Other
Ripley's Believe It or Not!
A quirky museum of oddities and illusions on Dam square.
Photo: Ripley's Believe It or Not! / Google
- Area
- Centrum (Old Centre)
- Type
- Other
About the experience
Ripley's Believe It or Not! is an attraction in the old centre. A quirky museum of oddities and illusions on Dam square.
What to expect
A spot worth a visit — check the official site for the latest opening info before you head over.
Good to know
The name comes from Robert Ripley, the American cartoonist and traveller whose illustrated Believe It or Not! feature introduced readers to extraordinary stories from around the world. His fascination with unusual achievements, objects and customs grew into an international entertainment brand. That background helps explain the attraction’s approach: it is less a chronological museum than a collection built around surprise. The pleasure lies in looking closely, reading the accompanying explanations and deciding which stories stretch your sense of what is possible.
Expect a visually driven visit, with displays that invite you to pause, compare impressions and question what you are seeing. It suits a change of pace from paintings and canal-house interiors, especially if your group enjoys discussing the strange and unexpected. Afterwards, step back into the city’s more familiar heritage: the Royal Palace and Nieuwe Kerk are nearby, while Kalverstraat offers an easy shopping detour. Pairing the attraction with a walk gives you a contrast between indoor spectacle and Amsterdam’s historic streets.
Photo gallery
Photo: Andrey Zolotnitsyn / Google · Photo: Brian / Google · Photo: Peter Juhnke / Google · Photo: Inna Bauer / Google · Photo: Raíssa dos Reis Balaniuc / Google
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a ticket to visit?
Ripley’s is a ticketed attraction. Check the official website for current admission information and booking options.
Is it a good option for rainy weather?
The attraction is indoors, making it a useful option when you want a break from wet-weather sightseeing.
Is it suitable for children?
The unusual displays may appeal to curious children, but some content can feel unsettling. Check the official website’s visitor information to judge whether it suits your child.
Is the attraction wheelchair accessible?
Check the official website for current accessibility information before booking. Contact the venue directly if you need details about step-free access or particular displays.
What can I combine with a visit?
The Royal Palace and Nieuwe Kerk are nearby options for exploring the city’s heritage. For a less structured outing, continue along Kalverstraat or walk towards the surrounding canals.
Ripley's Believe It or Not!, Amsterdam
Dam 21, 1012 JS, Amsterdam