Nature and active in Oud-Zuid
When you think of Oud-Zuid, you don't immediately think of a lot of greenery. Yet there are various open spaces and several lush parks where you can relax for a while after shopping or visiting one of the many museums. The neighbourhood is also home to fantastic swimming pools, playgrounds and the annual ice-skating rink on Museumplein.
Museumplein
The extensive lawns of Museumplein provide plenty of space to laze in the sun or to do some sporting activities. During the winter, the square springs into festive action when the iconic ice-skating rink and various stalls serving warm food and drinks are set up. Surrounding the square, the various museums are home to not only art but also some delightful gardens. Take a stroll through the Rijksmuseum Gardens each summer to admire their free outdoor sculpture exhibition. Or, find a spot to escape the hustle and bustle in the surprising design garden of Moco Museum.
Vondelpark
As the city's most famous and largest park, Vondelpark is a popular spot to relax or participate in various outdoor sports. There is something for everyone and plenty of undiscovered corners to find if you’re seeking some tranquillity. Bring your own picnic or visit one of the various pavilions or cafes, admire stunning outdoor sculptures, fountains and rose gardens or enjoy performances in the open-air theatre. Amongst the playgrounds and paddling pools, kids will also find tons of opportunities to burn off steam.
Friday Night Skate
There’s no feeling like roller skating: as you glide over the ground, the wind whips around you, and the sights rush past. Avid roller skaters can capture this feeling in Amsterdam with Friday Night Skate, where skaters group together to embark on a 20km adventure through the city. The group skate takes place every Friday night (weather permitting), beginning at the Vondelpark – which offers its own daily roller-skating opportunities. With the chance for exploration and special themed nights (dress up for Halloween!), it’s the perfect way to get active in the city and make some friends along the way.
Amstelpark
Located on the southern edge of Amsterdam, Amstelpark is an expansive park filled with many flower gardens and recreational areas. It's a popular spot for families thanks to the mini-train, various playgrounds, a hedge maze, a mini-golf course and a petting zoo. At its southern end, you’ll find the Riekermolen (Rieter windmill), and within the grounds, an orangery, rose garden and even a Japanese garden. There is also an on-site gallery with two exhibition spaces: the Glazen Huis (the glass house) and the Orangerie.
Beatrix Park
At Zuidas's doorstep is beautiful Beatrixpark. This is an ideal green haven for joggers and cyclists who are looking for some breathing space. If you want a more sedentary experience, take along a picnic and enjoy the peace and stillness of the lake. Should you have tots in tow, the children's paddle pool guarantees a splashing good time in warmer weather. More of a dog person? There are also plenty of open areas for our four-legged friends to romp around.
Swimming
Only a few steps from the Rijksmuseum, Zuiderbad is a stunning art-deco pool, built in 1912. It was one of the first pools to have central heating and electric lighting and was considered far ahead of its time. Now, it's a nostalgic place to take a dip as you soak up the impressive decor and architectural details. Further afield, De Mirandabad is a subtropical swimming pool complex with a beach, palm trees, several indoor and outdoor pools, and wave machines. Other amenities include squash courts, a solarium, and a restaurant.
TCS Amsterdam Marathon
Every October edition of this major sporting event attracts top athletes from all over the world to compete. As one of the flattest and most scenic routes, the TCS Amsterdam Marathon is ranked among the best in the world. In addition to the classic distance, you’ll also find half marathons, 8 km and various youth events on the programme. All routes finish at the historic Olympic Stadium in Zuid. If you're looking to train, check out our top running routes in Amsterdam to kick off with.
Schinkeleilanden Park
Schinkeleilanden Park is located along the banks of the Schinkel and connects Vondelpark to the Amsterdamse Bos. Spread across the various islands, you’ll find multiple recreational activities, including on Tennis Island and Football Island. Meanwhile, Natuureiland is about preserving local ecology, and you’ll find different birds and wildlife species there. Parkeiland is where you can sunbathe, relax and take a brisk dip in the water.
