Westerpark is an urban park in Amsterdam, Netherlands, very popular with tourists and locals alike. On a bright lazy day, if you have no other plans in Amsterdam, head to this historic park where you can indulge in a variety of activities with friends and family.
The park is approximately 35 hectares in size and situated between the Haarlemmerbuurt and Spaarndammerbuurt neighborhoods. It is a vast, vibrant space filled with greenery and wildlife. As you walk past the area, you will catch many people casually lying around the spacious grounds, indulging in photo shoots, picnicking, mothers strolling their babies, young boys indulging in matches and other sports activities, the health freaks cycling around the paths, and so much more.
The park is so much more than just the green spaces as it offers features like a playground, a petting zoo, an open-air theater, and several cultural venues which hosts various events and exhibitions throughout the year. The place is also home to several species of birds, hedgehogs, and bats. A day spent lazing on the grounds beside the water features watching these creatures in action can be very relaxing, indeed.
Everyone has something to take away from this place, it is so special!
The site was formerly the Westergasfabriek complex. It has now been transformed into a cultural hub with a range of venues hosting exhibitions, food festivals, musical performances, miscellaneous events, and concerts. There are restaurants, bars, and shops as well.
Westerpark was officially opened to the public in 2003. The park also incorporates several sustainable features like solar panels, a rainwater collection system, and energy-efficient lighting.
There are plenty of things to do around Westerpark only if you know what.
Visit the Electric Ladyland Museum in the vicinity which is dedicated to a collection of unique and colorful exhibits. The Ten Kate Market is a bustling street market that offers a variety of fresh produce, garment collection, and household items — just the perfect place to drop in for ladies. If you are into concerts and performances, check out the Ziggo Dome which is just a short distance from Westerpark.
If history amuses you, you can drop in at the famous Anne Frank House, again a short bike ride away and a must-see attraction. A Dutch chocolate fan? Well, then Tony’s Chocolonely Factory may interest you. The Cafe De Gouden Reael is a cozy bar serving a variety of local beers and snacks on its lovely outdoor terrace.
Besides the above, there’s the TonTon Club West, Het Ketelhuis, The Movies, and The Cafe Restaurant to check out for their specialties. Westerpark will never disappoint you in any aspect — it is a place with a complete package — with food, entertainment, recreation, shopping, et al.
Highlights of Westerpark
Here are some of the best features of Westerpark.
Size and Greenery — It offers a pleasant break away from the city as it is spread over a large green space that is approximately 40 hectares in size. It is extremely calming and relaxing to walk into an area full of trees, grassy fields, open playgrounds, and natural water features, and watch nature and wildlife at their best.
Walking and Cycling Paths — Visitors and tourists are free to walk, jog, run, and cycle around the paths and explore the various natural and man-made features of the park.
Miscellaneous Activities — Westerpark offers something to everyone belonging to diverse age groups. Kids have the entire playground to themselves, young girls and boys, and men can indulge in a game of tennis or basketball, and skate around in the skate park. The petting zoo is a huge attraction for the young crowd.
Cultural Events — The park is a vibrant and dynamic place to visit more because of the numerous musical festivals, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances it hosts around the year.
Historic Buildings — Former factories and pumping stations have been repurposed and redesigned to build the park for public use; it is home to many historic buildings. These buildings add a unique and interesting aspect to the park’s landscape.
Dog-friendly — Pet lovers are free to bring along their furry friends for a nice walk or run at the park.
Accessibility — The park is strategically located and is just a short distance from Amsterdam’s city center. It is easily accessible by public transportation and bike.
Timings and Tickets
Westerpark is a public park that is open to the public all year round, free of charge. It is open from 7 am until 10 pm daily.
However, some attractions within the premises have their own operating hours and admission fees, like the cultural center Westergasfabriek. You can check out their website or speak with their representatives to learn about their hours of operation and ticket prices.
Special events are also organized at the park from time to time which may have their own schedules and ticket charges. You may contact the organizers directly for more information on ticket prices and seat availability.
Address, Phone and How to Reach
Westerpark is located at Haarlemmerweg 4, 1013 RW Amsterdam, Netherlands. For queries, you can reach Westergas on (020) 586 07 11 or [email protected].
Located in the western zone of Amsterdam city, Westerpark is easily accessible by public transport, bike, or foot. Here are some of the ways that you can reach the place.
Taking the bus or tram will be most economical for you if you are coming from afar. The closest tram stops are Westergasfabriek and Van Limburg Stirumstraat, served by tram lines 5 and 10. The closest bus stop is Van Hallstraat, served by bus lines 21, 283, and 753.
We would suggest you rent a bike from the many rental shops and explore the city and the park on the two pedals. It is a great way to stay healthy while checking out the big attractions of the town.
Nothing can beat walking but this would largely depend on where you are located in Amsterdam. If you are staying in the neighborhood or in some other popular places that are a short distance away from the park, like Jordaan and Oud-West, you can consider walking as the best mode to reach Westerpark.
There are many parking areas nearby, such as Q-Park Westergasfabriek and Parking Westerpark. But please remember that parking fees in Amsterdam can be expensive and are subject to the availability of space.
