KunstCentret Silkeborg Bad
Contemporary art and nature converge in a historic health resort transformed into Denmark's most distinctive sculpture park experience.
A contemporary art center set within Denmark's oldest preserved health resort, KunstCentret Silkeborg Bad combines indoor galleries with an expansive sculpture park featuring over 45 artworks by Danish and international artists. Nestled on the shores of Lake Ørnsø and surrounded by forest, the venue showcases modern and interactive installations alongside rotating exhibitions, making it a distinctive destination for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Art Center
- Gjessøvej 40, Silkeborg, 8600, DK
- +4586816329
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to fully explore the sculpture park and woodland trails; the grounds are extensive and best appreciated on foot.
- Borrow the audio guide from reception for a self-guided tour of the sculpture park; it provides detailed context about individual artworks and artistic movements.
- Visit during spring and summer mornings for optimal light, blooming vegetation, and lower crowds; the natural setting enhances the art experience.
- Plan time to interact with the musical and playful installations throughout the park; they are designed for engagement and offer unexpected sensory experiences.
- Combine your visit with cycling on the repurposed railway tracks through the surrounding woodland for a fuller outdoor experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport from Silkeborg Town Center
From Silkeborg railway station, take local bus routes serving the Silkeborg Bad area. Journey time is approximately 10–15 minutes depending on service frequency and stops. Buses operate regularly throughout the day with reduced service on Sundays. Fares are covered by standard regional transport cards or single tickets purchased on board. The art center is accessible via the main bus stop near Gjessøvej.
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Bicycle from Silkeborg Town Center
Cycling is an excellent option from central Silkeborg, approximately 3–4 kilometers away via local cycling routes. Journey time is roughly 15–20 minutes on flat terrain. Silkeborg is a cycling-friendly town with dedicated paths connecting to the art center. Bicycle rental is available in town if you do not have your own. The route passes through pleasant woodland and lakeside scenery.
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Private Vehicle with Parking
Drive to Gjessøvej 40, 8600 Silkeborg using GPS or navigation apps. The art center provides on-site parking facilities for visitors. From central Silkeborg, the drive takes approximately 10 minutes. Parking is typically free or included with admission. The address is clearly signposted from main roads in the Silkeborg area.
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Guided Tour Arrangement
Groups may arrange private guided tours of the sculpture park by contacting the art center directly via telephone or website. Tours are customizable and provide expert commentary on artworks and artistic movements. Advance booking is required, typically 1–2 weeks in advance. Tour duration and pricing vary based on group size and specific interests.
Art Center location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Art Center
A Historic Setting Reimagined for Contemporary Art
KunstCentret Silkeborg Bad occupies Denmark's oldest preserved health resort, originally built in 1883 and now thoughtfully renovated to house a vibrant contemporary art center. Founded in 1992 as an independent institution with support from Silkeborg Municipality, the center has evolved into a significant cultural landmark. The transformation honors the site's historical legacy while creating a dynamic space for modern artistic expression, blending heritage architecture with cutting-edge curatorial vision.The Sculpture Park: Art Meets Nature
The sculpture park stands as the centerpiece of the experience, containing just over 45 sculptures positioned throughout beautifully landscaped grounds. While the two oldest pieces date to 1929, the majority were created following the art center's establishment, with significant expansion occurring over the past decade. The collection represents diverse artistic approaches—from classical figurative works to abstract sculptures, land art, and experimental installations—demonstrating how contemporary artists challenge traditional concepts of sculpture. Works by both Danish and international artists populate the park, each responding to and enriching the natural landscape of forest and lakeside setting.Interactive and Immersive Artistic Experiences
Beyond static viewing, KunstCentret Silkeborg Bad encourages active engagement with art. The sculpture park features interactive musical structures and installations designed for playful exploration, inviting visitors of all ages to participate rather than simply observe. The Pia Andersen exhibit represents a particular highlight, showcasing an extensive and surprisingly delightful collection of works by this contemporary artist. Rotating exhibitions of both Danish and international artists ensure the indoor galleries remain dynamic, offering fresh perspectives and introducing lesser-known creative voices to audiences.Landscape and Location
Situated at a location of magnificent natural beauty, the art center overlooks Lake Ørnsø and is surrounded by woodland. The setting itself becomes part of the artistic experience, with the interplay between human-made sculptures and natural environment creating a contemplative atmosphere. Old railway tracks, now repurposed for cycling routes, add another dimension to outdoor exploration, allowing visitors to combine art appreciation with woodland trails and recreational activities.Visitor Facilities and Accessibility
The center provides audio guides available for loan from reception, enabling self-guided tours of the sculpture park with detailed information about individual artworks. Public tours are regularly offered, and groups may arrange private guided experiences. A café operates on-site, though access requires an entrance fee. The expansive grounds encourage extended exploration, with comfortable footwear recommended for navigating the sculpture park and surrounding woodland trails.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Silkeborg Vesterskov mindesten
1.4 km
A modest memorial stone in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where forest tranquillity and wartime history meet in a quiet, contemplative woodland clearing.
