Explore Amsterdam Like a Local at the Weird and Wonderful
Amsterdam, the city of canals, historic sites, and an art scene filled with Masters so Dutch you’ll almost smell the gouda through their paintings, is not just about its iconic attractions. It has a quirky side too, full of the offbeat and bizarre — the kind of things even some lifelong inhabitants haven’t tried yet. Whether you’re a local or a tourist yearning to get a unique taste of the city, these out-of-the-box experiences will tickle your adventurous spirit and maybe prompt a chuckle or two.
Peruse the Peculiar at Micropia
Tired of the grandeur of the Van Gogh Museum or the Rijksmuseum? How about seeing things on the microscopic level at Micropia? Here, you’ll come face-to-face with a menagerie of microorganisms that keep our ecosystems buzzing. Bringing science and art together, this is the only place where you can say you’ve literally seen every (little) thing and mean it. It’s like looking at the world through a microscope — because you literally will be!
Embrace Your Inner Child at WONDR
If you’ve ever wanted to swim in a pool filled with marshmallows, jump into a joyful ball pit, or get lost in colorful dreamscapes, WONDR is the place to unleash your inner 5-year-old… and your Instagram influencer. This interactive playground and immersive pop-up art installation is all about fun and photos. You’re guaranteed to leave with a smile as wide as the canals are long.
Discover Amsterdam’s Secret Courtyards
Step aside traditional walks in amsterdam! It’s time to venture into the most serene and hidden parts of the city: the secret courtyards also known as ‘hofjes.’ These charming, tiny gardens and historical living quarters are like stepping back in time to a peaceful nook of nature amidst the hustle and bustle. Remember, only those with a keen eye and a softer step manage to find these urban sanctuaries, so sneakers, not wooden clogs, are recommended for this urban adventure!
Go Quackers at the Duck Store
Duck into this duck haven and you’ll be surrounded by shelves of rubber ducks in every shape, size, and theme imaginable. They’ll quack you up with everything from regal Queen ducks, pop-art ducks, to rock-star ducks. Who said souvenirs have to be typical? Grab a duck, make it your travel buddy, and you’ll have a cracking good time in Amsterdam.
Bicycle Canal Jumping
Alright, let’s address the elephant in the (small) bicycle shop: Dutch people love their bikes. It’s only fitting that Fahrrad-Verrückten (aka cycling enthusiasts) would create a sport that’s both genius and absolutely bonkers. During summer festivals, you can witness or partake in bicycle canal jumping. The aim? Pedal like your life depended on it and land with grace—or splash—into the murky waters. It’s both an art and a sport, really.
Taste the Traditional at a Market Stall
No trip—or day out for locals—is complete without a munch of the multicultural fare at Amsterdam’s bustling markets. Venture to the Albert Cuyp or any local market and chow down on unique delights like herring (raw fish with onions, yum-yuck!), bitterballen, or stroopwafels. All while hobnobbing with locals buying the freshest produce to keep their heritage recipes, and likely their sanity, in check.