25 things to do in Emmen
Looking for inspiration for a day out, a weekend away, or perhaps a longer holiday? Then Emmen is a surprising destination. Here, you’ll find a combination of nature and vibrancy, all year round. From WILDLANDS and the Rensenpark to shops, walking routes, and events: there is always something to do in Emmen.
This is how to experience Emmen
In Emmen you can discover a lot, but also relax. From the vibrant town centre, you can walk straight into the forest, but you can just as easily spend a full day in museums, at events, or in lively streets filled with shops and outdoor cafés. 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 very easy to combine an active morning with a relaxing afternoon. Start your day among the animals, then walk through the park or explore the shops. There’s no shortage of culture, theatre, and places to eat and drink either. Everything is within walking distance, so you won’t have to travel far.
A day on a world trip at WILDLANDS
At WILDLANDS Adventure Zoo Emmen, you can walk from the savannah to the jungle. You’ll come face to face with giraffes, lions, monkeys, and even polar bears. There are boat rides, shows, and adventurous zones for children. A world trip in a single day. The zoo is spacious and fun for both young and old. Ideal for families, but also perfect if you simply want to spend a day out together.
Strolling around the Rensenpark
On the site of the old zoo now lies the Rensenpark. Here, you’ll find art, workshops, creative studios, and plenty of greenery. It’s a place for both peace and inspiration, right in the centre of Emmen. You can take a leisurely walk or visit a studio. In the summer, there are often small events.
Performances at the ATLAS Theater
In the evening, you can attend a performance at the ATLAS Theater. Located at Raadhuisplein, it has a full program every season, ranging from cabaret and music to dance and children’s shows. Combine a performance with dinner at one of the nearby restaurants for 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 of the Netherlands. In and around the city, you’ll find forests, heathlands, ponds, and nature reserves. Perfect for those who enjoy walking and cycling.
- Walking in the Emmerdennen
A peaceful forest just outside the centre of Emmen. With sand drifts, play areas, and small hills. Perfect for a short or long walk, and also great for a picnic.
- Exploring the Bargerveen
A unique nature reserve with boardwalks, heathland, and water. There are various cycling and walking routes, as well as viewpoints. Bring your camera, spot birds, and enjoy the scenery.
- Cycling past dolmens and villages
In the surroundings of Emmen, you’ll find ancient dolmens and small villages. You can follow a scenic cycling route and stop along the way for a nice lunch or coffee. Want to discover more cycling routes? Check out all the cycling routes here.
What is there to do in Emmen for lovers of art and history?
Emmen offers surprising cultural spots, 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 period. 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 transport used to work. Take a ride on the old train and admire the historic locomotives and wagons – a unique experience for young and old!
- Art Centre DIEP in the Rensenpark
Here, artists from the region and beyond exhibit their work. There are regular exhibitions, and you can also peek into the studios or get creative yourself.
Events: Emmen comes alive
Emmen comes alive. Events are held throughout the year, with large festivals, markets, and sporting events taking turns. There’s always something to do in Emmen each season.
Spring
In spring, the season kicks off with events such as:
- The 4 Miles of Emmen
- King’s Day and Night
- The Liberation Festival
- Barrel Food Truck Fest
- The Pentecost Market in the city centre
Summer
A busy summer full of activities in Emmen, such as:
- All about kids in Drenthe
- Hello Festival at the Grote Rietplas
- Butterfly markets on Tuesdays in July and August
- C’est la Vie Festival: street theater, market, and live music
- Gouden Pijl: cycling and festival atmosphere
Autumn and winter
Even in the colder months, there’s plenty to do:
- The Uitfestival marks the start of the cultural season
- Small performances, markets, and theatre shows
A day off in Emmen
Do you have a free afternoon or a few hours to spare? Even then, you can have a great time in Emmen. Whether you feel like something creative, enjoying good food, getting some fresh air, or simply wandering around, there’s always something to do in Emmen, even if you only have a few hours.
- Take creative workshops in the Rensenpark
- Have lunch at Raadhuisplein
- Dine at cozy restaurants in and around Emmen city centre
- Cycle or walk past dolmens, villages, and landscapes
- Shop at De Weiert shopping centre or small boutiques
Frequently asked questions about things to do in Emmen
What is there to do in Emmen with children?
Emmen is perfect for a family day out. There are plenty of activities that are both fun and educational for children.
- Visit WILDLANDS Adventure Zoo: here, children go on an adventure through different worlds and get close to animals such as elephants, polar bears, and monkeys.
- The Industrial Narrow-Gauge Railway Museum: here, children step into the shoes of a real train driver, earn their own driver’s diploma, and take a ride on the train through the Drenthe landscape.
- Rensenpark For those who want to be creative, there are art activities and workshops. The park also has plenty of space to play.
In short, there is always something to do in Emmen with children.
Can you shop well in Emmen?
Absolutely, Emmen is a great city for shopping. In the De Weiert shopping centre, you’ll find all the well-known stores under one roof, from fashion to electronics. The centre of Emmen is compact, so you can easily walk from shop to shop. In the side streets, there are also smaller boutiques and local specialty stores.
On Fridays, the city is especially lively thanks to the market. Emmen’s Friday market is the largest in the north of the Netherlands. You’ll find stalls with fresh produce, flowers, fish, clothing, and much more.
What is there to do in Emmen if you love peace and quiet?
Even if you are looking for peace and nature, Emmen is a great destination. Emmen has many quiet spots both in and around the city. Walk through the Emmerdennen, explore the tranquil Bargerveen, or enjoy art and calm at the Rensenpark or Van Gogh House.
