Spring is just around the corner! That means a lot of playing outside. And where better to do that than in a park? But we all know the Vondelpark by now. On beautiful spring and summer days you do not know where to sit because of the crowds and there is hardly any room for your children to play. Therefore 24NANNIES went looking for alternative parks in Amsterdam, where you as a babysitter or parent can relax for an afternoon with the kids.
Amstelpark
Sandwiched between the Europaboulevard and the Amstel River in Amsterdam-South is the Amstelpark, which was originally created for the Floriade. There are many activities to do in this diverse park. You can take your kids on a tour of the park on the Amstel train or play miniature golf. They will also have a great time in the Amstelpark playground. Entrance to the playground is free, but some attractions, such as bumper boats and a carousel, require payment.
Address: 1083HZ, Amsterdam
Flevopark
The Flevopark in Amsterdam-east is not only a wonderful place to picnic on the grass but offers much more than that. There are barbecue areas and a large outdoor swimming pool. You can also enjoy sitting by the water of ‘t Nieuwe Diep. On the edge of the park you will find the Jeugdland nature play park. Here your children can experience everything: from building huts to sailing and from canoeing to table tennis. There is also a nice children’s farm with goats and donkeys.
Address Jeugdland: Valentijnkade 131, Amsterdam
Rembrandtpark
The Rembrandt Park in Amsterdam-West is a vast park with ponds, lawns and many trees. There are collar parakeets, woodpeckers and with a lot of luck you may even see a bright blue kingfisher flying. Your children can romp around while you read a book on a bench or under a tree. There is also a petting zoo, the Uylenburg, which is open daily. Here your (babysitting) children can help with the care of the animals, clean the cages or buy a bowl of food to feed the animals. For older children there is a construction playground called ‘t Landje, where they can sail on a raft and build huts.
Address: Postjesweg, 1058 EP Amsterdam
Westerpark
The Westerpark, located near the Westergasfabriek, is also a wonderful place to relax. There are many lawns here and practically next to the Westerunie is a play pond where your children can play in the water when the weather is nice. On the other side of the track, accessible via the Overbrakerpad, lies the nature playground het Woeste Westen. Here your children can play freely in nature on the various islands. They can hide in a willow hut, brave the climbing course or play in the water. In addition, there are opportunities for rafting among the reeds. There is also a small café for a snack or drink.
Address Westerpark: Haarlemmerweg 4, Amsterdam
Address Het Woeste Westen: Overbrakerpad 3, Amsterdam
