Julianatoren Apeldoorn

Julianatoren is a family amusement park in Apeldoorn, in the Veluwe region of Gelderland, built around an observation tower named after Queen Juliana. The park is aimed mainly at families with young children, and its rides, shows and play areas suit children up to around ten. It is one of several attractions that make Apeldoorn a popular destination for a family break, together with the Apenheul primate park and the Het Loo palace.

The park has a distinctive appeal because of its scale. It is not a giant theme park with record-breaking roller coasters, but a relatively compact place where toddlers and small children can try gentle rides without being overwhelmed, and where parents can keep an eye on everyone. The rides are themed and colourful, with carousels, a small train, water features and attractions that children can control themselves. There are also play areas and shows that fill the day, and picnic spots and cafes provide breaks.

The tower itself gives the park its name. A viewing platform at the top offers a view across the surrounding woods, and on clear days it is possible to see over the forests of the Veluwe. The park lies on the edge of this large wooded area, and the setting among pines and heath makes it feel more like a day in the countryside than a trip to a city fairground. Many visitors bring a picnic to eat in the shade.

Other attractions in Apeldoorn can fill out a stay. Paleis Het Loo is a royal palace with fine gardens, Apenheul is a zoo where monkeys move freely among visitors, and CODA is a museum and library. The old town centre and the royal estates provide more sights, and the wider region offers hiking and cycling in woods that are home to red deer, roe deer, wild boar, badgers and foxes.

The park suits families with young children, grandparents and school groups. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, and check opening times, prices and any special events on the official website before you go. Bring sun protection in summer and a rain jacket in other seasons. It is among the more traditional family days out in the Netherlands.