Family and kids in Zuidoost
Pannenkoekerij Gansi
What could be better than eating pancakes in the middle of a petting zoo? Pannenkoekerij Gansi is right in the middle of the small but sweet Buurtboerderij Gliphoeve. This little farm, which is two steps away from the Ganzenhoef metro station, has ponies, rabbits, chickens, and pigs, as well as an open play area for kids to run around. The pancake house is open on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons.
Bijlmer Parktheater
Located in the green heart of Zuidoost, the Bijlmer Parktheater reflects the culturally diverse society of the city and the neighbourhood. From cabaret and drama to circus and dance – there is something for everyone! For the little ones, there are regular children's performances or they can sign up for dance or theatre lessons.
Pathé Arena
Pathé Arena is a state-of-the-art multiplex cinema boasting IMAX and 4DX screens, 602 cushy chairs, and modern facilities for your viewing pleasure. On one of the 14 screens, you’ll always find a film to suit even the littlest ones. And you won’t be short of convenient food and drink, all jammed into a tight area surrounding Arena Boulevard.
Kinderboerderij De Bijlmerweide
Prefer to spot farm animals? On the outskirts of the Bijlmer, you will find a vast green meadow where baby cows, donkeys and happy bunnies hop around. Head over to De Bijlmerweide Petting Zoo to admire and pet these animals up close. You’ll also find a large playground and canteen to complete your day out.
Nelson Mandela Park
Active and outdoorsy families will find plenty to enjoy in Zuidoost. The spacious parks in and around the district offer bountiful opportunities to play outside. Nelson Mandela Park has a skate park, playground, water features and various sports areas. In the summer months, don’t miss the Kwaku Summer Festival, where, in addition to fantastic food stands and all kinds of performances, children can participate in football tournaments.
Gaasperpark
For even more nature, head over to Gaasperplas Park on the edge of Amsterdam. With an adjacent pool and water playground, this is the ideal spot to burn off some wild energy. There are even options for horse riding and camping – and if you're lucky, you might spot toads, fish or even grass snakes.
Kinderboerderij 't Brinkie
Right next to the Gaasperplas lake, you will find a lovely children's farm and petting zoo. Kids will enjoy spending time with baby pigs and cute goats before letting loose at the little playground. There is also an education centre for kids, in Dutch.
Indoor climbing, clambering and splashing
Has the rain stopped play? Fortunately, there is a range of indoor activities to keep kids entertained in wet weather. Ballorig is an indoor play paradise next to the Johan Cruijff ArenA with all the equipment for jumping, climbing and clambering. And if you fancy more of a splash, head over to the Bijlmer Sports Centre swimming pool on the other side of the Amsterdamse Poort.
