Are you planning a trip to Amsterdam with your little ones and looking for a fun, educational activity? Look no further than the NEMO Science Museum, a must-visit destination for families. My son and I recently spent a morning exploring the museum and had an absolute blast. In this blog post, I’ll take you through our experience, from our arrival to the experiments we completed in the chemistry lab, and everything in between.

 

 

Arrival and Lockers at NEMO

We arrived at NEMO Science Museum early in the morning after a short 35-minute trip on public transport from the Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. The location is perfect as it is in the heart of Amsterdam, and you can easily reach it by public transport or taxi. We were pleased to find that NEMO provides free lockers to store your backpacks and other belongings, so you can be hands-free while exploring the museum. The lockers require a 50-cent deposit, but you get it back when you return the key. I didn’t have any change, but the friendly front desk staff kindly gave me cashback using my card.

 

 

Exhibits

Fenomena, Technium, and Elementa

NEMO Science Museum has five floors of exciting exhibits, and the first three were our favourites. Fenomena explores the wonders of light, sound, and gravity with interactive exhibits that will captivate your little ones. We spent a lot of time in Technium, where we loved exploring the Water Power and World of Shapes exhibits. My son was fascinated by the water cycle and enjoyed playing with the various shapes and patterns. Elementa was another highlight.

 

 

Chemistry Lab

One of the most exciting parts of our visit was completing our own experiments in the chemistry lab where children can get hands-on with science and technology. We donned lab coats and safety goggles and got to work mixing chemicals and observing reactions. My son loved feeling like a real scientist, and we both learned a lot about the properties of different elements. This activity is aimed at children aged 6-12, but my son really wanted to have ago and we were lucky enough that experiment we chose was simple for him to understand. can get hands-on with science and technology.

 

 

Energetica and Rooftop Square

Be sure to visit Energetica, which is located on the rooftop square of NEMO Science Museum. Here you’ll find exhibits that explore energy and sustainability, with a focus on renewable sources like wind and solar power. The views of Amsterdam from the rooftop are stunning, and you can even relax on the steps and enjoy a picnic if the weather permits.

 

 

Other Highlights of NEMO

NEMO Science Museum has something for everyone, from toddlers to adults. The Science Live shows are a must-see, featuring exciting experiments and demonstrations by science communicators. We managed to catch one, but they only spoke Dutch, regardless, with all the hand actions and the fact we could see what was going on we remained engaged and stayed until the end. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, so be sure to check the website for the latest information.

 

 

Planning Your Visit to NEMO

NEMO is open from Tuesday to Sunday. During school holidays and public holidays, NEMO is also open on Mondays. Admission prices vary depending on age, with discounts for children and families. You can buy tickets online or at the museum’s entrance. Additionally, visitors with the I Amsterdam City Card can enjoy free admission to the museum, making it an even more affordable and attractive option for families on a budget. Plan to spend at least four hours at the museum, as there is so much to see and do. There are several cafes and restaurants on-site, as well as a gift shop with a variety of science-themed souvenirs.

 

 

Our day trip to Amsterdam with my little boy was made even more special thanks to our visit to NEMO Science Museum. From the interactive exhibits in Fenomena, Technium, and Elementa to the hands-on chemistry lab and stunning views from Energetica, there’s something for everyone at NEMO. I highly recommend adding it to your Amsterdam itinerary, especially if you are travelling with children.

 

In addition to being a fun family activity, visiting NEMO Science Museum can also be a valuable learning experience for children. The exhibits are designed to teach science concepts in an engaging and interactive way, making it an excellent supplement to classroom learning- I LOVE it.

 

Overall, our visit to NEMO Science Museum was a highlight of our Amsterdam trip. It’s a fun and educational activity that the whole family can enjoy, and there’s something new to discover around every corner. So, if you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam with your little ones, be sure to add NEMO to your itinerary. You won’t be disappointed!

 

Let me know if you have any questions.

 

It’s important to note that I was invited to visit NEMO Science Museum as part of a PR invite, but this does not impact the authenticity of my opinion. I enjoyed the museum’s experience and would highly recommend it to others. As always, I aim to provide helpful and honest information to my readers.