Family-Friendly Adventures in Bruges, West Flanders!

Choco-Story, the Chocolate Museum

Why Visit?

### Family Itinerary to Choco-Story, The Chocolate Museum

#### Morning Arrival & Introduction

Start your chocolate adventure at Choco-Story, The Chocolate Museum, located at 350 Hudson St, New York. Easily accessible by subway, take the 1 train to Houston St or the A, C, or E line to Spring St Station, and enjoy a short walk filled with anticipation!

#### Engaging Exhibits & Demonstrations (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Upon arrival, immerse yourselves in the rich history of chocolate. The museum offers a tour that begins with ancient Aztec and Maya chocolate rituals, providing a vivid portrayal of how integral chocolate was to their cultures. Learn about the journey of chocolate from a drink for royalty to the sweet treats we enjoy today. Don"t miss the live chocolate-making demonstration where the secrets of tempering and molding are unveiled. This hands-on experience is not only educational but also allows you to savor freshly made chocolate!

#### Interactive Chocolate Workshop (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM)

Advance to a fun-filled chocolate workshop specially designed for families. Here, kids can create their own chocolate bars, experimenting with various toppings and flavors. It"s a deliciously creative activity that sweetens the learning experience.

#### Lunch Break & Explore Nearby (1:00 PM - 2:30 PM)

Take a break and grab lunch at one of the local eateries within walking distance of the museum. Enjoy a variety of options from cozy cafes to family-friendly restaurants.

#### Scavenger Hunt & Souvenir Shopping (2:30 PM - 4:00 PM)

Post-lunch, engage in a museum scavenger hunt! This interactive game involves finding clues tied to the exhibits you’ve seen, making it an exciting way to recap what you’ve learned. Conclude your day with some souvenir shopping at the museum store, where you can pick up artisan chocolates and educational toys to remember your chocolaty journey.

### Tips to Enhance Your Visit

- Book tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time slots.

- Check for family discounts or group rates to save on admission.

Enjoy your sweet adventure at Choco-Story, where learning about chocolate is as fun as eating it!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Sint-Janshospitaal (Saint John’s Hospital)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: Exploring Sint-Janshospitaal, Bruges

Morning: Discover the History of Sint-Janshospitaal

Start your day at Sint-Janshospitaal, one of Europe"s oldest preserved hospital buildings, with a history dating back to the 12th century. Located in the heart of Bruges, it"s easily accessible on foot from the main market square, or by bus stopping at nearby stops. As you explore, share with your children how this place served as a hospital for pilgrims, travelers, and the sick for over 800 years. Don"t miss the fascinating medieval wards where you can see period artifacts and artworks, including Hans Memling’s famous religious paintings.

Lunch Break: Picnic by the Canal

Just a short walk from the hospital is the picturesque canal. Grab a takeaway lunch from one of the local shops and enjoy a family picnic by the water. The serene views provide a perfect backdrop for a restful break.

Afternoon: Memling in Sint-Jan – The Hospital Museum

Post-lunch, head back to explore more of Sint-Janshospitaal with a visit to the museum section, particularly the Memling Museum. It"s located in the old hospital chapel and showcases works by Hans Memling, one of the most important Flemish Primitive painters, originally commissioned by the hospital. The museum is not only educational but also interactive, offering children the chance to engage with medieval art in a fun way.

Evening: Stroll Around Minnewater Park

Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll to Minnewater Park, just a 15-minute walk from Sint-Janshospitaal. Known as the "Lake of Love", this tranquil park offers beautiful views, plenty of space for kids to play, and a chance to see swans gliding on the lake.

This itinerary offers a blend of historical enrichment, artistic culture, and relaxing family time, all within the enchanting setting of Bruges.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Bruges Beer Museum (Brugs Biermuseum)

Why Visit?

Day 1: Exploring Bruges Beer Museum (Brugs Biermuseum)

Morning: Start your adventure in the heart of Bruges. Head to Bruges Beer Museum located on Breidelstraat, just a few steps from the iconic Market Square. The museum is easily accessible by foot from most parts of the city, or by public transport—take any bus that stops at Markt.

Visit Bruges Beer Museum: Open from 10 AM, it’s perfect for a morning visit. The museum offers an interactive journey through the brewing process, the history of Belgian beer, and its cultural significance. Families will appreciate the non-alcoholic beverages offered to children, while adults can enjoy tasting different Belgian beers.

