25 Things to Do in Emmen

Are you looking for inspiration for a day trip, a weekend getaway, or perhaps a longer vacation? Then Emmen is a surprising destination. You’ll find a combination of nature and vibrancy there, all year round. From WILDLANDS and Rensenpark to shops, walking trails, and events: there’s always something to do in Emmen.

Here’s How to Experience Emmen

There’s plenty to discover in Emmen, but you can also relax here. From the bustling city center, you can walk right into the woods, or you can spend a full day visiting museums, attending events, or strolling through charming streets lined with shops and outdoor cafes. Whatever your interests—culture, nature, or adventure—you’ll find it all here.

What is there to do in Emmen if you’re looking for a day full of variety?

What is there to do in Emmen if you want to see a lot in one day? In Emmen, it’s easy to combine an active morning with a relaxing afternoon. Start your day among the animals, then take a stroll through the park or hit the shops. There’s also no shortage of culture, theater, and dining options. Everything is within walking distance, so you don’t have to travel far.

A Day of World Travel at WILDLANDS

At WILDLANDS Adventure Zoo Emmen, you’ll walk from the savanna to the jungle. You’ll come face to face with giraffes, lions, monkeys, and even polar bears. There are boat tours, shows, and adventure zones for kids. A trip around the world in a single day. The zoo is spacious and fun for young and old alike. It’s ideal for families, but also perfect if you just want to spend a day out together.

Strolling Through Rensenpark

Rensenpark now stands on the site of the old zoo. Here you’ll find art, workshops, creative studios, and plenty of green space. It’s a place for peace and inspiration, right in the heart of Emmen. You can take a leisurely stroll or pop into a studio. In the summer, there are often small events.

Performances at the ATLAS Theater

In the evening, you can catch a show at the ATLAS Theater. It’s located on Raadhuisplein and has a packed schedule every season—from cabaret and music to dance and children’s shows. Combine a show with dinner at one of the nearby restaurants to make it a complete night out.

Emmen for Nature Lovers

What is there to do in Emmen if you love nature? Emmen is located in one of the greenest regions in the Netherlands. In and around the city, you’ll find forests, heathland, ponds, and nature reserves. It’s ideal for anyone who enjoys hiking and biking.

• Hiking in the Emmerdennen
  A peaceful forest just outside downtown Emmen. With sand drifts, play areas, and small hills. Perfect for a short or long walk, but also a great spot for a picnic.

• Out and About in the Bargerveen
  A unique nature reserve with boardwalks, heathland, and water. There are various biking and hiking trails and lookout points. Bring your camera, go birdwatching, and enjoy the view.

• Cycling past dolmens and villages
  The area around Emmen is home to ancient dolmensand small villages. You can follow a scenic bike route and stop along the way for a delicious lunch or coffee. Want to discover more bike routes? Check out all the cycling routes here.

What is there to do in Emmen for art and history lovers?

Emmen offers some surprising cultural attractions, ranging from the Van Gogh House to local art and historic villages.

• Van Gogh House in Nieuw-Amsterdam/Veenoord
  Visit the Van Gogh House, where the famous artist stayed for a short time. You’ll learn more about his life and work in this region.

• Industrial Narrow-Gauge Railway Museum in Erica
  Step back in time and discover how peat was transported in the past. Take a ride on the old train and admire the historic locomotives and cars—a unique experience for young and old alike!

• DIEP Art Center in hRensenpark
  Artists from the region and beyond exhibit here. There are regular exhibitions. You can also take a look inside the studios or get creative yourself.

Events: Emmen Comes Alive

Emmen is a lively place. Events are held here all year round. Major festivals, markets, and sporting events take place one after another. There’s always something to do in Emmen, no matter the season.

Spring

Spring is packed with events such as:

• The 4 Mijl of Emmen
• King’s Day and Night
• The Liberation Festival
• Barrel Food Truck Fest
• The Pentecost Market in the city center

Summer

A busy summer full of activities in Emmen, such as:

• All Kids in Drenthe
• Hello Festival at the Grote Rietplas
• Butterfly Markets on Tuesdays in July through August
• C’est la Vie Festival: street theater, market, and live music
• Golden Arrow: Cycling and a Festival Atmosphere

Fall and Winter

There’s plenty to do even during the colder months:

• The “Uitfestival” as the kickoff to the cultural season
• Small performances, markets, and theater productions

A day off in Emmen

Do you have a free afternoon or a few hours to spare? Even then, there are fun things to do in Emmen. Whether you’re in the mood for something creative, good food, a breath of fresh air, or just a leisurely stroll, there’s always something to do in Emmen—even if you only have a few hours.

• Take creative workshops at Rensenpark
• Lunch at Raadhuisplein
• Dining out at cozy restaurants in and around downtown Emmen
• Cycling or hiking past dolmens, villages, and landscapes
• Shopping at De Weiert Mall or in small boutiques