THE STORY BEHIND HIGHLIGHTS OF HOLLAND
Where It All Began
Some of life’s best moments have one thing in common. They’re the moments when you’re laughing with the people around you. A wonderful evening with friends. A family day out where everyone is truly having fun. Conversations that continue long after you’ve gone home. Those are the experiences we remember. That simple belief was the beginning of Highlights of Holland. The idea originated with Jeannette den Boer. For years, Jeannette organized courses for international visitors from all over the world. Time and again, she noticed the same thing. People loved Amsterdam, but many wished they had seen more of the Netherlands. Visitors were curious about Dutch traditions, culture, and the stories behind this small country that has had such a big impact on the world.
Jeannette began to wonder if it would be possible to bring the Netherlands together in one place and make it easy, enjoyable, and fun to experience.
She shared the idea with three close friends: Laura Kleijwegt, Mark Wijlhuizen, and Stephan Coppers.
What began as conversations at the kitchen table and in local cafés slowly turned into a shared dream.
The idea that brought four friends together
The four friends had traveled extensively themselves and loved discovering new places. They had visited museums and attractions all over the world. Many were beautiful. Many were educational. Yet they often left those places feeling that something was missing. Very few places made them laugh. Very few surprised them. Very few were just as much fun for adults as they were for children.
As life went on, both couples became parents. The idea grew along with them. They realized how difficult it can be to find something that everyone truly enjoys. Children often have fun while adults watch from the sidelines. Adults have fun while children get bored. They wanted something different.
One thing became non-negotiable.
It had to be fun. Not just for children. Not just for adults. For everyone.
Bringing the Netherlands to Life
The founders believed that when people laugh together, talk together, and share an experience together, those are the moments that stay with you. Life is serious enough as it is. The time we spend with family and friends should make us laugh.
The Netherlands became the perfect story to tell. It may be a small country, but almost everyone in the world recognizes it. Windmills. Tulips. Canals. Dutch masters. Innovation. Water. Sports. A country full of remarkable stories waiting to be discovered.
The founders wanted visitors to experience all of this in a way that felt playful, surprising, and truly enjoyable. That idea shaped every decision.
Every room is different. Some rooms invite you to play. Others encourage you to create, discover, or simply take a moment to pause.
Together, they form a single journey through the highlights of the Netherlands, designed for families, friends, couples, and visitors of all ages.
Four years of perseverance
It took four years to bring that vision to life.
The journey was far from easy.
After nearly a year of negotiations, the original location was lost even as construction preparations were already underway. Millions had already been invested. New permits had to be obtained. Plans changed. Sleepless nights followed.
With the help of talented partners, including 360 Group, Live Legends, Unbranded, and Yellow Spot, Highlights of Holland finally became a reality.
Today, visitors from all over the world walk through the experience every day. The founders are proud of what they’ve built, but what makes them happiest is seeing people leave with a smile. They’re also proud that, after years of challenges, setbacks, and hard work, they’re still good friends who genuinely enjoy spending time together.
When people ask what they hope visitors take away after a visit, the answer is always the same.
“We hope they leave saying, ‘We had so much fun.’”
Because that was the idea from the very beginning.
Now It's Your Turn to Have Fun!
What started as an idea among four friends is now an experience for everyone to enjoy. Come see what all the fun is about!
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