Red Dot Design Museum: A Showcase of Innovation
Explore award-winning contemporary designs from across the globe within the iconic industrial setting of the Zollverein Coal Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Essen.
The Red Dot Design Museum, housed in the former boiler house of the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, presents a captivating collection of contemporary design. With approximately 2,000 exhibits from over 50 nations, the museum displays a wide array of award-winning products, ranging from household appliances to cutting-edge industrial equipment. Visitors are encouraged to interact with many of the exhibits, offering a hands-on experience that goes beyond traditional museum settings. The museum not only celebrates design excellence but also provides insights into the evolution of design and its impact on daily life. Special exhibitions and workshops further enrich the visitor experience, making it a must-see destination for design enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The Red Dot Design Museum provides a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of industrial history and innovative design.
A brief summary to Red Dot Design Museum
- Gelsenkirchener Str. 181, Essen, Stadtbezirke VI, 45309, DE
- +492013010460
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit on a Friday for 'Pay-What-You-Want' admission, allowing you to experience the museum while contributing what you feel is appropriate.
- Take advantage of the combined ticket option with the Ruhr Museum to explore both design and regional history at a discounted price.
- Check the museum's website for special exhibitions and workshops to enhance your visit and delve deeper into specific design topics.
- Explore the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the museum is located, to appreciate the region's industrial history.
- Utilize the free parking available at car park A2, which is closest to the museum, for convenient access.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Essen Hauptbahnhof (main station), take tram line 107 towards Gelsenkirchen. Alight at the 'Zollverein' stop. From the tram stop, follow the signs towards the Zollverein World Heritage Site; the museum entrance will be visible after a short walk. A single ticket within Essen (Preisstufe A) costs approximately €3.00. Remember to validate your ticket before boarding the tram. Alternatively, the Deutschlandticket, priced at €58 per month, provides unlimited travel on local public transport throughout Germany.
-
Driving
If driving, navigate to Gelsenkirchener Straße 181, 45309 Essen. Follow the signs for 'Zollverein'. Free parking is available at car park A2, which is the closest to the museum. Note that during major events, parking may be limited. The Zollverein parking deck on the coking plant charges €1.80/hour, with a day ticket costing €7.50; payment is by EC card only.
Discover more about Red Dot Design Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
0.1 km
Explore the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Essen, Germany, where industrial history meets contemporary culture and innovation in the heart of the Ruhr region.
Ruhrgebiet-Stadtrundfahrten
1.5 km
Explore the industrial heritage and vibrant culture of the Ruhrgebiet with guided tours that bring history to life.
Elisen Park
3.4 km
Escape the city bustle in Essen's tranquil Elisen Park, a green oasis offering relaxation and recreation for locals and tourists alike.
Engelbert Park
3.4 km
Discover the tranquility of Engelbert Park in Essen, where nature meets relaxation in a stunning urban oasis.
Kathirvelayuthaswamy Temple
3.6 km
Discover a vibrant Tamil Hindu temple in Essen, Germany, showcasing intricate South Indian architecture and offering a serene cultural experience for all visitors.
Brunnen auf dem Viehofer Platz
3.7 km
Experience the refreshing tranquility of the Viehofer Platz Fountain in Essen, a modern landmark offering a peaceful escape in the heart of the city's vibrant center.
Gemeinschaft der Franziskaner
3.7 km
Discover the peaceful charm of Gemeinschaft der Franziskaner, a historic monastery in Essen, perfect for reflection and tranquility amidst the city.
Meistersinger Park
3.9 km
Explore Meistersinger Park in Essen, a tranquil green oasis perfect for relaxation, picnics, and connecting with nature amidst the urban landscape.
Hauswand Gemälde Engelbertstraße
3.9 km
Discover Essen's vibrant street art scene at Engelbertstraße, where building walls become canvases for stunning murals, reflecting local culture and artistic expression.
Gralskreis Essen
3.9 km
Explore the tranquil Gralskreis Essen—a spiritual haven offering peace, reflection, and a unique insight into the Holy Grail Movement in vibrant Essen.
Grüne Mitte Essen
3.9 km
Discover Grüne Mitte Essen, a revitalized urban park connecting city and university, offering green spaces, water features, and a vibrant community atmosphere in Essen's heart.
Naturpfad Het Alloo
3.9 km
Discover the natural beauty and tranquility of Naturpfad Het Alloo, a perfect park for relaxation and exploration in Essen.
Crosses Church
3.9 km
Discover Essen's Kreuzeskirche: A historic church blending Romanesque Revival architecture with modern art, serving as a vibrant center for faith, culture, and community events.
Brunnen Fontänengasse
4.0 km
Discover Essen's enchanting Brunnen Fontänengasse: a unique blend of art, light, and water connecting Flachsmarkt and Viehofer Straße in the heart of the city.
