Things to do with kids in Amsterdam during the autumn holidays: 50+ fun outings for every budget

Looking for fun things to do with kids during the fall break in Amsterdam? While updating this comprehensive kid-friendly fall guide with all the tips for 2025, I can only think one thing: I'm so happy we live in a city with so much fun for kids. Because even in the city, you can go on adventures together! From museums and interactive workshops to fun indoor and outdoor activities—there's something fun to do every day during the fall break. Read on for a comprehensive overview of fun things to do with kids during the fall break in Amsterdam. I've created a YLBB shortlist with tips for all ages! At the bottom, I'll also share some tips for fun outings that are always a good idea during fall. 

| TIP: Fancy a day out of town with the whole family? Also check out the comprehensive guide with 50+ fun outings for the autumn holidays throughout the Netherlands >>

Amsterdam, get your skates ready — ice skating season has officially begun! ⛸️

The first rinks, like @skabaanmuseumplein, are opening this weekend and we are so ready for it.

I already planned a mom & son date — that's how excited we are to hit the ice. 💙

This year, there are some new links to discover across the city too. And who knows... maybe we'll even get lucky with natural ice again. Until then, these are the 7 best ice skating rinks in Amsterdam you don't want to miss.

Whether you're planning a festive date, a day with friends, or skating with the kids — this guide has you covered.

📍All details are in the Amsterdam Ice Skating Listicle on Your Little Black Book (link in bio).

Send this to your skating buddy and start planning your first winter weekend on ice! ❄️

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #yourlbb #amsterdamwinter #iceskatinginamsterdam #amsterdamchristmas #thingstodoinamsterdam #amsterdamguide #winterinthenetherlands #amsterdamlife #cityguide #amsterdamcheck #wintervibes #travelamsterdam #weekendinams #holidayseason #skating

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𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗧𝗼 𝗗𝗼 (𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟯, 𝟭𝟰, 𝟭𝟱 & 𝟭𝟲)

Another cozy November weekend in Amsterdam is here — and the city's buzzing with festive fun, winter vibes, and new openings.

Think: the return of ice skating at Museumplein, vintage treasure hunting in Noord, Sinterklaas magic at Muiderslot, and cocktail week collabs between top chefs and bartenders.

From fondue nights, film festivals, and Sunday markets — I've listed 31+ tips on Your Little Black Book.

Here's your WEEKEND shortlist:

MARKETS & CULTURE
– Nov 15 & 16: IJ-hallen – Europe's biggest flea market in Amsterdam-Noord @ijhallen
– Nov 16: Sunday Museum Market on Museumplein (grab a bite from Mr Brasa!)
– Nov 13–23: IDFA 2025 – hundreds of documentaries across the city's best cinemas @idfafestival

DRINKS & EVENTS
– Every Thursday this winter: Cheese fondue night at Badhuis Javaplein (€26 pp with unlimited crudités & bread). @badhuis.ams
– Save the date! Nov 17–23: Woodford Old Fashioned Week — 10+ cocktail bars, 3 top chef x bartender collabs @woodfordreserve @sidney_schutte @florisvstraalen @dirkmooren

NEW SPOTS
– Café Bica on Weesperzijde – coffee hotspot from the Bam Boa team @cafebica.ams
– Petit Charcuterie on Singel – perfect for bites, drinks & brioche sandwiches @petit.charcuterie.singel

FAMILY & FESTIVE FUN
– Nov 15: Ice skating season officially opens at Museumplein ⛸️ @iceamsterdam
– Nov 16: Sinterklaas parade sails into Amsterdam via the Amstel 🎁
– Nov 16 – Dec 5: Sinterklaas at Muiderslot (meet the Sint in person on Nov 22–23 & 29–30) @muiderslot

Want all 31 tips?

Comment 'WEEKEND' and I'll DM you the full Amsterdam Weekend Guide — or check the link in bio.

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #AmsterdamWeekendGuide #AmsterdamTips #ThingstoDoAmsterdam #AmsterdamEvents #AmsterdamMarkets #AmsterdamRestaurants #WinterInAmsterdam #SinterklaasAmsterdam #IDFA2025 #WoodfordOldFashionedWeek

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𝟱 𝘅𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘂𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝘂𝘁 𝗵𝗲𝗯𝗯𝗲𝗻.

From new hotspots to low spots and from hand-pulled noodles to an intimate Mediterranean bistro, I've listed 5 new favorite restaurants for you that you definitely want to try.

