. We loved the pulling carts throughout the park for whenever our toddler just wanted to sit. We also enjoyed the sea lion talk at noon, the butterfly garden, the stunning designs throughout the park (the waterfront where the elephants are and the view from De Waterkant (cafeteria) on the giraffes. There’s so much to see and I can see families coming back here at least twice a year as an educational and entertaining visit. I already look forward to the reopening of the aquarium next year.
Editor’s Note Igrien
Location
Plantage Kerklaan 38–40, 1018 CZ Amsterdam
Opening Hours
Daily from 9:00–18:00 (check artis.nl for seasonal variations)
Tickets
Available online; children under 2 enter free, with family and student discounts available
Getting There
A short tram or bike ride from Amsterdam Central Station; parking available nearby
Notes
Facilities
Several cafés and picnic areas throughout the park, plus playgrounds and rest zones for families
Tips
1. Visit early in the day for a quieter experience and to get a parking spot next to the zoo.
2. Make time for Micropia — the award-winning microbe museum right next door.
3. For families with toddlers, there are also pulling carts throughout the park. Very handy!
4. There’s lots of food and healthy options throughout the park. Definitely visit de Waterkant.
5. Check out the daily programs where the zoo caretakers talk about the animals.
6. Guided tours are also available if you want to learn more about the zoo in general.
Details
Published
20 October 2025