Vondelpark

Vondelpark is the central park of Amsterdam, it is one of the biggest and has a lot to offer visitors. The park was built in 1865 and covers 120 acres of space. As a cultivated park, Vondelpark offers lots of activities to do, but also gives quiet spaces for those seeking contemplation. The park is also a main thoroughfare for bikes heading from the south of the park into the centre of the city. Vondelpark has the affection of those living in Amsterdam as their escape into nature when the weather is mild.

Vondelpark Nature

One of the wonders of the park is also the nature that you can see. There are numerous types of birds within Vondelpark, many visitors are surprised at the wealth of birds living in the park. As well as Herons and other birds native to the Netherlands, you can also expect to witness more exotic birds! There are Storks that live in the south area of the park in big nests high up. There is also a flock of green parakeets in Vondelpark.

The Parakeets appeared in Amsterdam in the mid 1970’s and decided to make this beautiful city and its parks their home. There are many stories behind the large flock of Parakeets and how it came to Amsterdam. One of the urban legends is that an old lady living in proximity to Vondelpark released a pair of Parakeets. Another circulating story is that a truck full of exotic birds overturned and the birds escaped to the local park. Another story says the birds came from a company based in Amsterdam, the company was relocating to an office outside of Amsterdam and accidently released some of their birds.

Things to do in Vondelpark

As well as cycling, walking, running or roller blading around the park, there is so much more to do. Many people from the city descend on the park in the summer months and take a spot with a blanket and a book to enjoy the nice weather in a relaxing surrounding. Others join the various sport activity groups that join the park, from running to barbell workouts and even silent discos. There is so many groups using the park for interesting activities!

There is an open air theatre in the centre of Vondelpark. This open air theatre has regular theatre shows and gigs. There is also markets and other activities at the theatre. It is generally free to open, but not always. Here is a link to the Open air theatres agenda.

Children’s Play Areas

There are a number of parks for children on the park. You can find the kinderbadje, a children’s shallow pool in the south end of the park. This kid’s area has swings, a sand pit as well as an area for children to run around and climb. Further to the south near the southern entrance gate you will find another play area. This is a wooden play with a large slide. It is more for older children given its height and level needed to climb up.

There is also the Melkhuis, a personal favourite of Explore Amsterdam. The Melkhuis has a large play area at the rear of a cafe, bar and restaurant. Here your children can enjoy the swings, slides, zipline and climbing apparatus whilst you sit outside with a drink and food. The play area is fully enclosed and there are trees to offer some protection from the sun on hot days.

Cafes in Vondelpark

Vondelpark boasts a number of Cafes.

In the north of the park towards the city centre entrance you will find Vondelpark 3. This beautiful large building cannot be missed as its architecture imposes on the northern side of the park. At Vondelpark 3 you can enjoy a drink or bite to eat on its terrace overlooking the water and passing park visitors.

There is the Blauwe Theehuis located in the centre of Vondelpark. The Blauwe Theehuis has covered seating as well as the outside sun terrace. Here you can enjoy a hot or cold drink, including beer on tap. There is also a great food menu offering sandwiches, pizza and much more.

In the south of the park there is the Vondeltuin, a wonderful cafe just to the side of the south entrance. The Vondeltiun offers a wonderful outside terrace with seating and parasols to keep you out of the sun (if desired). Here you can grab a drink or choose a light bite or lunch from their extensive menu.

To the southern Overtoom side of the park just outside one of the small entrances you will find the Kinderkook Cafe. This is a perfect spot for those with young children! At the Kinderkook Cafe, children can get involved in preparing their own food.