Save this guide for your next dinner date 🍽️

📍 Orchid House (East)
Vibe: all-day dining at Oosterpark, family-friendly and good vibes.
Must orders: ceviche, angel hair pasta with sea urchin and picanha.
@orchidhouse.ams

📍 Omri (The Pipe)
Vibe: Small and cozy corner space with a warm interior and dimmed lighting. Perfect for a date night.
Must orders: the dolmas and lamb shawarma tostada with watermelon.
@omri_amsterdam

📍 Chingu (The Pipe)
Vibe: Mainly focused on takeaway, but trust me: you'll want to go out of your way for these Taiwanese rice balls.
Must orders: Jumeok Bap with king crab or mayak egg, so delicious.
@chinguamsterdam

📍 Leonardo's Ravioli Bar (De Pijp)
Vibe: Italian bistro full of cozy nooks in the always lively Pijp neighborhood. Now also open for lunch on weekends.
Must-have orders: as many as possible. And share everything. I can be brief about that.
@leonardosraviolibar

📍 Yellow River Handpulled Noodles (Center)
Vibe: like stepping into a Chinese canteen. You order at the kiosk and wait for your number to be called.
Must-try orders: choose your favorite thickness of noodles + the minced meat noodles. The dumplings are also definitely worth trying.
@yellowrivernoodles

Please let us know where you're going first.

Or where you recently had the best meal, I'm curious!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#amsterdamfood #amsterdam #amsterdamrestaurant #amsterdamlife #amsterdamtravel #amsterdamrestaurants #hotspots

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The most beautiful Christmas displays at garden centers throughout the Netherlands are now open! 🎄

Only seven more weekends until Christmas... and this cozy and free Christmas outing is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. Trust me, I've been there myself ;-).

Do you have a favorite that's not in this video? Let me know in the comments! You can also find the complete list of 30 tips via the link in my bio ✨.

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#Christmasshows #Christmasshow2025 #Christmasdecoration #Christmasinspiration #gardencenter #weekendtip #thingstodo #discovertheNetherlands #winterouting #cozyoutings #Christmasholiday #Christmasfeeling #Christmasmarkets #Decembertips

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𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗧𝗼 𝗗𝗼 (𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟲, 𝟳, 𝟴 & 𝟵)

Another cozy fall weekend in the city is coming up — and there's so much to do again.

Think: vintage markets, wine bars, free entrance at ARTIS, and a new ravioli bar that just started doing lunch.

From flea market finds to silk flower bouquets and Marseille-style bouillabaisse Sundays… this weekend's got it all and I got 45 tips listed on Your Little Black Book.

Here's your WEEKEND shortlist:

𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗞𝗘𝗧𝗦 & 𝗦𝗛𝗢𝗣𝗣𝗜𝗡𝗚
– The last QRU Flea Market of the year (70+ sellers under the tracks)
– Indoor treasure hunting at De Hallen Market on Saturday
– Build your own silk flower bouquet at the Atelier Verden Pop-up on Prinsengracht

𝗙𝗔𝗠𝗜𝗟𝗬 𝗙𝗨𝗡
– Free entry for kids (up to 12) at ARTIS Zoo on Nov 8 & 9

𝗙𝗢𝗢𝗗 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦
– Café Vita Lente just opened in West — from the former Coulisse team
– Leonardo's Ravioli Bar now open for lunch on weekends
– Café Modern's Sunday Special in Noord: vintage tableware, vinyl & bouillabaisse

Want all 45 tips?
Comment 'WEEKEND' and I'll send the full Amsterdam Weekend Guide straight to your DM — or check the link in bio.

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #AmsterdamWeekendGuide #AmsterdamTips #AmsterdamMarkets #WeekendInAmsterdam #ThingstoDoAmsterdam #AmsterdamRestaurants #VintageAmsterdam #CityGuide #FallInAmsterdam

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Girls trip loading…

Barcelona is the ultimate autumn escape. When it's wet and cold here, you can simply sit on a terrace in the sun. Long lunches, beach walks in October, good coffee on every corner, and wine and tapas until late.

Last year I was there several times for Your Little Black Book, and I continue to be amazed at how this city really has it all: beach, culture, markets, (vintage) shops and so many good food spots that I could fill ten more lists with them.

📍 In this Barcelona Mini Guide you will find 26 of my personal favorites.

Save this guide so you can easily refer to it when planning your trip.

