
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands
1. Euromast Tower
A 185-meter tall tower offering panoramic views of Rotterdam. Its base features a restaurant and a revolving restaurant at the top.
- Unique Views: Offers unique, bird's-eye views of Rotterdam's modern skyline
- Revolving Restaurant: The top restaurant rotates slowly, providing a full 360-degree view
- Height Challenge: One of the highest points in Rotterdam, providing an unmatched vantage point
2. Cube Houses
A unique residential area consisting of 38 cubic houses, each rotated at a 45-degree angle. They are built on a hexagonal base.
- Unusual Architecture: Cubical homes constructed in an innovative, tilting design
- Symbolic Meaning: Designed to represent trees in a forest, symbolizing man's harmony with nature
- Touristic Interest: Attracts visitors interested in modern and innovative architecture
3. Rotterdam Kunsthal
An art museum showcasing temporary exhibitions of contemporary and modern art. It is known for its distinctive cubic design.
- Cubical Architecture: Innovative cube-shaped building, designed by architect Rem Koolhaas
- Temporary Exhibitions: Offers a chance to explore various art movements and styles
- Architectural Significance: Contributes to Rotterdam's reputation as a city of modern architecture
4. PubCrawl Rotterdam
A guided pub crawl through the vibrant nightlife scene of Rotterdam, visiting various unique bars and clubs.
- Local Knowledge: Provides insights into hidden gems in Rotterdam's bar and club scene
- Social Experience: Offers a chance to meet locals and other travelers
- Flexibility: Allows customization of the crawl based on personal preferences
5. Night of Wonders at the Zoo
After-hours event at Rotterdam's zoo, where visitors can observe nocturnal animals and enjoy entertainment.
- Rare Animal Encounters: Provides the opportunity to see nocturnal animals in their natural habitat
- Entertainment Factor: Includes performances, music, and themed activities for a unique nighttime experience
- Exclusive Experience: Offers a behind-the-scenes look at the zoo after hours
6. SS Rotterdam
A historic ocean liner turned hotel and event venue. Guests can tour its beautifully preserved interiors.
- Historical Preservation: One of the few remaining ocean liners from the golden age of cruises
- Architectural Beauty: Features Art Deco-inspired interiors and exteriors
- Event Venue: Serves as a unique location for weddings, conferences, and other special events
7. Market Hall Rotterdam
A modern food hall with a variety of stalls offering dishes from around the world.
- Culinary Diversity: Offers a wide selection of cuisines under one roof
- Architectural Marvel: Designed by architect Kisho Kurokawa, showcasing stunning glass and steel construction
- Fresh Produce: Features a market selling fresh fruits, vegetables, and other local produce
8. Witte de With Center for Contemporary Art
An art museum focusing on contemporary art exhibitions, performances, and discussions.
- Contemporary Focus: Dedicated to showcasing the latest trends in contemporary art
- Artistic Dialogue: Encourages discussions and debates on current art-related topics
- Emerging Artists: Supports emerging artists by providing a platform for their work
9. Cornelis Olivier Park
A park featuring a giant spider sculpture and a whale-like fountain. It's an unusual blend of nature and art.
- Artistic Integration: Combines natural beauty with striking, contemporary sculptures
- Unusual Sculptures: Features large, unique, and thought-provoking art installations
- Relaxation Spot: Offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city
10. Rotterdam Witte Huis
A seven-story modernist building designed by Brinkman & Van der Vlugt. It was the first major work of the De Stijl movement.
- Modernist Icon: One of the first buildings to embody the principles of modern architecture
- De Stijl Influence: Showcases the minimalist, geometric style of the De Stijl movement
- Historical Significance: Contributes to Rotterdam's rich architectural history
11. Rode Hoed Theater
A contemporary theater known for its bold and innovative productions.
- Bold Performances: Presents daring and unconventional theater performances
- Experimental Approach: Encourages experimentation in theater production and performance
- International Collaborations: Collaborates with international artists and companies to bring diverse perspectives
12. Plaswijckpark
A park featuring an abandoned quarry now filled with water. It's surrounded by cliffs and offers a unique landscape.
- Nature Reclamation: Transforms a former industrial site into a tranquil, natural oasis
- Unique Landscape: Offers a scenic and unusual park setting with cliffs and water
- Recreational Activities: Provides opportunities for swimming, boating, and hiking
13. Futuraplant
A greenhouse housing exotic plants from all around the world.
- Global Biodiversity: Showcases a vast variety of plant species from different regions
- Climate Control: Mimics various climates to ensure the well-being of each plant
- Educational Experience: Provides insights into the unique characteristics and needs of exotic plants
14. Witte de Withstraat
A street in Rotterdam known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse selection of bars and clubs.
- Lively Atmosphere: Offers a bustling, energetic environment day and night
- Bar Variety: Features a range of bars catering to different tastes and preferences
- Cultural Exchange: Brings together locals, expats, and travelers for an eclectic social experience
15. Kinderdijk Windmills
A UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of 19 windmills, used for drainage and polder management.
- Historical Importance: Preserves a centuries-old method of water management
- Architectural Beauty: Features well-preserved, picturesque windmills
- Educational Experience: Provides insights into the history and importance of windmill technology