Once called Willemspark Station, the Haarlemmermeerstation stands before you. Imagine the trains that once pulled into this station. It opened in 1915. The Haarlemmermeerstation served as the Amsterdam terminus for the Haarlemmermeer railway lines. These lines ran to Aalsmeer and Uithoorn.
The renowned architect Karel de Bazel designed this station. He is also celebrated for designing De Bazel building. That building now houses the Amsterdam City Archives. The style of the Haarlemmermeerstation is reminiscent of the former Leiden Heerensingel station. De Bazel contributed to the design of both stations. Notice the symmetrical facade of the Haarlemmermeerstation. The design shares similarities with the Leiden station.
Passenger service at the Haarlemmermeerstation ceased in 1950. However, goods transport continued until 1972. Coal transport was particularly significant. After its closure in 1975, the station found new life. The Electric Tram Museum Amsterdam began using the building and railway line.
From April to October, historic trams run from here every Sunday. These trams travel to Bovenkerk in Amstelveen. The journey follows a 100-year-old connection. These trams run from 11:00 to 17:00. A ride on these trams offers a nostalgic experience. You can enjoy the scent of varnished teakwood.
The Haarlemmermeerstation itself features a unique brick facade. It exemplifies early 20th-century Dutch architecture. It embodies the Amsterdam School style. This style is known for its brickwork and decorative elements.
Initially, the area in front of the station included a small park. This park was replaced by a bus station in 1950. This accommodated the buses that replaced the trains. A roundabout was also constructed to manage traffic.
Today, the Haarlemmermeerstation has been renovated. It now serves as a venue for weddings and events. The station hall is used by the museum tram line. You can also find a café here. The Haarlemmermeerstation stands as a reminder of Amsterdam’s transport history. It connects the past with the present.