𝗕𝗔𝗥𝗖𝗘𝗟𝗢𝗡𝗔 𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗧𝗟𝗘 𝗕𝗟𝗔𝗖𝗞 𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞

**
• Bar del Pla – tapas must in El Born (📷)
• Mosquito – dim sum heaven for when you're tired of tapas
• Compa – Italian sandwiches on the beach
• Perikete – my go-to for cava sangria
• Bar Cañete – the place for a fancy girls' night out

**Illegible**
• Nobu Barcelona – rooftop sushi & city views (📷)
• Praktik Rambla – boutique hotel with a vintage touch
• Miiro Borneta – new & stylish in El Born
• Grand Hotel Central – luxury + rooftop pool
• The Hoxton, Poblenou – creative vibes & swimming pool

𝗗𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗞
• La Vinya Del Senyor – tiny bar, huge wine list (📷)
• PetNat – orange wine for your dinner in Born
• Pimpla Vins – cheese, wine & cozy vibes
• Monk – hidden cocktail bar, next-level mixology

I
• Salts Montjuïc – sunset drinks with a view (📷)
• Casa Vincens – Gaudí without the crowds
• Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya – top for architecture & art
• Bunkers del Carmel – for the most beautiful golden hour
• Mercat de Sant Antoni – food market with breathing space

**Illegible**
• Vila Viniteca – edible souvenirs (📷)
• Dubblefilm – old school film & photo booth
• Carolina Blue – home & ceramics boutique
• The Favorite Vintage – carefully curated finds
• Sarria Market – local market without tourists

𝗖𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗘𝗘
• Right Side Coffee Bar – best pit stop while shopping (📷)
• Casa Taos – everything homemade, slightly outside the center
• Onis Coffee – good playlists & croissants
• La Roseta – with your feet almost in the sand

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

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Heading out of town? 🍂 These are my favorite walking and drinking spots in the Netherlands.

To be honest... I don't see myself living outside the city anytime soon, but on weekends I do enjoy getting out into nature. That's why I've created a YLBB shortlist of the most beautiful hiking areas, complete with a great spot for drinks nearby.

My perfect Sunday? First, a walk, then plopping down somewhere with a treat or a hot chocolate (or, of course, a glass of wine and bitterballen!).

📍From Lage Vuursche to the Waterleidingduinen and the Amsterdamse Bos, in this video I share my favorites.

But... there are, of course, many more great places in the Netherlands where you can enjoy a drink after a walk. Which tip do you think shouldn't be missed? 👇

Save this post to enjoy nature this season, or forward it to your hiking date. 🍁

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #hikinginthenetherlands #drinksspot #discoveringthenetherlands #natureinthenetherlands #autumnroutes #hikingtips #dutchautumn #walks #naturewalk #weekendtips #netherlandsholiday #drinks #outdoorlife #amsterdamweekend #thingstodonetherlands #yourlbb

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Forget the classic omakase experience in Amsterdam, this is something else.

Hidden inside burger spot @paindemie_amsterdam and inspired by the Tokyo subway, you'll find @moyo_amsterdam. A new hotspot redefining the omakase concept.

Chef @guillaumedebeer is behind this next-level concept, and it shows in every creative detail. But here O-toro and Wagyu take the stage 🥩.

It's intimate, creative, and seriously one of the most exciting new openings in Amsterdam right now.

Save this for your next special dinner night 🔥
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#amsterdam #amsterdamcity #amsterdamfoodguide #amsterdamfood #amsterdamtravel

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The most beautiful l𝗶𝗰𝗵𝘁𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹𝘀 throughout 𝗡𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 for your 𝗯𝘂𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁 this season

The days are getting shorter, the evenings longer…

And honestly? I secretly think that's one of the best things about this season. Because the transition from fall to winter means: light festivals! ✨

All over the Netherlands, cities, parks and castles light up with light art, projections and installations that you'll want to see.

What once started with the Amsterdam Light Festival has grown into one of the most beautiful winter traditions in the country, if you ask me!

At most light festivals they also have nice hot chocolate and food stalls for something tasty to go.

Perfect for a winter evening with your loved one, family or friends.

Can you picture yourself with a hot chocolate or mulled wine in hand, strolling past works of art that transform streets, parks, and canals into a fairytale?

From North Holland to Gelderland, I'm sharing all the tips in a comprehensive article on Your Little Black Book, featuring the best light festivals in almost every province in the Netherlands.

