science center NEMO

Anyone that says Amsterdam isn't for kids hasn't visited NEMO, the Science and Technology Center, housed inside the ship-like green building on the harbor. Filled with hands-on activities, kids can literally spend hours concocting chemistry experiences, constructing buildings and crashing economies.

One recent TripAdvisor traveler writes, "I've been to science museums before and none compare to this," and this seems to be a sentiment shared by many. Another TripAdvisor traveler says her family could've spent an entire day at the museum, though initially her "children (11 and 9) protested about being taken to a science museum, possibly because the 'M' word conjures up images of dusty relics in glass cases and labels in Latin. They were more than pleasantly surprised."

Everyone ages four and up pays the same moderately expensive admission fee (€12.50 EUR or $17 USD) at NEMO; however, most visitors say their euros were well-spent. Kids, ages three and under, are admitted for free. Also, the rooftop urban beach (complete with cafe) is free to visit. NEMO is closed on Mondays.