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Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum

Discover Latvia's rural heritage at this expansive open-air museum showcasing traditional life, architecture, and crafts from across the country.

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Step back in time at the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia, just outside Riga. This living museum showcases Latvian rural life from the 17th to the mid-20th centuries. Explore traditional houses, farms, and workshops representing all regions of Latvia, set amidst a scenic landscape by Lake Jugla.

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Local tips

  • Visit during the summer months (May-September) to see folk artisans demonstrating their crafts.
  • Check the museum's event calendar for seasonal festivals and craft fairs.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the museum covers a large area with walking paths.
  • Consider booking a guided tour in advance to learn more about the history and culture of the buildings.
  • Enjoy a meal at the Priedes Krogs pub to taste traditional Latvian cuisine.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Riga city center, take "Rīgas satiksme" bus routes nr. 28 or 29, or trolleybus route nr. 31 to the "Brīvdabas muzejs" stop. Buses depart from Brīvības bulvāris. A single ticket costs approximately €1.50-€2. Alternatively, take Ekspress Ādaži buses in routes Rīga – Ādaži (6821), Rīga – Garkalne (6822), Rīga – Carnikava (6824), Rīga – Vangaži (6826) (bus stop “Brīvdabas muzejs”).

  • Taxi

    From Riga city center, a taxi to the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum costs approximately €8-€10. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Car

    From Riga, follow the A1 or A2 highway out of the city. Turn onto Brīvības iela, which leads directly to Brīvdabas iela 21, where the museum is located. Parking is available on-site. Parking fees may apply.

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Discover more about The Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia

The Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia, founded in 1924, is one of the oldest and largest open-air museums in Europe. Located a half-hour drive from Riga's city center on the shores of Lake Jugla, the museum offers a glimpse into the rural life of Latvia from the late 17th to the mid-20th centuries. Covering 87 hectares, the museum features 118 historical buildings relocated from all regions of Latvia: Kurzeme, Vidzeme, Zemgale, and Latgale. These buildings include farmsteads, fishermen's homes, and craftsmen's workshops, each filled with authentic tools, furniture, and household items. Visitors can explore the diverse cultural heritage of Latvians and other ethnic groups who historically lived in Latvia. From May to September, folk artisans demonstrate traditional crafts like pottery, weaving, and blacksmithing. The museum also hosts seasonal events, including Shrovetide, Easter, Midsummer, and harvest festivals. The annual Traditional Folk Art Fair in June is a highlight, drawing artisans and visitors from across the country. You can also find examples of work by artisans in the souvenir shop. The museum also has two sister sites in their original regions: Museum "Vēveri" in Vecpiebalga district and Fisherman-farmer's homestead "Vītolnieki" in Rucava district.

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