Balai Pemuda
A historic colonial-era complex in Surabaya, revitalized into a dynamic hub for art, music, and community events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beautiful lighting, lively atmosphere
Balai Pemuda
Best Time
Beautiful lighting, lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic colonial-era complex in Surabaya, revitalized into a dynamic hub for art, music, and community events.
"A really great place to hang out, love this place so much."
Check Event Schedules
Balai Pemuda hosts diverse events. Plan your visit around concerts, art shows, or fairs!
Nighttime Ambiance
The building's lights at night create a beautiful, calming atmosphere. Perfect for a relaxed stroll.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Basement Art Museum
Underground level
Discover rotating art exhibitions in a unique underground space. Free entry makes it a must-visit.
Historic Architecture
Entire complex
Admire the colonial-era building, a blend of history and modern use. Beautifully lit at night.
Event Hub
Various halls and open spaces
From concerts by K-pop bands to local art fairs, Balai Pemuda is a vibrant venue for diverse events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Explore Beyond the Main Hall
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Event Schedules
Balai Pemuda hosts diverse events. Plan your visit around concerts, art shows, or fairs!
Nighttime Ambiance
The building's lights at night create a beautiful, calming atmosphere. Perfect for a relaxed stroll.
Free Art Exploration
Don't miss the basement art museum, often free to enter and a great spot for art lovers.
Coffee Break Spot
Enjoy handcrafted coffee at Thirty3Brew during art events, adding to the creative vibe.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Event Schedules
Balai Pemuda hosts diverse events. Plan your visit around concerts, art shows, or fairs!
Nighttime Ambiance
The building's lights at night create a beautiful, calming atmosphere. Perfect for a relaxed stroll.
Free Art Exploration
Don't miss the basement art museum, often free to enter and a great spot for art lovers.
Coffee Break Spot
Enjoy handcrafted coffee at Thirty3Brew during art events, adding to the creative vibe.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Balai Pemuda is a well-loved public space in Surabaya, appreciated for its historical significance and its transformation into a vibrant cultural hub. Visitors enjoy the art exhibitions, the beautiful nighttime ambiance, and the variety of events hosted. However, some note that facilities like portable toilets can be in poor condition, and ongoing renovations might occasionally impact the experience.
"I really appreciate the Surabaya City government for providing a public space like this. A public library that is quite comfortable and friendly enough for local residents and domestic visitors."
Ray March Syahadat
"New face of Balai Pemuda Surabaya. I've left Surabaya for about 5 years and just come back here discover the new Balai Pemuda, different from times ago. Below the building, there is an open space also a skatepark that usually used for art gallery event or etc. And it's free to enter (idk maybe depends to the event). I prefer to visit at night since the light surrounds the building is beautiful. Very calming and enjoy to watch."
Ihsan Maulana
"Located in the center of the city, a tourist magnet, there's a tourist information center for traveller and visitor. Historic building, existed since colonial age. There's also a library here. However, the portable toilet is really bad and there's a renovation process going on beside its main hall. Overall, this place is a really great place to hang out. Love this place so much."
Bravo Vermeulen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Balai Pemuda is centrally located in Surabaya, making it accessible by various modes of transport. Public buses and ride-sharing services are common options. Many visitors find it convenient to use ride-sharing apps to navigate directly to the complex.
Parking availability can vary depending on events. It's advisable to check for specific event details or consider public transport if you're visiting during a major festival or concert.
Yes, the complex is designed for exploration. There are open spaces and pathways, making it pleasant to walk around, especially in the evenings.
Balai Pemuda is situated in the city center, making it a good starting point or stop for exploring other Surabaya attractions.
From Juanda International Airport, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service directly to Balai Pemuda. The journey typically takes around 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General entry to the Balai Pemuda complex is often free. However, specific events like concerts or exhibitions may require separate tickets.
The complex itself is generally accessible, but specific facilities like the library or art museum may have their own operating hours. It's best to check for event-specific timings.
Many art exhibitions held at Balai Pemuda, including those in the basement museum, are free to enter. Always check the specific event details.
For concerts, especially those featuring popular artists like DAY6, tickets are usually available through official ticketing platforms or event organizers.
Yes, there is a tourist information center located within the complex to assist visitors with information about the area and attractions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can visit the art museum, attend exhibitions and concerts, explore the historic architecture, learn languages at the language center, or simply relax in the open spaces.
Yes, Balai Pemuda features a public library that is described as comfortable and friendly for visitors.
While not explicitly a children's attraction, the open spaces and potential for events like fairs can be enjoyable for families.
Balai Pemuda hosts a wide range of events, including concerts by international artists like DAY6 and Sheila On 7, art exhibitions, cultural festivals, and community gatherings.
The historic architecture, especially when lit up at night, and the vibrant event atmosphere make Balai Pemuda a great spot for photography.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, food options are available, especially during events. You might find food stalls or cafes like Thirty3Brew serving coffee.
Halal food fairs have been held at Balai Pemuda, featuring various cuisines, including special Palestinian food.
During events, you can often find a variety of local and international food options, from snacks to full meals, catering to diverse tastes.
While there might not be formal restaurants, cafes and food stalls are often present, especially during organized events.
It's generally advisable to check the specific rules for events, but for casual visits, bringing personal snacks might be acceptable. However, purchasing from vendors supports the events.
📸 📸 Photography
The colonial architecture, especially when illuminated at night, is a prime spot. The open spaces and event backdrops also offer great photo opportunities.
Photography rules can vary for specific exhibitions. It's best to check signage or ask staff at the museum.
During concerts, personal photography might be allowed, but professional recording is usually restricted. Check the event's specific policy.
Using drones is generally not permitted in public spaces without prior authorization. Always adhere to local regulations.
Evenings offer beautiful lighting on the architecture. Daytime is great for capturing the details of the buildings and any ongoing events.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎶 Music Lovers
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Balai Pemuda: A Hub for Culture and Events
Recent years have seen Balai Pemuda host prominent artists, including K-pop bands like DAY6 and Indonesian favorites like Sheila On 7, drawing large crowds and international attention. Beyond concerts, it regularly hosts art fairs, cultural festivals, and community gatherings, showcasing local talent and fostering a sense of community. The presence of a language center also adds to its educational appeal, offering courses in various foreign languages.
Visitors often praise the complex for its accessibility and the dynamic atmosphere it offers. The beautiful illumination at night adds to its charm, making it a popular spot for evening strolls and photography. Whether you're interested in art, music, or simply experiencing the local culture, Balai Pemuda provides a multifaceted destination within Surabaya.
Exploring the Art Scene at Balai Pemuda
Events like 'ARTSUBS' have been held here, featuring various artists and creative works. These exhibitions provide a platform for emerging artists and offer attendees a chance to engage with the local art scene. The atmosphere within the underground space is often described as distinct and conducive to appreciating art.
Beyond the dedicated museum, the open spaces and halls of Balai Pemuda are frequently utilized for larger art fairs and exhibitions, transforming the complex into a dynamic gallery. These events contribute significantly to Surabaya's cultural landscape, drawing art enthusiasts and the general public alike.
Balai Pemuda as a Concert Venue
Concerts by popular K-pop groups like DAY6 have been held here, with fans traveling to experience live performances. The energy of these concerts is often highlighted in social media content, with attendees sharing their excitement and memorable moments. The venue has also hosted Indonesian artists, further cementing its role in the city's music scene.
Attending a concert at Balai Pemuda offers a chance to experience live music in a dynamic setting. The enthusiasm of the crowd and the performances themselves create a memorable experience for fans.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit