Exploring Emmen with Children

Going on an adventure in Emmen with the kids? Fun! The WILDLANDS zoo, the city center, forests, and playgrounds are all within walking or cycling distance of each other.

So whether it’s a weekend getaway with the family or a day out, Emmen is the right place. Nature, culture, or adventure? Plan your family day in Emmen and create wonderful memories together.

Discover Animals and Playgrounds

When visiting Emmen with children, you quickly enter a world of animals and playgrounds. From spotting elephants at WILDLANDS to interactive museums, Emmen is perfect for families who love exploring and discovering.

WILDLANDS Adventure Zoo Emmen

In WILDLANDS you can take a world tour in a single day. Walk through the jungle, see elephants on the savannah, and sail among the hippos. Along the way, there are attractions, shows, and playgrounds to enjoy. This unique zoo is a must for families who love animals and adventure.

Rensenpark

Rensenpark is a special place in the heart of Emmen. Where there used to be a zoo, there is now a green city center with art, play areas, and small studios. Children can run, cycle, or cool down with an ice cream.

Smalspoormuseum Erica

For little train enthusiasts, the Smalspoormuseum in Erica is definitely worth a visit. Kids can earn a conductor’s diploma and ride a real train. The interactive exhibitions make it even more fun for curious children.

Outdoor Fun in Emmen’s Forests

The nature around Emmen is one big playground. With walks, water, and restaurants, your day will be full. For example, follow the Gnome Trail, look for sheep, or relax at the Grote Rietplas!

Emmerdennen & Gnome Trail

The Emmerdennen is one of the most beautiful and oldest forests in Drenthe. Walk over sand dunes, climb on tree trunks, and explore the Gnome Trail. Along the way, cheerful gnomes with tasks are waiting—perfect for young hikers.

Bargerveen & Sheepfold Weiteveen

A trip to Bargerveen is always worth it. In the peatlands, you can meet the shepherd and his flock. Afterwards, enjoy a treat at Restaurant Wollegras! The combination of nature, animals, and tranquility makes this a top spot for families.

Griendtsveenpark Erica

In Griendtsveenpark you’ll find a petting zoo and a large playground! A great combination—pack your picnic basket and make a day of it.

Fun at the Grote Rietplas

At the Grote Rietplas, you can swim, build sandcastles, or go paddleboarding. There’s a small playground by the beach and a restaurant with a terrace.

Adventures at Joytime Grolloo

For active families, Joytime Grolloo is highly recommended! This outdoor park features a climbing forest, zip lines, and mountain bike trails, keeping the whole family entertained all day.

Active Learning in Emmen

Children are often creative and curious. At these fun locations, they can learn about art and history through play.

Rensenlab Children can experiment with technology and science. Workshops are regularly organized for kids.

At Kinderatelier DIEP, young artists create their own works using paint or clay.

Facet Emmen organizes reading sessions and creative afternoons at the library.

At the Van Gogh House, kids can paint like Van Gogh, while Museum Collectie Brands brings history to life with child-friendly routes. museums in Emmen.

Step back in time at the Hunebedcentrum in Borger! A place full of Drenthe history.

Indoor Fun on Chilly Days

Cold or rainy outside? No problem. Emmen has plenty of indoor activities for children. These indoor experiences turn every day into a fun adventure.

Cowboy & Indian Playground

At Cowboy & Indian Playground in Coevorden, children can play for hours in a colorful indoor paradise.

Urban GRND

Urban GRND is ideal for older children: trampolines, laser tag, and bouldering—all under one roof.

Ballorig Emmen

Ballorig Emmen is perfect for the youngest visitors, with slides, trampolines, and a separate toddler area.

Escape Room Emmen

In Escape Room Emmen, teamwork is key, and it’s fun for families with older children.

Dining with the Family

After a day full of adventures in Emmen, it’s time for a delicious meal with the whole family. Explore all dining options in Emmen and choose your favorite spot.

At Barista Café in the center, enjoy breakfast, lunch, or homemade cakes.
Restaurant Wollegras serves regional dishes with a view of nature.
At Railroad Steakhouse (Nieuw-Amsterdam), you’ll find grilled dishes and kids’ menus.
Wereldrestaurant Puur is a favorite among families who love variety.
At ’t Hoes van Hol-An in Aalden, enjoy traditional, delicious pancakes.

Event Calendar for the Whole Family

Emmen hosts many events for all ages. During “October Children’s Month,” there are free activities every weekend in art, theater, and technology. Family performances and musicals are shown at ATLAS Theater. At WILDLANDS, there are regularly treasure hunts and shows specifically for children.

Check the Ontdek Emmen event calendar for up-to-date family activities and plan your day out.

Practical Tips for Emmen with Children

Most children’s activities are in or around Emmen’s city center, making them easy to reach on foot or by bike. Coming by car? Park at Willinkplein or Westerstraat, both close to shops and restaurants.

For trips to Erica, Weiteveen, or Borger, a car is convenient.