Continue to content
Webshop
On the map
Sfeerafbeelding evenementen in Emmen

Activity in Emmen: discover what you can do today

Looking for a fun activity in Emmen? You can sail through the peatlands, go on safari in WILDLANDS or stroll through the old town centre. Everything is close together and easy to combine. Whether you’re here for nature, culture or simply a relaxing day out.

20 activities in Emmen

Active outings in and around Emmen

Want to get some fresh air? In Emmen you can easily head straight into nature. And if you enjoy something sporty or adventurous, you’re in the right place too.

  • Cycling and walking through the Bargerveen Hop on your bike and explore the Bargerveen. Ride past ancient peat landscapes, water, viewpoints and small villages. Along the way you’ll find plenty of places to stop for coffee or a picnic.
  • Boat trip on the Veenvaart A peaceful and original activity in Emmen is a boat trip. Between Erica and Ter Apel you’ll find a special waterway: the Veenvaart. You can rent your own boat or join a guided cruise. Along the route you’ll pass locks, bridges and lots of greenery.
  • Climbing, karting and escaping an escape room In the mood for action? Go climbing at Outdoor Grolloo, challenge your friends on the kart track or try to escape together from an escape room in Emmen. Perfect for an outing with friends, family or colleagues.
  • WILDLANDS One of Emmen’s best-known attractions is WILDLANDS. This zoo in the heart of the city is divided into themed worlds. Travel from the jungle to the savannah, spot polar bears and experience an adventurous safari ride. A great activity in Emmen for all ages.
  • Events and festivals Did you know Emmen hosts more than 300 events each year? From music festivals to food truck festivals and sports tournaments—there’s always something going on. Check the event calendar for all upcoming events.

Art and culture: another side of Emmen

Emmen is also a place of culture and history. You’ll find art, heritage and fascinating stories in locations you won’t soon forget.

  • Rensenpark The former zoo of Emmen is now the Rensenpark. Here you’ll find artist studios, workshops and exhibitions. Nice for a relaxed walk or for popping inside to take a look.
  • Van Gogh in Nieuw-Amsterdam/Veenoord Did you know Vincent van Gogh lived in Emmen for a while? In Nieuw-Amsterdam/Veenoord stands the original Van Gogh House. Visit the house and get a glimpse into his time in Drenthe.
  • UNESCO Geopark The Hondsrug is the only UNESCO Geopark in the Netherlands. Walk between prehistoric dolmens, burial mounds and ancient traces of human history. At the Hunebed Centre in Borger you can learn all about the prehistoric landscape.
  • Museum Collectie Brands In Nieuw-Dordrecht you’ll find the home of collector Jans Brands. Walk through his former house filled with special objects: books, photos, household items and more.

Time to relax? Calm activities in Emmen

Sometimes you just want to unwind. Emmen has plenty of peaceful places—outdoors or indoors.

  • Relax in the Bourtanger Moor This unique nature reserve is perfect for long walks. Spot rare birds, wide peat landscapes and beautiful sunsets. The area is also easy to reach by bike.
  • Picnic in the Emmerdennen or at the Grote Rietplas The Emmerdennen forest is close to the city centre. You can walk and picnic among the trees. Prefer water? Bring a blanket to the Grote Rietplas—perfect for sunbathing, swimming or simply relaxing by the water.
  • Wellness or cinema Relax indoors with a visit to a sauna, enjoy a film at the cinema, or attend a show at the ATLAS Theater. End the day with dinner at the Marktplein for a complete night out.

Shopping and browsing the market

Prefer wandering around? Emmen has plenty to offer for shoppers and fans of local products. The centre is compact and cosy, with shops, cafés and markets—perfect for a relaxed day of browsing.

  • Shopping in Emmen city centre In the city centre you’ll find well-known shops as well as small boutiques. Everything is located around the Marktplein, making it easy to stroll around.
  • Friday market Every Friday there is a large market in the centre—over 100 stalls—making it the biggest in Northern Netherlands. You’ll find clothing, food, flowers and more.
  • Shopping in Klazienaveen or Nieuw-Amsterdam/Veenoord You can shop outside Emmen too. Klazienaveen has over 140 shops and free parking. In Nieuw-Amsterdam/Veenoord you walk along the water from shop to shop—a nice day out in a scenic setting.

Food & drinks in the region

Food is part of the experience—especially during a day out. Emmen has plenty of choices for a quick break or a full dinner.

Combine your activity in Emmen and stay the night

One of the best things about Emmen is that everything is close by. You can easily combine multiple activities. Start your day with a walk, have lunch in the centre and end with a movie or theatre performance.

Staying longer? There are plenty of overnight options:

  • Holiday parks near nature reserves
  • Cosy B&Bs in villages like Erica or Weerdinge
  • Hotels in the city centre, within walking distance of shops and restaurants

View all accommodations.

Frequently asked questions about activities in Emmen

What are fun activities in Emmen for families?

Wildlands Adventure Zoo is highly recommended. Walk through the jungle, across the savannah and see animals from all over the world. The Rensenpark is also great for an afternoon out—kids can play and explore the artist studios. Around Emmen you’ll also find many playgrounds, a water play area at the Rietplas and fun children’s activities at markets and events.

Can I be active in Emmen?

Absolutely. You can walk and cycle in nature reserves such as the Bargerveen or the Emmerdennen. Want something more exciting? Go climbing, karting or visit an escape room. A boat trip on the Veenvaart is both relaxing and active. And with more than 300 events a year, there’s always something to do in Emmen.

What is an original activity in Emmen?

Visit the Van Gogh House in Nieuw-Amsterdam—the only original Van Gogh residence in the Netherlands. Or choose a creative workshop in the Rensenpark, located in the former zoo. A boat trip along the Veenvaart is another surprising way to explore the region. A fun activity in Emmen for all ages.