Silkeborg Water Tower
2.0 km
A heritage-listed industrial landmark symbolising Silkeborg's textile manufacturing legacy.
silkeborg
2.7 km
Historic 1871 railway landmark connecting Central Jutland with frequent regional services and heritage charm.
Lovisehøj
3.9 km
A 73-meter forest hill with royal heritage and sweeping views across Danish lakes and woodlands.
Bølling Lake
9.6 km
A restored glacial lake offering scenic walks, excellent fishing, and peaceful nature immersion in central Jutland.
Himmelbjerget rutebåd
11.0 km
Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.
Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839
11.4 km
Denmark's first democratic gathering, 1839—where ordinary citizens claimed their political voice.
Store Troldhøj
12.6 km
A cone-shaped summit offering panoramic valley views and a climbing tree in Denmark's scenic lake district.
Randershøj
13.0 km
A scenic hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic vistas across Denmark's lake-filled landscape and forest-covered terrain.
Landal Søhøjlandet
14.5 km
Escape to Landal Søhøjlandet in Denmark's Lake District: Family fun, water park thrills, outdoor adventures, and tranquil nature await in this scenic holiday paradise near Silkeborg.
Jutland's Automobile Museum
15.7 km
Discover Denmark's automotive history at Jutland's Automobile Museum in Gjern, showcasing vintage cars and motorcycles from the early 1900s to iconic post-war models, offering a unique glimpse into the nation's motoring heritage.
Abbey Mill
16.4 km
Explore Abbey Mill in Skanderborg: A picturesque blend of history and nature, perfect for leisurely strolls and unforgettable experiences.
Øm Klostermuseum
17.9 km
Discover Denmark's medieval monastic life at Øm Klostermuseum near Ry: Explore ruins, gardens, and artifacts revealing centuries of history and brewing traditions.
Jutland
18.1 km
Discover Jutland, Denmark: Explore Viking history, stunning nature, and family fun on the mainland peninsula, offering an authentic Danish experience.
Mossø
20.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Mossø, Denmark's third-largest lake, offering hiking, watersports, and historical sites in the heart of the Danish Lake District.
Unmissable attractions to see
Silkebog skulpturpark
0.0 km
A quiet corner of Silkeborg where contemporary sculptures and woodland paths blend into an open-air gallery, inviting slow walks, reflection and relaxed art encounters.
Silkeborg Bunkermuseum
0.1 km
Step into an original German WWII bunker in Silkeborg and discover how a quiet Jutland hillside became the nerve centre of Denmark’s wartime occupation.
Silkeborg park
0.1 km
A tranquil sculpture‑studded green escape at Silkeborg Bad, where lakeside forest, gentle lawns and contemporary art meet on the edge of Denmark’s outdoor capital.
Stærke Storm af Thomas Dambo
0.5 km
A towering recycled-wood troll by Thomas Dambo, hidden in Silkeborg’s lakeside forest, where fairytale art, playful exploration and peaceful nature meet.
Kroghs Bænk
1.4 km
Central Jutland’s award-winning safari and wildlife park, where visitors can encounter exotic animals, participate in immersive experiences, and explore vast open landscapes.
