Nestled in the heart of Lillehammer, Norway, the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the country’s rich cultural heritage. With entry tickets starting at just €13.94 per person, this flexible and affordable attraction provides a gateway to explore centuries-old buildings, the Norwegian Olympic Museum, and a wealth of outdoor and indoor exhibitions. Whether you’re looking to uncover the past or simply enjoy a day of discovery, Maihaugen’s reserve-now-pay-later option and free cancellation policy make it an accessible and convenient choice. But the real question is, what hidden gems await within its meticulously preserved grounds?
Key Points
- Tickets for Maihaugen Open-Air Museum start at €13.94 per person with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
- Tickets are valid for one day, and visitors can check availability for starting times.
- The museum offers a reserve now, pay later option to enhance trip planning.
- Flexible ticketing options are available to accommodate visitors’ needs.
- Maihaugen is Norway’s largest open-air museum, featuring over 200 historic buildings spanning 8 centuries.
Ticket Pricing and Policies
At Maihaugen Open-Air Museum, visitors can purchase tickets starting at €13.94 per person. The museum offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and visitors can choose to reserve their tickets now and pay later. Plus, the tickets are valid for one day, and guests should check the availability for starting times before their visit.
The museum’s flexible ticketing options make it easy for guests to plan their trip. With the ability to cancel their tickets up to a day in advance, visitors can book their visit with confidence. The reserve now, pay later option is also a convenient choice for those who want to secure their spot without an immediate payment.
Ready for more culture? More museums we feature in Lillehammer
Museum Overview and History
Maihaugen is Norway’s largest open-air museum, featuring over 200 buildings spanning 8 centuries that provide visitors with an immersive glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
The museum’s diverse exhibits include:
-
The Garmo stave church from the 1200s, a rare architectural treasure.
-
Old farms from the 16th to 19th centuries, showcasing traditional Norwegian rural life.
-
Houses from the 1900s, offering a window into the country’s more recent past.
-
The Norwegian Olympic Museum, which chronicles Norway’s storied Olympic history, including the iconic events held in Oslo 1952 and Lillehammer 1994.
With its blend of indoor and outdoor exhibitions, Maihaugen offers visitors a deeply immersive and educational cultural experience year-round.
Indoor and Outdoor Exhibitions
Across Maihaugen’s sprawling grounds, visitors can explore a diverse array of indoor and outdoor exhibitions that transport them through Norway’s rich cultural heritage. From the majestic Garmo stave church dating back to the 1200s to the charming historic farms showcasing life in the 16th-19th centuries, the open-air museum offers a captivating window into the country’s past. Indoors, the Norwegian Olympic Museum chronicles Norway’s celebrated Olympic achievements, including the Oslo 1952 and Lillehammer 1994 games. During the summer months, visitors can also discover the Norwegian Postal Museum’s exhibitions on postal history. With so much to see and experience, Maihaugen promises an immersive and educational journey through Norway’s remarkable traditions and innovations.
| Indoor Exhibitions | Outdoor Exhibitions |
|---|---|
| Norwegian Olympic Museum | Garmo stave church (1200s) |
| Norwegian Postal Museum (summer) | Historic farms (16th-19th centuries) |
| Houses from the 1900s |
Norwegian Olympic Museum
The Norwegian Olympic Museum at Maihaugen showcases Norway’s proud history of Olympic achievements, providing visitors with an immersive journey through the nation’s celebrated triumphs on the world stage.
Highlights of the museum include:
-
Artifacts and memorabilia from Norway’s Olympic teams, including gold medals, uniforms, and equipment.
-
Interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience the thrill of Olympic sports, such as a virtual ski jump.
-
Multimedia presentations that chronicle Norway’s hosting of the 1952 Oslo and 1994 Lillehammer Olympic Games.
-
Educational displays that explore the cultural and social impact of the Olympic movement in Norway.
The museum offers a captivating look into Norway’s rich Olympic legacy, inspiring visitors to appreciate the country’s remarkable athletic accomplishments.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyNorwegian Postal Museum
Along With the Norwegian Olympic Museum, Maihaugen’s offerings include the Norwegian Postal Museum, which opens during the summer months, showcasing the rich history and evolution of Norway’s postal system through a range of engaging exhibitions.
Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of historic postal artifacts, including vintage stamps, mailboxes, and transportation equipment used by Norway’s postal service over the centuries.
Through interactive displays and educational programs, the museum provides an in-depth look at how the delivery of mail has shaped the country’s cultural and economic development.
Whether you’re a philatelist or simply interested in Norway’s heritage, the Norwegian Postal Museum is a must-see attraction within the larger Maihaugen open-air museum complex.
Seasonal Events and Activities
Maihaugen hosts a variety of seasonal events and activities that cater to visitors throughout the year, with the Christmas Market being a particularly notable highlight.
Held on the first weekend of Advent, the Christmas Market offers a festive shopping experience, with decorated historic houses and a range of family-friendly activities.
Plus, the museum’s cafeteria and eateries are open during the summer months, providing visitors with refreshment and sustenance.
The museum shop also features a selection of quality design products, perfect for those seeking unique souvenirs.
With its diverse offerings, Maihaugen ensures that there’s something for all to enjoy, regardless of the season.
Visitor Amenities and Services
Visitors can take advantage of Maihaugen’s wheelchair-accessible facilities and on-site hosts who are available to assist them throughout their experience.
The museum caters to international audiences by offering information in multiple languages, including English, German, and French. Upon arrival, guests should head to the Visitor Center to check in and obtain any necessary details.
The museum’s amenities also include a cafeteria and additional eateries that are open during the peak summer season.
Visitors can browse the museum shop for quality design products and souvenirs.
Whether exploring the historic buildings or taking in the Norwegian Olympic Museum, guests are sure to find everything they need for a comfortable and enriching visit at Maihaugen.
Accessibility and Languages Offered
Maihaugen’s facilities are wheelchair-accessible, catering to visitors with mobility needs. Museum hosts are available to assist guests throughout their experience, ensuring an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.
The museum offers guided tours and informational materials in multiple languages, including English, German, and French, making it accessible to international visitors.
Here are some key accessibility features at Maihaugen:
-
Ramps and elevators throughout the grounds for easy navigation.
-
Braille signage and audio guides for guests with visual impairments.
-
Designated quiet areas for visitors who need a break from crowds.
-
Sensory-friendly programming and resources for guests with special needs.
Recap
The Maihaugen Open-Air Museum offers an affordable and flexible way to explore Norway’s rich cultural heritage.
Visitors can enjoy a full day of indoor and outdoor exhibitions, including the Norwegian Olympic Museum, and take advantage of the free cancellation policy and reserve-now-pay-later option.
With a range of seasonal events and activities, as well as accessible facilities, the museum caters to diverse interests and needs.
You can check if your dates are available here: