Fort Merksem (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Fort Merksem?
What makes it 56% Baby-Friendly: Parents can push strollers on the flat 880 m loop and use free toilets, yet there is no baby-change table, nursing room or shaded play zone, so bring a mat and plan brief stays.
Positives:
- Paved paths: The green loop is flat and stroller-friendly.
- Free parking and transport: Street parking is free and a bus/tram stop lies within 500 m.
- Spacious lawns: Large open areas let your baby crawl or nap on a blanket.
Challenges:
- No baby-changing tables: Public toilets lack change facilities; bring a portable changing mat.
- Limited shaded seating: Few benches under cover—pack a sunshade or hat for your baby.
What is Fort Merksem?
- A 19th-century brick fortress forming part of Antwerp’s outer defensive ring
- A military stronghold built between 1876 and 1881, featuring moats, ramparts and caponiers
- A fortification that played a key role in the 1914 Siege of Antwerp and retains its original structure
What is so special about Fort Merksem for with baby?
- Fully paved green circuit ideal for stroller walks
- Open lawns perfect for picnics or baby play
- Free entry, parking and nearby transport access
- Optional volunteer-led dungeon tour with WWI exhibits
- Basic facilities: bring your own mat, shade and snacks
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: A short visit covers the stroller loop, lawn play and a quick history peek without tiring your baby.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Fort Merksem
Green stroller loop:
Walk the 880 m fully paved circuit around the fort walls.
Tip: Start at Fortsteenweg entrance and use the green way-markers to stay on smooth paths.
Lawn picnic spot:
Set up on the open grass near the moat for snacks or nap time.
Tip: Bring a blanket and shade umbrella; there are no picnic tables or benches.
Book a guided history tour:
Join a 45–60 min volunteer-led tour of the old dungeon exhibit.
Tip: Contact the Merksem district office in advance; carry your baby in a soft carrier for narrow stairs.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Fort Merksem
- Use a carrier on stairs: Switch to a baby carrier for tour sections with steps or gravel.
- Pre-visit feed and change: Stop at entrance restrooms to feed or change your baby before starting.
Reviews of Fort Merksem
Gill Hegarty
A lovely tranquil place to visit 3 walking routes around which we did all 3, a total of about 5 kms. Lots of benches to stop for a while and water foul to watch. For those with children some awesom adventure play grounds inside. Would like to have had a little cafe for tea but I guess not enough people about on a weekday. A very pleasant afternoon.
Thomas Meyer
The old fort facility is used mostly for clubs and recreational purposes. Not really worth visiting for historical reasons, but it seems popular for walking and cycling.
Zaneta Berkyova
The nature surrounding this place is just out of this world.My new favourite place to go.
Krasi Kazashka
Nice place for a walk, with adjacent parking, easy access from the ring, playground for kids and teens
Torian Coosemans
This is still a beautiful peace of nature even after all those years. The best pics are taken when you go of the designed roads and walk through the wilder peace of nature. Also you can get a nice view into history because this was a strategic place on the map and that reflects in the buildings you find here. When it is nice weather it is very relaxing. For the sporty people there are lots of sign...
When is the best time to visit Fort Merksem (Antwerp, Belgium)?
After rain, stick to the paved green loop to avoid mud. In summer, plan morning visits to use shaded sections. In winter, check sunset time—gates close at dusk.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Park entry | EUR 0 |
| Optional guided tour (2 adults) | EUR 20 |
| Snacks and drinks | EUR 10 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 30 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Fort Merksem
Address: Merksem, 2170 Antwerp, Belgium
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About Fort Merksem
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+32 3 666 98 4310 BEST nearby Activities
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