MOSES
1.8 km
Discover leading Danish and international contemporary art in the heart of Silkeborg, with exhibitions, events, and a welcoming, creative atmosphere at Galerie Moderne.
Odderpassager
1.9 km
A low wooden boardwalk skimming Almindsø’s surface, Odderpassager lets you drift between forest and lake at Østre Søbad, half pier, half tranquil nature trail.
Badeanstalten
1.9 km
Denmark's most authentic bathhouse—a historic Nordic wellness sanctuary preserving centuries of bathing tradition.
Silkeborg Archive
1.9 km
Silkeborg’s collective memory, preserving documents, images and stories that trace the lakeside city’s journey from industrial outpost to modern municipality.
Galerie Moderne Silkeborg
1.9 km
One of Scandinavia’s largest modern art galleries, blending CoBrA masterpieces, contemporary works and a welcoming, free-to-enter space in central Silkeborg.
Knagerne Silkeborg
2.1 km
A small, protected pocket of old-growth woodland in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where crooked beeches, fallen trunks and deep quiet create an evocative forest escape.
Vægmaleri
2.1 km
Experience the tradition of Denmark’s lake steamers aboard Turbådene Himmelbjerget, a nostalgic boat journey bridging Ry, Silkeborg, and the legendary hill.
Scandic Silkeborg
2.1 km
Scandinavian comfort by the lake: a pool, forest paths and flexible spaces on Silkeborg’s tranquil green edge.
AQUA Aquarium & Wildlife Park
2.1 km
Freshwater worlds, playful otters and splash-filled playgrounds come together in Silkeborg’s lake-district aquarium and Danish wildlife park.
Museum Jorn, Silkeborg
2.2 km
Riverfront modern art sanctuary in Silkeborg, uniting Asger Jorn’s bold legacy, CoBrA masterpieces and hands-on creativity in an intimate, light-filled museum.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Spyd
1.8 km
Charcoal-grilled Turkish kebabs and Middle Eastern specialties in casual Silkeborg dining.
Ristorante Pizzeria Roma
1.9 km
Unpretentious Italian comfort in central Silkeborg, with stone-oven pizzas, generous pasta plates and a cosy, family-friendly dining room ideal for relaxed evenings.
Burger Beast Silkeborg
1.9 km
No-nonsense, juicy burgers with organic beef, soft buns and signature Beast dressing in a relaxed, central Silkeborg burger bar geared for eat-in and takeaway.
Green Habits
1.9 km
Fresh, fast and colourful bowls, wraps and burgers in central Silkeborg, where everyday “green” eating meets casual café comfort and easy takeaway.
Sabel - Restaurant og Bar
1.9 km
Seasonal cooking, crafted cocktails and intimate atmosphere come together at this central Silkeborg restaurant and bar with a cosy basement for private gatherings.
Orangeriet
2.0 km
Seasonal Nordic cuisine in a historic orangery surrounded by gardens and natural light.
Gl. Skovridergaard
2.0 km
Historic forester’s lodge turned serene hotel, restaurant and conference haven, wrapped in parkland with forests, lakes and Silkeborg’s cultural life close at hand.
Flamingo Pizza V/Aydin Wahab
2.0 km
Casual, central Silkeborg pizzeria serving generous family trays, classic slices and hearty kebabs in a straightforward, budget-friendly setting on Nygade.
Restaurant Piaf
2.0 km
Intimate French gourmet dining in the heart of Silkeborg, where southern French roots, seasonal Nordic produce and thoughtful wines create long, lingering evenings.
Okkels Silkeborg ApS
2.0 km
Organic Italian-style gelato, eco-conscious details and a warm neighbourhood buzz in the heart of Silkeborg’s cosy Latin Quarter.
La Casita
2.0 km
Colorful Mexican comfort food, tequila and hygge in a cozy, rustic cantina right on Bindslevs Plads in the heart of Silkeborg.
VIVI Mad- & Vinbar
2.0 km
Cosy Silkeborg wine bar and kitchen serving shareable plates, pizzas and a well-chosen wine list in an intimate, candlelit setting on Nygade.
Gusto Silkeborg
2.1 km
Savor delicious sandwiches, pizzas, and salads at Gusto Silkeborg – your culinary stop in the heart of Denmark.
