Summary
Amsterdam’s Vondelpark is a public urban park located in the Old South. Opened in 1865 as Nieuwe Park, it was renamed Vondelpark to honor the 17th-century dramatist Joost van den Vondel.
Beloved by Amsterdam locals and visitors alike, Vondelpark contains a plethora of cafes and restaurants, as well as indoor and outdoor activities, making it enjoyable during any time of the year.
For those unfamiliar with the park, choosing what to see and do can be overwhelming; however, this comprehensive visitors’ guide to Vondelpark will prove helpful.
Things to Do
Some of the most popular activities and performances in the park are open to the public, free, or have a nominal fee:
- EYE Vondelpark – This park-side location of the popular film institute screens movies from the Netherlands and abroad daily; showtimes can be found on their website.
- Vondeltuin – The athletically inclined can rent inline skates and protective equipment here, located in the southernmost terrace of Vondelpark. After a fun skating session, visitors can enjoy a casual meal at the rink.
- Hollandsche Manege – Equine enthusiasts should not miss this spin-off of Vienna’s celebrated Spanish Riding School, where guests can glimpse the horses and their trainers from the upstairs cafe.
- Orgelpark – A former church transformed into a classical and jazz concert venue. Check their website for a concert calendar and ticket details.
- Open Air Theater – Amsterdammers flock to free open-air theater performances every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during summer, making it a vibrant cultural experience.
Where to Eat
The Vondelpark has a handful of cafes and terraces; however, for more substantial dining options, you’ll have to venture just outside the park’s boundaries.
- Blauwe Theehuis – This Vondelpark classic serves moderately priced meals in a monumental “tea house,” but it can become quite busy, resulting in slow service.
- Hap-Hmm – Experience traditional Dutch cuisine at its best, where no-frills dishes are served at rock-bottom prices.
- Blauw Amsterdam – Not to be confused with other eateries, Blauw Amsterdam is renowned for its rijsttafels meals, establishing itself as one of the top Indonesian places in town.
- Pasta Tricolore – Located on the stylish P.C. Hoofdstraat, this Italian espresso bar and trattoria offers an array of decadent sandwiches, antipasti (appetizers), and entrées for dine-in or takeout.
For Kids
Vondelpark is a veritable children’s paradise, with playgrounds and sandboxes scattered throughout. Here are some special child-oriented attractions in the park:
- Kinderkookkafé – This innovative venue allows children to hone their cooking skills under supervision while parents can relax nearby.
- Klein Melkhuis – Stop for a treat at Groot Melkhuis café. This spot features a fantastic kid’s menu and a fabulous play area at Klein Melkhuis to entertain your little ones.
