"Amsterdam’s “green lung” is a 120-acre oasis of peace tucked just south of buzzing Leidseplein in the heart of the city. Beloved by locals and visited by some 12 million annual tourists, the park opened in 1865 as the Nieuwe Park. It was later renamed after 17th-century Dutch playwright Joost van den Vondel. Along with ponds, fountains, playgrounds, and expansive green spaces, you’ll find a skate-rental shop, open-air theater, and rose garden with more than 70 types of roses. Dining options include the Blauwe Theehuis, Café Vertigo, Vondelpark3, De Vondeltuin, and the Groot Melkhuis, as well as roving hot dog and ice cream carts." - MATADOR_NETWORK