Museum Østjylland
Denmark's oldest local museum preserves 100,000 years of East Jutland heritage through free, interactive exhibitions.
Museum Østjylland is one of Denmark's oldest and largest local history museums, founded in 1872 and located in central Randers. The state-recognised institution offers free admission and features permanent exhibitions spanning from the Ice Age to modern times, alongside interactive displays and rotating exhibitions. Visitors discover archaeological artifacts, including a 2,500-year-old urn, and learn about the cultural heritage of East Jutland through well-organized, engaging presentations suitable for all ages.
A brief summary to Museum Østjylland
- Stemannsgade 2, Randers Municipality, Randers C, 8900, DK
- +4587122600
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Admission is completely free, making it an excellent value for families and budget-conscious travellers. The quality and depth of exhibits rival paid museums.
- Plan extra time to explore the archaeological displays, particularly the digitally scanned 2,500-year-old urn and Viking history sections, which are highlighted as particularly engaging.
- Check for seasonal interactive exhibitions like 'MIG & MIN JULEBY' if travelling with children; these hands-on displays significantly enhance the family experience.
- Note that some exhibit information may not be available in English; consider downloading a translation app or asking staff for assistance if language is a concern.
- Visit the museum shop for unique locally-themed gifts and seasonal items, especially around Christmas when special selections are available.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Local Bus
Regional buses serve Randers town centre with frequent connections throughout the day. Journey times from surrounding towns typically range from 20–45 minutes depending on origin. Buses stop near the museum's central location on Stemannsgade. Fares are moderate and integrated into the Midtjylland public transport system; single tickets cost approximately 25–50 DKK depending on distance.
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Train
Randers Railway Station is approximately 800 metres from the museum, a 10–12 minute walk through the town centre. Direct trains connect Randers to Aarhus (30 minutes), Copenhagen (2.5 hours), and other major Danish cities. Train fares vary by destination and advance booking; expect 100–400 DKK for regional journeys. The station is well-signposted, and walking routes are straightforward and pedestrian-friendly.
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Car Parking
Street parking and public car parks are available throughout central Randers near Stemannsgade. Parking is typically free or low-cost (under 50 DKK per day in most public areas). The museum's central location means parking is readily accessible, though spaces may be limited during peak shopping hours on weekends. No dedicated museum car park exists, but nearby facilities are within 2–3 minutes' walk.
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Walking
The museum is located in Randers town centre on Stemannsgade, making it accessible on foot from most central accommodation. Walking from the railway station takes 10–12 minutes via flat, well-lit streets. The route is straightforward and suitable for visitors of all mobility levels. Randers' compact centre means most hotels and attractions are within 15–20 minutes' walk.
Museum Østjylland location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Museum Østjylland
A Century and a Half of Local Heritage
Museum Østjylland was established in 1872, making it one of Denmark's oldest and largest local history museums. Over 150 years, the institution has evolved into a state-recognised cultural repository serving the municipalities of Randers, Syddjurs, and Norddjurs. The museum's longevity reflects its deep commitment to preserving and presenting the stories, artifacts, and knowledge that define East Jutland's identity. Today, it stands as a cornerstone of regional cultural life, maintaining both exhibition spaces and comprehensive archives that document centuries of local development.Journey Through Time: From Ice Age to Present
The museum's permanent exhibitions guide visitors on a chronological voyage through human presence in the Randers region, beginning 100,000 years ago when the first known inhabitants arrived. The displays progress through prehistoric settlements, Viking history, medieval development, and industrial transformation, concluding with contemporary life. Archaeological finds, including a remarkable 2,500-year-old urn that has been digitally scanned using modern research methods, anchor the narrative in tangible evidence. Each period is presented through carefully curated artifacts and contextual information, allowing visitors to understand not just what happened, but how people lived, worked, and adapted across millennia.Interactive Engagement for All Visitors