Believe me: this is such a special outing to make the dark days just a little bit brighter.

Ps: I'll also have some exciting news about the @lefoodwalk at the @amsterdamlightfestival on Your Little Black Book soon!

Have fun making plans!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#lightfestival #netherlandstips #winterouting #yourlittleblackbook #thingstodo #lightart #amsterdamlightfestival #wintervibes #dayout #romanticouting #autumndinings #gluhweinmoment #fallinthenetherlands

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𝗔𝗠𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗗𝗔𝗠 𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗞𝗘𝗡𝗗 𝗛

Hello cozy season! From poffertjes Sundays and wine bar pop-ups to Museum Night and vintage markets — this weekend in Amsterdam has everything.

I've rounded up 29 things to do in the city, and here's a little preview from this week's guide:

𝗘𝗔𝗧 & 𝗗𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗞
• There's a new Asian pop-up by @rongastrobaroriental at @soulkitchen_amsterdam you don't want to miss. Most amazing dim sum!
• Spanish wine vibes at the Ribera del Duero pop-up at @vindict.amsterdam 🍷
• Poffertjes Sunday at @hetblauwetheehuis — pancakes, mulled wine & hot chocolate
• 🎃 Halloween plans? The full weekend guide has the best Halloween events at our fave bars & restaurants.

𝗗𝗢 & 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗟𝗢𝗥𝗘
• The @sundaymarket at @westergas is back — vintage finds, art & street food
• 1+1 free tickets at @hetconcertgebouw for concerts by the Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra (code: ORCHESTRAJAARG – booking link in the guide) @nederlandsphilharmonic
• Museum Night is happening Nov 1 — 70+ museums open late. I've shortlisted the best ones to visit if you've got tickets! @museumnacht.amsterdam

**Illegible**
• The legendary @ladress Sample Sale returns — up to 80% off timeless styles (ticket link in the full guide!)
And yes — the Amsterdam Weekend Guide always includes a section with fun things to do with kids too.

💌 Comment 'WEEKEND' and I'll send the full guide straight to your DM. Or hit the link in bio to read all 29 tips.

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #AmsterdamWeekendGuide #AmsterdamTips #ThingstoDoAmsterdam #Museumnacht #SundayMarket #LaDress #AmsterdamRestaurants #AmsterdamEvents #WhatToDoInAmsterdam #WeekendinAmsterdam

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Looking for the hottest new spot for a date night in Amsterdam City Center? Meet @littlebonfire.ams 🔥

With its cozy vibe it's the kind of place that feels like an extension of your living room: but with much better food and wine.

On the ever changing menu you'll find classics to share: from pan con tomate with anchovies, stracciatella with zucchini and peas, to crispy eggplant, vitello and sea bass with clams. Don't skip dessert: the Basque cheesecake is already my favorite.

This spot is perfect for a date night at the bar or dinner with the girls.

I think Little Bonfire Amsterdam is a keeper in the city center!

📍Little Bonfire
Amsterdam City Centre

Who are you taking here first? 🖤

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#LittleBonfireAmsterdam
#AmsterdamRestaurants
#DateNightAmsterdam
#AmsterdamCityCentre
#AmsterdamHotspots
#Amsterdamfoodie
#Amsterdamtravel
#YourLittleBlackBook

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I used to think Halloween was stupid 🎃.

But since I became a mother, it has become one of our favorite holidays!

There are so many fun things to do together as a family. 🖤

Last year, my son and I celebrated Halloween in New York, and believe me, we still talk about it every week (see slide 9). Since then, the anticipation has been just as much fun as the celebration itself.

In the comprehensive Halloween Guide on Your Little Black Book, I've collected all our favorite tips for you:
– From not-too-scary movies to Halloween classics for the whole family
– Addresses to quickly score pumpkins
– Fun DIYs for home (perfect for rainy autumn days ☔)
And of course: fun Halloween events throughout the Netherlands (not just for kids, but also a fantastic Halloween concert, for example!)

In this post, I'm sharing some inspiration, but comment HALLOWEEN to receive the link to all the YLBB tips directly in your DMs.

What do you think of the Halloween craze in the Netherlands?

