Family and kids in the Flower Strip

Linnaeushof

Young and old will have the time of their lives at Europe’s largest playground, Linnaeushof - the ultimate fresh-air getaway. For toddlers, there is a large area that includes a ‘traffic village’ for tricycles, a road complete with signals, crossings, a police station and a fast-food outlet. Older children can enjoy the lake with pedalos, rope bridges, mini-golf, slides, go-karts, a train ride, a pedalled monorail, a waterpark and hundreds of other activities.

De Olmenhorst

Just north of Leiden lies the wonderful De Olmenhorst Orchard and country estate. In the Autumn, the little ones can learn about growing fruit as they pick fresh apples and pears. And throughout the year, activities like workshops and scavenger hunts are a great excuse to burn off steam outside as children discover the various nooks and crannies of the estate. It’s a delightful place for kids to explore and run around, while adults can enjoy the farm shop packed with edible goodies and wooden children’s toys and gifts.

Haarlemmermeerse Bos

Haarlemmermeerse Bos is a perfect family adventure destination. This sprawling 115-hectare green paradise offers something for everyone. Kids will love the playgrounds scattered throughout the park, while parents can relax by the scenic lakesides or explore the winding forest trails. Bring bikes for a fun family ride along the cycle routes that meander through the trees and beyond. Don’t miss climbing Big Spotters Hill—this 22-meter-high, pyramid-shaped landmark offers stunning views and plenty of space for imaginative play at the top.

Toolenburgerplas

Toolenburgerplas in Hoofddorp is a fantastic destination for a fun-filled family day out. This 85-hectare recreation area is perfect for splashing around in open water, building sandcastles, or simply soaking up the sun. Kids will love exploring the playgrounds and running around the grassy open spaces, while parents can unwind on the sandy beach or join in the fun. Take a leisurely stroll or go for a family jog along the scenic paths and running tracks that circle the sparkling lake. When it’s time to refuel, treat the whole crew to a delicious meal at waterside restaurants like Lieveling or Long Island, where you can enjoy tasty food with gorgeous lake views.

Klimpark21

Klimpark21 in Nieuw-Vennep is a sustainable and modern outdoor park for young and old, boasting various climbing and zipline heights and routes. Explore the network of over 40 climbing walls of different sizes and heights (from 1, 4, 7 and 10 metres off the ground) so both young and older kids (and adults!) can challenge themselves. You can also participate in other adrenaline-fueled activities such as archery tag and bubble football.

Spaarnwoude Recreational Area

The Spaarnwoude Recreational Area is a vast green retreat offering endless activities for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore scenic trails perfect for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding, or enjoy a leisurely picnic by the serene lakes. Kids will delight in the petting farm, playgrounds, and wide-open spaces. For adventure seekers, there’s a thrilling climbing park and even an indoor ski slope and paintballing. Whether you’re looking to relax in nature or get your adrenaline pumping, there's something for the whole family.

Keukenhof Castle

Keukenhof Castle is an impressive country estate from the 17th-century, where the little ones will feel like lord of the manor. In the grounds, you'll find a petting zoo, playground and gnome walk with ample opportunity for children to run around and explore the various secret gardens. When you're feeling peckish, stop by the Hofboerderij for a portion of traditional Dutch poffertjes (mini pancakes)!

Keukenhof Gardens

Besides the splendour of the flowers, one of the most beautiful things about Keukenhof Gardens is that it can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. At the petting zoo, children can meet curious goats and sheep, wallowing pigs, strutting peacocks and cuddly rabbits. The Miffy playground and hedge maze are an excellent opportunity for little ones to burn off steam, whilst the fun scavenger hunt will lead families to the most beautiful spots dotted around the park. In mid-April, don't miss a festive flower parade like no other as the Bloemencorso’s array of colourful floats and displays travels along a 40km route from the coastal town of Noordwijk to Haarlem. Hundreds of thousands of spectators take the opportunity to enjoy the carnival atmosphere of the parade, and there’s even the chance to spot luxury cars and live bands that join the procession.

Space Expo

Space Expo lets the little ones discover the universe and they can even earn their very own astronaut diploma! Space Expo is the visitor centre of ESA ESTEC and the Museum of Space Travel. André Kuipers' original Soyuz capsule is on display, there’s a model of the International Space Station (ISS), so big you can walk through it, and don’t miss the life-size scale model of the Moon landing.

Museum Stoomgemaal

The Halfweg steam pumping station Museum Stoomgemaal is the oldest and largest working paddlewheel steam pumping station in the world. It was built in 1852 and served as a drainage pumping station to pump the surplus water from the Haarlemmermeer and the North Sea Canal. The pump no longer has a hydraulic function, but it is still set to work for a few days a year. The museum still breathes an authentic atmosphere, and the exhibitions and industrial steam engines will win the awe of every child.

Jumpin Noordwijk

Is there too much energy left after a day full of flower sightseeing? At the indoor park Jumpin Noordwijk, kids can blow off some steam on the many trampolines. And while you’re there, release your inner child and go for a jump as well. But there’s more: the park also offers Formula 1 VR racing simulators, obstacle courts, free-running tracks, ninja parkour, and a play zone. And for the very smallest visitors, KidsZoo is a soft play paradise for children aged 1-12 years. 

Funzone Aalsmeer

Kids or little monkeys? Let them loose in the climbing jungle centre at Funzone in Aalsmeer, with a ball pit, trampolines, climbing, disco dancing and more. Funzone also helps celebrate children's parties in its special party room, and for parents, there are places to relax, read and enjoy free wifi. If that isn’t enough, burn off steam in the trampoline park or practice your putting on the glow-in-the-dark miniature golf course.