Beyond traditional static displays, Museum Østjylland incorporates interactive and hands-on elements designed to engage visitors of all ages. Seasonal exhibitions, such as the popular 'MIG & MIN JULEBY' (Me & My Christmas Town), transform the museum into an experiential space where children and families actively participate in learning. These interactive components make history tangible and memorable, particularly for younger audiences who benefit from direct engagement with historical concepts. The museum also hosts community workshops exploring cultural and social themes, fostering dialogue between the institution and the public it serves.Rotating Exhibitions and Contemporary Perspectives
In addition to its permanent collections, Museum Østjylland regularly presents temporary exhibitions that explore both historical themes and contemporary issues. Recent programming has included pop-up exhibitions addressing topics such as witchcraft and superstition in 17th-century Ebeltoft, demonstrating the museum's willingness to examine darker or complex chapters of regional history. These rotating displays ensure that repeat visitors encounter fresh perspectives and new discoveries, while allowing the museum to respond to current scholarly interests and public curiosity.Accessibility and Community Value
The museum's central location in Randers makes it easily accessible to residents and tourists alike. Most significantly, admission is completely free, removing financial barriers to cultural engagement. This commitment to free access reflects a philosophy that local history and cultural heritage belong to everyone. The museum shop offers unique gifts and seasonal items, while the friendly staff and well-organized presentation contribute to a welcoming atmosphere. Though the building itself is modest in scale, the depth and quality of exhibits provide a rich educational experience that belies its size, proving that meaningful cultural institutions need not be grand or expensive to be valuable.Archives and Scholarly Resources
Beyond its public exhibitions, Museum Østjylland maintains extensive archives covering the three municipalities it serves. The Randers City Archive actively accepts donations of historical documents and materials from the public, preserving personal and family records that might otherwise be lost. This archival function extends the museum's impact beyond visitors who walk through its doors, supporting genealogical research, academic study, and community memory preservation. The museum also publishes an annual yearbook featuring cultural-historical essays and highlights from the region, contributing to broader scholarly discourse about East Jutland's past.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hotel Randers
0.3 km
Explore the rich tapestry of Danish and international design at Copenhagen's Designmuseum Danmark.
Sven Dalsgaards Plads
0.7 km
Randers' cultural epicentre honouring a Dadaist pioneer, where art, performance, and community converge.
Randers St.
1.2 km
Historic East Jutland railway hub connecting Denmark's east coast with modern InterCity services and comprehensive traveler amenities.
Randers Railwaystation
1.2 km
Historic rail gateway of Randers, linking East Jutland’s river town with Aarhus, Aalborg and Copenhagen from a compact, practical 19th‑century station hub.
Gravhøjen i Fladbro Dyrehave
5.4 km
Stone Age burial mound in a serene deer forest, where ancient history meets wild nature.
Mariager Church
21.2 km
A towering former abbey church above Mariager Fjord, where Gothic brickwork, noble tombs and a distinctive Aubertin organ keep centuries of faith and history alive.
Mariager Kirke
21.3 km
A lofty Bridgettine abbey church turned parish landmark, where Gothic stone, noble tombs and organ music tell Mariager’s story above the fjord.
Hotel Postgaarden Mariager
21.5 km
Experience historic Danish charm and modern comfort at Hotel Postgaarden Mariager, nestled in the heart of the 'City of Roses' with easy access to Mariager Fjord's natural beauty.
Mariager Lystbådehavn
21.8 km
Denmark's most beautiful fjord meets a thriving sailing community in this welcoming maritime harbor.
Mariager Fjord
23.8 km
Denmark's longest fjord winds through pristine Jutland landscapes, offering unspoilt nature, charming villages, and exceptional outdoor adventures.
Restaurant BramslevGaard
24.6 km
Experience Danish history and gastronomy at BramslevGaard, a charming manor house nestled in the scenic Bramslev Bakker near Hobro, offering stunning views and French-inspired cuisine.
Hotel BramslevGaard
24.7 km
Experience tranquility and history at Hotel BramslevGaard, nestled in the scenic Bramslev Bakker by Mariager Fjord, offering gourmet dining, spa retreats, and easy access to Northern Jutland's natural wonders.
Hobro Lystbådehavn
24.8 km
Denmark's premier fjord marina with historic charm and modern comfort.
Havnø Gods
29.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Havnø Gods, a historic Danish farm estate offering a tranquil escape into the countryside, complete with scenic trails and a glimpse into traditional agriculture.
Hadsund Animal Garden
29.8 km
Discover a charming animal oasis in Hadsund: meet deer and goats up close in a family-friendly park offering a peaceful escape into nature and memorable animal encounters.
Unmissable attractions to see
Randers Stadsarkiv
0.0 km
Quietly tucked inside Randers Kulturhus, Randers Stadsarkiv is the city’s memory bank, preserving documents, photos and stories for curious minds and family sleuths.
Randers Kunstmuseum
0.0 km
Two centuries of Danish art, from Golden Age stillness to contemporary experiments, in a relaxed, culture-house setting in the heart of Randers.
Flodbyen Randers
0.1 km
A transforming waterfront where Randers turns to face its river and fjord, blending climate protection, green spaces and future city life along the water’s edge.
The Jutland Stallion
0.2 km
Discover 'Konen med æggene,' a bronze tribute to Randers' market heritage, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's poem.
Slotspladsen
0.2 km
A modest modern square layered over monastery, castle and bus hub, where white spheres, legends and everyday city life keep Randers’ history in motion.
Mindesten for Danmarks Veteraner
0.3 km
Embark on an interactive journey through Denmark's natural history at Tidsrejsen, Randers Regnskov's expansive outdoor exhibit.
Gaia Museum Outsider Art
0.3 km
Bold, emotional outsider art in a welcoming Randers museum where self-taught artists and unconventional voices take centre stage.
Konen med æggene
0.3 km
A graceful bronze egg seller on Erik Menveds Plads, uniting Randers’ market past, Hans Christian Andersen folklore and understated Danish sculptural style.
Museum Østjylland - Håndværksmuseet
0.4 km
East Jutland's authentic crafts heritage preserved in 24 reconstructed workshops—reopening 2027.
De Nordiske sten
0.5 km
A vibrant hub for Danish classic and contemporary art in the architecturally distinct Kulturhuset, Randers Kunstmuseum is a must-visit for culture seekers.
Tronholmparken
0.5 km
Sporty riverside lawns, sand courts and waterside paths where Randers meets the Gudenå and fjord, perfect for open-air workouts, casual games and relaxed strolls.
FDF museet i Randers
0.6 km
A small, free museum in Randers Kloster, tracing more than a century of Danish FDF youth life through recreated rooms, camp scenes, uniforms and rich archives.
KFUK-Spejdermuseum
0.6 km
A small, volunteer-run museum in central Randers preserving uniforms, badges and memories from a century of Danish KFUK girls’ scouting and campfire life.
Randers Regnskov
0.7 km
Step from Danish riverbank into dense tropical domes, Ice Age landscapes and Nordic wildlife at Randers Regnskov, a vivid zoo and nature story in one place.
Den Blå Bro, Randers
0.7 km
Experience Danish art from the 19th century to today in the architecturally striking Randers Kunstmuseum, the cultural heart of Randers.
Essential places to dine
Østergade
0.1 km
Elegant French-inspired fine dining in a historic Randers townhouse, where seasonal Danish ingredients, polished service and a calm, intimate atmosphere set the stage.
Take away Randers
0.1 km
Unfussy takeaway in the heart of Randers, ideal for a quick, central bite between shops, sights and an easygoing evening in town.
Café Blicher ApS
0.2 km
Cosy all-day café in central Randers serving breakfast, brunch, comfort-food classics and drinks in relaxed, modern Nordic surroundings on Gråbrødrestræde.
Restaurant Slotskroen Aps
0.2 km
Traditional Danish comfort cooking above Randers’ old streets, with hearty smørrebrød, classic pariserbøf and a cozy, candlelit atmosphere on the first floor of Slotsgade.
Café Cetini
0.2 km
Relaxed brasserie-style café in the heart of Randers, serving generous comfort dishes, coffee and casual meals from late morning through the evening.
Restaurant Lyokoi
0.2 km
Traditional Japanese sushi and cocktails in a historic Randers setting with all-you-can-eat dining.
