Amsterdam with kids

[claracluck1978]

Hi hive mind
I'm looking at taking the Eurostar to Amsterdam for a few days in Oct half term. We have twins at primary school & they like science, history and can just about cope with art galleries on short trips.
I've been several times before but not for 20 years and then I was young and carefree rather than middle aged mum.
We're thinking of taking them on a train journey to Arnhem for the zoo there.
Does anyone have any suggestions on places to stay/visit for a fun afternoon? We're thinking 3 nights and an early departure from London should hopefully give us a full day there when we arrive.
Thanks everyone!

We also did it with primary age twins at October half term and it was one of our best holidays.
we stayed on a barge in Amsterdam for 3 nights - they’re expensive for a full week but mid week was more affordable.
we did the zoo and science museum, which were both excellent.
we did some walking around the cool Streets and eating crazy snacks like milkshakes with donuts on top.
we rode the tram and got a museum pass which meant we could dip into galleries for a short visit (we targeted a couple that had artists theyd covered at school and did a sort of hit squad mentality art viewing) and the maritime museum at no extra cost (might’ve changed now). Also went out to the Tonys Chocoloney chocolate factory (bit of a trip out and not a long stay but worth doing). Took a boat ride or two as well.
then we hired a car and went to Efteling theme park and stayed one night there, then drive back for an evening flight on second day.
Loved loved loved Efteling and they were a perfect age (7-10). Properly good roller coasters, surprisingly uncommercial. Nice green space, clean and well organised. Super recommended.

Hi OP, I'm an Amsterdam blogger and the family blogger for the City of Amsterdam website. If you clink on the link I've posted which takes you to the kids' section on the blog you'll see itineraries and suggestions for all ages, as well as info re Eurostar and loads more including suggestions for trips out of town (Artis zoo in Amsterdam is wonderful - no need to go to Arnhem!). Message me through the website if you have any questions or if I can help with anything

amsterdamwonderland.com/category/kids/

Thank you Sup for your reply & suggestions. I hadn't considered staying on a boat but that's def something to look in to.
I have heard so many good things about Effertling (sp) but sadly I don't think there will be time this trip.

Hi OP, me and my ds 11 just got back from 3 nights in Amsterdam - we had a brilliant time and packed a lot in:
Day 1: Did the family quest (treasure hunt) at the Rijksmuseum, then walked around the Albert Cuyp Market trying herring, kibbeling, stroopwafels and poffertjes, then took the tram to Dam Square to visit the Tony’s Choccoloney shop, followed by visiting the Ann Frank Museum and then a canal cruise.
Day 2: Did the highlights multimedia tour at the Van Gogh Museum, then to the tram to the Artis Zoo and Micropia.
Day 3: Visited the maritime museum and NEMO science museum.

I can recommend the hotel we stayed at: Hotel Fita nearby the Van Gogh and Rijksmuseum, and tram stop. Very safe area and easy to get to everywhere else.

Love love love Amsterdam. The science museum (NEMO) is a good choice. Train to Zahnsee Schaans (spelling?) To see windmills and tulips. Or stay there and train in. Seriously considering this for next summer...

Madurodam in The Hague.

The cat boat on Singel.

Zaanse Schans is amazing.

Windmills, heritage, craft - it's a fantastic day out.

This blog looks brilliant. Hoping to get something last minute for Easter!