Historische Tuin Aalsmeer

About the museum

The Historische Tuin Aalsmeer came about on the initiative of members of the "Oud Aalsmeer" foundation, who decided on 20 January 1978 to preserve important parts of Aalsmeer's horticultural heritage for the future. The first planting followed in October 1978, and on 15 May 1982 the garden officially opened to visitors. In 1995 the operation became independent; since 2022 the foundation has worked together with "Oud Aalsmeer" as Stichting Historisch Aalsmeer.

The site of a former nursery is recognised as a botanical garden and shows the history of Aalsmeer horticulture from about 1700 to 1960. Restored greenhouses, an auction building and the outdoor grounds show how fruit, trees, strawberries, roses, cut flowers and pot plants were once cultivated. More than 1,200 plant species and varieties grow here, including the well-known dahlia collection of the "Maarse" nursery as well as lilacs, roses and clematis.

The highlight for many visitors is the flower auction in the auction building: with an Art Nouveau auction clock from the 1930s from the former exchange "Bloemenlust", guests can bid themselves. As a member of the Dutch association of botanical gardens, the garden also serves as a gene bank for historic ornamental plants.

Highlights

• Auction hall with 1930s auction clock, bidding possible
• More than 1,200 plant species and varieties, including dahlias from the Maarse nursery
• Restored historic greenhouses, including a rose house with over 50 varieties
• Boat tour on the Westeinder Plassen
• Free audio guide via smartphone in four languages

Permanent exhibition

• Historische Tuin Aalsmeer – lebendes Museum – Historic greenhouses, auction hall and garden grounds on the history of Aalsmeer horticulture from about 1700 to 1960.

Founded

1982

Operated by

Stichting Historisch Aalsmeer

Admission & discounts

Prices valid from January 2026, including free audio guide. Free with the Museumkaart and for donors. Regular boat tours at 1.30 pm and 3.00 pm (subject to change) from 5 May to September.

Accessibility

• Partially wheelchair accessible
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The reception corridor, auction hall and exhibition greenhouse are accessible to wheelchair users, the garden paths partly; the rear garden path is covered with wood chips. MIVA toilet available. Wheelchair users register for the boat tour in advance; one additional seat is free of charge. Dogs on a leash are welcome (on the boat tour on the lap; large dogs pay the child price).

Kids & families

• Hands-on stations

Children up to 12 years and young people up to 17 years have free admission; at the auction, visitors can bid themselves.

Getting there & parking

Satnav address: Praamplein, 1431 CV Aalsmeer. Access is via the drawbridge; the museum entrance is on the left.

Amenities & dining

• Café
• Restaurant
• Museum shop

Café-restaurant "Het Tuinhuis" by the water with terrace (coffee, lunch, high tea; April to October Tue–Sun 10 am–4.30 pm), boat landing stage at the entrance. Tuinwinkel with plants and garden items.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Private parties
• Corporate events
• Weddings / ceremonies

Up to 55 guests.

The auction building has room for up to 55 people (presentations, receptions, celebrations); catering by Het Tuinhuis. Weddings and photo shoots are possible in the auction hall, greenhouse and garden.

Plan your visit