Veendam offers different ways to enjoy culture and get active: the permanent exhibition at the Veenkoloniaal Museum Veendam covers topics ranging from peat extraction and shipping to several industries. Historic buildings can also be found in the townscape and along the Oosterdiep. If you prefer to spend time outdoors, there are walking routes and the water- and woodland-rich Borgerswold recreation area. You can make culture, routes and experiences on the water different focal points of your stay.
Cultural history in the museum and townscape
The permanent exhibition at the Veenkoloniaal Museum Veendam covers prehistoric times, peat extraction and prosperity, as well as colonial maritime shipping and life along the canal. Shipwrecks, Sluiskade, Ebenhaëzer, the straw and cardboard industry, and the potato starch industry are also among its topics. The exhibition therefore takes you through a broad range of subjects, from early traces and peat extraction to shipping and various industries. If you are particularly interested in Veendam’s industrial history, the exhibition offers several points of connection rather than focusing on just one industry.
This history is also visible in the townscape: monuments are spread throughout Veendam. Characterful houses line the Oosterdiep, while imposing villas stand in the centre. You can also view several listed buildings on the Oosterdiep from the water. The historic theme therefore takes two different forms: the permanent exhibition and buildings around the town, including those viewed from the water.
Veendam railway station is a useful landmark for getting to the museum: the museum is about a 15-minute walk away. It is accessible to wheelchair users and families with prams or pushchairs.
Walking, cycling and getting active
Veendam has walking routes of varying lengths, including a walking junction network and themed routes. Borgerswold offers more options: this 450-hectare recreation area is rich in water and woodland and within walking distance of the centre of Veendam. ATB routes and horse-riding trails run through the park, along with an extensive network of cycling and walking routes. While Veendam’s walking routes cover different distances, Borgerswold brings several ways of getting around together in one large recreation area.
Veendam is also home to Europe’s largest Skills Garden. This free, adventurous sports and activity park is designed for all age groups. It is a separate option alongside the routes: the focus here is on getting active in the park, while the walking and cycling routes offer different distances. Which option better suits your stay depends on whether you want to follow a route or visit a sports and activity park.
Experiences on the water and day trips
Boats can moor at the visitor marina on Molenstreek, which is within walking distance of the shopping centre. Together with the buildings you can view from the water on the Oosterdiep, this makes water a practical point of reference as well as a way to see the historic townscape. For water sports, Watersportcentre Veendam offers water skiing, wakeboarding and an aquapark. The modern cableway is suitable for beginners and advanced users. Activities may change, so it is advisable to check the current offerings before making plans.
Another kind of outing is the STAR museum railway: on operating days, historic steam and diesel locomotives run between Veendam, Stadskanaal and Nieuw Buinen. If you plan to take this trip, check the operating days. Public transport, car and bicycle are listed as ways to get to Tropiqua; free parking is available for motorists.
For the main travel overview: Veendam.
