Top things to do in Wateringen (The Netherlands)

Welcome to Wateringen, the Netherlands!

Wateringen is a charming city in the western province of South Holland, located just a few kilometers from The Hague. With its numerous parks, museums, and attractions, Wateringen is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Wateringen:

Parks and Gardens

  • Family park Drievliet - located on Laan van 's-Gravenmade 81, is a fantastic amusement park with rides for all ages, from white-knuckle roller coasters to gentle rides for small kids. There are also two restaurants within the park. Website
  • Hyacintenbos Ockenburgh - located in a beautiful park, is a must-visit for nature lovers. Here you can enjoy a peaceful walk surrounded by colorful hyacinths and other stunning flowers. Website
  • Meer en Bos Park - located on Balsemienlaan 214, is a wooded park perfect for dog walking. The park is dog-friendly, with shaded walking tracks and a central pond, plus a cafe and kids' playground.
  • Het Prinsenbos - located on Grote Achterweg 17a, is a vast woodland park with plenty of walking and cycling routes to explore. Website
  • 'T Hof Park - located on Park Hofzicht 28, is a hidden gem in Wateringen. This small park features beautiful gardens, a pond, and several benches to sit and relax.

Museums and Monuments

  • Westlands Museum - located on Middel Broekweg 154, is a fantastic museum that showcases the history and culture of the Westland region. There are exhibits on agriculture, industry, and local traditions. Website
  • De Pier - located on Strandweg 150-154 is a festive pier with eateries and activities. The recreational pier has enclosed and open-air decks, offering casual restaurants and bungee jumping. Website
  • Escher in Het Paleis - located on Lange Voorhout 74, features graphic art exhibitions in a former palace. This museum showcases the graphic artworks of M. C. Escher in one-time winter palace of Queen Mother Emma. Website
  • Haags Openbaar Vervoer Museum - located on Parallelweg 224, is a fascinating museum that highlights the history of public transportation in The Hague. Website
  • Mauritshuis - located on Plein 29, is a museum of Dutch Golden Age paintings. This government collection features hundreds of Dutch paintings, with works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. Website

Outdoor Activities

  • Varend Corso Westland - is an annual flower parade that travels by narrowboat through the Westland region. You can see colorful floral designs and creative floats from the comfort of a boat. Website
  • Strand Kijkduin - located on Strandslag 12 12, is a beautiful sandy beach where you can swim, sunbathe, or enjoy a stroll by the sea. Website
  • Zandmotor Beach - located on the coast of South Holland, is a unique man-made beach that was created to protect the coast from erosion. Here you can swim, surf or enjoy a walk along the shoreline. Website
  • Westduinpark - located on the seaside, is a beautiful nature reserve with sand dunes, forest, and heather. It's perfect for hiking and biking. Website

Art and Culture

  • Streetart DSM Wateringseweg - is a vibrant street art district in Wateringen. Here you can see colorful murals and graffiti art created by local artists.
  • Celestial Vault, James Turrell 1996 - located on Machiel Vrijenhoeklaan 175, is a stunning light art installation that creates an illusion of the sky. It's an excellent spot to witness a beautiful sunset.
  • Thorbecke Monument - located on Lange Voorhout, is a bronze statue of Johan Rudolf Thorbecke, a Dutch statesman who was a key figure in Dutch political history.

Other Attractions

  • Strandbeest Playground - located on Van Weerden Poelmanpad 2497, is a playground for children that features interactive sculptures designed by artist Theo Jansen. Website
  • DarkPark - located on Wateringsevest 7C, is an exciting escape room experience that challenges your problem-solving skills. Website
  • Scheveningen Lighthouse - located on Zeekant 12, is a historic lighthouse that has been lighting up the coast since 1875. You can climb to the top and enjoy a fantastic view of the sea.
  • Zeven Gaten - located on Groeneveld 67, is a stunning nature reserve that features seven small lakes connected by canals. It's a perfect spot for birdwatching and fishing. Website

Where to Stay

  • Zetland Plantation Inn - located on Jan Pietersz. Coenstraat 7, is a cozy bed and breakfast that's perfect for couples and small families. The inn features charming rooms with comfortable beds and a delicious breakfast.
  • Villa Ockenburgh, Buitenplaats Ockenburgh - located on the beautiful estate of Ockenburgh (Monsterseweg 2), is a luxurious villa that can accommodate up to six guests. The villa features spacious rooms, a modern kitchen, and a private garden. Website
  • Park Sorghvliet - located on Scheveningseweg 24, is an elegant hotel that's perfect for travelers looking for a luxurious experience. The hotel features beautiful rooms, a cozy lounge, and a beautiful garden. Website

Getting Around

Wateringen is a compact city that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. Biking is a popular activity in the Netherlands, and there are plenty of bike rentals available throughout the city. If you prefer public transportation, the Hague has an excellent system of trams and buses that can take you to all the major attractions.

Conclusion

Wateringen is a beautiful city that offers a mix of culture, nature, and adventure. Whether you're traveling with your family or on your own, you'll find plenty of attractions that will keep you entertained. So pack your bags and come to Wateringen, the Netherlands!