What to do with children in Utrecht? 15 fun outings for the whole family
06/30/2026A weekend getaway or a day out? In Utrecht, there is plenty for families with children to enjoy. From interactive museums and adventurous playgrounds to cozy restaurants with a play corner or playground. Even on a rainy day, you won't be bored for a moment.
In this blog, we share our favorite activities for children in Utrecht and the surrounding area. Do you have a fun tip that shouldn't be missed? Feel free to let us know!
What can you do with children in Utrecht when it rains?
1. Miffy Museum (ages 2 to 6)
Which child doesn't love Miffy? At the Miffy Museum, children can playfully step into the world of Miffy and her friends. Visit the storytime session, admire the 360-degree projection, and enjoy painting, building, and crafting in the art room.
2. Railway Museum (ages 4 to 12)
The Railway Museum is perhaps the most famous museum in Utrecht. Step into the shoes of a train driver during a train simulator, take an exciting ride through the past, and discover everything about the history of the train. On sunny days, children can also enjoy the large outdoor playground.
3. Mitland Bowling
Raining outside? Then Mitland Bowling is the perfect destination. With nine modern bowling lanes, there's plenty of fun for the whole family. After bowling, enjoy a snack at the bar or have a burger in the restaurant or on the terrace. You are also welcome for children's parties.
4. Museum Speelklok (up to 17 years)
At Museum Speelklok, music and technology come together. Go on a treasure hunt for organ monkey Toon, discover special self-playing instruments, and experiment in the music and technology lab.
5. Play-In Utrecht (up to 17 years)
From trampolines and glow-in-the-dark mini-golf to VR games and climbing activities: at Play-In in The Wall Utrecht, there's something for every age. A perfect location for an active day out.
Where can you find the best playgrounds in Utrecht?
1. Griftsteede
Experience farm life in the middle of the city at Griftsteede. In addition to the petting zoo, you'll find a large playground with a paddling pool, play equipment, and a wheelchair carousel. Meanwhile, parents can enjoy a cup of coffee on the farm café terrace.
2. Nature Playground De Hoef
Nature Playground De Hoef is Utrecht's first 'inclusive playground,' where accessibility and playing together are central. Children can enjoy the go-kart track, trampolines, willow tunnels, and sandbox. For a drink or organic lemonade, you can visit Het Hoefijzer.
3. The Seven Streams
Just a five-minute walk from Hotel Mitland is The Seven Streams, a delightful water play area in the Voorveldse Polder. With a sandy beach, a wobbly bridge, and a large grassy field, this is the place to cool off on warm summer days. Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the greenery.
4. The Turtlegarden
Close to Griftsteede is The Turtlegarden. Here, children can play to their heart's content while parents relax on the terrace. Simple snacks and drinks are available at the kiosk.
5. The Forest Playground
In the middle of Máximapark, you'll find The Forest Playground, a natural play area with treehouses, suspension bridges, a zip line, and a water play area. Bring your own picnic or end the day at restaurant Anafora.
Which restaurants in Utrecht are fun with children?
1. SOIA
Looking for a beach vibe in the middle of the city? You'll find it at SOIA. While parents enjoy the terrace, children can have fun in the enclosed playground. A wonderful place for sunny days.
2. Restaurant Vlonders
Children are also very welcome at Restaurant Vlonders. They receive a special children's menu with a fun bingo card. With binoculars, they can spot ducks, sheep, and other animals around the water. Have they found everything? Then the bingo is complete!
3. Teahouse Rijnauwen (Bunnik)
Teahouse Rijnauwen has been a household name in Utrecht for years. Enjoy a pancake by the water while the children color, play in the children's corner, or have fun in the outdoor playground. Don't forget to take a walk past the donkeys and goats.
4. Blik & Burgers (Zeist)
At Blik & Burgers, you can enjoy lunch or dinner on the terrace with a view of the playground. Be sure to bring the rollerblades, as there's a large roller skating track next to the restaurant.
5. PAND Pancake (Schalkwijk)
Pancakes are always a hit with children. At PAND Pancake, you'll find a large play area inside with a real caravan and car where children can play endlessly. There are also dress-up clothes, games, and lots of toys. In good weather, children move to the outdoor playground while parents relax on the terrace.
Where can you stay with children in Utrecht?
Turn your day out into a complete weekend getaway and stay at Hotel Mitland. Thanks to its central location, you're just minutes away from many of the mentioned activities. After a day full of adventure, children can swim in the indoor pool or spot animals in Mitland's Green Backyard. Tip: book the family package including a family room and an hour of bowling at Mitland Bowling.