I have twice recently been asked what to do in Amsterdam with kids... Clearly need to blog this but for now.
I recall you are biking folks, so rent some bikes, you can get one with a variety of child attachments for the 4 year old. If after walking through the city that kind of biking doesn't look fun... Rent bikes and visit Vondelpark, regardless of bike riding Vondelpark is awesome to walk through.
I frequently stayed very close to Anne Frank's house while there as my old office was walking distance from that.
- If you do a boat tour I highly recommend "Those damn boat guys" We have done that twice with Theo (who is now 2) * they are smaller boats/groups, and less stodgy very funny and factual kind of stand-up comedy like history * he loved it both times, kids y'alls age have been on boats * he did manage to throw my glasses into the canal (first time I hadn't packed a spare set) * I have recommended it to others who went with them and enjoyed it * https://www.thosedamboatguys.com/ * there pick up / drop off is across the canal from the Anne Frank house so perfect location
- Brewery: Might not work with kids your age but a really cool brewery in an old windmill * Brouwerij 't IJ: https://www.brouwerijhetij.nl/?lang=en
- The Pantry: A slightly touristy but fun restaurant to try a bunch of traditional Dutch food * probably worth getting reservations as it can fill up (small not too many tables) * one of you should order the ham shank it is so good I get it once every visit to AMS (photo below) * The Pantry, is also a Theo and my coworker's favorite
- In general if you like Asian food many of the Malaysian and Vietnamese places are great
- for sure go through museum row (Museumplein), my favorite is the small Banksy museum there... Rijksmuseum, etc... all the others are great and as one would expect
- I haven't been yet but Erin and Theo have and everyone has rave reviews https://www.nemosciencemuseum.nl/nl/
- Vondelpark, frequently has music and other events going on just see what is happen while you are there
- Erin, since you ran around more with the kid you can likely recommend better kid activities than I
Likely not super helpful as more of the post was about traveling with a tiny baby, but has some pics from one early visit to AMS: https://millermayersadventures.com/2017/05/29/home-again-infant-travel-tips-pt-2/
Honestly, my favorite part of the city is just walking around the canals, randomly stopping for snacks (chocolate covered waffles)
other restaurants: Piqniq, Winkel, Foodhallen, De Silveren Spiegel