Art Zoo Museum: Art meets nature in a 17th-Century House

Visiting the Art Zoo Museum in Amsterdam offers a fascinating blend of history, art, and natural history all wrapped into a compact two-hour experience. Set in a beautifully preserved 17th-century canal house, this museum transforms the traditional cabinet of curiosities into a modern tribute to the animal kingdom. From a life-sized T. rex to intricate taxidermy art, this spot captures the imagination of anyone interested in nature, art, or Dutch history.

What makes this experience stand out is the careful curation by acclaimed taxidermy artists Darwin, Sinke & Van Tongeren—none of the animals were wild-caught or bred specifically for the museum, which adds an ethical layer to the visit. Plus, the free self-guided audio tour makes it accessible, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace and absorb the stories behind each exhibit. However, with a relatively small space, some might feel the exhibits are limited in scope, especially if expecting a larger museum experience.

Ideal for those who love quirky cultural spots, natural history, or art lovers wanting a different look at nature through creative displays, the Art Zoo Museum offers a unique peek into how animals can be portrayed as art. It’s a great choice for curious travelers, families, or anyone interested in a distinctive cultural experience within Amsterdam’s historic canal district.

Key Points

• Historic Setting: Located in a 17th-century canal house, showcasing Dutch architecture and history.
• Unique Art: Features taxidermy art inspired by classical Dutch still lifes, creating a theatrical, vivid scene.
• Diverse Exhibits: Over 200 animals and natural objects, including a T. rex and a 4-meter Gorilla.
• Educational & Ethical: All animals died of natural causes; none were wild-caught or bred for display.
• Flexible Tour: Free audio guide available in English and Dutch, allowing for self-paced exploration.
• Value for Money: At $21, it offers a focused, quality experience with a rich visual and educational payoff.

When stepping into the Art Zoo Museum, you’re immediately transported into a world where art and nature collide in a visually striking way. The museum’s location within a well-preserved 17th-century canal house offers a glimpse into Amsterdam’s historic charm, with its narrow corridors and traditional Dutch façade setting the scene for what’s inside.

The Setting & Atmosphere

The museum’s purpose is to reinterpret the traditional cabinet of curiosities—a 17th-century concept of collecting and displaying objects of wonder—through a modern lens. As you walk through, you’ll notice how the exhibits are curated to evoke a theatrical scene—feathers shimmer, muscles appear tense, and eyes seem almost alive. The works by Darwin, Sinke, and Van Tongeren are especially noteworthy, illustrating their skill in taxidermy and artistic storytelling.

The small but engaging space ensures that visitors get a close, intimate look at each display. The exhibits are arranged with care, emphasizing visual impact and storytelling rather than sheer volume. You’ll find displays inspired by Dutch painters, with animals presented like classic still lifes, creating a sense of timelessness.

The Exhibits

Over 200 natural objects fill the rooms, making it a treasure trove of biodiversity and artistic mastery. Highlights include a life-sized T. rex, a 4-meter Gorilla, and a variety of colorful birds, snakes, crocodiles, and more. The exhibits are inspired by 17th-century Dutch masters, which means you’ll see animals arranged as if in a baroque painting, elevating what might seem like simple taxidermy into fine art.

What truly sets this museum apart is the ethical approach—none of the animals were wild-caught, and all died of natural causes. This makes the experience not only visually stunning but also morally considerate.

The Artistic Touch

The taxidermy art by Darwin, Sinke & Van Tongeren is remarkable. Their work creates dramatic scenes, with feathers shimmering and muscles appearing tense. Reviewers have spoken about the “fab pieces” that showcase the time and skill involved, emphasizing how much effort goes into making each exhibit look like a theatrical tableau.

The Audio Tour & Additional Features

The free self-guided audio tour in English and Dutch is a real plus, providing context and stories behind each display. Visitors say it’s helpful to dive in and engage with the exhibits, as it enhances understanding and appreciation. The audio guides also make the visit flexible—perfect for those who prefer to explore at their own pace.

Practical Details & Tips

• The ticket price of $21 is quite fair considering the quality and uniqueness of the exhibits. It’s a good value for a focused, visually engaging experience.
• Be sure to bring comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking through a historic building with narrow corridors.
• Photography is permitted but flash photography is not; a camera is recommended to capture those striking scenes.
• The museum isn’t wheelchair accessible, given its historic structure, so those with mobility issues might need to plan accordingly.
• Food and drinks are not included, but there’s a historical garden and Italian bar nearby where you can enjoy lunch or a drink after your visit.

Based on reviews, the guides are knowledgeable, and the exhibits are visually stunning. Marvin from Germany pointed out the importance of grabbing the audio guide to fully appreciate the art and stories behind the displays, while Laura from the UK described the pieces as “fab” and evidence of the time and effort invested.

Travelers also mentioned that although the museum is small, it packs a punch in terms of visual impact and storytelling. Some wished for a bigger space, but most agreed that the quality of the exhibits compensates for the limited size.

This museum is perfect for art lovers, natural history enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to explore a unique cultural spot right within Amsterdam’s historic canal district. It’s particularly suitable for those who enjoy visual storytelling, quirky museums, and ethical displays.

It might not be ideal for visitors with mobility issues due to the historic building’s layout or for those with animal allergies. Families with children might find it engaging, especially those interested in dinosaurs or wildlife, although the size means it’s best for those with a focused interest.

The Art Zoo Museum offers a fascinating, beautifully curated glimpse into how animals can be transformed into compelling art pieces. Its location in a 17th-century canal house adds historic charm, while the exhibits themselves showcase remarkable taxidermy craftsmanship.

At around $21, this experience provides excellent value for those interested in art, nature, or Dutch history, making it a worthwhile addition to any Amsterdam itinerary. The self-guided audio tour enriches the visit, allowing you to appreciate the exhibits at your own pace and learn the stories behind each piece.

This museum is a must-visit for anyone looking for a blend of education, art, and curiosity in a compact, thoughtfully curated space. If you’re after something different from traditional museums or want a visual feast that sparks conversation and wonder, the Art Zoo Museum is a perfect choice.

How long does the museum visit typically take?
Most visitors spend about 2 hours exploring the exhibits and listening to the audio guide at their own pace.

Is the museum suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the colorful displays and fascinating animals make it engaging, but parents should consider the size and the nature of the exhibits if visiting with very young children.

Are there guided tours available?
The tour is self-guided, with a free audio guide in English and Dutch. No live guides are mentioned.

Can I take photos inside the museum?
Yes, photography is allowed, but flash photography is prohibited to preserve the exhibits.

Is the museum accessible for those with mobility issues?
Given the historic canal house setting, accessibility may be limited; visitors with mobility impairments should plan accordingly.

What animals are featured in the exhibits?
Expect to see crocodiles, a T. rex, colorful birds, snakes, a 4-meter Gorilla, and more, all presented as art.

What is the price of admission?
The entry fee is $21 per person, offering access to all exhibits and the audio tour.

Are the animals ethically sourced?
Yes, all animals died of natural causes, and none were wild-caught or bred specifically for the museum.

In summary, the Art Zoo Museum in Amsterdam is a charming, visually compelling experience that combines history, art, and natural history in a way that’s both educational and entertaining. It’s well-suited for those looking for a cultural and artistic twist on traditional natural history exhibits, all within a historic setting that adds to the charm.