Free Museums
Being a city filled with history and culture, it is no surprise that Vienna has a large number of museums. To promote the arts, government-supported museums offer free entry to all children under the age of nineteen.
Our favorite with children are:
ZOOM Kindermuseum (Zoom Children’s Museum): it requires reservations in advance, although showing up shortly before a session can sometimes lead to last-minute tickets via cancellations.
The Technisches Museum (Museum of Technology) which has two indoor play areas, especially suitable for small children. Naturhistorisches Museum Vienna (Natural History Museum) for all the dinosaur fans out there.
Other Museums
Outside of the free options, we have listed several other museums that are particularly good for families.
Haus des Meeres (Aquarium and Tropical House) – Located inside a large tower, this Aqua Terra zoo consists of over 10,000 land and sea animals spanning several floors.
Tip: With only one lift, strollers are best left at home if possible. There is also a large outdoor playground adjacent to the aquarium.
Haus der Musik (House of Music, Sound Museum) – An interactive discovery museum that offers a diverse musical experience. There is also a kids’ club and children’s tours.
Schokomuseum (Chocolate Museum) offers workshops and programs for children (and adults!).
Schmetterlinghaus (Butterfly House) – A beautiful art nouveau greenhouse that is home to around 500 butterflies. Tip: The house is hot and humid so dress accordingly!
Schönbrunn Palmenhaus und Wüstenhaus (Desert and Palm Houses) – Located before the main entrance of Schönbrunn zoo, these two houses accommodate a diverse array of plants and small animals.
Schloss Schönbrunn Kindermuseum (Schönbrunn Palace Children’s Museum) – Find out how children lived in Imperial times. There are also guided tours available in English by appointment.
Planetarium – Located in Vienna’s Prater park, this house of the stars features a sophisticated star projector and offers programs for both adults and children in German.