Best Theme Parks and Family Attractions in Belgium
Belgium, a small yet culturally rich country nestled in the heart of Europe, is often celebrated for its medieval towns, stunning architecture, chocolate, and beer. However, it also offers a wealth of family-friendly attractions that are perfect for creating unforgettable memories. From thrilling theme parks to educational museums and picturesque outdoor spaces, Belgium has something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, here’s your ultimate guide to the best theme parks and family attractions in Belgium.
1. Plopsaland De Panne: A World of Magic
Located on the Belgian coast near the town of De Panne, Plopsaland is one of the most popular theme parks in the country. This vibrant park brings beloved characters from Studio 100 (a renowned Flemish production company) to life through exciting rides, live shows, and immersive experiences.
Highlights:
- Thrilling Rides: The park boasts over 40 attractions suitable for all ages, including roller coasters like “The Ride of the Valkyries” and family-friendly rides such as “Anubis The Ride.”
- Character Meet-and-Greets: Kids can meet their favorite TV characters, including Bumba, Samson & Gert, and Mega Mindy.
- Water Park Extension: Adjacent to the main park lies Plopsaqua , a water paradise featuring wave pools, slides, and lazy rivers—a must-visit during warmer months.
Plopsaland combines fun with storytelling, making it an ideal destination for families seeking both adventure and nostalgia.
2. Walibi Belgium: Adrenaline-Packed Adventures
Formerly known as Walibi Wavre, this iconic amusement park is located just outside Brussels and remains a top choice for thrill-seekers and families alike. With its mix of high-speed roller coasters, gentle rides, and seasonal events, Walibi promises non-stop excitement.
Must-Do Activities:
- Goliath Roller Coaster: Brace yourself for an adrenaline rush aboard this towering wooden coaster, which reaches speeds of up to 110 km/h!
- Splash Battle: Join forces with your family in this interactive water ride where you’ll engage in playful battles against pirates.
- Seasonal Festivals: During Halloween, Walibi transforms into a spooky wonderland with haunted houses and themed decorations.
Walibi strikes the perfect balance between heart-pounding thrills and kid-friendly entertainment, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.
3. Pairi Daiza: A Journey Around the World
If you’re looking for an attraction that blends nature, culture, and education, look no further than Pairi Daiza . Situated in Brugelette, this award-winning zoo and botanical garden spans over 65 hectares and takes visitors on a global journey through meticulously designed exhibits.
What Makes It Special?
- World Zones: Explore regions like China, Africa, Indonesia, and South America, each recreated with authentic landscapes, flora, and fauna.
- Up-Close Encounters: Watch majestic pandas munching on bamboo, stroll past grazing giraffes, or marvel at playful dolphins in the marine center.
- Cultural Performances: Enjoy traditional dances, music, and theater performances inspired by different cultures around the world.
Pairi Daiza isn’t just a zoo—it’s an immersive experience that fosters appreciation for wildlife and diversity while offering endless fun for the whole family.
4. Bellewaerde: Nature Meets Adventure
Situated near Ieper (Ypres), Bellewaerde is a unique blend of natural beauty and adventurous activities. Originally established as a wildlife park, it has evolved into a dynamic family attraction with a focus on outdoor exploration.
Key Features:
- Animal Safaris: Hop aboard a safari bus to observe zebras, bison, and other exotic animals roaming freely in expansive enclosures.
- Adventure Trails: Challenge yourselves on rope courses, zip lines, and climbing walls designed for various age groups.
- Educational Programs: Participate in workshops and guided tours that teach children about biodiversity and conservation.
Bellewaerde provides a refreshing escape from city life, combining physical activity with opportunities to connect with nature.
5. Mini-Europe: A Continent in Miniature
For history buffs and curious minds, Mini-Europe in Brussels is a fascinating stop. This open-air museum showcases miniature replicas of Europe’s most famous landmarks, allowing visitors to “travel” across the continent in just a few hours.
Why Visit?
- Iconic Landmarks: Marvel at scaled-down versions of the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, the Colosseum, and more—all crafted with incredible detail.
- Interactive Exhibits: Push buttons to activate moving parts, such as erupting volcanoes or working fountains, adding an element of interactivity to the experience.
- Perfect for All Ages: While adults appreciate the craftsmanship and historical significance, kids love spotting familiar sights and discovering new ones.
Mini-Europe is not only entertaining but also educational, sparking interest in geography and European heritage.
6. Technopolis: Hands-On Science Fun
Located in Mechelen, Technopolis is a hands-on science museum designed to inspire curiosity and creativity in young minds. Through interactive exhibits and workshops, this attraction makes learning fun and accessible for children of all ages.
Top Experiences:
- Experimentation Areas: Engage in experiments related to physics, chemistry, biology, and technology—perfect for budding scientists.
- Planetarium Shows: Immerse yourself in stunning visuals of the night sky and learn about astronomy in the state-of-the-art planetarium.
- Outdoor Playground: Burn off some energy at the outdoor play area, complete with climbing structures and water features.
Technopolis proves that science can be cool, offering a stimulating environment for discovery and innovation.
7. Forestia: A Fairytale Escape
Nestled in the lush Ardennes region, Forestia is a magical woodland park that feels straight out of a fairytale. This enchanting destination combines scenic hiking trails with whimsical attractions inspired by legends and folklore.
Don’t Miss:
- Fairy Village: Wander through tiny cottages inhabited by elves and gnomes, creating a dreamlike atmosphere for younger visitors.
- Wolf Park: Observe wolves in their natural habitat and attend informative talks about these majestic creatures.
- TreeTop Walk: Take a stroll along elevated walkways surrounded by towering trees for breathtaking views of the forest canopy.
Forestia offers a serene retreat for families who enjoy nature and storytelling, providing a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
8. Dinopark Bouillon: Prehistoric Adventures
Step back in time at Dinopark Bouillon , located near the historic town of Bouillon. This dinosaur-themed park is packed with lifelike animatronic dinosaurs, fossil digs, and educational displays that captivate imaginations.
Highlights:
- Dino Trail: Follow a winding path through dense vegetation to encounter roaring T-Rexes, towering Brachiosauruses, and stealthy Velociraptors.
- Excavation Site: Let your little paleontologists dig for fossils and uncover ancient treasures.
- Play Areas: After exploring the prehistoric world, relax in designated play zones equipped with slides, swings, and climbing frames.
Dinopark Bouillon is a hit with kids who love dinosaurs, blending education with entertainment seamlessly.
