Amsterdam’s Van Gogh Museum is one of those places that feels special the moment you walk in. The walls are lined with emotion, color, and the story of an artist who saw the world in a different way. For adults, it’s often a moving and unforgettable stop.
For kids, though? Not always the same reaction. Because let’s face it: they don’t always have the patience to admire brushwork or linger by a painting.
However, that doesn’t mean the museum is off-limits. With some playful planning, you can turn a visit to the Van Gogh Museum into something your kids actually enjoy. Intrigued? Then, stick around—we’re breaking down exactly how to make that happen.
Start With a Story Before You Go
Kids love stories. So why not introduce Van Gogh through one?
Before your visit, share a simple version of the painter’s life. Start with something simple: “Did you know there was a painter who loved sunflowers so much that he painted them over and over again?”
Or: “Imagine painting over 2,000 pieces, but no one wanted to buy them while you were alive!” These small facts often spark big curiosity.
You can also use picture books. Titles like the Sunflowers by Laurence Anholt are a great way to introduce kids to his world in a colorful, gentle way. Even a short animated video can help create a connection before you even step into the museum.
This way, when they finally see Sunflowers or The Bedroom, it won’t feel like just another painting on the wall—it’ll feel familiar.
Use an Audio Guide
Once you’ve sparked your child’s curiosity with a story at home, audio guides are a great way to keep that excitement going inside the museum.
With them, instead of just glancing at paintings, your child can actually listen to the backstories—what inspired the painter, how he was feeling, and what the little details mean.
It will be like the story they heard earlier is now playing out in real life right in front of them. Even kids who usually drift off in quiet places tend to tune in when there’s something to follow.
The best part? You’ll find plenty of providers online that include audio guides or let you add one with Van Gogh museum tickets only. This means you won’t need to figure it out at the last minute or wait in another line.
Plus, many of them also let you skip the lines, which takes a lot of stress off when you’re with children. Just make sure to book through a trusted provider—some sketchy sites can sell fake tickets, and that’s the last thing anyone wants on a family day out.
Turn It Into a Game
Let’s be honest—kids love a good challenge. So why not turn the museum into a kind of scavenger hunt? You can make a list together before your visit like:
- Find three paintings with yellow in them
- Count how many times Van Gogh painted himself
- Look for the painting with the saddest sky
This adds a layer of fun to the experience, and it gives them something to focus on besides, “Are we done yet?”
Another tip: let them be the “tour guide” for a bit. Ask them which painting they like the most and why. You might be surprised by their answers. Kids often pick up on details that adults miss.
And remember—it doesn’t have to be about covering every gallery. Even if they connect with just two or three artworks, that’s a win.
Use the Museum’s Family-Friendly Perks
Now, here’s one thing many visitors don’t realize: The Museum is surprisingly well-prepared for families. Yes, you read that right!
Strollers are allowed throughout the museum, and there are elevators available for easy access between floors. If you’ve got very young kids, there are clean baby-changing stations on-site. And if you’re carrying extra bags or jackets, free lockers can help lighten the load.
Another bonus: free Wi-Fi throughout the building. That means if your little one needs a screen break—or if you want to pull up a coloring page or guide—you can do it on the spot.
Taking advantage of these small perks makes the visit a whole lot smoother. You’re not just walking through an art museum—you’re making the space work for your family’s comfort and rhythm.
Know When to Take Breaks
The museum isn’t huge, but it can feel overwhelming when you’re little. That’s why it helps to go in with a flexible plan.
Pick just a few highlights to focus on. Sunflowers, Almond Blossom, and The Bedroom are popular for a reason—they’re colorful, expressive, and easier for kids to enjoy visually.
After about 30 to 45 minutes, watch for signs that indicate your child needs a break. There’s a cozy café inside where you can grab a snack, sit down, and let everyone reset. Even a short stop in the gift shop can help shift the mood.
Don’t try to “get your money’s worth” by pushing through every room. The best visits are usually the shorter, happier ones where nobody ends up cranky.
Create Something After the Visit
Once you’re out of the museum, the fun doesn’t have to end. In fact, this is one of the best times to help your child connect what they saw with something they can do.
Bring a sketchpad along, or set up a mini painting session back at your hotel or Airbnb. Let your child choose their favorite painting and try recreating it—maybe with crayons, markers, or even cut-out paper shapes. You can also find free printable coloring sheets online inspired by Van Gogh’s artwork.
The goal isn’t to be perfect—it’s to keep the memory alive. Kids often process experiences through play and creativity, so this is a gentle way to let them reflect, express, and feel proud of what they learned. Plus, it’s just plain fun.
Summing Up
Visiting the Van Gogh Museum with kids doesn’t have to be stressful or rushed. It just takes a little planning and a shift in approach. Let them be curious, give them something to look forward to, and don’t worry if they don’t remember every painting.
What they will remember is how they felt—like they were part of something interesting, colorful, and just for them.