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#HalloweenMetKids #YourLittleBlackBook #HalloweenTips #Halloween2025 #KidsproofHalloween #FallHoliday #HalloweenIdeas #HalloweenInNederland

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23 fun things to do (with kids) during the autumn holidays in Amsterdam

Family concert The Herriemakers (6+) in the Concertgebouw

There are some outings with children during the autumn holidays that are always a hit, and a family concert at the Concertgebouw is definitely one of them for me. I personally love going there with my son: the atmosphere, the music, and the amazed looks of all the children around you as they enter the beautiful building. Friday, October 24th, you'll want to take the kids (ages 6 and up) to the Concertgebouw. family concert De HerriemakersThere are two performances at 1:30 PM and 3:30 PM. Concerts during the autumn break often sell out, so don't wait too long to buy tickets. I speak from experience here ;-).

In De Herriemakers (The Noisemakers), everything revolves around the question every child asks at some point: what do you want to be when you grow up? You follow the adventures of Iet, Wiet, Waai, and Weg; four children who ran away from home and live in a tent in the middle of a dark forest. Along the way, they discover together who they truly want to be.

A cheerful and interactive concert full of music, humour and fantasy, perfect for curious kids (6+) and parents who enjoy an afternoon full of experiences.

When: October 24, 2025 // 1:30 PM & 3:30 PM
Where: The Concertgebouw, Amsterdam
More info & tickets: concertgebouw.nl

Family concert The Herriemakers © The Concertgebouw

October is drawing month at the Royal Palace on Dam Square & more fun activities for kids

Did you know it took me 40 years to first visit the Royal Palace on Dam Square? One thing I knew for sure: as a born-and-bred Amsterdammer, that wasn't going to happen to my son. Recently, we went to the Palace together for the first time, and there's so much for kids to discover. What's there to do during the autumn break in Amsterdam? I'll list it all!

• October drawing month: how fun is that? Throughout October, you can create your own artwork at the Royal Palace Amsterdam! On Saturdays, Sundays, and during the autumn break, a drawing coach will be available to help you observe closely and discover the palace's most beautiful details. With pencil and paper in hand, you'll suddenly see things you never noticed before. And of course, parents are welcome to join in; it's so much fun to draw together! Bring your own art supplies or pick up a drawing guide with fun activities for extra inspiration. More info >>
• Audio tours for kids: Kids can go on a free adventure this fall break with two fun audio tours. For the youngest explorers (ages 5–8), Prince Louis, son of King Louis Napoleon, will lead children through the palace, filled with stories and treasure hunts. Older kids (ages 9–12) will step back in time 350 years with Jacob's Adventure to solve a thrilling mystery: the golden olive branch of Peace has disappeared! Two interactive tours packed with history, secrets, and fun. The audio tours are available free of charge at the entrance. More info >>
• Family Trail Scavenger Hunt: Until October 27th, the spectacular exhibition about sculptor Artus Quellinus, the man who literally shaped this iconic building, is on display at the Royal Palace Amsterdam. His work can be found throughout the palace, from the famous Atlas to the delicate animal sculptures in the Citizen's Hall. For children, there's a fun scavenger hunt where they can search for the animals hidden within the sculptures. A unique way to discover the palace together from a whole new perspective! More info >>

Book tickets

Good to know: Admission (including audio tour in Dutch or English) is free for children up to 18 years old. Tip: On October 27th, the Palace is free for all Amsterdam residents, but booking a ticket in advance is essential. 

The Palace on Dam Square © Your Little Black Book

ARTIS = always a good idea, but especially with all the extra activities during the autumn holidays 

Those of you who have been following me for a while know that we're often at ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo. We've had a season ticket since my son was a toddler, and even now that he's getting older, it remains one of his favorite outings. I love seeing it all: being able to read all the signs myself, going on an adventure in Micropia, or exploring the Groote Museum. This fall break, there's plenty to see and do at ARTIS. What you don't want to miss with the kids? I've listed the highlights below:

• Have you heard? There are new faces at ARTIS! Spot the newborn vicuña with her mother.
• Design the perfect enclosure for your favorite animal during the Animal Enclosure Workshop! This workshop will be held in the gorilla house from October 18th to 26th between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM and is completely free with a park ticket. More info >>
• The new exhibition "Close to Tanja" opens at the ARTIS-Groote Museum on October 17th. Do you also have memories of this famous hippopotamus that you can now share with your kids? More info >> 
• Taxidermy Drawing Workshop: Take a seat at the drawing table in the ARTIS-Groote Museum and draw taxidermy animals up close. Good to know: This activity is free with a museum ticket and runs continuously from October 18th to 26th. More info >>
• Embark on a Micro Mission at ARTIS-Micropia and discover, through puzzles, how microbes contribute to oxygen production on Earth. More info >>
• For slightly older kids, the Groote Museum is incredibly fun and educational. What can you experience there during your holidays? You can read that here >>

Book tickets

 | TIP: Even on a rainy day, a visit to ARTIS is perfect, because the Planetarium, Micropia, or the Groote Museum are all conveniently located indoors. 

