Property
If you have traveled to Amsterdam before you had kids, you may feel a bit strange about returning en famille. After all, you may have spent your time indulging in the city’s somewhat unsavory (but perfectly legal!) activities. You may wonder if there anything to really do with kids. As it turns out, there’s plenty. And at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Amsterdam City Centre, a 270-room downtown property, you can be close to it all but still have a block or two to walk before your child scrunches up his nose and asks you, “What’s that weird smell?”

Location
The hotel is on the Nieuwe Kerk side of town so it’s more difficult (though not impossible) to stumble into the red light district. It’s also within walking distance of the train station and most museums, and centrally located on a main street so you won’t walk in too many circles with heavy suitcases and crabby kids before you find it. There is tram stop nearby to take you to attractions that are further out. Don’t miss TunFun, an indoor playground built into an unused highway underpass, just a few tram stops away on the Waterlooplein once your kiddos are museum-ed out.

Sleeps
Up to 4, with cribs and rollaways available, but it is advisable to call the hotel directly. The hotel has the trademarked KidSuites and a quick phone call can help set you up with the right room for your brood.

Highlights
The hotel’s indoor pool was a big hit, especially on those rainy afternoons Amsterdam is famous for. The hotel also has a great restaurant which can introduce your child to Dutch cooking. It’s a little pricey but the staff are not afraid of thrown food or a little vomit – my son barfed on a salad plate and it did not phase our waitress one bit.

Good to know
The hotel’s front door is an automatic one that is only about 10 feet from a busy street. While checking in or out or talking to the concierge, keep a close eye on toddlers. If they make a break for it, years will be shaved off your life.

Contact
http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/cp/1/en/hotel/AMSNL/welcome

July 7th, 2008 | by Kayt Sukel