Fun Fact: Did you know that Belgium has over 1,500 types of beer? The museum showcases an impressive array, explaining the unique characteristics and brewing methods of each.

Afternoon: After your museum tour, grab a bite at one of the local eateries around Markt Square. Try some traditional Belgian fries or waffles—favorites among kids and adults alike!

Evening: Take a leisurely stroll to the peaceful Minnewater Park, about a 20-minute walk from the Market Square. Known as the "Lake of Love," it’s the perfect spot to unwind. The picturesque views and swans gliding over the lake provide a serene ending to your day.

Day 2: Historical Bruges

Morning: Visit the Belfry of Bruges. Climb the 366 steps for a breathtaking view of the city. It’s a fun challenge for the kids and a great way for the whole family to burn some energy.

Afternoon: Spend the rest of the day exploring other family-friendly attractions like the Choco-Story Museum to discover the history of chocolate and enjoy some sweet samples, making it a delightful treat for everyone.

Enjoy your family trip filled with culture, history, and delicious Belgian delights in Bruges!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde (Begijnhof)

Why Visit?

Family Day Out at the Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde (Begijnhof) in Bruges

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure by taking a picturesque walk or a short bus ride from the center of Bruges to the Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde. Located just a 10-minute walk from the Market Square (Grote Markt), it’s a beautiful journey back in time as you approach the 13th-century white-washed houses surrounded by tranquil gardens and meandering pathways.

Exploring Begijnhof

Enter through the arched gateway which sets the tone for this serene oasis. Originally founded in 1245, this UNESCO World Heritage site was once home to the beguines, devout women who led a life dedicated to God without retiring from the world. As you wander through, share with your kids how these women were not nuns but chose to live in a close-knit religious community.

Visit the Museum

Don"t miss the Begijnhof Museum, located in one of the historic houses. It offers a glimpse into the daily life of a beguine, complete with period furnishings and artifacts. It’s a great way for kids to visualize history and learn about the unique social and religious movements of medieval Europe.

Lunch and Leisure

For lunch, enjoy a picnic in the adjoining Minnewater Park, where kids can play and explore the beautiful surroundings, including the famous "Lake of Love".

Afternoon Activities

Conclude your visit with a stroll back to the town center. If time allows, treat the family to a boat tour on the canals to see Bruges from a different perspective or indulge in some Belgian chocolates from a local shop.

End of Day

Head back to your accommodation with stories to share about the unique history you’ve all experienced together at the Begijnhof.

This peaceful yet enriching visit to the Begijnhof will surely be a memorable part of your family trip to Bruges!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

De Halve Maan Brewery

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to De Halve Maan Brewery in Bruges

Morning Arrival & Tour Start

Begin your family adventure to De Halve Maan Brewery by arriving in the enchanting city of Bruges. Nestled in the heart of the city, easily accessible by a 15-minute walk from the Bruges train station, this historic brewery is a must-visit. Start with the brewery tour which kicks off every 45 minutes. The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes and is a fascinating journey through the brewing process, suitable for older children and teenagers keen to learn about the history of Belgian beer.

Engaging Tour Highlights

As you explore the brewery, you"ll learn about its storied history dating back to 1856 and how it remains the last active family brewery in the center of Bruges. A guide will explain the intricacies of beer making and the unique underground beer pipeline running from the brewery to the bottling plant outside the city center – a captivating highlight for curious minds!

Rooftop View

One of the tour"s highlights is the climb to the brewery"s rooftop. Though it might be a bit of a challenge for little legs, the panoramic view of Bruges from the top is breathtaking and worth the effort. It’s a great spot for memorable family photos!

Lunch & Tasting

Post-tour, treat the family to a traditional Belgian meal at the brewery’s restaurant. While adults sample the famed Brugse Zot or Straffe Hendrik beers, kids can enjoy a variety of soft drinks. The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and dishes that cater to all ages, making it a perfect family dining experience.

Leisurely Afternoon

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll back into the heart of Bruges. Spend the afternoon exploring more of the city’s fairy-tale streets and charming canals. The nearby Market Square and Belfry tower offer more engaging sites to wrap up a perfect family day out.

Enjoy your visit to De Halve Maan Brewery where education, history, and family fun blend seamlessly!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.