Ride a WW2 Tank At The Dutch National Military Museum

Ever wanted to channel your inner hero and cruise through the Dutch countryside in a battle-worn tank? The National Military Museum offers just that—adrenaline-filled rides in historic military vehicles. From April to October, it cranks up the adrenaline with rides in a legendary military vehicle. The experience keeps the history of our great wars in the minds of younger generations, while adding an element of fun, making it a must for all military buffs and thrill-seekers.

The Dutch National Military Museum: What’s There?

The NMM is a great Dutch museum, and sits on the area of a former air base from the Cold War era and is one of the Netherlands’ top military museums. However, it offers more than the usual aircraft, artillery, uniforms, and military paraphernalia—from April to October, the museum provides the opportunity to climb aboard a legendary vehicle and experience a true ride in those war machines. The NMM’s Dutch Army Tank Days and other special events offer visitors the chance to board, start up, and ride these historic vehicles, bringing hands-on experience to the next level. Here’s a preview of what you might get to ride:

• The M113: The most widely used armored vehicle and Dutch army tank. The Dutch forces deployed them on peacekeeping missions. Observe its tight quarters, the ear-splitting noise of the engines, and the clanging of the tracks on rough terrain.
• The M-3A1: Used regularly during the Second World War, U.S and allied forces used it for a host of patrol, reconnaissance, and command roles. It stands out with its open-top design and compact frame. Hop in to see what it was like to be on the move during some of the 20th century’s defining moments.
• The M-688: Built for logistics, and with reinforced side panels and a rear compartment specifically engineered for missile resupply operations, the M-688 was an unarmored vehicle that provided support rather than being used in direct combat. Sure, it’s not a battle tank, but don’t underestimate this logistics powerhouse.

Read Also: Audrey Hepburn and the Netherlands: Espionage & Elegance During War

Why It’s Special

Maintaining and operating 70-year-old tanks and armored vehicles is no easy feat. The processes are quite draining, and the NMM needs a team of mechanics, historians, and volunteers to keep these giant machines running. Most of these vehicles run on diesel, but a few older ones require special mixes of fuel. As original parts are hard or impossible to source, the museum often relies on either custom parts being made in special factories or donor vehicles. Before a visitor to the museum rides, each vehicle is subjected to rigorous checks to ensure all systems, from the tracks to the braking system, work as well as possible.

Check the NMM Event Calendar for upcoming Tank Days. Private Group Enquiries: Send an email to the museum for exclusive bookings. Arrive early: These ride slots are limited and sell out quickly!

For military history buffs, it is a deep dive into military technology, there’s no better way to understand what it was like for soldiers on the front line than driving the battlefield vehicles. For an adrenaline junkie, it is a once-in-a-lifetime chance. For expats and locals alike, this is a unique way to experience Dutch military heritage. If you’ve ever dreamt of commanding a tank, feeling the rumble of an APC, or cruising in a WWII Jeep, NMM has just what you need.