A Family Adventure in Hoorn

Our family has always been drawn to the allure of historical towns, and Hoorn, with its rich maritime history, was no exception. When we heard about the Enschede Escape Game that combines a city walk with an escape game, we knew it was the perfect way to explore the city with our children. The idea of solving puzzles while discovering the town’s hidden gems was too enticing to pass up.

As we embarked on our journey, the cobblestone streets of Hoorn welcomed us with open arms. The game began with a mysterious story about the “stacked hoornees,” a fictional criminal who had the town in a state of fear. Our mission was to follow the clues and uncover his hiding place. The children were immediately captivated, their imaginations running wild as they took on the roles of detectives.

The game cleverly led us through some of Hoorn’s most beautiful and historic sites. Each clue was a gateway to a new adventure, and we found ourselves immersed in the town’s vibrant history. The Scheepsjongens van Bontekoe museum was a particular highlight, where interactive exhibits brought the 17th-century sea voyage to life. It was a perfect blend of education and entertainment, keeping both the kids and us adults engaged.

Discovering Hoorn’s Hidden Treasures

As we continued our quest, the trail took us to the Vismarkt, a lively square that once thrived as the center of the town’s fish trade. The market’s bustling atmosphere was infectious, and we couldn’t resist stopping to admire the traditional Dutch architecture and sample some local delicacies. The children were thrilled to see the market in action, and it was a wonderful opportunity to teach them about the town’s trading history.

The Foreestenhuis, with its striking 17th-century facade, was another stop that captured our attention. As a former warehouse and merchant’s residence, it offered a glimpse into Hoorn’s prosperous past. The architecture was a testament to the town’s rich maritime heritage, and we found ourselves lost in its charm.

Our journey also led us to the Oude Vrouwenpoortje, one of the few remaining medieval city gates in the Netherlands. This quaint landmark provided a perfect photo opportunity, and we took a moment to appreciate the town’s historical significance. The children were fascinated by the idea of a city gate, and it sparked a lively discussion about medieval life.

A Memorable Family Experience

The final leg of our adventure brought us to De Waag, a picturesque 17th-century building that once served as the town’s weigh house. Its vibrant history and beautiful architecture made it a fitting end to our city walk. As we solved the last puzzle and “captured” the stacked hoornees, a sense of accomplishment washed over us.

Reflecting on our experience, the Enschede Escape Game was more than just a game; it was an educational journey that brought Hoorn’s history to life. It was a perfect way to engage our children in learning while having fun, and it left us with memories that we will cherish for years to come.

For families looking to explore Hoorn in a unique and interactive way, this escape game is a must-try. It offers a delightful blend of adventure, history, and culture, ensuring that both kids and parents are entertained. As a museum curator, I appreciated the thoughtful integration of historical elements, and as a parent, I loved seeing my children’s curiosity and excitement. Hoorn has truly captured our hearts, and we look forward to our next family adventure.