Museum van de Twintigste Eeuw
A nostalgic journey through the 20th century with recreated rooms, vintage items, and an impressive LEGO exhibition.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Museum van de Twintigste Eeuw
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A nostalgic journey through the 20th century with recreated rooms, vintage items, and an impressive LEGO exhibition.
"Prepare for a wave of recognition and fond memories; it's a delightful trip down memory lane!"
⏳ Allow ample time
You might spend 1.5-2 hours here, especially with the LEGO exhibits. Don't rush your trip down memory lane!
🚗 Free Parking Nearby
Park at Nieuwe Wal for free, then enjoy a short walk or take the shuttle.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rooms Through the Decades
Exhibition Halls
Step into meticulously recreated living rooms from each decade of the 20th century. A true time capsule!
Nostalgic Toy Collection
Exhibition Halls
Rediscover childhood favorites! From Fabeltjeskrant toys to classic games, it's a delightful trip down memory lane.
Impressive LEGO Displays
LEGO Exhibition Halls
Marvel at intricate LEGO creations and enjoy hands-on building opportunities for all ages. A highlight for many visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Nostalgia
LEGO Lovers Rejoice!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow ample time
You might spend 1.5-2 hours here, especially with the LEGO exhibits. Don't rush your trip down memory lane!
🚗 Free Parking Nearby
Park at Nieuwe Wal for free, then enjoy a short walk or take the shuttle.
🧸 Kids' LEGO Play Area
Little ones can build and get a 'Lego buildmaster diploma'! The cafe is right next to it.
🗣️ Audio Tour for English
Highly recommended for English speakers to translate key signs and enhance understanding.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
You might spend 1.5-2 hours here, especially with the LEGO exhibits. Don't rush your trip down memory lane!
🚗 Free Parking Nearby
Park at Nieuwe Wal for free, then enjoy a short walk or take the shuttle.
🧸 Kids' LEGO Play Area
Little ones can build and get a 'Lego buildmaster diploma'! The cafe is right next to it.
🗣️ Audio Tour for English
Highly recommended for English speakers to translate key signs and enhance understanding.
📸 Reflections in LEGO
Some LEGO displays are behind glass, causing reflections. Be patient for photos!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Museum van de Twintigste Eeuw for its powerful nostalgia, especially for those with Dutch roots. The meticulously recreated rooms and extensive toy collection evoke fond memories, while the impressive LEGO exhibition, complete with a hands-on building area, delights younger visitors and LEGO fans alike. The friendly staff and convenient amenities like free parking add to the positive experience, though some note minor issues with exhibit reflections and children's activity organization.
"Super fun museum if you grew up in the Netherlands in the 20th century, or if you go there with someone who did. Souch nostalgia and so many recognisable things from when we were young.
The staff is absolutely adorable. They came looking for us when we had had drinks in the cafe and then continued to explore the expositions."
Frank “Moghammed” de Ruiter
"An excellent museum. It starts with rooms from the various eras of the 20th century and a shopping street. My favourite part was the toys and Lego. You can really see your childhood on display. I was here for 1.5 hours but could have spent a little bit longer to take my time before it closed. I recommend the audio tour for the English speakers as it translates the main signs that you see."
Claire Dwyer
"The lego exhibition is very pretty and exciting 😍
Also the exhibition of the 20th Century is well planned (every exhibition is a room from a different decade) and impressive, and than there is another 2 big halls of lego exhibition.
The cafeteria is very very simple but it is located right next to a lego tables, in which the kids can play while we could enjoy our cup of coffee.
Include in the museum card!"
Gil de Jong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in the picturesque town of Hoorn. If you're driving, free parking is available at Nieuwe Wal, followed by a 15-minute walk or a free shuttle service that departs every 20 minutes. Public transport options to Hoorn are also available, with the museum being a pleasant walk from the train station.
Yes, free parking is available at Nieuwe Wal. From there, you can either walk to the museum (about 15 minutes) or take the complimentary shuttle service.
Yes, a free shuttle service operates from the Nieuwe Wal parking area to the museum, departing every 20 minutes.
Absolutely! Hoorn is accessible by public transport, and the museum is a manageable walk from the train station. The shuttle service from the parking also helps if you prefer not to walk the whole way.
Hoorn is well-connected by train. Once you arrive at Hoorn station, you can either enjoy a scenic walk to the museum or utilize the shuttle service from the nearby Nieuwe Wal parking area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check the museum's official website before your visit. Generally, they are open on weekdays and weekends, but specific times should be confirmed online.
