Family-Friendly Adventures in Bastogne, Wallonia!

Bastogne

Why Visit?

Bastogne Family Adventure Itinerary

Morning: Bastogne War Museum

Start your family day trip at the Bastogne War Museum, a must-visit to delve into the pivotal moments of World War II, particularly the Battle of the Bulge. Located on Colline du Mardasson 5, it"s just a short drive from the town center. The museum is highly interactive with child-friendly exhibits that engage through storytelling techniques, making the history come alive. Spend about 2-3 hours here to fully experience the museum and its extensive displays.

Lunch at Le Nuts Café

After the museum, head to Le Nuts Café, inside the museum. Named after the infamous "Nuts!" reply by Brigadier General Anthony McAuliffe during the Siege of Bastogne, it"s a perfect spot to discuss the stories you"ve just learned, while enjoying a tasty, kid-friendly menu.

Afternoon: Animalaine

Post lunch, take a 10-minute drive to Animalaine, a living museum that explores the wool industry in a fun, interactive way. This museum is a great way for kids to connect with history through touch and play, learning how wool is transformed from fleece to fabric. They can even try their hand at weaving!

Evening: Piconrue Museum and the Enchanted Trail

Finish your day with a visit to the Piconrue Museum in the heart of Bastogne. It"s just a 5-minute drive from Animalaine. The museum focuses on the Ardennes culture and folklore, offering insights into local life and traditions. Depending on the time of year, join the Enchanted Trail (Sentier Enchante) which starts from here. It’s a captivating, themed walk ideal for families, bringing fairy tales and local legends to life.

Wrap Up

End your day with a relaxing dinner at one of Bastogne’s family-friendly restaurants, like Wagon Leo, known for its local cuisine. Bastogne offers a blend of educational and engaging experiences, ensuring that every family member gains something memorable from the visit.

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

Plopsa Indoor Hasselt

Why Visit?

Embark on a family adventure at Plopsa Indoor Hasselt, a delightful theme park ideal for children up to 10 years old. Located in Hasselt, Belgium, it"s easily accessible by car and public transport. If driving, there’s ample parking available. Alternatively, take a train to Hasselt Station and then a short bus ride directly to the park.

Morning Exploration

Kick off your visit right at opening time, usually at 10 AM, to make the most of your day. Start with the "K3 Disco Coaster," a gentle roller coaster that thrills with its music and lights, perfect for all ages. Next, explore "Maya"s Playground," a colorful area inspired by Maya the Bee, featuring slides, climbing frames, and interactive elements.

Lunch Break

Around noon, head over to the "Plopsa Indoor Bistro," where you can enjoy a variety of kid-friendly meals and snacks. The restaurant offers views of the park, so you can relax while keeping an eye on the fun.

Afternoon Adventure

After lunch, dive into "Bumba’s Play Area," where younger children can enjoy safe, soft-play structures. Don’t miss the "Pirate Ship," a thrilling ride where children can steer their own ship through stormy seas—an excellent way for kids to burn off some energy!

Educational Fun

Visit the "Wickie the Viking" area, where children can learn about Viking history in an engaging way, complete with a splash battle that lets them operate water cannons.

Before You Leave

Conclude your visit with a magical ride on the "Flying Bikes" where kids can pedal their way through the air, offering a whimsical view of the park.

Interesting Fact

Plopsa Indoor Hasselt offers a unique roof system that can open up during sunny days, allowing natural light to enhance your indoor experience.

With indoor and outdoor activities, Plopsa Indoor Hasselt provides a magical, entertaining day out for the whole family, rain or shine!

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

Mardasson Memorial

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Mardasson Memorial and Bastogne

Morning: Arrival and Exploration of Mardasson Memorial

Start your day early with a scenic drive to Bastogne, a town steeped in World War II history. The Mardasson Memorial, a key site dedicated to the American soldiers wounded or killed during the Battle of the Bulge, is just outside the town center. You can reach it by car or via a local bus from Bastogne’s main station.

Upon arriving at the memorial, take your time to walk around the star-shaped structure, designed by Belgian architect Georges Dedoyard. The impressive monument not only offers an educational experience but also provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes from the top platform.

Interesting Fact: Look for the inscriptions on the walls, which include the names of the 50 U.S. states, symbolizing national unity and gratitude.

