There’s lots to see and do in Amsterdam: canal tours, art museums, flower markets and churches to name but a few options.
I recently spent a morning in Amsterdam and didn’t do any of that. I braved the Amsterdam swing. Just for the fun and silliness of it, I went ‘Over the Edge’ on Europe’s highest swing at the A’DAM Lookout.
The A’DAM Lookout Observation Deck, Amsterdam
The A’DAM Lookout is an observation deck located at the top of A’DAM Tower in Amsterdam North. Alongside unparalleled 360-degree views of Amsterdam and beyond, there is lots to experience here including the Over the Edge swing and drinks in the Sky Bar.
Even the elevator that whips you up to the top comes with a bit of a surprise.
Before you head up the Lookout, it is possible to get a birds eye view of Amsterdam with feet firmly on the ground thanks to the scale model of the city on display.
There’s also some fun photo opportunities here, you can view and purchase your pictures via QR code before you leave.
The Elevator
You’ll be glad to know you don’t need to do the legwork to get up to the 20th floor observation deck. In just 20 seconds, an elevator complete with fun sound and light effects will whizz you to the top.
The Swing
On the roof of the A’DAM Lookout, you’ll find Europe’s highest swing: Over The Edge. It’s a thrilling ride, swinging you back and forth at a height of 100m above the city of Amsterdam.
The views are amazing; across the river to Amsterdam Central station, the historical centre and beyond. A guaranteed adrenaline rush.
If you need a post-swing drink or fancy the views without the adrenaline, head indoors to The Sky Bar.
The Sky Bar
A very cool cafe-bar with a great atmosphere and floor-to-ceiling windows for those Amsterdam views.
More photo opportunities in here, and a glass panel in the floor that lets you view the drop back to ground level.
Even the toilets have fantastic views.
The Amsterdam Swing: Details & Tips
- Basic ticket prices for A’DAM Lookout entry are €18.50, children under 12 are free.
- Book online for a €2 per person discount
- The swing costs an additional €7.50 per person.
- Minimum height for the swing is 1.2m
- Check here for opening hours, they do vary by seasons & holidays.
How to Get to the A’DAM Lookout
Getting to the A’DAM tower is really easy. From the back of Amsterdam Central Station, take the free ferry service F3 (to Buiksloterweg). You’ll see the Lookout in front of you to the left as you disembark.
The Amsterdam Swing: A Little Bit of History
I do love a bit history, so let’s end with a little look into the past.
The A’DAM Tower stands in what is now a vibrant neighbourhood, but back in the 18th century this area of the city had quite a different feel.
The exact site of the tower was the location of the city gallows field. Criminals were hung here and bodies left on display for all to see. I even found this charming illustration.
Once criminals swung here, and now tourists do. Fancy that, hey?
If you’re interested in travel in The Netherlands and Dutch history you might like this post: Cycling Wassenaar to Scheveningen
Helen x
That would be 18€ very badly spent in my case. Nothing would persuade me onto the thing!
Just drinks in the bar for you then? Must admit, I loved the experience overall but did have a second of sheer terror as I locked in and the swing started to go up!
Wow! That’s amazing , definitely something for the thrill seekers. And a happier kind of hanging about. 😁
I would definitely love to check out the sweeping views from the observation deck, but I am not too sure about the over-the-edge swing, as it will let you fly over the edge of the tower! So fun but a bit scary! Thanks for sharing, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
There’s always a window seat in the bar for those views, Aiva!
Sounds amazing xx
We did that a few years ago! I didn’t like the feeling of slipping forward in my seat when the swing went back but realised I would just have to trust the safety bar and forget about it. Overall, it was great.
It’s a very strange feeling, isn’t it? When I saw the safety bar I thought; is that it? There’s something similar open in Berlin and I’d definitely do it again.
The views are spectacular, but you would not see me up there!! Happy for you that you and your family were able to take in such remarkable views.
Thank you, it was good fun. Thanks for taking the time to read and comment, appreciate it!
How exciting Helen! I’ve been up there twice but haven’t braved the swing yet! Great post x
Thank you Marion, it was a bit out of my comfort zone, but great fun!
That is a strong no from me – but looks super cool if you’re not terrified 🙂
I wasn’t too sure about it, but glad I did it! Nice drink the bar after was very welcome indeed.
I didn’t even know Amsterdam had such a cool swing! Will definitely check it out on my next trip, thanks for this valuable information 🙂
Thanks for stopping by Lisa, definitely recommend taking the free ferry across to Amsterdam Noord if you find yourself in the city. The swing is great fun.
I wonder how many people get sick on it? This reminds me of the Stratosphere in Las Vegas, which has a small amusement park on top of it.
Oh I need to look at that! Vegas is a bucket list trip for me. Oh my goodness, getting sick on there would be bad times. I’m sure it has happened, thankfully not to me!
This is amazing! Now it’s going on my bucket list. The swing and the clear floor drop is what got me. That’s be so awesome! Thank you for sharing your trip, otherwise I wouldn’t be able to see cool views like this
Thanks for coming along! The swing takes a little courage, but is great fun!
What a fun and fascinating read, Helen! I had no idea the A’DAM Tower swing came with such stunning views and a quirky bit of history — from gallows to giggles, indeed! 😄 Loved the mix of thrill, travel tips, and those cool little details like the elevator and Sky Bar. Definitely adding this to my Amsterdam list!
What a fantastic read, Helen! I loved the mix of adrenaline, quirky fun, and a touch of dark history—only you could make that combo work so well. The A’DAM Lookout looks like a must for thrill-seekers, and that gallows-to-tourists twist was brilliant. Can’t wait to see where you take us next! 🚀🇳🇱
Thank you so much for your kind words and apologies for the late reply, I didn’t spot this comment. Amsterdam is a wonderful city and a trip to A’DAM Lookout is a wonderful way to spend some time there!