Europe's largest ice art exhibition
- 135+ ice sculptures bringing 750 years of Amsterdam to life.
- A mesmerizing ice world at -10 degrees.
- A winter experience enjoyed by visitors of all ages.
Reviews
See what visitors had to say!
750 years of Amsterdam
Our very first ice sculpture exhibition was one to remember. An ode to 750 years of Amsterdam, frozen in time, created especially for the city’s anniversary. Visitors wandered through 32 icy scenes, where the Tolprivilege, Wilhelmina Drucker, the Palace of Industry, Anne Frank, and the Westerkerk were immortalized in ice and snow.
71 days, 135 sculptures, thousands of visitors. Masterpieces crafted by ice carvers from all over the world, capturing Amsterdam’s rich history in the most magical way. And what a success it was! The exhibition may have ended, but the memories – and that delicious hot chocolate at Het Winterplein – will stay with us for a long time.
Here’s to more!
What you can expect
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Amsterdam from ice
This exhibition offers a unique, icy glimpse into the transformation of Amsterdam. From a small fishing village in the 13th century to the vibrant metropolis it is today, this exhibit takes visitors on a visual journey through time. From historical figures like Anne Frank and Johnny Jordaan to the iconic canals, the Palace of Industry, the Red Light District, and the architecture of the Royal Palace on Dam Square, each artwork is meticulously carved from ice.
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Restaurant
In our restaurant, you can enjoy everything from a cup of coffee to a drink – paired with a delicious lunch or something sweet. The dishes? Prepared with local ingredients. Prefer something small in between? Relax at our food court for a snack or a refreshing drink.
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Workshops, treasure hunts and more
After admiring the main exhibition, you can join our interactive program, where you’ll have the chance to discover the art of ice sculpting yourself. Take part in a workshop, embark on a treasure hunt, and learn more about the science behind this powerful building material.
- Open 7 days a week
- Daily from 10:00 - 18:00
- Europe’s biggest ice exhibition
- Easy accessibility
- Plenty of parking space
- 5 minutes from the A10
- 15 minutes by bike from Central Station
- Wheelchair friendly
- Free audio tour worth €2.50.
Discover the art of ice sculpting.
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3. Paradiso
After almost a century of being unoccupied, during Amsterdam's vibrant flower power era, hippies were in search of their own gathering spot. Efforts to set up a youth center fell through, prompting a group to squat the building instead. Paradiso quickly became part of a pilot initiative focused on creating spaces for young people. With performances by legendary artists like Pink Floyd, The Rolling Stones, Prince, Nirvana, and Amy Winehouse, it rapidly transformed into an iconic 'pop temple.' Fascinating right? At Art Below Zero, you can explore ice sculptures that vividly bring this remarkable era to life.
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4. Artis
This zoo, established in 1838, ranks among the oldest in Europe. At the Art Below Zero exhibition, you can admire life-sized ice sculptures of Artis. In its early days, the park in the Plantage neighborhood was exclusively for wealthy citizens. However, it later opened its doors to the general public, allowing all Amsterdammers to marvel at the wild animals, the remarkable aquarium, the museums, and the vast scientific library. Visitors wandered through the grounds, amazed by exotic creatures they had never seen before. For just a quarter, you could explore the entire world of animals.
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1. Remarkable stories carved from ice.
Rediscover the history of Amsterdam in ice and see iconic elements come to life at Art Below Zero! Experience over 135 ice sculptures like never before. Prepare for an inspiring adventure filled with breathtaking details. Some icy highlights of the exhibition can be found in the following slides.
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2. Rijkmuseum and Dutch painters
In the nineteenth century, museums were built all across Europe, including the Rijksmuseum in the Netherlands. The government aimed not only to preserve important historical artifacts but also to strengthen national pride and love for the country. Originally located in The Hague, the Rijksmuseum found its permanent home in 1885 in the iconic building designed by Pierre Cuypers. Featuring masterpieces by renowned Dutch painters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals, the Rijksmuseum serves as a significant center of national pride. Art Below Zero brings this art to life through various ice sculptures that can be admired during the exhibition.
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3. Paradiso
After almost a century of being unoccupied, during Amsterdam's vibrant flower power era, hippies were in search of their own gathering spot. Efforts to set up a youth center fell through, prompting a group to squat the building instead. Paradiso quickly became part of a pilot initiative focused on creating spaces for young people. With performances by legendary artists like Pink Floyd, The Rolling Stones, Prince, Nirvana, and Amy Winehouse, it rapidly transformed into an iconic 'pop temple.' Fascinating right? At Art Below Zero, you can explore ice sculptures that vividly bring this remarkable era to life.
-
4. Artis
This zoo, established in 1838, ranks among the oldest in Europe. At the Art Below Zero exhibition, you can admire life-sized ice sculptures of Artis. In its early days, the park in the Plantage neighborhood was exclusively for wealthy citizens. However, it later opened its doors to the general public, allowing all Amsterdammers to marvel at the wild animals, the remarkable aquarium, the museums, and the vast scientific library. Visitors wandered through the grounds, amazed by exotic creatures they had never seen before. For just a quarter, you could explore the entire world of animals.
-
1. Remarkable stories carved from ice.
Rediscover the history of Amsterdam in ice and see iconic elements come to life at Art Below Zero! Experience over 135 ice sculptures like never before. Prepare for an inspiring adventure filled with breathtaking details. Some icy highlights of the exhibition can be found in the following slides.
-
2. Rijkmuseum and Dutch painters
In the nineteenth century, museums were built all across Europe, including the Rijksmuseum in the Netherlands. The government aimed not only to preserve important historical artifacts but also to strengthen national pride and love for the country. Originally located in The Hague, the Rijksmuseum found its permanent home in 1885 in the iconic building designed by Pierre Cuypers. Featuring masterpieces by renowned Dutch painters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals, the Rijksmuseum serves as a significant center of national pride. Art Below Zero brings this art to life through various ice sculptures that can be admired during the exhibition.
Activities
What was there to do?
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Workshop Ice Carving
Step into the world of ice and creativity with our workshop ice sculpting. Guided by experienced ice carving masters, you’ll learn the art of sculpting and create your own ice masterpiece. Book your group or private workshop now through our ticketshop available on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays on 11:00 12:30 or 14:00 PM.
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Audio Tour
Book a special audio tour and embark on a fascinating journey through the rich history of Amsterdam.
Listen to captivating stories and anecdotes that bring the city to life in an entirely new way. Whether you’re visiting with a date or the whole family, this audio tour guarantees a unique and unforgettable experience.
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The Ice Bar
In the Ice Bar by Art Below Zero, everything, even your drink, is made of ice! With a constant temperature of -10°C, we offer a one-of-a-kind experience. Children are also welcome and can enjoy colorful, non-alcoholic beverages. Come and experience the magic of our Ice Bar during the following times:
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM & 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
(Friday, Saturday and Sunday ) -
The Food Court
Delicious, homemade and healthy. That’s the quality of food and drink you can expect from the Art Below Zero restaurant and cafés. Taste authentic Amsterdam treats, fresh apple pie, and delicious sharing platters, or stay a little longer for a delightful lunch.
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Physics and Art
Be amazed by how physics and art come together to create this stunning exhibition. Dive deeper into the world of ice and discover the science behind these icy masterpieces! Make your own ice pops and test how long it takes for them to melt.
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Children Activities
We offer a diverse selection of activities specially designed for children! During the exhibition, there are plenty of things to do, discover, and experience. Enjoy an exciting and educational scavenger hunt, workshops, an audio tour, a checklist for teens, and an ice slide that brings smiles to both young and old.
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Frequently asked questions
News
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