Madurodam

Madurodam Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to The Hague’s Historical Miniature Park

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction to Madurodam: The Little City with the Smile

Madurodam is a world-renowned miniature park situated in The Hague, Netherlands, lovingly referred to as “The little city with the smile.” Since its founding in 1952, Madurodam has celebrated Dutch heritage, innovation, and culture by recreating the nation’s most iconic landmarks, engineering marvels, and urban scenes at a detailed 1:25 scale. As a dynamic, family-friendly attraction, it provides visitors with both educational and interactive experiences, making it a highlight for tourists, families, and history enthusiasts alike (Madurodam Official).

The park’s legacy is deeply rooted in remembrance and philanthropy: established as a tribute to George Maduro, a Dutch WWII hero, Madurodam channels its net proceeds to youth charities, continuing its founders’ charitable vision. Today, it offers much more than miniatures, with thematic zones, immersive indoor attractions, and innovative new experiences such as Rivierenland and the country’s first indoor dark ride (The Hague Online).

Romanian Ambassador Dr. G. Elian opening Romanian folk art exhibition at Madurodam in The Hague on August 24, 1971

Contents Overview

Introduction
Madurodam Visiting Hours and Tickets
Accessibility and Visitor Tips
Nearby Attractions and Special Events
Historical Background and Significance
Park Layout and Thematic Zones
Interactive and Educational Features
New Attractions: Rivierenland & Dark Ride (2025)
Playgrounds and Family Zones
Sports and Interactive Areas
Dining and Refreshments
Accessibility and Visitor Services
Getting There: Location and Transport
Practical Tips for Visiting
FAQ
Conclusion and Call to Action
Sources

Madurodam Visiting Hours and Tickets

Madurodam is open year-round, though opening hours vary by season and during special events:

Summer (April–October): 09:00–18:00
Winter (November–March): 11:00–17:00
Standard Hours: Typically 10:00–18:00, with last admission one hour before closing

Always confirm current hours on the official website before your visit.

Ticket Prices (2025)

Online (recommended): €22.50
At the Gate: €24.50
Family & Friends Ticket: €21.25 per person (min. 4 tickets)
Children under 3: Free
Combination Tickets: e.g., with Keukenhof, from €40.00
Discounts: Available for ANWB members, Bankgiroloterij VIP cardholders, seniors, and groups

Tip: Buy tickets in advance online for the best rates and to avoid queues (AboutNL).

Accessibility and Visitor Tips

Madurodam is designed for inclusivity and comfort:

Wheelchair Accessible: 13 of 18 main attractions are step-free; free wheelchair rental (reserve ahead: +31 70 41 62 400)
For Visual Impairments: Braille maps available via the Passend Lezen library (Passend Lezen)
Companion Policy: Visitors dependent on a companion may bring one free of charge; guide and assistance dogs are welcome
Facilities: Accessible toilets, smooth paths, and nearby accessible parking (€12.50/day)
Strollers: Welcome throughout the park

Tips for Your Visit:

Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the expansive grounds
Bring a camera for photo spots like the Dutch Parliament, Anne Frank House, and Water World
Plan for outdoor weather; most exhibits are open-air

(Madurodam Accessibility)

Historical Background and National Significance

Madurodam’s origins are both philanthropic and commemorative. Founded as a memorial to George Maduro, a resistance hero during WWII, the park pays tribute to his courage and the spirit of Dutch resilience. The Maduro family initiated the park to support children recovering from illnesses and to foster youth charities—a mission that continues today.

Beyond its charity work, Madurodam serves as a living showcase of Dutch identity: models depict crucial national moments, landmarks, and values, from the First Free State Assembly to feats in water management. The park’s youth council ensures its social impact remains at the heart of its operations (Bonjour Amsterdam).

Park Layout and Thematic Zones

Spread across 1.77 acres, Madurodam is organized into three interlinked thematic zones:

VindingRijk – Celebrates Dutch creativity and innovation with models of modern architecture, design, and entertainment.
WaterRijk – Explores the Netherlands’s complex relationship with water through models of dikes, canals, and the Oosterscheldekering storm surge barrier.
StedenRijk – Features historic cityscapes such as Amsterdam’s canals and the Royal Palace, highlighting centuries of urban heritage.

Well-marked pathways and gardens connect the zones, encouraging both self-guided and group exploration (whichmuseum.com).

Miniature World: Iconic Dutch Landmarks and Interactive Displays

Madurodam’s heart lies in its astonishingly detailed 1:25 scale miniatures. Over 300 landmarks are recreated, including:

The Rijksmuseum
Amsterdam’s canal houses
Schiphol Airport
The Delta Works
The Peace Palace

Many exhibits are interactive: guests can operate miniature cranes at Rotterdam’s port, help planes “take off” at Schiphol, and activate trains, trams, and water pumps. Digital panels and multimedia guides deepen the educational value for all ages (Reiskoe Review).

Themed Attractions and Indoor Experiences

Madurodam features seven innovative indoor attractions that blend physical sets, digital effects, and Dutch storytelling:

The Dutch Masters: Step into iconic artworks and explore the legacy of Dutch painters.
The Waterwolf: Discover the nation’s triumphs over water, focusing on polder creation.
The Flying Dutchman: Climb aboard a real aircraft for a flight simulator experience over the Netherlands.
The Story of George: Learn about George Maduro’s life and the park’s founding purpose.
Court of the Netherlands: Experience the Dutch Golden Age and the formation of New Amsterdam (now New York).
New Amsterdam: Delve into Dutch colonial history through immersive shows.

(The Hague Online)

2025 Innovations: Rivierenland and the First Dark Ride

Rivierenland Splash and Play Meadow

Unveiled in spring 2025, Rivierenland is Madurodam’s new family zone inspired by Dutch river landscapes. Children can splash, climb, and play in water-themed areas designed for safe, hands-on learning about water management—while adults relax at an adjacent café (The Hague Online).

Indoor Dark Ride

Madurodam’s largest and most sophisticated attraction to date, the indoor dark ride, debuts in summer 2025. This immersive experience features spinning vehicles, elaborate sets, and sensory effects, blending adventure with themes of Dutch innovation and resilience. It’s designed for all ages, making a visit even more memorable.

Playgrounds and Family Zones

Families will find several playgrounds throughout the park:

Miffy Playground: Safe, themed equipment for toddlers and preschoolers
Adventure Playground: Challenging frames and slides for older children

These zones provide a fun break from sightseeing and are conveniently located near dining options (Reiskoe Review).

Sports and Interactive Areas

Sports fans can enjoy interactive zones such as the mini football stadium, themed after the Dutch national team, encouraging active play and teamwork.

Dining and Refreshments

Madurodam offers a variety of dining options:

Taste of Holland Restaurant: Dutch and international cuisine, including sandwiches, salads, and hot dishes
Panorama Café: Light meals, snacks, drinks, beer, and wine
Picnic Areas: Guests are welcome to bring their own food

(Reiskoe Review)

Accessibility and Visitor Services

On-site parking: €10–€12.50/day; accessible spaces available
Public transport: Tram 9 and bus 22 serve the park from The Hague Central Station (Bollenstreek)
Free wheelchair rental: Reserve ahead
Souvenir shops and restrooms: Located throughout the park

Getting There: Location and Transport

Address: George Maduroplein 1, 2584 RZ, The Hague

By Public Transport

Tram 9: Direct from The Hague Central or Hollands Spoor, stop at Madurodam
Bus 22: Stop near park entrance

By Car

Directions: Follow A12 or A4, set GPS to the address above
Parking: On-site, ~160 meters from entrance; accessible and regular spots available

By Taxi

Drop-off is only 20 meters from the main gate

(Madurodam Accessibility, HollandDreams)

Practical Tips for Visiting

Best time: Weekday mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds
Weather: Most attractions are outdoors—bring suitable clothing
Payment: Credit cards/contactless accepted; some exhibits may require coins
Pets: Only guide dogs allowed; kennels for other pets available with reservation

FAQ

Q: Is Madurodam suitable for children?
A: Absolutely—interactive exhibits, themed playgrounds, and sports areas make it ideal for families.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Yes, available on select dates. Book in advance for availability.

Q: Can I buy tickets at the entrance?
A: Yes, but online booking is recommended for savings and to avoid queues.

Q: Is the park accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Yes, with step-free routes and free wheelchair rental.

Q: What’s the best way to get there?
A: Tram 9 or bus 22 from The Hague Central; on-site parking is also available.

Q: Are there dining options?
A: Yes—restaurants, cafés, and picnic-friendly areas are all on-site.

Q: Are guide dogs allowed?
A: Yes, throughout the park and its facilities.

Nearby Attractions in The Hague

Enhance your visit by exploring The Hague’s other highlights:

Mauritshuis Museum: Masterpieces like Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring”
Binnenhof: The Dutch parliamentary complex
Peace Palace: Icon of international law
SEA LIFE Scheveningen: Family-friendly aquarium
Scheveningen Beach: Sandy stretch just minutes away

(Amsterdam Tips)

Conclusion and Call to Action

Madurodam stands as an enduring symbol of Dutch resilience, ingenuity, and generosity—a living miniature city where history, culture, and play come together. With its accessible design, ever-evolving attractions, and charitable mission, it is an essential stop for anyone exploring The Hague or the Netherlands. Secure your tickets online, plan your visit during quieter hours, and discover a vibrant miniature world that captures the essence of Dutch spirit.

Ready to experience Madurodam?
Download the Audiala app for up-to-date guides, insider tips, and audio tours. Follow Madurodam on social media for the latest events and special offers. Embark on your journey through Dutch history in miniature—Madurodam awaits!