The Boudewijnpark & Dolfinarium, A. De Baeckestraat 12 (tel. 050/40-84-08; www.dolfinarium.be; bus: 7 or 17), in the southern suburb of Sint-Michiels, is a big favorite with children, who for some reason seem to prefer its rides, paddleboats, dolphins, and sea lions to Bruges's many historic treasures. Strange but true! Admission is 19€ ($24) for adults and children over 1m (39 in.) tall, 16€ ($20) for seniors, and free for children under 1m (39 in.) tall. The park is open June to August daily from 10:30am to 5pm, and during Easter week and weekends in September from 11am to 5pm; and the Dolfinarium is open intermittently at other times.
In the eastern suburbs, the Kinderboerderij de Zeven Torentjes (Seven Towers Children's Farm), Canadaring 41, Assebroek (tel. 050/35-40-43; bus: 2), is a 14th-century manor farm that has been transformed into a children's farm, with pigs, hens, horses, and other animals. All the buildings -- farmhouse, barns, coach house, bakery, and more -- have been restored and a large play park added. An on-site cafeteria has a kid-friendly menu. A 16th-century dovecote has niches for 650 doves. The farm is open Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 5:15pm, Saturday from 10am to 6pm, and Sunday from 1 to 6pm. Admission is free.
Both the theme park and the farm can be reached by bus from the rail station and from the Markt.