The ceramic house
4.0 km
Discover Essen's architectural gem: The Ceramic House, a vibrant landmark showcasing intricate ceramic artistry and the city's innovative spirit, a must-see cultural icon.
Unmissable attractions to see
Zollverein UNESCO World Heritage Site
0.1 km
Discover the rich industrial history at the Zollverein UNESCO World Heritage Site, a cultural gem in Essen showcasing stunning architecture and engaging exhibitions.
Shaft XII
0.2 km
Discover Shaft XII, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Essen, Germany, celebrating the rich industrial history through stunning architecture and engaging exhibitions.
Shaft 1/2/8
0.2 km
Explore Zollverein Coal Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Essen, where history, culture, and industrial heritage come together in a stunning landscape.
Longest free standing escalator in Germany
0.2 km
Explore the longest free-standing escalator in Germany in Essen, a blend of modern engineering and urban charm amidst a vibrant cityscape.
Besucherzentrum Ruhr
0.3 km
Discover the Ruhr Visitor Center in Essen, where industrial heritage meets modern exploration in the UNESCO World Heritage Zollverein complex.
Ruhr Museum
0.3 km
Explore the dynamic blend of nature, history, and art at the Ruhr Museum in Essen, a must-visit destination for all travelers.
Kokerei
0.5 km
Discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kokerei Zollverein, where history, architecture, and culture converge in Essen, Germany.
Treppe ins Nichts
1.1 km
Explore the philosophical depths of Treppe ins Nichts, a unique stairway in Essen that challenges perceptions and inspires contemplation.
Phänomania Erfahrungsfeld
1.3 km
Discover hands-on science and interactive exhibits at Phänomania Erfahrungsfeld, the ultimate family-friendly attraction in Essen, Germany.
Kunstobjekte von Klaus Viehöfer
1.8 km
Explore the thought-provoking and innovative artworks of Klaus Viehöfer in Essen, a unique destination for art lovers and curious travelers.
Nashorntempel
3.6 km
Explore the Nashorntempel in Essen, a captivating sanctuary dedicated to rhinoceroses and wildlife conservation.
Wandgemälde
3.6 km
Discover the vibrant street art at Wandgemälde in Essen, where creativity meets culture in an open-air gallery of stunning graffiti.
Nordstern Park
3.7 km
Experience the natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Nordstern Park, an urban oasis in Gelsenkirchen perfect for relaxation and recreation.
Essen City Hall
3.9 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of Essen City Hall, a must-visit landmark in the heart of Essen, Germany.
Autobahn Unterführung
3.9 km
Discover the vibrant street art at Autobahn Unterführung, a unique cultural hub in Essen, showcasing the city's artistic spirit.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Über Tage
3.1 km
Experience exceptional local cuisine at Restaurant Über Tage in Essen, where every dish tells a story of tradition and freshness.
Restaurant Leander im GOP Varieté-Theater Essen
3.8 km
Discover culinary excellence at Restaurant Leander in Essen's GOP Varieté-Theater—where fine dining meets cultural entertainment.
Tandori Haus
3.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of India at Tandori Haus - an affordable gem in Essen specializing in authentic Indian and vegetarian cuisine.
Capobianco
3.9 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Capobianco in Essen - where every meal is a delightful journey through Italy's culinary traditions.
DER LÖWE Becker Gastro GmbH
4.0 km
Discover authentic Bavarian flavors at DER LÖWE in Essen's lively beer garden – where tradition meets taste!
Limbecker Restaurant
4.1 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Essen at Limbecker Restaurant - where culinary excellence meets warm hospitality.
Banana Leaf
4.1 km
Discover the essence of Malaysian cuisine at Banana Leaf – where every dish tells a story from Southeast Asia.
Frittenwerk Essen
4.1 km
Discover Frittenwerk Essen – where gourmet meets fast food with delicious fries and diverse toppings for every palate.
Restaurant Artemis
4.2 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine in Essen at Restaurant Artemis – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
Mr. Nam 68
4.2 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Mr. Nam 68 in Essen - where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Burger Brothers Essen
4.2 km
Experience gourmet burgers and vegetarian delights at Burger Brothers Essen – a culinary hotspot in the heart of Germany.
BLOCK HOUSE Essen
4.2 km
Discover delectable steaks and exceptional dining at BLOCK HOUSE Essen – where flavor meets hospitality in every bite.
L'Osteria Essen Kennedyplatz
4.2 km
Experience authentic Italian dining at L'Osteria Essen Kennedyplatz with delicious pizzas and pastas in a vibrant atmosphere.
MA Essen
4.2 km
Discover culinary excellence at MA Essen – where traditional German cuisine meets modern flair in a vibrant gastropub atmosphere.
HANS IM GLÜCK - ESSEN Kennedyplatz
4.3 km
Discover gourmet burgers at HANS IM GLÜCK in Essen – where flavor meets fun in a vibrant setting perfect for all food lovers.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Red Dot Store
0.0 km
Explore the Red Dot Store in Essen for innovative gifts and design treasures within the historic Zollverein UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Allee-Center Essen-Altenessen
2.8 km
Explore Allee-Center Essen, a vibrant shopping mall offering diverse stores and delightful dining options in the heart of Essen.
ruhrGEbiet by Form und Art
3.8 km
Explore unique souvenirs and local craftsmanship at ruhrGEbiet by Form und Art, the heart of Gelsenkirchen's artisanal culture.
Gindivi
3.8 km
Explore Gindivi in Essen for an unforgettable shopping experience filled with unique gifts and local treasures.
pauly.style
3.9 km
Discover unique fashion at Pauly.Style in Essen, a vibrant clothing store offering contemporary styles that reflect local trends and culture.
Dark Ages Gothic-Shop Einzelhandel & Versand
3.9 km
Discover a unique blend of gothic fashion, accessories, and shoes at Dark Ages Gothic-Shop in Essen, where style meets dark elegance.
HEMA Amsterdam
3.9 km
HEMA Amsterdam: A Unique Shopping Experience in Essen, Offering a Diverse Range of Gifts, Clothing, and Home Essentials.
NANU-NANA
3.9 km
Explore a world of creativity and unique finds at NANU-NANA in Essen, where every gift tells a story.
Rathaus Galerie Essen
4.0 km
Explore the vibrant Rathaus Galerie Essen, a shopping paradise with diverse stores, delightful eateries, and lively entertainment options in the heart of the city.
Bullet Shopping Center
4.0 km
Experience the essence of relaxation at Bullet Shopping Center in Essen, where premium hookah and vibrant social atmosphere await you.
Konsumreform Shop - Die Regalvermietung
4.0 km
Explore the charm of vintage fashion at Konsumreform Shop, Essen's premier destination for sustainable and stylish pre-loved clothing.
OLYMP & HADES
4.0 km
Discover the latest in fashion at OLYMP & HADES, a premier clothing store in Essen offering stylish apparel for everyone.
Kadence Store
4.0 km
Discover ergonomic and stylish computer desks at Kadence Store, the go-to destination for modern workspace solutions in Essen.
Oxfam Shop Essen
4.1 km
Explore Oxfam Shop Essen for unique second-hand clothing, books, and CDs while supporting a charitable cause in the heart of the city.
EuroShop
4.1 km
Explore EuroShop in Essen for unique gifts, home goods, and stationery at affordable prices. Perfect for souvenirs and everyday essentials!
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Panoptikum Gaststätte - Essen
3.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delectable cuisine of Panoptikum Gaststätte, a top pub and restaurant in Essen, perfect for tourists seeking local charm.
Don't Panic Club & Pub - Essen
3.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Don't Panic Club & Pub in Essen - a perfect blend of great food, drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.
CocktailChef Ruhrgebiet
3.7 km
Discover CocktailChef Ruhrgebiet, where innovative mixology and a vibrant atmosphere create an unforgettable cocktail experience in Essen.
Felis
3.8 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of live music and vegan cuisine at Felis, Essen's premier bar for a unique night out.
RazzBar Essen
3.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Essen at RazzBar, a stylish bar and lounge serving creative cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere.
Zum Pümpchen
4.1 km
Discover the lively spirit of Essen at Zum Pümpchen, a local pub offering authentic German cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere.
Sixthsense-Bar
4.2 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Sixthsense-Bar in Essen, where cocktails, ambiance, and local music blend for an unforgettable experience.
Temple Bar
4.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and extensive drink selection at Temple Bar, a beloved local hotspot in Essen, perfect for unwinding and socializing.
Teatro Lounge Bar - Essen
4.3 km
Discover the lively Teatro Lounge Bar in Essen, a perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment with great drinks and ambiance.
Jimmy's Bar - Essen im Handels Hof Hotel
4.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Jimmy's Bar in Essen, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Lil•Tiger Rooftop Terrace
4.7 km
Experience the best of Essen from above at Lil•Tiger Rooftop Terrace, where delightful drinks meet stunning views.
Daktari Cocktailbar
4.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Daktari Cocktailbar in Essen, where expertly crafted cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.
Freak Show Essen
5.1 km
Discover the whimsical charm of Freak Show Essen, a unique bar offering creative cocktails and an eccentric atmosphere in the heart of Essen.
Café Goldbar - Essen
5.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Café Goldbar in Essen, where eclectic decor meets a lively crowd and a fantastic selection of drinks.
Südrock rock pub - Essen
5.4 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Südrock Rock Pub in Essen, where live music, great drinks, and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable night.
