When people plan trips to Amsterdam, it's usually for a couple of very specific reasons. And that doesn't include the history, the culture, or the food scene. That being said, at least one of those aforementioned "specific reasons" might make you especially appreciative of said food scene.
For all of the expected reasons people travel to Amsterdam, there are still a lot of unexpected things to do and see. This is a vibrant, world-class city that's open about its weirdness and isn't afraid to let you enjoy the stranger aspects of life.
Micropia
Like most major cities, Amsterdam has a zoo, which is called ARTIS and is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands. You should probably go if you're in town, though the fact it exists isn't a surprise. What is more surprising is Amsterdam's other zoo, Micropia, which is dedicated to bacteria and microbes. Basically, it focuses on the microscopic world that surrounds us every day.
Oudemanhuispoort
Traveling to bookstores, libraries, or literary themed destinations isn't really an oddity. But in this case, it's more about the venue than anything else. Oudemanhuispoort is a covered walkway that is part of the University of Amsterdam. It is home to several stalls that primarily sell second hand books as well as art prints. It has been said that Vincent Van Gogh strolled this passage and found inspiration there.
KattenKabinet
If you just read the title and were really hoping this would have something to do with cats, consider this your lucky day. KattenKabinet is a museum established by a cat fan quite literally dedicated to cat art. Many of the works are simply cute while others are of great artistic and historical significance. In case you are wondering, there are several cats living here, as well.
Electric Ladyland: The Museum of Fluorescent Art
One of the most important weapons in any artist's arsenal is light. How light interacts with art is integral to the process of creating it and how the outcome is perceived. At Electric Ladyland: The Museum of Fluorescent Art, black light is celebrated. It is a place where art, geology, and history come together in an explosion of color.
Amsterdam Cheese Museum
If there was ever a reason to travel, it would be good cheese. In the case of Amsterdam, we're talking about amazing cheese that is at the very foundations of the country itself. Figuratively, of course. Yes, the Amsterdam Cheese Museum has exhibits about history, processes, and cultural importance of the subject matter. More importantly, the museum has a vast cheese store with samples.