Family and kids in De Pijp
Pet the animals at Kinderboerderij De Pijp
Who’s that bleating in the middle of the city? Experience the sounds (and countryside aromas) of the farm with a relaxing day out at De Pijp’s very own petting zoo. Little ones have the opportunity to meet and greet all kinds of animals with donkeys, rabbits, small birds and even turtles in residence. The farm also organises activities such as craft workshops and pony rides.
Watch children’s cinema and theatre
Rialto Cinema on the Ceintuurbaan screens children's films all year round, which will thrill and amuse children from 3 to 12 years. During the holidays, they also have a complete youth programme, including colouring days, craft activities and workshops. If you’re more in the mood for drama, keep your eye on the English programme at the CC Amstel Theatre, which holds regular family performances.
Picnic and play in Sarphatipark
The beautifully landscaped gardens of Sarphatipark provide a wonderful central meeting point in the heart of De Pijp. In one corner you’ll find a children’s playground complete with climbing frames, slides and a sandpit. Surrounding this, there are plenty of quiet spots to sit and chat as the kids play when the sun breaks free. One of the best things to do in De Pijp is to stroll through the vibrant vendors of the Albert Cuypmarkt and have a picnic in the park with your market-bought food finds.
Visit the goblin house
For centuries, the children of Amsterdam have been fascinated by the green hobgoblins sitting atop the gables of the Huis met Kabouters (House with the Goblins). Rumour has it that the mysterious pair throw a ball to one another in secret, but nobody knows whether this happens at midnight, on New Year’s Eve or during the leap year. There are plenty of reasons as to why the goblins are there, one being that they were inspired by the house owner’s surname, Van Ballegooyen which roughly translates as ball-throwing.
Feast on hotdogs and stroopwafels
De Pijp is the perfect neighbourhood for child-friendly dining with a twist. Bulls & Dogs gives the familiar hot dog a makeover with heaps of funky toppings. All these can be washed down with an eye-popping milkshake generously decorated with marshmallows, chocolate sauce and much more. If you prefer to feast in the open air, stroll down the Albert Cuypmarkt, where you’ll find plenty of culinary options to suit all tastebuds, including warm stroopwafels.
Shop at kid’s concept stores
De Pijp is full of unique shops that specialise in clothes, toys, and books for children. Broer & Zus are committed to sustainable clothing, or visit Ziggy + Lucy for jam-packed rails of pre-loved items. De Kleine Parade has everything under one roof; pop in for lunch at the kids' cafe and come out with a new haircut, full stomach, and a fresh outfit. Bookworms will also be kept quiet with a purchase from the Casperle, just off the Sarphatipark.