Admission prices can be found on the museum's official website. They sometimes offer discounts or special deals, so it's worth checking for those.
Yes, the Museum van de Twintigste Eeuw is included in the Museumkaart, making it a great value for frequent museum-goers.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for popular exhibitions or during peak times, can save you time and guarantee entry. Check their website for current recommendations.
The museum may offer group rates or family packages. It's advisable to contact the museum directly or check their website for any available discounts.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features recreated rooms from each decade of the 20th century, a shopping street, and extensive collections of toys, household items, and a significant LEGO exhibition.
Yes, it's a fantastic family outing! Children often love the LEGO building areas, the nostalgic toys, and the interactive elements.
An audio guide is available and highly recommended for English speakers, as it translates the main signs and provides deeper insights into the exhibits.
Yes, there's a dedicated LEGO building area where kids can create their own masterpieces and even receive a 'Lego buildmaster diploma'.
Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the exhibits, especially if they engage with the LEGO displays and audio tour.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a simple cafeteria located next to the LEGO play area, making it convenient for families to grab a coffee while kids play.
While specific policies can vary, it's generally best to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas or before entering the exhibition spaces. Check with the museum for their policy.
Hoorn is a charming town with various cafes and restaurants. You can find many dining options within walking distance of the museum for a more extensive meal.
The museum cafe offers simple refreshments, perfect for a quick break. It's particularly convenient for parents watching their children play in the adjacent LEGO area.
The cafe is ideal for a family break, especially with its proximity to the LEGO play tables, allowing children to entertain themselves while adults enjoy a coffee.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the exhibits. Always check for signage or ask staff if unsure.
While photos are usually permitted, some LEGO displays are behind glass, which can cause reflections, making it challenging to get clear shots.
The recreated rooms from different decades offer great opportunities for nostalgic photos. The LEGO building area can also be fun for capturing candid moments of kids at play.
Professional photography or videography usually requires prior permission from the museum. It's best to contact them in advance if you plan to do so.
The 'Rooms Through the Decades' are highly photogenic, offering a visual journey. The LEGO play area also provides fun, candid photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents will appreciate the simple cafeteria located right next to the LEGO play zone, allowing for easy supervision and a moment of relaxation. While the 'discovery tour' with mice might be a bit unorganized, the overall experience is highly engaging for children. The free parking and shuttle service also make getting there with kids much smoother.
👵 Nostalgia Seekers
Each decade is brought to life with incredible detail, from the furniture and appliances to the smaller personal items. It’s a deeply personal journey that often leads to shared memories and stories. The friendly staff also contribute to the warm and welcoming atmosphere, making the experience even more enjoyable.
🧱 LEGO Enthusiasts
The real magic for LEGO lovers, especially younger ones, is the interactive building zone. Here, visitors can get hands-on with bricks, build their own models, and even receive a special diploma. It’s a chance to not just admire LEGO but to actively participate in the creative process.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The 20th Century Exhibits
Beyond the living rooms, the museum also features a charmingly recreated shopping street, complete with vintage storefronts and products. This section further enhances the feeling of stepping back in time, allowing visitors to imagine daily life and consumer culture throughout the 20th century. It’s a powerful reminder of how much has changed and what has remained constant in Dutch society. The combination of personal spaces and public areas creates a comprehensive picture of the era.
Many visitors highlight the emotional impact of these exhibits, often sharing stories and memories sparked by the familiar items on display. The museum excels at creating an atmosphere where personal history intertwines with broader societal trends, making it a deeply engaging experience for all ages. It’s a place where generations can connect over shared or learned experiences of the past.
The LEGO Phenomenon: More Than Just Toys
What truly sets this LEGO exhibit apart is its interactive component. The museum provides dedicated areas where children (and adults!) can unleash their creativity and build with LEGO bricks. This hands-on experience is a major draw for families, offering a fun and engaging activity that often culminates in kids receiving a 'Lego buildmaster diploma.' The adjacent cafeteria is strategically placed, allowing parents to supervise and enjoy a coffee while the children are happily occupied.
While the LEGO displays are a highlight, some visitors note that the lighting in the building area can be a bit dim. However, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the museum for integrating this popular attraction so effectively into its broader offering. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of LEGO and its ability to connect with visitors of all ages, bridging the gap between childhood play and adult appreciation for intricate design.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit