When the sun is shining Amsterdammers get out onto the city’s many terraces and watch the world go by. But can you still enjoy this simple pleasure with your kids in tow?
Ofcourse you can! These are some of our favourite child-friendly sunshine terrace destinations.
Centrum
NEMO rooftop terrace
The distinct sloping roof of the NEMO Science center is also a public terrace and offers a restaurant, city view, and interactive science exhibit all in one. Touted as the “highest city square in the Netherlands,” it’s free to enter and provides stunning views of Amsterdam’s marina while your kids learn about sustainable energy. Access the rooftop via the stairs from the street level or the lift in the lobby.
♦ Winner, Best Museum for Families, Best Day Out (Indoors) for Families, Amsterdam Mamas Recommends Awards 2016 ♦
Noord
Pllek
Located at the NDSM-werf, Pllek is a hip, yet family-friendly city beach terrace with a great view over the city, that offers organic food, live music, yoga, and kids’ activities.
Oost
Hotel Arena
The cafe at Hotel Arena has Oosterpark as its backyard and is newly remodeled. A lovely place to spend a sunny afternoon with the little ones.
Roest
Creative and funky, one of Amsterdam’s hippest terraces. Bring a bucket and spade and let your little one play in the sand while you relax on their terrace.
West
Terrasmus
Open from the beginning of March until the end of October each year, Terrasmus is quietly tucked away near the entrance of the children’s play area in the Erasmuspark. Grab a fresh juice or smoothie, while your little one races around the playground.
Zuid
Boerderij Meerzicht
If you fancy a bike ride in the sunshine before your terrace adventure, then Boerderij Meerzicht is ideal. A lovely ride through the leafy Amsterdamse Bos brings you to the Pancake House cafe with its huge multi-level terrace. There is a childrens’ playground nearby, as well as live deer to feed, and mini diggers to play with (coin operated). Very child-friendly, with lots of facilities for even the smallest guests.
Vondeltuin
At the south end of the Vondelpark is the lively and buzzing Vondeltuin. Right by the large children’s sandpit you can either hang out in their huge garden or carry your drinks through to the sandpit while your kids play.
Groot Melkhuis
You cannot be a parent in Amsterdam and not wind up at the Groot Melkhuis at some point. Also located in the Vondelpark, this huge terrace has waterfront seating and during the season a bouncy castle at weekends. There is so much for kids to do. They also have baby swings, a rarity in Amsterdam.
Photo credit: Deborah Nicholls-Lee
Emmy Coffey McCarthy
Emmy McCarthy was the Director of Stichting Amsterdam Mamas. She is a Mama, Entrepreneur and Connector on a never-ending quest for balance in her life.
