Westerpark: one of Amsterdam's most beautiful parks

Visit Westerpark is a large green space that includes :

A theater
A cinema
An exhibition space
A stage for events

What was originally a small 19th-century neighborhood park has merged with the vast space of the former municipal gasworks.

Today I'm going to tell you all about Westerpark.

The history of Amsterdam's Westerpark

The original park was created in 1891. It served the quiet, working-class district of Amsterdam that bears the same name: Westerpark.

Behind the park was a gasworks built in 1883 by the British Imperial Continental Gas Association. The park and the factory were both located on the road leading to Harlem.

Everything began to change in the 1960s. Natural gas resources were discovered in the North Sea and the gas plant became obsolete.

From abandoned place to popular place

Since then, its buildings have been used only for storage, or simply left empty. At the same time, an anarchic movement of young squatters saved them from demolition.

In 1989, the old red-brick buildings were granted industrial monument status. All municipal gas and water installations were renovated, trees were planted and in 2003, the Westergasfabriek was opened to the public.

Today, it's a popular spot for visitors and locals alike. On a fine day, you can see many people strolling through this Amsterdam park.

A park divided into several parts

The large municipal building divides two parts of the park. The gas plant has become a vast space with :

An art-house cinema (Het Ketelhuis)
Two good coffees
Numerous offices for budding fashion designers

At the rear of Westergasfabriek is a long, rectangular children's pool, perfect for hot weather.

What's on at Westerpark?

Whereas the old Westerpark looks like an ordinary park with a few bronze sculptures and lots of greenery, the recently added Westergasfabriek is more of an experimental suburb.

On site, you'll find a young audience and an avant-garde atmosphere. This venue organizes numerous events. Don't hesitate to ask at the tourist office to find out which ones are scheduled for your visit.

How do I get to Westerpark in Amsterdam?

There are several ways to get to Amsterdam's Westerpark. First of all, you can use your own means of transport to get here:

On foot, from the Dam squarewalk to a small square called Harlemmerplein. Cross the bridge behind the square and you'll see Westerpark on your right.

By car, from the A10, take the S103 exit, then turn right and follow the signs for Amsterdam Centre. You'll see the Westergasfabriek on your left, on the other side of the canal.

If you're coming from the north, take exit s104 and head for the town center. When you see Westerpark on your right, turn right onto Harlemmerweg. Parking is available on site.

Please note that parking is relatively expensive in Amsterdam. To find out more, I advise you to read this article.

Choosing public transport

You can also visit the Westerpark:

Visit tramway from line 10 at the Van Hallstraat stop. You'll find the Westergasfabriek behind Harlemmerweg.

By bus from the main station, take the bus 21 and get off at the Van Hallstraat stop.

Westerpark is a popular place to explore between visits. On site, you'll discover a young, dynamic community and exceptional performances.

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