Praça Mauá Rio de Janeiro
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Praça Mauá Rio de Janeiro

4.7
·2k reviews·, Brazil

A vibrant waterfront hub in Rio de Janeiro, featuring the iconic Museum of Tomorrow and MAR, offering art, science, and stunning bay views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Praça Mauá Rio de Janeiro

Praça Mauá Rio de Janeiro

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant waterfront hub in Rio de Janeiro, featuring the iconic Museum of Tomorrow and MAR, offering art, science, and stunning bay views.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"The rooftop of MAR offers spectacular panoramic views for photos."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Rooftop Views at MAR

Don't miss the free rooftop of MAR for amazing photos of the square and bay!

🎟️ Book Museum Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing tickets for the Museum of Tomorrow and MAR in advance online.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Museum of Tomorrow

Museum of Tomorrow

Praça Mauá

An architectural marvel and interactive science museum exploring sustainability and the future.

Museu de Arte do Rio (MAR)

Museu de Arte do Rio (MAR)

Praça Mauá

Showcases Rio's vibrant art scene with diverse exhibitions and stunning city views from its rooftop.

Waterfront Promenade

Waterfront Promenade

Praça Mauá

Stroll along the revitalized waterfront, enjoying sea breezes and panoramic views of Guanabara Bay.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Waterfront Vibe

Praça Mauá is a vibrant waterfront hub in Rio de Janeiro, perfect for exploring museums and enjoying scenic views. Plan your visit around museum hours, as many attractions are closed on Mondays. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds.

Museum Hopping Essentials

Home to the Museum of Tomorrow and MAR (Museu de Arte do Rio), Praça Mauá is an art and science lover's paradise. Purchase tickets online in advance, especially for the Museum of Tomorrow, to save time. Check for special exhibitions or events happening during your visit.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Quem também tá na lama?🥲 #guaruja #reveillon #praia
@jhonofc_
82.4K likes • 1.7M views

📸 Rooftop Views at MAR

Don't miss the free rooftop of MAR for amazing photos of the square and bay! Instagram

🎟️ Book Museum Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing tickets for the Museum of Tomorrow and MAR in advance online. TikTok

Fui acampar na praia indo de trem e ônibus! Essa daí é a Prainha Branca, que fica no Guarujá. Vou ensinar pra vocês como chegar por Bertioga, saindo da Zona Leste de São Paulo! Marca aqui nos comentários quem vai fazer essa aventura com vc 👇🏽🏝🚌 ⛺️Eu acampei no Camping São José (@prainhacampingsaojose), que tem uma das melhores estruturas de lá! Entre em contato com eles pelo direct ou WhatsApp (1...
@jotape.teixeira
43.1K likes • 639.1K views
Mergulho na Praça Mauá - Museu do Amanhã . . . . #riodejaneiro #verão
matheus_perisse
17.2K likes • 290.2K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Waterfront

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the revitalized Praça Mauá, soaking in the city's energy. Instagram

🚢 See the Ships

If you're lucky, you might see several ships docked, creating a unique visual spectacle. Instagram

Bom dia com o Centro do RJ passando pela sua timeline. 🧡 📍Praça Mauá
amazingriodejaneiro
21K likes • 237.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Rooftop Views at MAR

Don't miss the free rooftop of MAR for amazing photos of the square and bay! Instagram

🎟️ Book Museum Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing tickets for the Museum of Tomorrow and MAR in advance online. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Waterfront

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the revitalized Praça Mauá, soaking in the city's energy. Instagram

🚢 See the Ships

If you're lucky, you might see several ships docked, creating a unique visual spectacle. Instagram

☕ Cafe with a View

Grab a coffee at the rooftop cafe of MAR for a relaxing break with a fantastic vista. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Praça Mauá is a beautifully revitalized waterfront area in Rio de Janeiro, praised for its stunning modern architecture, particularly the Museum of Tomorrow and MAR. Visitors love the panoramic views from MAR's rooftop and the vibrant atmosphere of the square. Some find the area can be quiet on certain days, with attractions closed on Mondays.

"We visited this and you are actually aloud inside and up to the rooftop cafe. Awesome view and great coffee! ☕"

Dem Apples

"A beautiful square, located in front of the Santos City Hall.
Around the square there are numerous points where you can buy souvenirs from Santos.
Various performances are often held here."

European Gringo

"Undoubtedly one of the most pristine postcard landmarks in the Santos’ old centre."

Nathaan M. Santos

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Panoramic rooftop views
Vibrant waterfront atmosphere

What People Dislike

Attractions closed Mondays
Can be quiet

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Praça Mauá is easily accessible by public transport. You can take the Metro to Uruguaiana or Carioca stations and then walk or take a short bus ride. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. Instagram+1

Yes, there are parking garages available near Praça Mauá, but they can be expensive. It's often more convenient to use public transport or ride-sharing services. Instagram

Depending on your starting point, you might be able to walk. It's a pleasant walk from areas like the Olympic Boulevard. Instagram

From Copacabana, take the Metro to Uruguaiana station and then a short bus or taxi ride to Praça Mauá. Instagram

Many city tours of Rio de Janeiro include Praça Mauá and its surrounding attractions. It's a popular stop for exploring the revitalized port area. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Praça Mauá is a public square and is free to enter. However, you will need tickets to enter the Museum of Tomorrow and MAR. Instagram

Ticket prices for the Museum of Tomorrow can vary. It's best to check their official website for current pricing and to purchase tickets in advance. TikTok

MAR has an entrance fee, but its rooftop viewing area is often free to access, offering great views. Check their website for current admission details. Instagram

