The city of Amsterdam, located in the province of North Holland, is the capital of the Netherlands, as well as its largest city. The city dates back to at least the year 1275, if not earlier. Amsterdam is known for being one of the most multicultural cities in the world. It has become home to residents from over 180 different countries, and is host to a wide variety of races, religions, creeds, and cultures. All of these factors contribute to make Amsterdam a city unlike any other. While the red light district is probably one of the first things that many people think of, there are many other more family-friendly things to see as well. If you’re going to be visiting Amsterdam, here are some of the things you’ll want to check out.
- Visit the Van Gogh Museum. This museum, which houses around 200 paintings and 500 drawings by Vincent Van Gogh, is a definite must-see. You’ll be able to view works from all periods of the great artist’s career, from his Dutch period, where his work was very dark, to his time in Arles, which produced many brighter works. The museum’s collection also includes some of Van Gogh’s personal effects, such as family Bibles. This museum houses works by some of Van Gogh’s famous contemporaries, artists such as Gauguin, Monet, Toulouse-Lautrec and Bernard. You’ll definitely want to allow plenty of time for this stop so you can take your time perusing this interesting collection.
- Anne Frank House. No trip to Amsterdam would be complete without a visit to the Anne Frank House. Here you’ll have the opportunity to explore the house that Anne and her family were hidden in until they were captured. You’ll see the secret annex, which has been preserved in the state that it was in shortly after the Franks were arrested. Inside the rooms, documents and personal effects of the Frank family are displayed. On the canal side of the house, the location of Otto Frank’s former office, you’ll have the opportunity to watch three short films that provide historical background to the story. Next door to the house, Anne Frank’s diary and other writings are on display. You’ll also find information about the diary and about why it is noteworthy.
- The Heineken Experience. This is a fun stop for anyone who likes beer and wants an amusement park type of experience. The Heineken Experience is located at the site of the old Heineken brewery. Rather than a museum feel, the Heineken Experience aims for its visitors to have an interactive experience. You’ll be able to visit the historic brew room, create a personalized bottle of Heineken, watch Heineken commercials around the world, make a music video, and take in a multi-media exhibit that allows you to “become” a bottle of beer: You’ll be shaken up, sprayed down with water, and heated up. Afterwards, of course, you’ll want to sample some actual Heineken.
As you can see, your visit to Amsterdam will be fun and fascinating. There is plenty here to discover, to learn, and to entertain visitors of all ages and with varying interests.
