Amsterdam , the vibrant capital of the Netherlands, is known worldwide for its impressive architecture, picturesque canals and, last but not least, its exceptional art scene .
While the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum are highly popular with art lovers, the city also holds some lesser-known gems waiting to be discovered.
In this article, we take a look at five such undiscovered museums in Amsterdam: STRAAT, Fabrique des Lumières, Moco Museum, AMAZE, and OUR HOUSE. These museums offer unique experiences ranging from street art and immersive art to modern and electronic music .
If you browse through a classic tourist guide for the Dutch metropolis, you will mainly find the large, renowned museums.
In Amsterdam, a visit to the Rijksmuseum recommended, as it houses an outstanding collection of Dutch art and history. The Van Gogh Museum , where you can admire Vincent van Gogh,
The Anne Frank House is a moving museum that offers insights into the life of the Jewish girl during the Second World War.
The Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art is ideal for art lovers who appreciate contemporary works.
The Maritime Museum is an interesting choice for history buffs to learn more about the maritime past of the Netherlands.
Furthermore, a visit to the Rembrandthuis , the former home of the famous painter Rembrandt van Rijn, is worthwhile to learn more about his life and work.
So much for the usual suspects…
Amsterdam, however, offers a multitude of museums to suit every taste and completely different areas of interest in art and culture. Reason enough to take a closer look at five of its lesser-known cultural gems.
5 hidden museums in Amsterdam – cultural gems for art lovers
STRAAT Museum
STRAAT / Museum for street art and graffiti / Amsterdam Photo by Matthias Süßen, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The STRAAT Museum , located in the NDSM shipyard area of Amsterdam, is the world's largest museum for street art and graffiti .
This unique institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore the dynamic and often misunderstood world of street art. The museum houses an impressive collection of works created by both internationally acclaimed artists and emerging talents.
The exhibitions at STRAAT change regularly, meaning that no two visits are the same. Visitors can not only admire the artworks but also learn more about the history and techniques of street art, making STRAAT a must-see for any art lover.
Fabrique des Lumières
The Fabrique des Lumières is a relatively new museum in Amsterdam specializing in immersive art projections . In the vast halls of a former industrial complex, the works of famous artists are brought to life.
The use of state-of-the-art projection technology immerses visitors in the artworks, creating a completely new experience.
The exhibitions change regularly, with each visit offering a journey through light, color, and movement. Fabrique des Lumières breaks with traditional notions of art exhibitions, providing a captivating experience that delights both art connoisseurs and newcomers alike.
Moco Museum
Modern Contemporary (Moco) Museum, Amsterdam Photo by Suicasmo, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Moco Museum , located in the heart of Amsterdam, focuses on modern and contemporary art . It presents works by some of the world's most revolutionary artists, including Banksy , Andy Warhol , and Roy Lichtenstein .
The museum is distinguished by its curated exhibitions, which often address socially critical themes and encourage reflection. In addition to its permanent exhibitions, the Moco Museum also offers temporary exhibitions that explore current topics and trends in the art world.
Moco is a place of inspiration that invites visitors to redefine the boundaries of art.
AMAZE
AMAZE is an immersive world of experience that blurs the lines between art, technology, and experience. Here, visitors are invited to dive into a world full of light installations , soundscapes , and interactive elements. AMAZE offers a completely new way to experience art – not as an outside observer, but as part of the artwork itself.
Each room within AMAZE tells its own story, brought to life through interaction with visitors. This interactive journey makes AMAZE an unforgettable experience that challenges and expands its visitors' perceptions.
OUR HOUSE
OUR HOUSE is the world's first museum entirely dedicated to the culture of electronic dance music (EDM) . Located in Amsterdam, a city considered one of the cradles of EDM culture, OUR HOUSE offers a deep insight into the history and evolution of electronic music.
From its beginnings in underground clubs to the world's biggest festivals, visitors can trace the evolution of the EDM scene through interactive exhibits and installations. In addition, there are opportunities to create music themselves and learn DJing
OUR HOUSE is not just a museum, but also a tribute to the creative energy that EDM culture .
These five museums in Amsterdam offer unique perspectives on art and culture and are a testament to the diversity and innovative power of the city.
Whether you're a lover of street art, a fan of modern masterpieces, an enthusiast of immersive experiences, or a follower of the electronic music scene, Amsterdam has something for everyone. Dive into the lesser-known facets of Amsterdam's art scene and let yourself be inspired and surprised by these undiscovered museums.
Owner and Managing Director of Kunstplaza. Journalist, editor, and passionate blogger in the field of art, design, and creativity since 2011. Successful completion of a degree in web design as part of a university study (2008). Further development of creativity techniques through courses in free drawing, expressive painting, and theatre/acting. Profound knowledge of the art market through years of journalistic research and numerous collaborations with actors/institutions from art and culture.
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