In the interactive experience center, you travel through the past, present, and future of this unique region. Discover how the Afsluitdijk transformed the Zuiderzee into the freshwater IJsselmeer in 1932, and how this massive waterworks brought safety, farmland, and new opportunities to the Netherlands. At the same time, learn how the landscape and nature had to adapt – from the currents of the Wadden Sea to the open waters of the IJsselmeer, where wind, waves, and birds always shape the horizon. In addition to history, the center shows how we are building for the future: with innovative dike reinforcement, sustainable energy, and the Fish Migration River, where fish can freely travel between salt and freshwater. It is a place where science and technology meet nature and experience.
Entrance & access
The experience center is open every Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Admission is € 4.00 for children aged 4 to 11, and € 6.50 for visitors aged 12 and older. Children up to 3 years old enter for free.
Discover the Afsluitdijk Wadden Center in less than 25 seconds! ⤵️
Themes
The interactive experience center takes visitors through a variety of themes in an exhibition that together tell the story of the Afsluitdijk. The exhibition has recently been updated and focuses on three main themes: the IJsselmeer and the Wadden Sea, the province of Friesland, and the Fish Migration River. Within these themes, the emphasis is on experience, including the storm room and a “life-like” balloon flight over Friesland. For those who think they’ve seen it all, the visit is best concluded on the rooftop terrace, where an impressive view of the IJsselmeer and Wadden Sea awaits.
The experience center can be explored at your own pace and typically takes 45 to 60 minutes.
Presentation
In addition to a regular visit, the Afsluitdijk Wadden Center offers an informative presentation about the Afsluitdijk, delivered by an experienced guide. This presentation provides deeper insights into the history as well as the technical and ecological aspects of this iconic dike project. Afterward, visitors can explore the experience center to further discover the topics covered. During this follow-up visit, the guide remains available to answer questions and provide additional explanations.
The presentation lasts approximately 20 to 30 minutes and is available on request from € 195. The price does not include admission to the experience center.
Treasure hunt Bobby Fish
For the youngest visitors, a free Bobby Fish hunt is available at the reception. Bobby Fish is hidden at various locations throughout the experience center. If you find them all, a fun or tasty surprise awaits you at the reception. In addition to the scavenger hunt, a drawing table is available for children in the experience center.
