Ever smelled fresh hay and heard happy bleating? Welcome to Kinderboerderij Bijlmerweide. This isn’t just any petting zoo. It’s a slice of rural life nestled in the heart of Amsterdam.
Kinderboerderij Bijlmerweide isn’t just a place to see animals. It’s a place with a heartwarming history. Started in 1984 by local residents it began small. Just a donkey and some goats cared for by volunteers. A small grant and donations helped them along. Now it’s a thriving farm. It has a wide variety of animals.
Today Kinderboerderij Bijlmerweide boasts cows sheep goats donkeys rabbits and chickens. There are even water birds like swans geese and ducks. Peacocks pheasants guinea fowl and pigeons add to the lively atmosphere. You’ll find several rare Dutch breeds. Think Lakenvelder and Witrik cows. There are also Toggenburger and Dutch Land goats.
Beyond the animals a large playground awaits. There’s also a cafe. This serves fresh free-range eggs from the farm. You can get honey coffee tea soft drinks toasties cakes and various ice creams. Note you can pay cash. For amounts over 5 euros you can also scan a QR code. Bringing your own food and drinks isn’t allowed. Relax in the visitor area or enjoy the outdoors at the picnic tables.
Kinderboerderij Bijlmerweide isn’t only a fun place for families. Since 2003 it’s provided day care. It’s for people distanced from the job market. In collaboration with St Landzijde a group works at the farm. A supervisor guides a maximum of ten participants.
The farm relies on dedicated volunteers. They help with animal care building and grounds maintenance education and special events. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back. Kinderboerderij Bijlmerweide welcomes volunteers for various roles.
So explore Kinderboerderij Bijlmerweide. Experience the joy of interacting with animals. Learn about the farm’s unique history. Enjoy the playground and treat yourself at the cafe. Make memories that will last a lifetime. Remember this is more than a petting zoo. It’s a community project a testament to the power of collaboration and a celebration of rural life in an urban setting.