The Top 7 Things To Do In The Rain In The Netherlands

Damp days are a fact of life here in the Netherlands, but that doesn’t mean your plans have to be dampened. From great museums to fun indoor playgrounds and some historic castles, here are our top seven things to do on a rainy day in the Netherlands.

Rijksmuseum

For things to do in the rain in Amsterdam, the Rijksmuseum is a spectacular show of Dutch fine arts and history. It houses masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age, and, among others, works of Rembrandt and Vermeer, making it an ideal place to dip into some culture while staying dry. For art lovers and curious minds alike, the museum’s huge art collection and splendid architecture make for a worthy visit.

Open daily 9h to 17h, Museumstraat 1, Amsterdam

Museum Speelklok

Situated in Utrecht, the Museum Speelklok is dedicated to self-playing instruments, ranging from music boxes to grand organs. With interactive exhibits and live demonstrations, it becomes an entertaining stop for families or anyone passionate about music and mechanics. It is one indoor way to experience Dutch creativity.

Open Tue to Sun 10h to 17h, Steenweg 6, Utrecht

Nijntje (Miffy) Museum

The Nijntje (Miffy) Museum in Utrecht is every parent of a toddler’s dream. This is essentially a gigantic educational indoor playground themed on the beloved little Dutch bunny, Nijntje. Kids get to play, learn, and explore in a safe and creative environment, while parents enjoy a dry, stress-free outing.

Open Tue to Sun 10h to 17h, Agnietenstraat 2, Utrecht

DOMunder

DOMunder gives a completely unique underground adventure under Utrecht’s Domplein, wherein you can explore archaeological ruins going as far back as 45 CE. This interactive day out is ideal for folks that need to find out more about Dutch history without braving the elements.

Open daily 10h to 17h, Domplein 9, Utrecht

Muiderslot (‘Amsterdam Castle’)

“A castle in Amsterdam?’ I hear you say? Muiderslot is a beautifully restored 13th-century citadel near Amsterdam that gives a hands-on museum experience. While the gardens are best seen in sunny weather, the fortress’s richly decorated interiors are ideal viewing for a wet day adventure, and are steeped in Dutch medieval history.

Open daily 10h to 17h, Herengracht 1, Muiden

WONDR Experience

For things to do in the rain In Amsterdam, the WONDR Experience is an indoor playground for kids while adults may also benefit from it, featuring surreal, work-for-fun interactive rooms created by artists. Lively sets, immersive installations, and the numerous opportunities for silly photos act as an antidote to rainy days. A joyful escape from the rain and a feast for the senses while you’re at it.

Open Mon to Fri 10h to 19h, Sat & Sun 0930h to 19h, Meeuwenlaan 88, Amsterdam

NEMO Science Museum

On those wet and gloomy days, a rainy day play date at the museum could be just what the doctor ordered. The NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam is within an interesting ship-shaped building featuring many interactive displays designed to present science and technology in an engaging manner. Live demonstrations, fascinating experiments, and exhibits about the human body, energy, or the universe all await your visit at NEMO – an excellent outing for families.

Open daily 10h to 1730h, Oosterdok 2, Amsterdam

By now, you should have some ideas for what to do on a rainy day in the Netherlands.​

Rainy days in the Netherlands need not mean staying cooped up inside. From exploring world-class museums and enchanting castles to relaxing in steeply-priced spas or discovering quirky points of interest, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of a wet day.