The Pratermuseum in Vienna invites visitors to journey through the fascinating history of the Wiener Prater, also known as the Wurstelprater. This engaging exhibition showcases a vast collection of artifacts, from historic carousel figures to early slot machines, detailing the evolution of Vienna's beloved amusement park. Discover its rich cultural significance and its role in Viennese society since 1766.
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The Pratermuseum in Vienna celebrates the rich history of the Wurstelprater, a beloved amusement park that has been a cultural landmark for over 250 years. Housed in a new, sustainable building, the museum showcases countless artifacts, figures, and historical elements that tell the story of this iconic Viennese institution, reflecting its motto 'a place for everyone'.
Housed in a new, sustainably constructed building, the Pratermuseum in Vienna is dedicated to the fascinating and dynamic past of the Wiener Prater, also known as the Wurstelprater. Opened in 1766 by Emperor Joseph II and rebuilt after significant damage in 1945, the Prater has always been a central hub for Viennese society, embodying the motto 'a place for everyone.' The museum's permanent exhibition features a vast collection of objects, including carousel figures, roller coaster elements, early slot machines, plans, models, photographs, and posters that narrate the park's evolution. Notable original exhibits include the 'Watschenmann' (slapping man), the figure of Fortuna, and a matchmaking machine. The museum also delves into the Prater's role as an educational space, presenting exotic animals that first appeared in Vienna, and representations of the human body. A small cinema within the museum highlights the Prater's past as a center for cinema and a filming location for famous movies such as 'The Third Man,' 'James Bond,' and 'Before Sunrise.' Additionally, the exhibition touches upon the Wiener Weltausstellung (Vienna World's Fair) of 1873, which took place on the Prater grounds. The free-access foyer on the ground floor features a large 'Wimmelbild' by artist Olaf Osten, depicting around 700 people and 100 animals who have shaped Vienna and the Prater over the centuries, offering a lively visual journey through the park's history and its connection to Viennese culture.
Admission costs €8 for adults, with a reduced price of €6 for concessions. Youths under 19 years old receive free entry. On the first Sunday of every month, admission is free for everyone. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online, with a 25% discount available through the Vienna City Card and potentially other online vendors. The museum is open Friday to Sunday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with reduced hours on December 24th and 31st. It is closed from November 1st, 2026, for winter break.
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