Pepitos Pizza Grill
0.2 km
Homemade Italian pizzas and Mediterranean fare in casual Randers city center.
Jensens Bøfhus
0.2 km
Casual Danish steakhouse in central Randers, serving approachable grilled classics and family-friendly comfort food in a modern, relaxed setting.
Bistroteket
0.3 km
Unpretentious French bistro where refined cuisine meets genuine warmth in central Randers.
Det Glade Vanvid Randers
0.3 km
Seasonal fine dining with all-inclusive wines in a refined yet relaxed setting atop Randers.
Sis Kulgrill
0.3 km
Casual Turkish charcoal grill in central Randers, serving generous kebab, shawarma and chicken dishes with a cosy, unfussy local takeaway vibe.
Café Mathisen
0.3 km
A refined yet relaxed brasserie-style café in central Randers, serving seasonal Danish and European dishes in elegant rooms and a charming courtyard.
Restaurant Rebelsk
0.3 km
Modern steakhouse energy and hearty plates of flame-grilled beef and burgers on Randers’ central square, blending bold flavors with a relaxed urban bistro vibe.
Restaurant Clemens ApS
0.3 km
Intimate evening-only dining on Randers’ main square, where seasonal Nordic produce meets French-inspired technique in a calm, candlelit setting.
Suzumi
0.3 km
All‑you‑can‑eat sushi and grill in a bright, modern setting on a cosy pedestrian street in central Randers.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Miomio
0.1 km
An intimate third-floor design nook in central Randers, Miomio pairs Nordic home accessories with thoughtful gifts in a calm, curated upstairs setting.
Aaskov Modetøj Randers
0.1 km
Discover timeless elegance and contemporary style at Aaskov Modetøj, Randers' premier women's fashion destination.
Uldfisken
0.2 km
A warm, well-organized yarn store in Randers’ old center, where curated fibers, expert advice and Scandinavian patterns invite you to slow down and create.
Tøjeksperten
0.2 km
Randers' premier men's clothing specialist with 365-day returns and expert styling guidance.
Retail ApS
0.2 km
Contemporary fashion in the heart of Randers city centre
Hunkemöller
0.2 km
Modern lingerie, loungewear and swimwear in the heart of Randers, with fittings, friendly advice and a relaxed, body-positive boutique atmosphere.
Ønskehjørnet
0.2 km
A charming little “wish corner” in historic Randers, blending Scandinavian home décor with quality chocolates and delicacies for thoughtful gifts and cosy treats.
Only
0.2 km
Trend-forward women's fashion with denim expertise and accessible European style.
H&M
0.2 km
Central Randers high-street fashion stop for affordable basics, seasonal trends and quick wardrobe fixes in a compact, easy-to-browse H&M store.
CC: CHRISTENSEN Randers
0.2 km
Two stylish floors of men’s and women’s fashion on Randers’ main shopping street, blending Scandinavian brands, shoes and accessories in a relaxed city-centre setting.
AXEL W. NIELSEN A/S
0.2 km
Long-standing Danish homeware and hardware store in central Randers, blending traditional isenkræmmer charm with contemporary Scandinavian design brands.
Wunderwear Randers
0.2 km
Premium lingerie boutique celebrating individuality and comfort in Randers city center.
Mr Randers City
0.3 km
Central Randers menswear store offering curated Scandinavian styles, personal fit advice and versatile outfits for everyday life, business and special occasions.
Esprit
0.3 km
Modern, easygoing fashion in the heart of Randers C, offering wearable Scandinavian style for everyday city life and spontaneous wardrobe updates.
Lundgaard
0.3 km
Contemporary Danish womenswear boutique in central Randers, offering curated Scandinavian styles, personal service and easy-to-wear outfits for several generations.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Randers Vandpibecafé
0.1 km
Authentic hookah lounge with cozy vibes, attentive service, and a loyal local following in central Randers.
Prima Café & Sportsbar
0.1 km
Central Randers sports bar and gaming lounge with big-screen matches, slot machines and casual snacks from morning until midnight.
