2 Best Performing Arts Venues in Amsterdam, Netherlands

Just 500 meters from Centraal Station and built on a peninsula on the IJ, this spectacular building's design (compliments of Danish architects 3XN) was based on the shape of a ship. Since opening in 2005, it has become a main concert hall for both classical and jazz fans: the black box jutting out is the legendary jazz venue, Bimhuis. The glass building is architecturally stunning with its ship's ramp entrance and the Zen-like simplicity of its three natural colors (concrete, black, and light maple wood). The floor-to-roof glass walls provide spectacular views into the building and out onto the IJ, and the interior atmosphere changes naturally with variations in weather—clouds, rain, sunshine, and light. There are regular exhibitions, and workshops for kids (ages seven-plus) in the educational Klankspeeltuin (Sound Garden). Pay a lunchtime visit to chill out in café-restaurant 4'33 and enjoy the waterfront terrace.

The former squat (in what was once a horse-drawn tram depot) and cultural center, just beyond the gates of the Vondelpark's western exit, has stayed true to its punky vibe over the years. In addition to the alternative, experimental, underground programming for adults, there's also an artsy kids' program that is well worth checking out.