Amsterdam: ARTIS Royal Zoo and ARTIS Groote Museum Ticket

Explore One of the World’s Oldest Zoos and Innovative Museum in Amsterdam

The Amsterdam: ARTIS Royal Zoo and ARTIS Groote Museum Ticket offers an engaging day out at Amsterdam’s historic zoo and thought-provoking museum for just $40 per person. This combo ticket provides access to both attractions, allowing visitors to see over 900 species of animals and explore interactive exhibits that challenge perceptions about humans, animals, and the natural world.

The tour is valid for one day, with starting times depending on availability. The ARTIS Royal Zoo, dating back to 1838, is the fifth oldest zoo in the world and features a new lion enclosure, a planetarium, and a botanical garden. Meanwhile, the Groote Museum invites guests to ask big questions about our place in nature, emphasizing shared traits between humans, animals, and microbes. While the experience holds strong appeal for science lovers and families, keep in mind that some structures are closed in certain seasons or times, which is something to consider.

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Key Points

• Historic zoo founded in 1838, one of the oldest in the world
• Includes access to planetarium, botanical garden, and new lion enclosure
• Visit the Groote Museum to explore big questions about humans, animals, and microbes
• Admission costs $40 for one day, with free entry for infants and children
• The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all ages
• Not included: entry to ARTIS Micropia

Discover the Historic ARTIS Royal Zoo in the Heart of Amsterdam

The ARTIS Royal Zoo is a symbol of Amsterdam’s long-standing tradition of animal care and conservation. Founded in 1838, it is one of the five oldest zoos globally, and it continues to impress with its historic monuments, centuries-old trees, and colorful flower beds.

Visitors walk through the Forest House and Bird House, where a diverse range of species coexist. The Savannah exhibit showcases giraffes, zebras, and kudus wandering freely. Recently, the zoo introduced a new lion enclosure, giving these majestic animals more space in a naturalistic setting. The zoo’s planetarium offers a space adventure, included in your ticket, providing a fascinating look at the universe. The Butterfly Pavilion allows visitors to feel the gentle flutter of countless wings, adding a vibrant touch to the day.

Inside the ARTIS Groote Museum: Asking Big Questions

The Groote Museum is located inside the historic walls of ARTIS, offering an interactive experience that focuses on big questions about our role in the world. The museum encourages visitors to discover similarities between humans, animals, plants, and microbes.

Exhibits highlight intriguing facts such as how the intestines perform functions similar to tree roots or how a crocodile crawls in the same way as a baby. The museum also features the original butterfly staircase, restored to its 1855 condition, and walks on the same wooden floors as the original members of the Society Natura Artis Magistra. The installations are interactive, prompting reflection on our place in nature and shared biological traits.

Practical Details: Access, Opening Hours, and Facilities

The ARTIS Royal Zoo is open daily, with seasonal hours from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM between November 1 and February 28 and until 6:00 PM from March 1 to October 31. The zoo features wheelchair availability, and no reservation is required for mobility aids. Visitors should note that smoking is not permitted inside the zoo.

The Groote Museum is located on Artisplein, next to the Chilean flamingos. It operates from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day, with extended hours on Thursdays until 10:00 PM. During holidays, both locations have adjusted opening hours, such as 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on December 24, December 25, and December 26. Children up to age 12 enter free of charge, and infants (age 0-2) also gain free access to the zoo.

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What’s Included and What You Should Know Before Booking

Your ticket covers admission to the ARTIS Royal Zoo and the Groote Museum, giving you a full day of animal encounters and thought-provoking exhibits. The ticket price is $40, which makes it a cost-effective choice for families, couples, or solo visitors looking to combine nature and science.

Note: Entry to ARTIS Micropia is not included, so if you’re interested in microbes, you’ll need to purchase a separate ticket. The activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and allows you to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

What Some Critics Say About the Experience

While the overview of the tour is generally positive, it’s worth mentioning that some reviews have expressed disappointment. One review describes the zoo as depressing, citing closed structures and small enclosures that limit animal space. This highlights that not all parts of ARTIS may meet every visitor’s expectations, especially during certain seasons or renovations.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most

This ticket mainly appeals to families with children, science enthusiasts, and those interested in historic zoos. The interactive exhibits in the Groote Museum make it a great choice for curious minds of all ages. However, visitors should be prepared for some structural limitations and seasonal closures that could affect the experience.

Final Thoughts on the ARTIS Combo Ticket Experience

The ARTIS Royal Zoo and Groote Museum together offer an educational and entertaining day in the center of Amsterdam. The combination of a historic zoo, a planetarium, and a museum of big questions makes this a thoughtful choice for those interested in nature, science, and culture.

While some critics mention closed structures and small animal enclosures, many will appreciate the unique blend of history, nature, and reflection. The $40 price point for both attractions is reasonable, especially considering free entries for children and the inclusive accessibility.

This experience suits families, students, and anyone curious about the connections between humans and the natural world. It stands out as a thoughtful and engaging option for a day in Amsterdam, offering a mix of entertainment, education, and historical charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ticket valid for one day only?
Yes, the ticket is valid for one day, and you should check the availability for the starting times.

Are infants allowed free entry?
Yes, infants aged 0-2 enter free of charge.

What attractions are included in the ticket price?
Your ticket grants admission to the ARTIS Royal Zoo and the Groote Museum. Entry to Micropia is not included.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, and reservation is not required for mobility aids.

What are the zoo’s opening hours?
From March 1 to October 31, the zoo is open 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM; during November to February, it opens 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there dining options inside the zoo?
Yes, there are vegetarian restaurants within the zoo where visitors can enjoy a restful break.

What makes the Groote Museum unique?
The museum features interactive exhibits that highlight big questions about our place in nature, and restored historic features like the butterfly staircase.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Absolutely; children up to 12 enter free, and the interactive exhibits are designed to engage younger visitors.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The activity begins at ARTIS – Groote Museum on Artisplein, next to the Chilean flamingos.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby