Jeugdland Amsterdam: free, wild & full of imagination — the nature playground for all ages

For generations, Jeugdland Amsterdam has been a place where kids can just be kids — climbing, building, getting muddy, and making their own fun. Tucked next to Flevopark, this big outdoor space is one of the most unique nature playgrounds in Amsterdam.

This space is designed for freedom — freedom to explore, to try things out, to build something from scratch or tear it all down and start again. No screens, no set routes, no right or wrong way to play. Just open space, natural materials, a few helpful grown-ups, and endless possibilities.

From garden paths to hammers and huts: open-ended play at its best

You start in a peaceful garden area, with flowers, vegetables, and little paths to wander through. It’s calm, green, and perfect for settling in before the action begins. Kids can help water the plants or just explore at their own pace.

A bit further on, the energy picks up. There’s a big natural playground with sand to dig in, wooden climbing frames, slides, and a shallow water zone for splashing. Everything here invites movement and imagination — nothing is set up for you, so kids are free to create their own games. And if your kids love a bit of adventure, there’s a long zipline flying over the water — always a hit.

And then there’s the highlight for many: the hut-building zone. With real hammers, nails, and wood, kids build their own cabins, forts, or anything they can dream up. It’s hands-on and completely open-ended. Some kids work together, some do their own thing — it’s all welcome here.

Free things to do with kids in Amsterdam — plus events, parties & a cozy café

Jeugdland is completely free to visit, which is rare for a place with this much to offer. It’s open almost all year round and attracts families from all over the city.

On weekends and during school holidays, there are often extra activities like crafts, workshops, or nature play sessions. You can also book the space for kids’ birthday parties — a fun and low-key way to celebrate, with loads of room to run around and play.

And if the weather turns (because, well… Amsterdam), you can take a break in their greenhouse-style café. It’s spacious and bright, with healthy snacks, board games, and books to keep everyone happy while you warm up with a drink.

You can stay for a quick visit or spend the whole day. Bring snacks, a change of clothes, and let the kids lead. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, it’s never quite the same — and that’s the magic.

Plan your visit to Jeugdland Amsterdam

• Location: Jeugdland, Valentijnkade 131, Amsterdam (next to Flevopark)
• Getting there: Easily accessible by bike or public transport (no parking on site)
• Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00–17:00 (closed Mondays)
• Admission: Free
• Facilities*: Café Het Paviljoen, restrooms, picnic spots

We first discovered Jeugdland thanks to a tip from a friend — and it quickly became one of our favorite spots in the city. Now it’s on WipWap, so you can find it easily and pass the recommendation on.