As record temperatures swept across the Netherlands last month, residents of Amsterdam sought relief in an unconventional venue: an indoor campsite offering air-conditioned comfort and a unique glamping experience. Outside Inn, located in a repurposed warehouse on an industrial estate near the city center, attracted visitors looking for respite from the city’s soaring heat.
Owner Willem Megens, a mechanic by trade, has spent nearly six years transforming the 1,000 square meter space into a three-floor campsite filled with restored vintage caravans, beach huts, wooden “barrels,” camping pods, and one-of-a-kind units including a blue VW camper van and a wooden gypsy wagon. Each structure has been carefully refurbished from second-hand caravans sourced online, featuring fresh wiring, comfortable beds, and pastel-coloured exteriors reminiscent of Apple’s iMac palettes. The site’s air conditioning maintained indoor temperatures around 24 degrees Celsius even as external temperatures climbed to 35 degrees.
Outside Inn’s location is a short walk from a Metro station, providing convenient access to Amsterdam’s traditional attractions despite its industrial setting. The campsite aims to recreate elements of the outdoors indoors, with artificial grass, rustic decorative elements, and a large swing hanging beneath a faux cherry tree. Guests also benefit from modern amenities such as Wi-Fi and motion-activated showers in well-appointed bathing facilities.
The facility’s appeal extends beyond its novelty. Visitors include families, tourists, and convention attendees seeking affordable and climate-controlled accommodation near venues like the Ziggo Dome and Johan Cruijff Arena. Megens noted that the style of guests often reflects the entertainment roster, with glitter and pink hair signaling pop concerts and older visitors often accompanying rock or classical music events. Some business visitors arrive puzzled by the unconventional “rooms” but typically appreciate the experience by departure.
Outside Inn caters to a growing demographic seeking “coolcations” as heatwaves become more frequent globally. Travel data from the first half of 2026 indicate a significant increase in interest for climate-conscious getaways, with some surveys showing that heat concerns are causing travelers to reconsider holiday destinations or opt for local stays.
The site’s communal atmosphere echoes traditional camping culture, with guests forging connections despite close quarters. A common “VIP” soundproofed lounge and attention to noise control, including providing earplugs, help maintain a pleasant environment. Megens plans to keep enhancing the experience with underfloor heating for the colder months.
While it does not aim to replace the authentic outdoor camping experience under open skies, Outside Inn offers a practical and Instagram-friendly alternative for those seeking shelter from extreme weather. As heatwaves become an increasingly common challenge, innovations like this indoor campsite may provide new models for urban leisure and tourism.