Emmen: City of Wildlands

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Richard Broekhuijzen

Emmen, located in the province of Drenthe in the Northern Netherlands, is a lively town known for its blend of natural beauty and modern attractions. It serves as a gateway to some of the region’s most remarkable landscapes, including expansive heathlands, forests, and nature reserves. Visitors to Emmen can enjoy a refreshing combination of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, making it an excellent base for exploring Drenthe’s unique environment.

One of Emmen’s standout features is its focus on family-friendly attractions and entertainment. The town is home to a renowned wildlife park that offers immersive experiences with animals from around the world, making it a favourite destination for visitors of all ages. Beyond the park, Emmen also hosts various events and markets throughout the year that celebrate local crafts, food, and culture, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for tourists.

Emmen’s compact centre provides a variety of shopping, dining, and leisure options, with a mixture of modern stores and traditional cafés. The town’s urban design incorporates green spaces and walking paths, encouraging visitors to explore on foot or by bike. Whether you’re seeking nature, culture, or family fun, Emmen offers a well-rounded visit in the heart of Drenthe.

History of Emmen

History of Emmen: Prehistoric and Medieval Era

Emmen’s earliest roots date back to prehistoric times when small farming communities settled in the area. Throughout the medieval period, Emmen remained a modest village surrounded by vast heathlands and dense forests. Agriculture dominated daily life, and the settlement grew slowly, maintaining a rural character for many centuries.

History of Emmen: Industrialization and 19th Century Growth

The 19th century marked a turning point for Emmen as peat extraction became a major economic activity. This industry transformed the landscape and attracted workers, leading to population growth and the development of new infrastructure. The arrival of the railway in the early 20th century further connected Emmen to the rest of the country, boosting trade and facilitating urban expansion.

History of Emmen: Post-War Modernization and Expansion

After World War II, Emmen underwent rapid modernization and expansion. New residential districts, cultural venues, and recreational facilities were established to support the growing community. Investment in green spaces and tourism, including the development of a renowned zoo, helped shape Emmen’s identity as a vibrant and balanced town focused on nature, culture, and quality of life.

Visiting Emmen for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Emmen on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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1. Emmen – Wildlands Adventure Zoo

Wildlands Adventure Zoo is the town’s flagship attraction, offering immersive wildlife experiences across different themed zones such as Jungola, Serenga, and Nortica. Visitors can see animals ranging from elephants and lions to polar bears, all within carefully recreated natural habitats. The zoo also features interactive exhibits, playgrounds, and boat rides, making it a perfect family destination.

The zoo is open daily, generally from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Entry costs around €30 for adults and €24 for children, with family tickets and discounts available. It’s recommended to book tickets online in advance during peak seasons.

2. Emmen – Rensenpark

Rensenpark is a green urban oasis in Emmen, known for its beautiful gardens, walking paths, and cultural events. The park hosts markets, outdoor concerts, and seasonal festivals, offering a relaxing retreat for locals and visitors alike. It’s a great spot for picnics or leisurely strolls, especially during spring and summer.

The park is open year-round and free to enter. Facilities include cafés and playgrounds, making it family-friendly.

3. Emmen – Hunebed Centre (nearby in Borger)

Just under 10 km from Emmen, the Hunebed Centre is a museum and archaeological park dedicated to the region’s prehistoric dolmens—ancient stone burial chambers unique to Drenthe. The centre offers exhibitions on early human history, guided tours of the hunebeds, and hands-on activities.

Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, admission is about €12 for adults and €6 for children. It’s an essential visit for history enthusiasts interested in the area’s ancient past.

4. Emmen – ZOO Emmen Plasmeer Beach

Located near Wildlands, Plasmeer Beach is a popular recreational area offering sandy shores, swimming, and water sports during the warmer months. Visitors can relax by the water, rent pedal boats, or enjoy picnics in the surrounding parklands. It’s a favorite local spot for outdoor leisure close to the town.

Access is free, and facilities include parking, restrooms, and nearby cafés.

5. Emmen – Museum Collectie Brands

This small museum displays a fascinating collection of everyday objects, folk art, and historical items from the Drenthe region. It gives insight into local culture and traditions through the centuries. The museum is housed in a charming historic building near the town centre.

Opening hours vary but typically include weekday afternoons and weekends. Entry fees are modest, around €5 for adults, with discounts for children and groups.

6. Emmen – De Grote Rietplas Nature Reserve

De Grote Rietplas is a large nature reserve and lake just outside Emmen, ideal for walking, birdwatching, and cycling. The area features marked trails through reed beds, forests, and wetlands, supporting diverse wildlife. It’s a peaceful escape into nature with several observation points.

The reserve is open year-round with free access, perfect for those seeking quiet outdoor activities.

7. Emmen – Atlas Theater

The Atlas Theater is Emmen’s main venue for performing arts, hosting a variety of concerts, theatre productions, comedy shows, and cultural events. The modern facility offers comfortable seating and an intimate atmosphere for enjoying live entertainment.

Ticket prices depend on the event, and the theater operates year-round with a regularly updated program.

8. Emmen – De Eikenhof Shopping Centre

For shopping enthusiasts, De Eikenhof is a large retail complex featuring a wide range of shops, boutiques, and eateries. It’s the go-to place in Emmen for fashion, electronics, and groceries, combining convenience with a pleasant shopping environment.

The centre is open daily with longer hours on weekends and holidays.

9. Emmen – Veenpark (Peat Museum)

Located just outside Emmen, the Veenpark is an open-air museum showcasing the history of peat extraction, which played a crucial role in shaping the region. Visitors can explore reconstructed peat-cutting villages, traditional houses, and steam-powered machinery. Demonstrations and guided tours enrich the experience.

Open from spring through autumn, entry costs about €15 for adults and €8 for children.

10. Emmen – Marktplein

The Marktplein is the vibrant heart of Emmen’s town centre, hosting weekly markets, events, and festivals. Surrounded by cafés and shops, it’s a lively spot to experience local life, try regional foods, or simply relax with a coffee. The square frequently hosts cultural events and seasonal celebrations.

Access is free and it’s busiest during market days and special occasions.