Family and kids in Bos en Lommer & De Baarsjes

Erasmuspark

Erasmuspark is Bos en Lommer’s green heart, a true haven for kids to explore and play. This lush atmospheric park features a tranquil pond and an ever-blooming ‘miracle’ garden, fostering your child’s curiosity and love for nature. Bordered by canals on two sides, it’s a great spot for the little ones to spot ducklings come springtime, or enjoy a family stroll along the water. The park also has open grassy areas ideal for playing or picnicking in those leisurely summer months. Terrasmus, the park’s café, offers not only a cosy terrace for parents to relax with a view of the open field, but also snacks and drinks to recharge after play.

Podium Mozaïek

This centre for culture and creativity in Bos en Lommer is a fantastic spot for kids to be introduced to the world of music, dance, and the arts. Located in the historic former Pniëlkerk, Podium Mozaiek offers a diverse program with plenty of performances for young audiences, featuring everything from theatre and dance, to music and storytelling. There’s also plenty to enjoy off the stage, with a cosy cafe-restaurant famous for its traditional Turkish breakfast on weekends.

Sustainable concept stores

The Jan Evertsenstraat - lovingly nicknamed the 'Jan Eef' by the locals - is a main cultural artery of Bos en Lommer en De Baarsjes. Strolling along this bustling boulevard you’ll stumble across plenty of unique children’s boutiques that pair quality and flair with a commercial conscience. At Knotsknetter, you’ll find organic cotton pajamas, summer dresses, and sandals, all crafted with sustainability in mind, and on Saturdays, they even offer kids’ haircuts. Just a little further along on the Jan van Galenstraat, peruse the offerings at Wollepop (formerly Lino & Moos) with its large assortment of pre-loved toys, books, and clothing. Also worth a visit is Otis en de Wolf, a lovely boutique in de Baarsjes that curates both top-quality second hand and new clothing items, and beautifully handmade toys with a focus on sustainability.

Candy Castle

Candy Castle is a sight to behold in Amsterdam’s West - a striking brutalist church that has been transformed into a technicolour playtime palace for children. Step inside this ultimate indoor playground, which offers everything from climbing frames, slides, and a kart track in the basement - all in bright fun colours, of course. There’s also plenty to keep the parents occupied, with a cafe where you can watch your children run and play to their hearts’ content.

The Wachterliedpaviljoen

In Bos en Lommer, you’ll find the Wachterliedpaviljoen, a bustling community centre with a variety of programs for all ages. Boasting a gymnasium, two multipurpose halls that can be used for classes, workshops, and community gatherings, a cafe, and even a petting zoo right next door, Wachterliedpaviljoen is the perfect place to engage in outdoor fun and cultural enrichment. The peaceful park with its petting zoo helps kids develop a bond with the natural world, featuring fluffy bunnies and a host of colourful birds.

Swimming pools

During the summer months, there’s no better way to beat the heat than a refreshing swim with the little ones at a neighbourhood pool. Amsterdam West offers plenty of places to cool down and enjoy the sunshine, with cherished outdoor paddling pool Peuterbadje Gibraltarbad, which dates back to the 1950s. On cooler days, SportPlaza Mercator is a great option with its sleek, modern facilities, allowing your kids to enjoy aquatic fun all year long. 

Kinderboerderij de Uylenburg

Kinderboerderij Uylenburg, one of Amsterdam's oldest city farms, has been cheering families for more than 35 years. Tucked away in the center of Rembrandtpark, this petting zoo has plenty of sweet rabbits and waddling geese. Out in the pasture, children can interact closely with friendly sheep, goats, pigs, and even donkeys, which live out on the farm. Beyond the barn, you’ll find a playground and a pleasant café with a sunny terrace. Enjoy hot chocolate, tea, or freshly brewed coffee in this hidden slice of farm life in the heart of the city.