Tropicana Rotterdam

A funky, subtropic city-greenhouse in Rotterdam center. Browse the shops and start-ups, then chill at the bar.

• Back in the day, Rotterdam’s iconic building was known for being a subtropical swimming oasis. No really, hot tubs and slides were set in between luscious green plants! It seemed like it would have been the coolest place to go, right? Unfortunately, it didn’t live out its full potential, and in 2010 the bathing suits were hung up and its doors were closed to the public. The neglected pool turned into the perfect location for avid urbex-ers, or people who explore abandoned buildings. Recently, though, all that has changed...\
• Fast forward to 2015: From swimming pool to economic playground! The abandoned pool has been totally transformed. Home to BlueCity, the 12,000 square meter building is now a circular hub of start-ups and scale-ups, helping provide innovation and sustainability to companies in a wildly cool location! Some work is still in progress at the pool for the office spaces, so keep your eyes peeled.
• Aloha Restaurant: In addition to BlueCity, part of the building has been repurposed as a low waste food bar with a stellar terrace! Aloha offers yummy dishes ranging from Dutch classics, seafood, vegetarian and vegan options. The Tropicana building is situated right on the water, giving you great city views in a super cool location.