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Seurasaari Open-Air Museum: A Journey into Finland's Rural Past

Discover Finnish rural life through historic buildings and beautiful landscapes at this unique open-air museum on Seurasaari Island in Helsinki.

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Step back in time at the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, located on a verdant island just a short distance from Helsinki's city center. This unique museum showcases Finnish rural life from the 18th to the 20th centuries, featuring a collection of relocated historical buildings from across Finland. Explore traditional farmhouses, manors, and churches, offering an authentic glimpse into the nation's architectural heritage and cultural traditions.

A brief summary to Seurasaari Open-Air Museum

  • Monday 9 am-3 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-3 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-3 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-3 pm
  • Friday 9 am-3 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on the island's pathways and exploring the museum's grounds.
  • Visit during the summer months (May 15 - September 15) to access the interiors of the historic buildings and enjoy special events.
  • Check the museum's website for guided tour schedules and event listings to enhance your experience.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy on the island's scenic green patches, or sample treats at the museum café.
  • Take bus 24 from Helsinki city center for direct access to Seurasaari Island.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The most convenient way to reach Seurasaari Open-Air Museum from Helsinki city center is by bus. Take bus number 24 from the city center to the last stop, which is Seurasaari. The bus ride takes approximately 30 minutes. A single ticket costs around €3-€4 and can be purchased via the HSL app or from ticket machines. From the bus stop, it's a short walk across the bridge to Seurasaari Island.

  • Walking

    From Paciuksenkaari (reachable by tram number 4), it's about a 10-minute walk to Seurasaari. Follow the signs towards Seurasaari. Once you arrive at Seurasaarentie, cross the white wooden bridge to enter Seurasaari Island. Note that bicycles, scooters, and other motor vehicles are prohibited on the island itself. There is no cost for walking.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-sharing service from Helsinki city center to Seurasaari takes approximately 15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare for a one-way trip is between €20-€30. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Seurasaari bridge entrance. From there, it's a short walk across the bridge to the island.

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Discover more about Seurasaari Open-Air Museum

The Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, founded in 1909 by Professor Axel Olai Heikel, transports visitors to a rural landscape far removed from the bustle of modern city life. Situated on Seurasaari Island, the museum offers a unique glimpse into Finland's past, showcasing the country's diverse architectural styles and rural life from the 18th to the 20th centuries. The museum comprises 87 separate buildings relocated from various provinces of Finland. These structures include farmhouses, manors, windmills, a water-powered sawmill, and a church, each meticulously preserved to offer an authentic representation of its time. The oldest building is the Karuna Church, constructed in 1685-86 and brought to the museum in 1912. Visitors can explore the Niemelä tenant farm, the museum's oldest building group, dating back to the 1790s. The Kurssi farmstead illustrates weaving as a popular summer pastime. The Halla house displays the tradition of offering hospitality to itinerant workers. The island itself is a haven for wildlife, including various bird species, red squirrels, and hares. Seurasaari is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, offering a peaceful retreat and a chance to connect with nature. The island is open to the public year-round, with free admission, while the open-air museum requires an entrance ticket during the summer season, which runs from May 15 to September 15. During this time, visitors can explore the museum's buildings and yards, participate in guided tours, and enjoy events such as arts and crafts markets and family workshops. The museum also hosts Midsummer bonfires, a significant cultural event.

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