There are many kid friendly things to do in Naarden, Netherlands. The Netherlands is known for its many canals and there are several canal boat tour operators in Naarden that offer kid friendly tours. There are also several museums in Naarden that are kid friendly, including the Naarden Vestingmuseum, which is a museum about the history of the fortified city of Naarden, and the Dutch Fortress Museum, which is a museum about the Dutch fortifications. Other kid friendly activities in Naarden include the Naarden Zoo, which is a small zoo with a variety of animals, and the Naarden Botanical Gardens, which are a beautiful place to take a stroll and see some of the many flowers and plants that the Netherlands is known for.
10 Fun & Kid-Friendly Things To Do In Naarden, Netherlands
1. Visit the Zuiderzee Museum
At the Zuiderzee Museum, kids can learn all about the history of the Netherlands and its relationship to the sea. The museum is located in a former home and features a reconstructed shipyard, a beach, and a seafaring village. Kids can dress up in traditional Dutch costumes, try their hand at rope making, and explore the many interactive exhibits.
2. Climb to the top of the Naarden-Vesting
The Naarden-Vesting is a well-preserved fortified town that was once an important strategic stronghold. Today, it is a popular tourist destination with a number of kid-friendly activities. Kids can explore the ramparts, climb to the top of the bell tower for an amazing view, or visit the museum.
3. Play in the park
Naarden has a number of parks perfect for a day of play. The Groot bos is a large forest with a playground, picnic areas, and a petting zoo.Het Vreekwijkpark is a smaller park with a playground and a duck pond. And for a truly unique play experience, kids can explore the Kinderkasteel, a castle-themed playground.
4. Go on a nature hike
There are many beautiful hiking trails in and around Naarden. The Gelderse Poort Nature Reserve is a great place to start, with easy hiking trails and plenty of opportunities to see wildlife. For a longer hike, kids can try the trail to the Fortified Town of Muiden.
5. Visit the dairy farm
Just outside of Naarden is the Kinderboerderij Naarden-Vesting, a working dairy farm where kids can learn all about farm life. They can help feed the animals, milk the cows, and even make their own butter. Afterward, they can enjoy a delicious ice cream made from the farm’s fresh milk.
6. Go for a bike ride
cycling is a popular pastime in the Netherlands, and there are plenty of kid-friendly routes to explore in and around Naarden. One popular route takes riders through the Fortified Town and out to the Zuiderzee Museum. For a longer ride, try the route to the neighboring town of Muiden.
7. Canoe or kayak on the IJsselmeer
The IJsselmeer is a large lake located just outside of Naarden. Kids can rent a canoe or kayak and explore the many islands and waterways. Along the way, they may see some of the local wildlife, including ducks, swans, and herons.
8. Take a boat ride
There are a number of boat tours available in Naarden. Kids can cruise around the IJsselmeer on a glass-bottom boat or take a tour of the canals. For a real adventure, try a boat tour to the nearbyFortified Town of Muiden.
9. Shop at the markets
Naarden is home to a number of markets selling fresh produce, flowers, and Dutch souvenirs. The weekly market is a great place to find fresh fruits and vegetables, while the monthly market features a variety of handcrafted goods.
10. Enjoy the view
No matter where kids go in Naarden, they’re sure to enjoy the stunning views. From the top of the bell tower to the banks of the IJsselmeer, there are plenty of places to take in the beauty of the Netherlands.