Downtown Pub
0.1 km
Relaxed local pub in central Randers, pouring cold beer, showing the big games and offering unfussy, down-to-earth nightlife on cosy Slotsgade.
Cocktail Klubben
0.2 km
Experience Randers' vibrant nightlife at Cocktail Klubben, where expertly crafted cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.
Hotel Randers by Hornsleth, lounge and bar
0.3 km
Art‑driven lounge bar in historic Hotel Randers, mixing Hornsleth’s bold visuals with crafted cocktails and curated wines in the very heart of Randers C.
The Old Irish Pub
0.3 km
Lively Irish-inspired bar and late-night party spot in central Randers, mixing pub charm, sports screens, draught beers and DJ-fuelled weekend dance floors.
Zwei Grosse Bier Bar, Randers
0.3 km
Après-ski revelry and Alpine party spirit in central Randers—open late Thursday through Saturday.
Jagtbar Randers
0.3 km
Hunting-lodge themed bar and nightclub on Randers’ Storegade, blending cosy early-evening drinks with high-energy late-night partying and group celebrations.
Barrys Pub
0.3 km
British pub tradition meets Danish hospitality in Randers' most enduring social gathering place.
Rustik & Flamingo
0.3 km
Late-night bar and intimate nightclub in central Randers, blending casual drinks downstairs with an energetic upstairs dance floor on weekend nights.
Bar’ Rolig
0.3 km
Relaxed, game-filled bar in Randers’ Storegade nightlife strip, blending casual drinks, upbeat music and a cozy setting for groups, pre-drinks and late nights.
BAR2 Randers
0.3 km
Intimate late‑night bar on Storegade in Randers, serving straightforward drinks and loud party vibes from Thursday to Saturday in a compact, social setting.
Bar 1
0.3 km
An intimate, easy-going neighbourhood bar on Storegade, pouring classic drinks and local charm into late-night evenings in the heart of Randers C.
Randers City Bar
0.4 km
No-frills, central-nightlife bar on Storegade in Randers, ideal for simple drinks, loud music and spontaneous bar-hopping in the city’s liveliest street.
Storkereden
0.4 km
Denmark's cozy brown pub where tradition, warmth, and authentic hospitality converge on Kirketorvet.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Randers Rave
2.7 km
Compact, bass-heavy nightclub in Randers NØ, where an unassuming façade hides a late-night dance floor fueled by rave-inspired lights, DJs and high energy.
Buddy Holly
25.0 km
Late-night disco hub in central Hobro, where locals and visitors pack the dance floor to chart hits, lights and drinks until the early hours.
KLUB22
34.6 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at KLUB22 in Aarhus, where electrifying music and vibrant atmosphere await.
Cafe Paradis - Den Sidste
35.0 km
Unleash your nightlife experience at Cafe Paradis - Den Sidste, Aarhus' top destination for dancing, cocktails, and unforgettable memories.
DCD STUDIO
35.1 km
Experience the vibrant rock music scene at DCD STUDIO in Aarhus, where electrifying performances and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
equalclub
35.1 km
Discover the thriving nightlife of Aarhus at Equal Club, where music, dance, and unforgettable experiences come together.
Bernhardt Natklub
35.3 km
Discover Aarhus' premier nightlife destination at Bernhardt Natklub, where cocktails and beats create unforgettable memories.
Bar Smil Aarhus
35.3 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Bar Smil Aarhus, a must-visit night club and bar offering an unforgettable experience in Denmark's cultural hub.
London
35.4 km
Waterfront cocktail bar with twenty signature drinks and late-night dancing for adults 25+
LouLou Aarhus
35.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at LouLou Aarhus, a cocktail bar where creativity meets flavor in the heart of the city.
ZenZa Cocktailbar
35.5 km
Discover Aarhus' vibrant nightlife at ZenZa Cocktailbar, where expertly crafted cocktails and lively atmosphere await you.
Rustik Bar & Natklub - Aarhus
35.5 km
Dive into the pulsating nightlife of Aarhus at Rustik Bar & Natklub, where vibrant music and an electric atmosphere await.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Cultural Heritage
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
