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Werkplaats CBK Zuidoost drawing and painting workshop for children 24H Zuidoost
Image from Bas Uterwijk

Family and kids in Zuidoost

In contrast to the somewhat compact canal ring, Zuidoost is formed of wide-open streets, mega entertainment complexes and vast green areas. This means there is really plenty of room here for the whole family to enjoy a range of cultural, culinary and outdoorsy activities.

Bijlmer Parktheater

Bijlmerparktheater 24H Zuidoost Afro dance and hip-hop dancing workshop with kids
Image from Bas Uterwijk

Located in the green heart of Zuidoost, the Bijlmer Parktheater reflects the culturally diverse society of the city and the neighbourhood. From cabaret and drama to circus and dance – there is something for everyone! For the little ones, there are regular children's performances or they can sign up for dance or theatre lessons.

Pathé Arena

Pathe Arena Boulevard IMAX cinema
Image from Klapfilm.nl

Pathé Arena is a state-of-the-art multiplex cinema boasting IMAX and 4DX screens, 602 cushy chairs and modern facilities for your viewing pleasure. On one of the 14 screens, you’ll always find a film to suit even the littlest ones. And you won’t be short of convenient food and drink all jammed into a tight area surrounding the Arena Boulevard.

Nelson Mandela Park

Kids playing football at Kwaku festival Nelson Mandela Park
Image from Style and Still - Amie Galbraith

Active and outdoorsy families will find plenty to enjoy in Zuidoost. The spacious parks in and around the district offer bountiful opportunities to play outside. Nelson Mandela Park has a skate park, playground, water features and various sports areas. In the summer months, don’t miss the Kwaku Summer Festival, where, in addition to fantastic food stands and all kinds of performances, children can participate in football tournaments.

Gaasperpark

Swimming at Gaasperplas lake Gaasperpark
Image from Koen Smilde

For even more nature, head over to Gaasperplas Park on the edge of Amsterdam. With an adjacent pool and water playground, this is the ideal spot to burn off some wild energy. There are even options for horse riding and camping – and if you're lucky, you might spot toads, fish or even grass snakes.

Kinderboerderij De Bijlmerweide

Peacock at Petting Zoo de Bijlmerweide
Image from Koen Smilde

Prefer to spot farm animals? On the outskirts of the Bijlmer, you will find a vast green meadow where baby cows, donkeys and happy bunnies hop around. Head over to De Bijlmerweide Petting Zoo to admire and pet these animals up close. To complete your day out, you’ll also find a large playground and canteen.

Indoor climbing, clambering and splashing

Has the rain stopped play? Fortunately, there is a range of indoor activities to keep kids entertained in wet weather. Ballorig is an indoor play paradise next to the Johan Cruijff ArenA with all the equipment for jumping, climbing and clambering. And if you fancy more of a splash, head over to the Bijlmer Sports Centre swimming pool on the other side of the Amsterdamse Poort.