A relaxing walk, a bicycle ride, or a visit to the petting zoo: Zuiderpark offers it all! It is not only the largest city park in the Netherlands, but it is also a great location for outdoor activities. We have made an overview of the different activities that you can do in Zuiderpark, Rotterdam.

Zuiderpark is 215 acres in total and is therefore the largest city park in the Netherlands. The park consists of pathways, forests, a small beach with water and a playground for children. This makes the park ideal for any age.

There are various activities to do in Zuiderpark throughout the entire year. Below you will find an overview of all the activities.

1.      An extensive walk

The pathways through the beautiful woods, over the water and lush fields are suited for a long, relaxing stroll or jogging route. There is enough to be seen and you can enjoy the peace and quiet.

2.      View art displays

During your visit of Zuiderpark, feel free to absorb the local art and culture. You can view art pieces that are scattered throughout the park by different artists: Philip King, Kamiel Verschuren en Gust Romeijn.

3.      A visit to the petting zoo

There is a petting zoo on the westside of Zuiderpark named the Molenwei. Here, children can meet and interact with different farm animals in a playful manner. You can find pigs, peacocks, chickens, rabbits, and goats.

The petting zoo is normally opened daily from 08:30 till 16:30. But keep in mind that opening times may vary because of covid measures.

4.      Discover the landscapes of Rotterdam in the Cultural historical gardens

Next to the petting zoo is the Cultural Historical Garden. Here you will find all landscapes and plants of Rotterdam on one acre of land. A visit to these gardens can be very educational and is great to combine with a trip to the petting zoo. The Gardens are closed on Saturday and Sunday but check their website for any exceptions.

5.      Rotterdam Ahoy

Next to the Zuiderpark is Rotterdam Ahoy. This is one of the largest indoor event locations in the Netherlands. Check their website for any upcoming concerts, fairs, congresses, or festivals. Keep in mind that Covid measures may not allow any events to take place.

Read more about Rotterdam Ahoy

6.      Canoeing in park waters

View Zuiderpark from the water during a canoe trip. Canoes can be rented in the park so you can enjoy the flora and fauna from the water. Aside from canoeing, you can also rent kayaks, pedal boats and SUP’s (Stand Up Paddleboard).

7.      Attend a festival

When Covid measures allow it, why not attend a festival in the park. There are, normally, multiple events that are organised in Zuiderpark. There are already plans for a festival on the festival terrain next to Rotterdam Ahoy for this summer.

8.      Sport for free on Sportplaza

Feeling like a more active day in Zuiderpark? Check out the possibilities of exercising for free at the communal sports terrain: Sportplaza. Here you can find tennis courts, a squash court, two basketball courts, and a small soccer field.

9.      Visit Playground Vreewijk

At the edge of Zuiderpark you will find playground Vreewijk: suited for smaller children and older kids up to 12 years old. Here your children can enjoy different playground equipment, sports fields and a sandbox.

10.   Take a picknick at the water

With all those acres of park, there are enough opportunities to relax and take a picknick. Of course, in the summer you won’t be the only one who wants to do this. But having more people around doesn’t make for an excellent daytrip.