Antwerp
Migration history for all ages

Visiting Red Star Line Museum with Your Family

Essential guidance for an engaging experience in Antwerp.

The Red Star Line Museum offers a profound look at the journeys of millions who departed from the Antwerp docks. This page provides practical information to help you and your children navigate the exhibitions and historic site comfortably. Please check the official museum website for the most recent updates on family programs or specific visitor policies.

Red Star Line Museum
4 family activities
Family visits at the Red Star Line Museum
The Red Star Line Museum offers a welcoming environment for families, featuring interactive suitcases, creative workshops, and guided tours designed for children.

The Red Star Line Museum in Antwerp provides a thoughtful environment where families can explore the history of migration together. Designed for children aged 3 to 12, the experience balances educational storytelling with interactive elements that encourage learning through discovery. Parents and carers can utilize age-appropriate resources and dedicated play areas to help children connect with the exhibits throughout their visit.

Recommended age: Ages 3–12

Family highlights

  • Official 'Approved by and for Children' certification.
  • Dedicated mezzanine play area with educational toys and a craft table.
  • Monthly Family Sundays with thematic creative workshops.
  • Family suitcases available for self-guided exploration for different age groups.
  • Baby nursing and breastfeeding facilities available.
Family visit essentials
Useful expectations and practical guidance in one place

What children can see and do

Families can participate in themed guided tours, use self-guided 'family suitcases' filled with assignments, and attend monthly Family Sundays with creative workshops. The museum also provides educational toys and a play mat for younger visitors in the mezzanine area.

Age guidance

The museum offers activities for children ranging from toddlers (3 years) up to 12 years old. Specific family suitcases are available for ages 3-6 and 6-11.

Practical information

Children up to 12 years old have free museum access. Strollers are allowed, but the museum recommends baby slings to avoid disturbing other visitors; safe storage is provided. Breastfeeding and changing facilities are available.

Family-Friendly Resources at Red Star Line Museum
4 activities and resources

The Red Star Line Museum offers a variety of interactive resources designed to engage younger visitors with history. Families can explore through self-guided discovery trails, interactive tours, or creative workshops held on specific days. These activities cater to different age groups, with some options available without reservation and others requiring advance booking.

Kids trail

Family Suitcase (6-11 years)

Ages 6–11Free

Children follow the story of a 9-year-old girl migrating to America, completing tasks like drawing, writing, or telling stories throughout the museum galleries.

Age guidance: Designed for children aged 6 to 11 and their families.

Practical information: Available to pick up at the counter; no reservation required.

Kids trail

Help Gup the Gull Move Home

Ages 3–6Free

A playful discovery route where children help Gup the gull move to another country, learning about the Red Star Line history along the way.

Age guidance: Specifically aimed at children between 3 and 6 years old.

Practical information: Available as a family suitcase option at the reception desk.

Family tour

All Hands on Deck Guided Tour

Ages 6–1290–90 minPaidBooking required

A 90-minute interactive tour where families travel from Warsaw to America, filling a suitcase with items needed for the journey while hearing stories of young migrants.

Age guidance: Suitable for families with children aged 6 to 12.

Practical information: Must be booked via the online shop; costs 120 EUR per group plus museum admission.

Family program

Family Sunday

180–180 min

Families take over the museum with creative workshops and activities designed to be accessible for all children regardless of age.

Age guidance: All ages are welcome.

Practical information: Takes place between 13:00 and 16:00 on the first Sunday of every month.

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