Zuiderpark Stadion

Zuiderpark Stadion Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide to The Hague’s Historic Sporting Site

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction: Zuiderpark Stadion’s Legacy in The Hague

Situated in the heart of The Hague, Zuiderpark Stadion stands as a remarkable symbol of Dutch football heritage and urban community spirit. Since its opening in 1925, the stadium anchored the city’s sporting culture, serving as the iconic home for ADO Den Haag for more than 80 years. Over its lifetime, the stadium not only expanded from its original 10,000-seat capacity to nearly 29,000 by the 1960s, but also became intrinsically linked with the city’s historic Zuiderpark, a visionary public park designed to provide recreational space for The Hague’s growing population (voetbalarchieven.nl).

Although the original stadium was closed in 2007 and demolished several years later, its spirit endures. The site has been transformed into the innovative Sportcampus Zuiderpark, which continues the legacy of athletic excellence, community engagement, and sustainable urban development. Today, the area invites visitors to explore a combination of modern sports facilities, expansive green spaces, and a vibrant calendar of events, all seamlessly integrated with The Hague’s rich historical and cultural landscape (bkdh.nl; sportcampuszuiderpark.nl).

This guide offers a comprehensive overview—covering the evolution of Zuiderpark Stadion, details about visiting Sportcampus Zuiderpark, ticketing, accessibility, nearby attractions, travel tips, events, and frequently asked questions. Whether you’re a football fan, a history enthusiast, or a traveler exploring The Hague’s landmarks, this resource provides everything you need to make the most of your visit (stadiumdb.com; denhaag.com).

Historical Timeline: From Original Stadium to Modern Sportcampus

1. Early Development (1920s–1940s)

Zuiderpark Stadion’s origins are rooted in The Hague’s early 20th-century urban expansion. Visionary architect Hendrik Petrus Berlage proposed the “Volkspark” concept in 1908, leading to the construction of Zuiderpark—opened officially in 1936 (bkdh.nl). Within this park, the stadium was inaugurated in 1925 as the home of ADO Den Haag, quickly establishing itself as a hub for local football. The venue expanded in the following decades, but World War II devastated its wooden stands, which were used as firewood during the harsh winter of 1944–45 (voetbalarchieven.nl).

2. Postwar Reconstruction and Expansion (1949–1970s)

After the war, ADO purchased and renovated the stadium, reopening it in 1949. Subsequent decades brought further expansions, with the stadium peaking at nearly 29,000 capacity by the 1960s, reflecting the surging popularity of football. The stadium also became an architectural symbol of the city, with its dual-level stands and vibrant matchday atmosphere (voetbalarchieven.nl).

3. Modernization and Challenges (1980s–2000s)

The 1980s saw new challenges: crowd safety standards and incidents of football-related violence led to capacity reductions and the closure of standing terraces. A fire in 1982 destroyed the main stand, prompting a modern replacement in 1986. The stadium underwent several name changes, reflecting the evolution of its primary tenant—from ADO, to FC Den Haag, and back again (voetbalarchieven.nl).

4. Closure and Demolition (2007–2014)

Zuiderpark Stadion hosted its final professional match in 2007 before ADO Den Haag relocated to the modern Cars Jeans Stadion (now Bingoal Stadion) (stadiumguide.com). The stadium stood vacant until its last structures were demolished in 2014 (voetbalarchieven.nl).

5. Transformation into Sportcampus Zuiderpark

The historic grounds were reborn as Sportcampus Zuiderpark, a state-of-the-art, CO₂-neutral sports and research complex designed by FaulknerBrowns Architects. The campus now serves as a hub for elite and community sports, hosting major events like the 2025 Wheelchair Rugby European Championships and providing advanced facilities for education and research (bkdh.nl; worldwheelchair.rugby).

Visiting Sportcampus Zuiderpark: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Opening Hours

Sportcampus Zuiderpark: Open daily from 7:00 or 8:00 AM until 10:00 PM (confirm event-specific hours on the official website).
Zuiderpark (public park): Accessible year-round from sunrise to sunset.

Tickets and Entry

General Park Access: Free.
Sportcampus Facilities: Most facilities are open for free recreational use; tickets are required for special events, competitions, and concerts. Purchase tickets online via the Sportcampus website, on-site (subject to availability), or through authorized vendors.
Guided Tours: While guided tours of the original stadium are not available, commemorative installations and information boards are present throughout Zuiderpark.

Accessibility

Fully wheelchair-accessible paths, ramps, and restrooms.
Disabled parking near main entrances.
Public transport and event facilities equipped for visitors with disabilities.
Assistance services available on request (denhaag.com).

Getting to Zuiderpark and Sportcampus Zuiderpark

Address: Zuiderparklaan 246, 2574 GL Den Haag, Netherlands.
Public Transport: Easily reached by tram (line 9) and bus (lines 23, 26, 51). Plan your journey via the HTM planner or Moovit app.
By Bicycle: Extensive cycle lanes and rental options; secure bike parking near the Sportcampus.
By Car: Paid parking in surrounding streets and nearby garages. Use P+R Transferium Den Haag for economical parking.
From Airports: Direct train connections from Amsterdam Schiphol and Rotterdam/The Hague airports.

What to See and Do: Facilities, Events, and Attractions

Sportcampus Zuiderpark Facilities

Main Arena: 3,500 seats, home to The Hague Royals basketball.
Multipurpose Sports Halls: For volleyball, judo, wheelchair rugby, and more.
Fitness Centers and Studios: Open to the public for group classes and training.
Cafés and Dining: On-site dining and refreshment options.
Event Spaces: Versatile venues for conferences, workshops, and festivals.
Green Roofs & Sustainable Design: Architectural features supporting biodiversity and rainwater management (Sports for Nature Urban Playbook).

Zuiderpark Attractions

Expansive Lawns and Walking Paths: Ideal for picnics, jogging, and nature walks.
Playgrounds and Skatepark: Family-friendly recreation.
Open-Air Events: Zuiderpark is a renowned venue for music festivals, local celebrations, and sporting competitions (denhaag.com).

Major Annual Events

Sun Splash Reggae Outdoor Festival (July 13, 2025): International reggae celebration (Reggae Agenda).
Zuiderpark Live: A summer series of open-air concerts (Zuiderpark Live).
Tour de France Femmes (August 12, 2025): The Hague hosts a stage and event village.
Billie Jean King Cup Tennis Qualifiers: International tennis action at the campus.

Nearby Historical Sites

Madurodam: Miniature park with Dutch landmarks.
Peace Palace: The seat of international law.
The Hague City Center: Museums, shopping, and historic architecture.

Practical Visitor Tips

Best Season: Spring to early autumn for mild weather and major events.
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera.
Sustainability: Use recycling bins and opt for public or green transport.
Language: English is widely spoken.
Payment: Contactless payment is standard across The Hague.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I visit the original Zuiderpark Stadion?
A: The original stadium no longer exists, but commemorative installations and historic features remain in the park. Iconic ticket booths have been preserved at Bingoal Stadion.

Q: What are Sportcampus Zuiderpark’s visiting hours?
A: Open daily from 7:00/8:00 AM to 10:00 PM; check for event-specific variations.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: The park is free; tickets are required for special events or indoor sports activities.

Q: Is the site accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, including step-free access, adapted restrooms, and accessible public transport connections.

Q: How do I get there by public transport?
A: Tram line 9 and bus lines 23, 26, and 51 serve the area. Bicycle and car parking are also available.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: No official tours of the stadium, but local walking tours often include Zuiderpark and its history.

Q: Are there food and drink options?
A: Yes, on-site cafés and food stalls during events; city center nearby for additional dining.

Visuals and Media

Photography: Capture the park’s expansive lawns, Sportcampus’s modern architecture, restored creek, event action, and commemorative installations.
Virtual Tours: Available on the official website.
Alt Text Suggestions: Use descriptive alt tags such as “Sportcampus Zuiderpark arena exterior” or “Festival crowds at Zuiderpark.”

Accommodation and Nearby Amenities

Hotels: From budget to luxury, including accessible options. Search via local hotel partners or the Ongehinderd app.
Family Facilities: Playgrounds, walking trails, and open spaces suitable for children.
Dog-Friendly: Dogs welcome in the park, leashed as required.
Safety: Emergency services dial 112.

How to Stay Updated and Plan Your Visit

Official Zuiderpark Page: denhaag.com
Sportcampus Zuiderpark: sportcampuszuiderpark.nl
Event Listings: Check the events calendar for the latest festivals and sports.
Mobile Tools: Download the Audiala app for real-time updates, ticketing, and digital guided tours.

Conclusion: Experience The Hague’s Living Heritage

Zuiderpark’s journey from historic stadium to contemporary Sportcampus reflects The Hague’s dynamic blend of tradition and innovation. Today, visitors can immerse themselves in a multifaceted experience—enjoying world-class sports facilities, vibrant community events, and the tranquility of the city’s largest park. Whether you are reliving football history or exploring new cultural horizons, Zuiderpark and its Sportcampus remain essential destinations for locals and travelers alike.

Plan your visit, explore nearby attractions, and embrace the unique fusion of history, nature, and modern city life at Zuiderpark.