© ARTIS

BARBIE: THE DREAM EXPERIENCE

Attention Barbie fans big and small! Next to WONDR in Noord there is now Barbie: The Dream Experience This experience takes you on a journey through over 65 years of Barbie history—from the iconic Malibu Barbie to the Totally Hair Barbie of the '90s. Think life-size playsets, colorful decor, a Barbie DreamHouse, and even her convertible and RV. There are twelve different areas, each inspired by a different era, including a Barbie café and shop with exclusive merchandise.

When: Now showing
Where: Barbie: The Dream Experience
Tip: Read the full article on YLBB here >>

Cinekid Festival 2025

Cinekid is the leading children's film and media festival in the Netherlands. During the autumn break, discover the latest children's films—from unique animations to exciting premieres—and get hands-on in the MediaLab. From workshops to experiments with AI, VR, and AR: there's plenty to see, do, and experience for the whole family.

When: October 11-26, 2025
Where: In several places in Amsterdam
More info: cinekid.nl

Musical4Days

Does your child dream of starring in a real musical? During the Musical4Days during the fall break, children get the chance to sing, dance, and act for four days under the guidance of professionals. Together they work towards a spectacular performance that will be performed for family and friends at the end of the week.

When: October 20-23, 2025
Where: Theater De Omval
More information: musical4daagse.nl

Kids Rave during ADE

It's not just adults who can let loose at ADE—there's a party for kids too this year! A special Kids Rave is being organized in Panama, complete with a fun lineup and tons of energy. Between 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM, kids (and their parents) can dance together and experience the festival feeling, but completely kid-friendly. How cool is that!

When: October 26, 2025
Where: Panama Club, Amsterdam
More info: panama.nl

Night climbing at Fun Forest

Climb high among the trees while the forest is completely dark... Night climbing at Fun Forest Amsterdam is a unique experience full of excitement and adventure for slightly older kids. With a flashlight and climbing gear, you'll brave the obstacles in the dark and experience the forest in a way you'll never forget.

When: October 25, 2025
Where: Fun Forest Amsterdamse Bos
More info: funforest.nl

NEMO

During the autumn break, NEMO offers plenty of fun for the whole family. For example, be amazed by the spectacular Chain Reaction, which you can even build yourself. Special activities are also planned for this break: watch the film Space: The New Frontier or participate in Science Live: I See What You Taste from Maastricht University, and test how well you and the kids can read facial expressions. Also fun: in the Workshop, you can create drawings that come to life with AI or old film techniques. NEMO is always a hit here at home!

When: October 11-26, 2025
Where: NEMO Science Museum
More info: nemosciencemuseum.nl

| TIP: Are you looking for child-friendly hotels for the autumn holidays? Discover the best child-friendly hotels in Amsterdam en kid-friendly hotels throughout the Netherlands. 

Child-friendly theater performances during the autumn holidays in Amsterdam

A cultural afternoon at the theater with the whole family? There are plenty of fun shows for kids to see in Amsterdam during the fall break. I've put together a few tips for you.

Pieterpeuterpad

The Pieterpeuterpad at the Bijlmer Parktheater is an interactive discovery trail especially for children aged 1 to 6. Through song, dance, music, and games, the littlest ones are drawn into a joyful and imaginative experience. Together with their (grand)parents, they discover a world full of color, movement, and fun, where participation and experience are key.
October 19, 2025, Bijlmer Parktheater – bijlmerparktheater.nl

Master Frog

Master Frans harbors a big secret: sometimes he suddenly turns into a frog. To become human again, all he has to do is eat a fly. A funny and exciting production based on the popular children's book.
October 23, 2025, Meervaart Amsterdam – meervaart.nl

Kantjil and the Tiger

Meet Kantjil, the clever little deer from Indonesian fables. In this story, he takes on the mighty tiger and discovers how courage and cleverness can defeat even the greatest enemies.
October 17, 18 & 19, 2025, ITA – ita.nl

