Museon

Den Haag’s hyper-modern science museum opened in its current incarnation in 1985, adjacent to the Gemeentemuseum in a sleek, modern, two-story building of soft-colored stone. With the goal of being both educational and fun, Museon is a very hands-on affair, with plenty of buttons to press, smells to sniff and movies to watch in the permanent exhibition, which deals with the development of life on earth. While not enormous, there is plenty in there to distract curious youngsters for a couple of hours.  
Aimed at kids ages 8 and up, the museum addresses major contemporary issues such as cloning, religion and the environment through the use of accessible and innovative multi-media shows, models and games. Screens scattered through the galleries operate a scavenger hunt in several languages, and there are enough sparkly rocks and minerals on the second floor to kick-start an early interest in geology. Adults will also enjoy the interesting facts provided by the exhibits, and there are special creative activity sessions for toddlers on Wednesday and Sunday afternoons too. A mixed bag of temporary exhibitions throughout the year could include photography displays or information about Roman inventions. 

Practical Info

Museon is located north of The Hague’s city center. It is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m., and there is free parking available behind the museum. Admission costs €11 for adults, €9 for seniors, €8 for kids between 8 and 12 and €6 for kids between 4 and 11. Tram 17 can be taken to Statenkwartier.