Lunch: Picnic at the Memorial Park

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the peaceful park surrounding the memorial. It"s a perfect spot for kids to play and for adults to reflect on the historical significance of the area.

Afternoon: Visit to Bastogne War Museum

Post lunch, head to the Bastogne War Museum, just a few minutes’ walk from the memorial. This modern museum offers interactive exhibits and narratives that bring the story of World War II and the Battle of the Bulge to life, engaging for both adults and children.

Interesting Fact: The museum features a multi-sensory 3D experience, giving visitors a feel of what soldiers went through during the battle.

Late Afternoon: Stroll and Dinner in Bastogne

Wrap up your day with a gentle stroll back into Bastogne town. Explore local shops and enjoy a Belgian dinner at one of the family-friendly restaurants before heading back home.

This day trip to Bastogne and the Mardasson Memorial offers a blend of education, remembrance, and serene beauty, perfect for a family outing.

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

Bastogne War Museum

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable family journey to the Bastogne War Museum in Belgium, a compelling tribute to World War II and the famous Battle of the Bulge. This immersive museum, located in the town of Bastogne, is easily accessible by car and is approximately a 1.5-hour drive southeast from Brussels. There is ample parking available for visitors.

Morning: Start your day early and aim to arrive at the museum by opening time, usually at 10:00 AM. Begin with a self-guided tour of the museum’s interactive exhibits. The museum’s unique storytelling approach—featuring four fictional characters from the war—makes the history accessible and engaging for children. These narratives help young visitors understand the global impacts of the war and the personal experiences of those who lived through it.

Lunch: Around noon, take a break and enjoy a picnic outside in the Peace Park, where kids can stretch their legs and play, while adults can reflect on the serene environment.

Afternoon: After lunch, join one of the scheduled guided tours (check times upon arrival) which often provide deeper insight into specific aspects of the museum exhibits, including authentic artifacts and multimedia presentations. Don’t miss the impressive collection of military vehicles outside, where children can marvel at the tanks and artillery.

Late Afternoon: To round off your visit, head to the Mardasson Memorial, just a short walk from the museum. This star-shaped monument honors the memory of American soldiers wounded or killed during the Battle of the Bulge. It’s not only a solemn place for reflection but offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes from its rooftop.

Interesting Fact: Did you know that the design of the Mardasson Memorial symbolizes the brotherhood and friendship between Belgium and the United States?

End the day by grabbing a bite at a local café in Bastogne, where you can try Belgian specialties before heading back to your accommodation.

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

Maasmechelen Village

Why Visit?

Maasmechelen Village Family Day Trip Itinerary

Morning Arrival & Breakfast

Kick off your day at Maasmechelen Village by arriving early to beat the crowds. Accessible by car just off the E314, it"s also reachable by public transit from major cities like Brussels or Antwerp—take a train to Genk Station and hop on a connecting bus directly to the Village. Begin with a hearty breakfast at ‘Le Pain Quotidien’ inside the Village for a taste of organic breads and pastries that will energize your family for the day ahead.

Shopping Adventure

Post breakfast, take your family on a delightful shopping spree across over 100 boutiques offering children"s clothing, sportswear, and luxury brands at reduced prices. Brands like Nike, Adidas, and Ralph Lauren feature items that appeal to all ages, ensuring something for everyone in the family.

Lunch Break

Around noon, enjoy a relaxed lunch at ‘Ellis Gourmet Burger’ where you can savor high-quality burgers including vegetarian options, perfect to refuel the little ones and yourselves.

Nature Escape

Post-lunch, take a short drive or a bus ride to the nearby Hoge Kempen National Park, a must-visit for families. Spend your afternoon amidst nature, exploring walking trails or renting bicycles for a scenic family ride.

Evening Wind Down

Return to Maasmechelen Village for dinner. ‘Julia’s Pasta’ offers a casual dining experience with Italian favorites that kids adore. Post dinner, indulge in some fine Belgian chocolates from ‘Leonidas’ as you stroll through the Village.

Departure

Conclude your visit by enjoying a picturesque sunset at the Village, and depart at your leisure via car or the convenient shuttle service back to Genk Station.

Interesting Fact

Maasmechelen Village isn’t just a shopping hub, it’s also located at the gateway to one of Belgium’s only national parks, making it a unique blend of retail therapy and natural beauty.

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