Family Attractions in Central Belgium
Parc Paradisio
A successful animal park whose fame has spread far and wide, mainly thanks to its "Bird Land". The park features a large variety of different types of birds: birds of prey, waterfowl, colorful parrots, and songbirds. Every day at 14:30, a bird show takes place in the park. Parc Paradisio is home to 4,000 animals divided into several areas in addition to Bird Land, including: "Amazonia" - home to giant reptiles, "Oasis" - living quarters of tropical animals, and "Aquatic World" featuring sharks, seals, fish, and other marine life. The well-maintained park was established on the grounds of a 12th-century abbey. It features many walking paths and eye-catching gardens.
The park is located about 60 km southwest of Brussels (about a 50-minute drive).
Address: Domaine de Cambron, B-7940 Brugelette
"Pass" Science Park
A unique park that teaches about science and technology through a multi-sensory experiential approach. It is not just another museum where you touch and operate things, but a place where visitors are an active part of the displays and demonstrations. The idea is learning while stimulating curiosity and through play. Some exhibits are permanent, while others are rotating. The park is located in an area where an old coal mine once operated, with some renovated and restored buildings serving as display rooms. The site is divided into nine areas covering a total area of 12,000 square meters. In the "Adventure Gardens", various scientific observations are made through a treasure hunt game combining riddles, puzzles, and various technological aids. The gardens also feature a weather station and play equipment. Another area is The "Pass'erelle", which connects modernization to history and demonstrates the link between science and society. In "Children's Street", there are scientific activities specially designed for young children aged 3 to 10. In The Exhibition Hangar, the science park's main exhibits are gathered, including the money exhibit (especially successful and enjoyable) and Antarctica. In The Palace of Images, the future of humankind is discussed in an exhibition titled: "Is There a Future for the Future?"
The park is located about 75 km southwest of Brussels (less than an hour drive) near the city of Mons.
Address: Pass - Parc d'aventures scientifiques, 3 Rue de Mons B-7080 Frameries
Hydraulic Boatlifts at Canal du Centre
Four lifts that raise and lower boats in an over-a-century-old canal to overcome a 17-meter height difference between the lowest point in the canal and the highest. The sole source of energy used to operate the lifts is water! The site has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. The first lift was built here in 1888. Originally, there were eight lifts on site, but only four remain operational today. Visitors to the historic site travel by small train between the various tourist sites along the canal and between the hydraulic lifts. The site includes a visitor center, an active engine room, a museum, and an impressive viewpoint overlooking the entire site. For those interested in taking a boat ride and experiencing the operation of the lifts firsthand, it is recommended to book in advance. The canal is located about 12 km north of the town of Binche and passes near the industrial city of La Louvière.
Address: Rue Tout-y-Faut 90, Houdeng-Goegnies (about 60 km south of Brussels, about a 45-minute drive).
Strépy-Thieu Boat Lift
Not far from the historic hydraulic lifts, in Strépy-Thieu, another modern lift was built in 2002 that hoists boats into the air from one canal to another to a height of about 73 meters. This lift can be seen while driving along the E-19 highway. The site features a visitor center with a scale model of the site, a display of fossils discovered in the area during excavations, and a film showing how the lift operates. The lift has a giant engine room open to visitors, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. The ultimate experience is a boat tour that includes ascending in the enormous lift.
Address: Funicular Lift of Strepy-Thieu, Rue R. Cordier 50, B-7070, Strepy-Thieu
International Carnival and Mask Museum
A museum showcasing a large and colorful collection of masks, costumes, and accessories from many carnivals worldwide, particularly across Europe.
Located in the town of Binche, about 65 km south of Brussels (about a 50-minute drive). This town is famous for the mask carnival held there every winter.
Address: Rue Saint Moustier, 10 - 7130 Binche.
Recommended Family Accommodations in Brussels:
Spacious apartments in the city center accommodating 4-6 people. Fully equipped kitchen, free internet.
Grand Place The Looks Apartment
Apartments for 4-6 people in the city center. Fully equipped kitchen, free internet, paid daily parking available.
Spacious apartments located about 1 km from the city center, accommodating 4-6 people. Fully equipped kitchen, free internet.
Food tours and chocolate workshops in Brussels from Viator:
♦ Families are recommended to stay at one of the Center Parcs holiday villages and take star trips from there
More information about the chain in the article:
Holiday Village Chain "Center Parcs".