Joci Sushi
2.1 km
Casual, central Silkeborg sushi spot with generous platters, warm purple-toned interiors and a strong takeaway culture on lively pedestrian Nygade.
Marco Polo - Silkeborg
2.1 km
Authentic Italian and Brazilian cuisine in cozy Silkeborg surroundings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pindhus.dk
2.1 km
Hand-curated Scandinavian design, gifts, and lifestyle treasures in the heart of Silkeborg.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
2.1 km
A compact burst of colorful Scandinavian design in central Silkeborg, perfect for quirky gifts, affordable homeware and playful everyday essentials.
Fair Retro
2.1 km
Curated mid-century and retro furniture in a cosy Silkeborg shop, where vintage Danish design, characterful lighting and sustainable home inspiration fill every corner.
Børnenes Kartel Silkeborg
2.1 km
A Scandinavian-style toy and children’s universe in central Silkeborg, where quality play, creative decor and family-friendly service turn shopping into a playful outing.
Boemo
2.1 km
A cozy Silkeborg lifestyle store where Scandinavian interiors, curated fashion and gallery art come together in one calm, design-focused space.
Mr Silkeborg A / S
2.1 km
Refined menswear boutique in central Silkeborg, combining Danish and international brands with attentive, style-focused service for business, casual and occasion wear.
Huset Lene Bak Silkeborg
2.1 km
Welcoming women’s fashion boutique in central Silkeborg, specialising in quality jeans, flattering fits and personal styling in a calm, uncluttered setting.
t.i.n.g.
2.1 km
Scandinavian design paradise in central Silkeborg, offering two floors of curated furniture, lighting, interiors and gifts in a calm, inspiring boutique setting.
Companys Silkeborg
2.2 km
Modern Scandinavian womenswear in a calm, central Silkeborg boutique, ideal for curated wardrobe updates between café stops and city-center strolls.
Bog & idé - Silkeborg Vestergade
2.2 km
Silkeborg's beloved bookstore and stationery hub since 1930, offering books, office supplies, and gifts.
Tenna Og Jens Kristian I/S
2.3 km
Family-run multibrand womenswear house in central Silkeborg, combining 400 m² of contemporary fashion, personal styling and Scandinavian labels on lively Vestergade.
Bustedwoman.com
2.3 km
Curated European fashion and personalized styling in Silkeborg's premier women's boutique.
Femilet
2.3 km
Premium Scandinavian lingerie and intimate wear for women seeking comfort, quality, and perfect fit.
b.young Silkeborg
2.3 km
A contemporary Danish womenswear boutique in central Silkeborg, offering accessible Scandinavian style, versatile outfits and relaxed, easy-going browsing.
Buksecompagniet
2.3 km
Independent Silkeborg fashion store mixing timeless Scandinavian basics, denim and footwear with seasonal trends for both men and women on lively Søndergade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bodega Hjørnet
1.8 km
A cosy corner bodega in central Silkeborg, where dim lights, cold beer and easy conversation capture the timeless charm of Danish bar culture.
Rabalder Bar
2.0 km
Cozy living‑room bar in Silkeborg serving affordable drinks, sing‑along hits and late‑night party vibes in a compact, homey setting.
The bar Silkeborg ApS
2.0 km
Intimate late-night bar on Nygade in central Silkeborg, mixing easygoing pub charm with nightclub energy from evening drinks to early-morning dancing.
Bifrost Sports Pub
2.0 km
Silkeborg's premier sports bar for live action, cold drinks, and vibrant nightlife.
Butchers Silkeborg
2.0 km
Compact late-night bar and nightclub in central Silkeborg, serving high-energy music, simple drinks and a youthful party vibe on weekend nights.
Sportspubben Målet
2.0 km
A cozy, no-frills sports pub in central Silkeborg, where big screens, cold beer and local chatter turn every match day into a shared living room.
Zwei Grosse Bier Bar
2.0 km
Alpine-inspired après-ski party bar with karaoke, beer pong, and group celebrations in central Silkeborg.
