7 ways to enjoy spring in Flanders with the whole family.

Family visiting Bruges
Close-up of a family of three posing for a selfie. Behind them, the historic architecture of Bruges creates a scenic backdrop under a clear blue sky.
© Piet De Kersgieter
In Flanders, every season brings countless adventures for the entire family. This spring is no exception; embark on the C-Mine Expedition and find out about Limburg’s rich mining past, explore the story of Ghent from a child’s perspective at the STAM city museum, and dive into the secrets of the North Sea at the NAVIGO Fisheries Museum. In May, BRUSK Bruges opens its doors and has plenty in store, including experiences for teenagers and young adults. Read on for more tips for a fantastic spring holiday in Flanders. While you’re here, don't forget to enjoy our delicious Belgian chips.
Eating belgian fries © Piet De Kersgieter
Eating belgian fries © Piet De Kersgieter
© Piet De Kersgieter

Frietmuseum (Fries Museum) Brussels, learn and taste at the same time!

Who doesn't love a bag of golden chips with mayonnaise? Did you know that this delicacy is one of the cornerstones of Flanders' rich culinary culture? The Frietmuseum in the heart of Brussels takes you on a journey through the universe of chips. Explore it through numerous touchscreens, fun quizzes, sensory games and practical workshops. It's a fun way to explore the history and almost mythical status of chips, the secrets behind a perfectly cooked chip, and the importance of the traditional 'frituur' (chip shop) in Flemish culture. A tasty and educational experience for all ages.

C-Mine: the mining past and a futuristic playground

In Limburg, you can travel from the past to the present — and back again — in no time, as you can experience for yourself at C-Mine. A vibrant cultural hub now thrives on the site of the former Winterslag coal mine. The C-Mine Expedition takes you underground to explore the region’s mining heritage. Through amazing installations filled with animation, holograms and VR, you can discover 101 stories about the past. Above ground, children can enjoy Welcome Little Stranger, a futuristic indoor playground created by fashion designer Walter Van Beirendonck. It’s a striking environment that sparks the imagination. Still have some energy left after this? Limburg is packed with wonderful walking and cycling experiences for the whole family.

C-mine expeditie1_Limburg
C-mine expeditie1_Limburg
STAM-museum-little-boy-Ghent-4
STAM-museum-little-boy-Ghent-4
© Piet De Kersgieter

Explore the story of Ghent through a child's eyes in STAM

On the other side of Flanders, STAM tells the story of Ghent through a child's eyes. How? The museum has created a series of playful and interactive installations designed for children aged 6 to 12. Children step into the roles of the merchants, craftspeople, and architects who shaped Ghent into the city it is today. Parents and grandparents can also enjoy the fascinating exhibition. And there’s more; Until May 2026, STAM is presenting Offside, a temporary exhibition about 150 years of football in the home town of superstar Kevin De Bruyne. A fantastic bonus for young sports enthusiasts.

NAVIGO, a museum about fishermen and the Flemish coast

Where can you run wild on the beach, enjoy breathtaking views, and stroll through surf and dunes? Along the Flemish coast of course! You can also eat really well here, because the Flemish coast is famous for its delicious North Sea greyshrimp. Did you know that in the town of Oostduinkerke, these shrimp are still caught by fishermen on horseback in the North Sea? It’s the only place in the world where you can witness this tradition. The NAVIGO Fisheries Museum tells their story — and many others — in a way that’s engaging for the entire family.

Navigo Visserijmuseum (c) Sofhie Legein – gemeente Koksijde
Navigo Visserijmuseum (c) Sofhie Legein – gemeente Koksijde
Sofhie Legein – gemeente Koksijde

AI art for teenagers at BRUSK, Bruges

Teenagers will also find plenty to enjoy in historic Bruges, especially when BRUSK opens its doors at the end of May. This brand-new art hall will be launching with the exhibition Latent City, among other things, in which internationally acclaimed AI artist Refik Anadol builds a bridge between the digital and physical worlds. The exhibition explores not only aesthetics but also fundamental questions about technology, data and the relationship between humans and machines. A spectacle that will amaze even the most nonchalant teenager.

Zaal met een wit kunstwerk en bewonderende mensen
BRUSK - WELKOM BRUSK 09.25 © Femke den Hollander

Explore Mechelen – the ultimate child-friendly city

Historic Mechelen may well be the most child-friendly city in Flanders. Visit Technopolis, and marvel at fascinating technological and scientific experiments. The Toy Museum tells the story of one of the greatest inventions ever: toys. Just outside the city, you can find Planckendael ZOO, a beautiful animal park. And this city map for young explorers will help uncover Mechelen’s secrets. With it, Mascot Rommy guides you through the city in search of landmarks, great places, and fun challenges for the whole family. Want more inspiration? The Visit Mechelen app includes a Do & Discover guide packed with family -friendly tips and locations.

Exploring Mechelen with children 22
Exploring Mechelen with children 22

Go on a rural adventure in the Flemish parks

Flanders' historic cities are just waiting to be explored by the whole family, but you also enjoy adventures in nature here. The Hoge Kempen National Park guarantees hours of lovely walks. With a ranger as your guide, you’ll experience unforgettable adventures as they lead you to the most beautiful and surprising places. In the Maasvallei river park, the Maas Explorers guide you through this stunning river landscape. Prefer a different perspective? Join a beaver safari by packraft on the Oude Nete river branch near Leuven. Across Flanders’ nature parks, you’ll find 101 micro-adventures that deliver maximum joy.

Toerisme Vlaanderen - Nationaal Park Hoge Kempen - TerHills - ©Bjorn Snelders - 5 (1)
A man enjoys the view over the Hoge Kempen National Park.
Bjorn Snelders

Need some extra inspiration for a family trip to Flanders in the spring? Try some walking adventures and micro-adventures in nature. Admire the splendour of the Belle Époque. Explore magnificent palaces, imposing fortresses, historic castles, and elegant country estates surrounded by greenery.

Brochure family-friendly Flanders and Brussels

With its versatility, Flanders is the ideal destination for a holiday with the whole family. Below you will find a selection of the activities to make your trip to Flanders an unforgettable family break.