We found the best view in Amsterdam… but there’s a twist. It involves being suspended 328 feet in the air. We’re talking about the A’DAM Swing. You sit in a swing, which is pushed over the edge of a skyscraper. At this point, you’re either pumping your fist in the air, saying “hell yeah,” or you’re about to exit out of this page. But we think we can convince everyone, even those afraid of heights, to enjoy this activity. I was in the latter group who thought my fear of heights would never allow me to get in that swing. But after some pressure from my fiancé and my inner desire to never miss out on a unique travel activity, I found myself swinging over the edge of a building, staring out at the most beautiful city landscape at sunset. And let me tell you, it was a thrill!
So if you’re planning to go on the swing or are on the fence, here’s everything you need to know to enjoy the experience, including what else A’DAM Lookout has to offer.
This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
What is A’DAM Lookout?
A’DAM Lookout is an observation deck offering a 360-degree view of Amsterdam, from the canals to the city skyline. This is where “Swing Over the Edge Amsterdam” is located. There is also a VR experience where you can go on a virtual rollercoaster around the city if the thought of real heights stresses you out. The lookout is located atop A’DAM Tower, a building that also houses a nightclub and co-working/event space. There’s a bar and restaurant as well, including a revolving floor where you sit or stand in one spot and are slowly moved around so that you don’t miss a single view of the city.
What to Expect
The Lead Up
Visiting A’DAM Lookout is an experience from start to finish. When you enter the building, you sit on a fake ledge in front of a green screen to have some silly photos taken of you with the city backdrop added in. Then you’re taken into an elevator to watch a spectacular light show as you ride all the way to the top to reach the observation deck where the A’DAM Swing is located. The elevator ride was shockingly one of the best parts of my time there. Have your cameras ready and pointed up at the ceiling as soon as you get in, so you don’t miss a thing!
From there, you’ll get to spend some time in the revolving restaurant. Some tickets come with a drink or meal that you can redeem there. Then once you’re ready, you can head out onto the deck. Even if you opt out of the swing, it’s worth it to go up to the top for the city skyline. They have viewfinders for you to get a closer look. One of my favorite parts was that they had bean bag chairs up there. I could’ve stayed in one of those for hours!
The Swing
Then it’s time to swing! We watched a few people go ahead of us to feel even more secure in the safety of it all. Better them than us, right?! And then we got on the swings. It’s definitely a little nerve-racking as you’re first suspended over the edge. But trust me, the experience gets better and better the more you can let go, trust the machines that hundreds of people use a day, and enjoy swinging over the city. You’re probably wondering, “How long is the A’DAM Swing?” The whole ride lasts for about two minutes. You can stick anything out for two minutes!
Truthfully, the best part of the experience is that when it’s over, and you’ve been on the A’DAM Swing, you get to live with the knowledge that you’ve been on the highest swing in all of Europe! It’s pretty freaking cool.
We highly recommend visiting at sunset for the most spectacular views.
Is It Worth It?
If you are desperately afraid of heights, this may send you over the edge. Pun intended. But it’s worth going to the top of the Amsterdam lookout to check out the sights and watch other people try out the swing. If you watch other people do it safely, it makes your confidence in the machine much higher. But the view is spectacular from the top, whether you decide to swing or not. So it’s entirely up to you and your comfort levels! I’m so glad I did it, because I have slowly been getting over my fear of heights by doing these slightly terror-inducing activities. Once you’re soaring over the city of Amsterdam and looking at all of the places you’ve explored during your trip there from above, you won’t be thinking about the height.
Unique Amsterdam Stays
The hotel rooms in Amsterdam are pretty small and don’t offer anything cool or specific. That’s what makes these hotels even more special.
Lightship Amsterdam – Stay on a lighthouse boat moored in the canals. We visited this B&B and thought it was such a quaint and original place to stay.
Faralda Crane Hotel – This hotel is a bit off the beaten path in the NDSM Shipyard. Here you’ll be taken to your room inside a former crane! Since this quirky hotel isn’t as close to the major sites of Amsterdam, we think it would be an excellent stay for someone’s return trip to Amsterdam.
Whether you’re a fan of heights, looking to overcome a fear, or just want a sick view of Amsterdam, the A’DAM Swing is not to be missed.
For all you adrenaline junkies, check out our post on The Most Thrilling Adventure Trips Around the World.
