NEMO Rooftop Square: the square on the roof of the science museum
A museum shaped like a ship
The NEMO Science Museum, the largest science centre in the Netherlands, has occupied since 1997 a building designed by the architect Renzo Piano, whose green silhouette evokes the hull of a ship moored at the water’s edge. Its sloping roof, reached by wide steps from the street, forms a large public square: the Rooftop Square.
At the very top, the view opens onto the basins of the Oosterdok, the boats in the harbour, Central Station and the church towers of the historic centre. Wooden tiered seating lets you sit facing the panorama, and gardens planted with greenery and habitats for small animals take up part of the roof.
Science in the open air
The roof is an extension of the museum: you can watch the clouds, measure air quality or spot the city’s birds. These activities make it a popular stop for families, even without visiting the exhibitions.
Restaurant, bar and kiosk
On the roof, the Museum Restaurant and the Conservatory Bar welcome visitors for a meal or a drink, and a kiosk with a terrace, at the bottom of the square, serves refreshments near the butterfly garden.
Practical information
Free access to the roof, Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5:30pm. The museum also opens on some Mondays, especially during school holidays: check the calendar on the website. NEMO is located at Oosterdok 2, about ten minutes’ walk from Central Station. Information on +31 20 531 3233.
NEMO Rooftop Square: frequently asked questions
NEMO Rooftop Square: what is the address?
NEMO Rooftop Square is located at the following address: Oosterdok 2 Toit du NEMO Science Museum, 1011 VX Amsterdam.
