As a parent, I've felt that familiar cycle: eagerly awaiting the big holiday, then relieved when school resumes, only to crave family time again soon. Days out with children rank high on every parent's list, offering a refreshing escape for the whole family.
The autumn break is the perfect opportunity to step away from school and work routines. With the initial school term behind us, it's time to unwind. Weather permitting, families head out to bond, recharge, and create memories. Struggling to find the best spots? As experienced family adventurers, we've curated top tips for fun outings during the autumn holidays—both indoors and out.
Update: October 2020
Table of contents
Opt for a child-friendly holiday park in the Netherlands for a full week or midweek getaway. But single-day outings with kids are equally enjoyable and flexible.
Who doesn't love Efteling? This iconic park delights young and old alike. It's a perennial favorite for family days out, though pricey—especially with on-site dining. Even packing your own food, entry fees add up. Still, we make it an annual tradition, and autumn is ideal with milder crowds.
Toddlers adore the Fairytale Forest, Carnival Festival (pack earplugs—that tune sticks! 😊), and PandaVision. Older kids thrill to Piranha, De Vliegende Hollander, and coasters like Vogel Rok, Joris en de Draak, and Baron 1898.
Dutch zoos offer expansive outdoor spaces plus indoor exhibits for rainy days. Explore our overview of zoos in the Netherlands and pick one for monkey-watching fun!
Diergaarde Blijdorp in Rotterdam stands out, themed by continents with matching animals and plants. The Oceanium plunges you into an underwater world—rays and sharks overhead, plus sea lions and penguins. Catch feedings too. When animal fatigue hits, Biotopia's indoor playground lets kids climb, scramble, and slide endlessly.
Gaasterland in Friesland boasts lush forests perfect for nature lovers of all ages. During autumn holidays, enjoy family excursions, a gnome trail for kids discovering local flora and fauna, and discovery backpacks for older children.
For more nature activities, see my colleague blogger Opwegmetmama.
This premier event for ages 4-14 runs annually in autumn. The world's largest kids' film and media festival offers online and in-person experiences across the Netherlands. Kids dive into films, TV, workshops, and the Media Lab—a digital playground of apps and games. Educational yet fun; my son skips it due to screen overload! 😊
Outings needn't break the bank. Visit a new playground—find top outdoor playgrounds in the Netherlands here. Layer up, pack snacks, or hit a nearby café for hot chocolate and pancakes. Guaranteed kid-approved success!
At Utrecht's Jaarbeurs, this annual Lego extravaganza lets kids build masterpieces, tour a Lego cinema and museum, admire giant creations, and try new sets. Family-friendly, even on rainy days.
Note: Lego World will not take place in 2020 due to corona
Not all museums wow kids, but these do—tried and tested by our family:
Planning a midweek getaway? Check our tips!