Cafe' Paradis
2.1 km
A compact, old‑school bodega in central Silkeborg, serving cold beers, local atmosphere and late‑night conversation in an unpretentious, lived‑in bar setting.
Roxy Malt
2.1 km
Irish-inspired Silkeborg pub with live music, quizzes, speciality beers and a cosy courtyard, blending retro charm with late-night energy in the town centre.
Kaffebaren
2.1 km
Neighbourhood-style coffee bar on Vestergade in Silkeborg, pairing carefully made espresso drinks and iced coffees with a cosy, Scandinavian-inspired atmosphere.
The Admiral Pub
2.2 km
Classic Danish bodega bar in central Silkeborg, serving inexpensive drinks and everyday atmosphere from quiet daytime pints to late‑night weekend sessions.
Café Kling Klang
2.2 km
Intimate, candlelit bar-café on Silkeborg’s Søndergade, blending everyday hygge, music and drinks in a laid-back neighbourhood atmosphere.
NO 21 -Tapas & vinbar i Silkeborg
2.7 km
Riverside tapas and wine bar with curated selections and panoramic river views in central Silkeborg.
Bakkens bodega
3.0 km
Unpretentious beer hall on Århusvej where locals, cold drafts and simple pub fare create a slice of everyday Silkeborg life from late morning to late evening.
The Smoke Pub
3.2 km
A classic Silkeborg bodega on Borgergade, where smoke, cold beer and easy conversation create an unpretentious local living room from late morning to late night.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
B'sharp - Silkeborg Rhythm Og Blues Association
2.1 km
Volunteer-run blues stronghold in central Silkeborg, where intimate weekend concerts, affordable drinks and close-up performances keep rhythm & roots music alive.
Team Paderborner
28.1 km
Nightclub entertainment in Denmark's scenic Dyrehaven forest and lakeside setting.
Piano Herning
33.9 km
Experience Herning’s vibrant nightlife in a cozy piano bar with live music, great cocktails, and classic Danish hospitality in the center of town.
Terminalen I/S v/Carl Erik Agnskov M.Fl.
33.9 km
Lively, affordable bar at Viborg’s historic center—Terminalen offers all-day drinks, local vibes, and Danish hygge for city explorers and socializers.
Vesterbro Pub
33.9 km
Vesterbro Pub offers an authentic slice of Danish bodega culture in central Viborg, where locals gather for affordable drinks, lively chats, and classic pub games.
Murphy's Pub
34.0 km
Traditional Irish pub in the center of Herning, Denmark, featuring welcoming atmosphere, live music, a variety of beers and whiskies, and lively sports viewing.
Bart
34.0 km
Stylish cocktail bar in central Herning, renowned for inventive drinks, cheerful ambiance, and generous opening hours—an essential stop for experiencing the city’s modern nightlife.
Mindegade5
34.2 km
Experience the heartbeat of Herning's nightlife at Mindegade5, where music, dance, and celebration converge.
Fermaten
34.4 km
Experience Herning’s vibrant music scene at Fermaten, the city’s top venue for live concerts, cultural events, and dynamic nights out in central Jutland.
ANDERS LAUSTSEN A/S
35.4 km
Compact, casual late-night bar and dance spot in Viborg, offering simple drinks, music, and a local Danish nightlife vibe just beyond the historic center.
Scandic Opus Horsens
36.5 km
A contemporary Scandinavian hotel in Horsens with spa, dining, and panoramic city-to-nature views—an elegant gateway to both urban and outdoor experiences.
Sölibat Natklub
37.8 km
Late-night, no-frills clubbing in central Horsens, where loud music, simple drinks and a compact dance floor create an unapologetically local party vibe.
Hemingway's Horsens
37.9 km
Late-night disco bar in central Horsens with a mature crowd, classic hits from past decades and a cozy-but-lively atmosphere every Friday and Saturday.
Morzybitten
37.9 km
Experience the essence of Danish 'hygge' at Morzybitten, Horsens' premier barista and beer bar with live music.
Kokomo Horsens
38.0 km
Three floors of colorful cocktails, big beats and tropical nightclub energy at the heart of Horsens’ weekend nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Entertaining
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Minimalist Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly