The Rijksmuseum with kids: a short route, games and practical tips
Quick answer
With kids, the Rijksmuseum works best as a 60–90 minute visit: hunt for the ships, the dolls' houses and the details in The Night Watch. Under 18s are free, though they need a booked slot, and the best time is 9:00 on a weekday.
Hours and prices checked on · Official website
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A 75-minute route designed for kids
- 1
0:00 · Gallery of Honour · floor 2
The Night Watch: spot the girl in gold
Challenge: find the girl dressed in gold with a chicken at her belt and the armed men. Who has a drum?
- 2
0:20 · Gallery of Honour
The Milkmaid: what's on the table?
Let them describe what they see: milk, bread, a window. What do you think will happen?
- 3
0:35 · Second floor
Jan Steen: the chaotic household
A painting full of small stories. Ask them to find the child with a shoe.
- 4
0:50 · Ground floor
Ships and dolls' houses
The kids' favourites: ship models and dolls' houses with tiny furniture.
- 5
1:10 · Atrium
Rest
Finish with a snack under the atrium.
Practical tips for families
- Book a slot for the children too, even though they're free.
- Use the cloakroom for backpacks and coats.
- Take a mid-visit break at the café.
- Before you go, let the kids choose 3 paintings on your phone; finding them in the museum turns the visit into a game.
- With the AnyArt app they can point at any painting and hear its story.
Frequently asked questions
Do kids pay at the Rijksmuseum?
No. Admission is free for everyone under 18, though they need a booked time slot.
Can I bring a stroller to the Rijksmuseum?
Yes, the museum is accessible with lifts. On busy days a baby carrier is more comfortable.
What age is the Rijksmuseum good for?
From about 5–6 with a short visit and paintings with clear stories.
Are there family activities?
The museum offers kid-friendly materials and trails. Check the activities programme on the official website.