The letter for the king

Tonke Dragt's famous story comes to life on stage. Tiuri is tasked with delivering a secret letter to the king—a thrilling journey full of obstacles and adventures. A classic that will keep you in suspense throughout the entire performance.
October 18, 2025, DeLaMar – delamar.nl

The theory of everything

The Theory of Everything is a family performance that combines dance, opera, and classical music. We follow Nia, who constantly feels like she doesn't have enough time. She wants to help her grandmother in the lab and train in her aunt's dance studio, but she's afraid she has to choose. This performance shows that sometimes it's not "either-or," but rather "and-and."
October 19 to 26, 2025, National Opera & Ballet – operaballet.nl

The Fairy and the Whispering Tree

A witch secretly sells the whispering tree, where a little fairy lives. Can the owl, along with Miss Marloes, save the tree? A cheerful performance with puppets and magic. As a fun finale, the kids can have their faces painted afterward.
October 18, 2025, Koos Kneus Puppet Theatre – kooskneus.nl

More fun things to do in the fall with kids in Amsterdam

Play at the best indoor playgrounds in and around Amsterdam

On rainy days during the fall break, there's nothing better than letting the kids play indoors. Whether they want to jump in a jump hall or climb and clamber in an indoor playground like the new WOPL, there are plenty of options in the city for all ages. Here's a list of the best indoor playgrounds where kids can burn off some energy: Discover the YLBB shortlist of indoor playgrounds in Amsterdam here >>

Catering industry with playground in Amsterdam

YES, dear parents and caregivers, I've got you covered! Having a drink or lunch with the kids can be a lot of fun, especially when you're with friends and the kids can do whatever they want in the play area without you having to constantly be there. Where is that possible? These catering establishments in Amsterdam have a play corner or playground >>

Fun movies to watch with kids in the fall

Taking the kids to the cinema in the fall is always a good idea. Two recommended films currently playing are Hopper 2 and Gabby's Dollhouse — we loved them! So it's time to plan a movie afternoon together and enjoy a new film on the big screen. The YLBB shortlist features the newest films playing in October, plus the best current children's films at the bottom of the article. Check out the October movie guide here >>

Organize a fall picnic

This is so cozy to do! Organize a fall picnic for the kids in the park or woods. Check out the nicest parks in Amsterdam of beautiful areas for walking in the area around Amsterdam.

Play outside at the best playgrounds in Amsterdam

Is it a sunny autumn day? Then you'll naturally want to get outside with the kids. In Amsterdam, you'll find great playgrounds in every district where children can run, climb, and play outdoors. From large neighborhood playgrounds to hidden gems—in this overview, we've compiled a list of the best spots for you: View the article about playgrounds in Amsterdam here >>

Walking & drinks

The autumn holidays are perfect for getting out of the city. First, a nice walk, then a cozy spot for bitterballen (Dutch meatballs) and a hot chocolate. In this list I recommend my favorite walking and drinking spots near Amsterdam >> And if you get into the car, you want these tips for fun outings just outside Amsterdam of course you should know that too! 

More fun museums with children

I've mentioned it before, but there's so much to discover with kids in Amsterdam. Almost all museums have a kid-friendly activity, like a scavenger hunt or audio tour. Check out the YLBB shortlist of the best child-friendly museums in Amsterdam here >>

Celebrating Halloween in Amsterdam during the autumn holidays

By far one of my favorite holidays to celebrate with the kids: Halloween! That's why you'll find a mega (really mega) extensive guide on Your Little Black Book Halloween file with all the tips you want to know. Read here what there is to do this year in terms of Halloween events in Amsterdam >>

Fun things to do in Amsterdam with kids aged 6 and up

I thought it was a bizarre moment myself — that you're standing at a playground in the city and suddenly think: my child is actually too old for this. At the moment, for example, he's crazy about arcades And I think that's a great alternative to having a game console at home :-). Time for a list of fun activities in Amsterdam for kids in elementary school! My son is now 7 years old and we enjoy doing this together in Amsterdam >>

Eating a bite with the kids during the autumn holidays in Amsterdam

Have you seen it yet? On Instagram I started a new series with KIDS PROOFTips for great restaurants in Amsterdam. Because I find myself not always wanting to go somewhere that's primarily fun for the kids. You want something special as a parent, right? Nevertheless, a list of truly kid-friendly restaurants in Amsterdam is a must-have for Your Little Black Book. You can read those tips here >>

more Travel & Kids tips