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Visiting The Rooftop at the NEMO Science Museum

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The NEMO Science Museum Rooftop is the highest city square in the Netherlands, combining panoramic views of Amsterdam with green spaces, educational exhibits, and a café. It’s a spot that helps you experience nature, science, and urban life blending seamlessly above the city.

How to access the NEMO Science Museum Rooftop

The NEMO Science Museum Rooftop is freely accessible without a ticket. You can reach it by lift from the museum foyer or by climbing the exterior east-side stairs. Opening hours vary seasonally, with longer summer evenings.

Why go to the NEMO Science Museum rooftop?

  • Panoramic views: Enjoy 360-degree cityscapes of Amsterdam’s skyline, historic canals, and harbor. The rooftop doubles as a perfect photography spot for both casual visitors and enthusiasts.
  • Urban nature: Find a rooftop oasis filled with wildlife-friendly plants, designed to attract birds and insects, creating a rare biodiversity pocket in central Amsterdam.
  • Interactive science: Learn about clouds, air quality, and sustainable cities through outdoor exhibits that transform science concepts into fun, hands-on learning experiences.
  • Relaxation space: Unwind at the rooftop café with seating overlooking Amsterdam’s rooftops, offering refreshments and open-air tranquility away from crowded city streets.
  • Community events: Join seasonal activities like rooftop yoga or evening gatherings, turning the rooftop into a lively cultural and social meeting space.

Things to know before visiting the NEMO Science Museum Rooftop

  • Free access: Visiting the rooftop does not require a separate ticket. Entry is free for everyone, whether or not you have museum admission.
  • Opening hours: The rooftop is open daily from 10am to 5:30pm. Summer evenings on Thursdays and Fridays extend until 9pm.
  • Entry points: Visitors can reach the rooftop directly via the museum foyer lift or use the wide staircase located on the east side.
  • All-weather space: While most of the rooftop is outdoors, the café offers indoor seating, making it suitable for visits in varied weather conditions.
  • Educational exhibits: The rooftop includes interactive science installations and biodiversity displays, so it offers more than views; it also provides learning opportunities for visitors of all ages.

NEMO Science Museum highlights

Rooftop square and interactive exhibits

The NEMO Science Museum rooftop features the outdoor exhibition Energetica, where solar, wind, and hydropower installations demonstrate renewable energy in action. You can experiment at a weather station, study clouds, and identify landmarks, combining hands-on science learning with panoramic views across Amsterdam’s skyline.

Biodiversity and urban nature

Designed as a living rooftop, this green space supports birds like blackbirds while offering habitats for small animals among plants, logs, and rocks. The vegetation also cools the building naturally, highlighting how biodiversity and sustainability enhance both city life and environmental balance.

Museum restaurant and bar

You can enjoy light meals, snacks, and hot or cold drinks at the rooftop restaurant and conservatory bar. Outdoor seating overlooks Amsterdam’s historic city center and Oosterdok harbor, providing a scenic place to relax, recharge, or socialize during a museum visit.

Science and wellness activities

Throughout the year, the rooftop hosts science-inspired and wellness events, from yoga sessions at sunrise to interactive experiments on weather and plant biology. These activities blend relaxation with education, creating an engaging space where curiosity, community, and the city’s natural environment come together.

Know before you go

  • Daily hours: The rooftop is open everyday from 10am to 5:30pm, offering consistent access throughout the year for all visitors.
  • Summer evenings: In July and August, extended hours apply on Thursdays and Fridays, when the rooftop remains open until 9pm.
  • Free entry: No admission fee is required to access the rooftop. You can use the lift in the foyer or the stairs on the east side.
  • Weather closures: The rooftop may temporarily close due to bad weather or special events. Checking availability in advance is recommended before planning a visit.
  • Museum landmark: The rooftop sits atop NEMO’s striking green building, designed by architect Renzo Piano, instantly recognizable on Amsterdam’s waterfront near Oosterdok harbor.
  • Access points: You can reach the rooftop via the lift from the museum foyer or the wide staircase on the building’s east side.
  • Roof square: Located on the fifth floor, the rooftop square, known as “Dakplein,” stands about 22 meters high and serves as the Netherlands’ highest city square.
  • Panoramic setting: From this elevated position, you can enjoy sweeping views across Amsterdam’s historic city center, harbor areas, and surrounding modern neighborhoods.
  • Entry checks: Staff may inspect bags or belongings upon entry. If you refuse getting the security check, you may be denied rooftop access.
  • Restricted items: Weapons, sharp objects, and hazardous materials are strictly forbidden to protect both visitors and rooftop facilities.
  • Child supervision: Children under 13 must always be accompanied by an adult to ensure safety in this elevated, open-air space.
  • Designated areas: Remain within marked rooftop zones and avoid climbing on railings, planters, or barriers to prevent accidents.
  • Smoke-free space: Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the rooftop, stairs, or museum premises to keep the environment safe and clean.
  • Eating and drinking: Food and drinks are only permitted in the café and designated seating areas to maintain cleanliness and protect facilities.
  • Weather awareness: Outdoor surfaces may become slippery in wet conditions. Use caution, especially on stairways and open rooftop sections.
  • Emergency rules: In emergencies, follow staff directions and use marked exits. Lifts must not be used during evacuations.
  • Choose clear days: Visit on bright, clear days for the best panoramic views of Amsterdam’s skyline, harbor, and surrounding neighborhoods.
  • Use East stairs: Reach the rooftop quickly via the broad east-side stairs, or take the lift directly from the museum foyer.
  • Spot wildlife: Watch for blackbirds, urban sparrows, and other songbirds drawn to the rooftop’s green areas filled with wildlife-friendly plants.
  • Join events: Look for seasonal rooftop activities like yoga, live experiments, or science workshops that add variety and memorable experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions about the NEMO Science Museum rooftop

Is the NEMO rooftop accessible without visiting the main museum?

Yes, the rooftop is freely accessible without museum admission, offering its own exhibits, green spaces, and panoramic views across Amsterdam.

Can I bring my own food to the rooftop?

Outside food is not permitted. You can enjoy meals, snacks, and drinks at the rooftop’s restaurant and conservatory bar instead.

Is the rooftop suitable for children and families?

Yes, children are welcome. However, supervision is essential as the rooftop is open-air and features elevated terraces and exhibits.

Are pets allowed on the NEMO rooftop?

Pets are not allowed, except registered service animals. This ensures visitor safety and preserves the rooftop’s plant habitats and facilities.

Does the rooftop have seating areas besides the café?

Yes, there are several outdoor seating spots across the rooftop, offering quiet places to relax, enjoy views, or read.

Are the exhibits on the rooftop permanent?

Most exhibits, such as Energetica, are long-term features, but some smaller installations or activities may change seasonally.

Is there shade available on hot days?

Partial shade is provided by terrace structures and café areas, but visitors should prepare for exposure with hats and sunscreen.

Is photography allowed on the rooftop?

Yes, photography is encouraged. Visitors often capture panoramic city views, interactive exhibits, and the striking architecture of NEMO’s building.

Is the rooftop accessible by wheelchair?

Yes, the rooftop can be accessed by lift from the foyer. Flat pathways provide mobility access, though some areas are stepped.

Are toilets available on the rooftop?

Yes, visitor toilets are available near the rooftop restaurant, ensuring convenience without needing to return inside the main museum.

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