Sometimes combo tickets or passes are available that offer discounts for visiting multiple attractions. Inquire at the ticket counters or check online. TikTok

Museum hours can vary, and they are often closed on Mondays. Always check the official websites of the Museum of Tomorrow and MAR for the most up-to-date opening times. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Beyond the museums, you can enjoy the waterfront promenade, admire the architecture, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. There are often events and performances held in the square. Instagram+1

Praça Mauá is generally considered safe, especially during the day when it's bustling with visitors. However, like any urban area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure. Instagram

The rooftop of MAR offers spectacular panoramic views for photos. The Museum of Tomorrow's unique architecture also makes for great shots. Instagram

The Museum of Tomorrow is very interactive and engaging for children. The open space of the square also allows for some freedom to run around. TikTok

Praça Mauá was once a bustling port area and has undergone significant revitalization, transforming into a cultural and leisure hub. It's part of Rio's historic port region. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are cafes and restaurants within the Museum of Tomorrow and MAR, including a cafe on MAR's rooftop. You can also find dining options nearby in the revitalized port area. Instagram

The dining options typically offer a mix of light snacks, coffee, and more substantial meals, often with a focus on contemporary cuisine. Instagram

While the museum cafes can be pricier, exploring the surrounding streets of the port area might reveal more local and affordable eateries. Instagram

Generally, picnicking is not encouraged within the museum premises. However, the public square itself might allow for casual consumption of food and drinks. Instagram

The revitalized port area has seen a growth in dining establishments. Exploring areas like the Boulevard Olímpico can lead to various culinary experiences. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Late afternoons during the golden hour offer beautiful lighting for photos. Weekday mornings are also great for fewer crowds and clearer shots. Instagram

The futuristic architecture of the Museum of Tomorrow, the panoramic views from MAR's rooftop, and the waterfront promenade are all highly photogenic. Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and near public attractions. It's advisable to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone. Instagram

While specific photography tours might be limited, many general city tours will highlight the best photo opportunities. Instagram

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide architectural shots and details. A wide-angle lens is great for the Museum of Tomorrow. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Praça Mauá is a fantastic destination for families. The Museum of Tomorrow is particularly engaging for children, with its interactive exhibits that make learning about science and sustainability fun and accessible. TikTok The open space of the square also provides room for kids to move around. Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the largest crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for your family. Instagram

While MAR's art exhibitions might appeal more to older children or adults, the rooftop views are a universal delight. Pack some snacks and water, and be prepared for a day of discovery and enjoyment in this revitalized part of Rio. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Praça Mauá offers a wealth of photographic opportunities. The Museum of Tomorrow's unique, futuristic architecture is a dream for photographers, especially during the golden hour when the light casts a dramatic glow. Instagram Don't miss the MAR museum's rooftop, which provides unparalleled panoramic views of the square, the bay, and the city skyline – a perfect spot for sweeping landscape shots. Instagram

For the best shots, aim for weekday mornings to capture the architecture without the hustle and bustle of crowds. A wide-angle lens will be invaluable for capturing the scale of the buildings and the expansive views. The waterfront promenade itself also offers dynamic compositions with the bay and city as a backdrop. Instagram

🏛️ Culture & Art Lovers

Praça Mauá is a cultural epicenter in Rio de Janeiro. The Museum of Tomorrow offers a thought-provoking exploration of science and sustainability, appealing to those interested in forward-thinking concepts. TikTok The Museu de Arte do Rio (MAR) is a must-visit for its diverse collection of Brazilian art and its role in showcasing the city's vibrant artistic identity. Instagram

Beyond the museums, the entire area speaks to Rio's history and its modern resurgence. Take time to appreciate the revitalized architecture and the public art installations that dot the square. The proximity to other cultural sites in the port region makes it an ideal starting point for a day of cultural immersion. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Revitalization of Praça Mauá

Praça Mauá, once a neglected port area, has undergone a remarkable transformation into a vibrant cultural and leisure hub. This revitalization project, part of the Porto Maravilha urban renewal initiative, has breathed new life into the historic port region of Rio de Janeiro. The area now boasts modern infrastructure, green spaces, and world-class cultural institutions, making it a must-visit destination. Instagram+1

The centerpiece of this transformation is the striking Museum of Tomorrow, an architectural marvel designed by Santiago Calatrava. Its futuristic design and interactive exhibits focus on sustainability and the future of humanity, drawing visitors from around the globe. Adjacent to it, the Museu de Arte do Rio (MAR) offers a diverse collection of Brazilian art and provides stunning panoramic views of the bay from its rooftop. TikTokInstagram

This urban renewal has not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the area but also boosted tourism and local economy. The waterfront promenade is now a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy leisurely strolls, admire the bay, and experience the revitalized spirit of Rio's port district. Instagram+1

Experiencing the Museums: Museum of Tomorrow & MAR

The Museum of Tomorrow is an immersive experience designed to provoke thought about our planet's future. Its exhibits are highly interactive, using cutting-edge technology to explore themes of climate change, biodiversity, and sustainable living. Visitors often describe it as a mind-expanding journey, encouraging a deeper understanding of our impact on the environment. TikTok

Complementing the scientific focus of the Museum of Tomorrow, the Museu de Arte do Rio (MAR) delves into the rich artistic heritage and contemporary culture of Rio de Janeiro. Its exhibitions span various art forms, providing insights into the city's soul. A significant draw for visitors is the free access to MAR's rooftop, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Praça Mauá, the Guanabara Bay, and the surrounding cityscape. This vantage point is perfect for capturing memorable photographs. Instagram

When planning your visit, it's advisable to allocate ample time to fully appreciate both museums. Purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended to avoid long queues, especially during peak seasons. TikTok

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