If you’re into urban art or just looking for something different in Amsterdam, the STRAAT Museum offers a unique peek into the world of street art, all housed within a sprawling, industrial building. We’ve heard plenty of rave reviews, and from what we gather, this place is a must-visit for those wanting to see street art in a new light—and it’s easy to see why.
What really draws us in are the massive collection of artworks by over 130 international artists and the fact that many pieces are created onsite, giving visitors a real-time sense of the street art scene. Plus, the museum’s location in a grand, listed building adds a layer of historical charm that’s hard to beat.
Of course, no place is perfect. The price point of $22 per ticket is reasonable considering the scale and quality of the exhibits, but it’s worth noting that food, drinks, and guided tours aren’t included if you want a more curated experience. Still, for those craving a bold, contemporary art fix, this museum hits most marks. It’s especially suited for art lovers, urban culture fans, or anyone looking to explore a different side of Amsterdam.
Key Points
- Largest street art museum in the world: Offers an impressive, diverse collection of over 150 artworks.
- International artists showcased: Features works by 130+ artists, including both emerging talents and well-known names.
- Created onsite: Many pieces are made in the museum itself, adding authenticity and a sense of ongoing street art evolution.
- Stunning architecture: Housed in a nationally listed, monumental building, adding historical context to your visit.
- Panoramic views & café: Don’t miss the rooftop deck for views of the city, and relax with snacks at the café.
- Flexible entry: Tickets are valid for one day, and with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, it’s easy to plan your visit.
A Closer Look at the Experience
What is the Museum Like Inside?
The moment you step into STRAAT, you’re greeted by a vast, warehouse-like space, which perfectly suits the urban art style. Its industrial, monumental setting amplifies the impact of the large-scale murals, sculptures, and installations. We loved the way the space feels both raw and curated—like walking into a giant, open-air street art project.
The collection reflects a broad range of styles, techniques, and motifs — from vibrant murals to intricate sculptures. You’ll find pieces that are bold, provocative, and full of energy. Many artworks are created on-site, giving you a real sense of the artists’ process, which is pretty special. This live creation aspect helps keep the experience fresh, as new pieces are added regularly.
The Artworks and Exhibitions
With over 150 artworks on display, you’re guaranteed quite a variety. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and large installations that sometimes stretch across entire walls or hang from the ceiling. Visitors have raved about the diversity—you’ll see everything from street tags to complex murals by world-famous artists.
Reviewers note that the exhibition does a good job representing both up-and-coming talents and established names. As one visitor shared, “I love street art and the stories behind the paintings, and this certainly didn’t disappoint.” The focus on contemporary urban art makes it more than just a gallery; it’s a vibrant, evolving scene captured within these walls.
The Museum Layout & Additional Spaces
Beyond the main hall, there’s the STRAAT Gallery dedicated to focused exhibitions that highlight the history and future of street art. It’s a good break from the large-scale pieces, offering in-depth insights and smaller works.
During your visit, don’t miss the panoramic deck. From up there, the views of Amsterdam are quite impressive, and it’s a perfect spot to relax and reflect on what you’ve seen. The café nearby is a welcoming place to unwind, although some reviews mention it can be a bit overpriced. Still, grabbing a drink or snack here adds to the overall experience.
More Great Tours NearbyVisiting Timing and Accessibility
The museum opens at 10:00 AM, except on Mondays when it starts at noon. This gives you flexibility depending on your schedule. Being wheelchair accessible, STRAAT makes an effort to welcome all visitors, which is important given its size and layout.
Night Visits and Lighting
One interesting tip: visiting the museum at night can be even more atmospheric. The artworks are lit with carefully designed lighting, creating a different, more dramatic perspective. It’s a quieter, more contemplative way to enjoy the art if your schedule allows.
How to Get There
Located in North Holland, STRAAT is reachable by a quick ferry from central Amsterdam—an experience in itself, as many reviews highlight. The ferry is free, leaving from behind the main train station, making it both convenient and fun. It takes about 5 minutes to get there, and the journey offers a nice view of the city from the water.
Value for Money
At $22 per ticket, the price feels justified given the size, quality, and uniqueness of the collection. Visitors like Roxanne and Olivia describe it as “outstanding,” praising the relaxed experience and the opportunity to see so many pieces at your own pace. The inclusion of onsite creation and diverse exhibits adds further value.
Additional Considerations
While the museum doesn’t include guided tours or food and drinks, the on-site café offers a decent place to recharge. Some reviews mention the café as “a delight,” though others note the prices are a bit high. If you’re interested in learning more about individual pieces, you might want to look for the free audio guide, available at the museum, which many find helpful.
Who Will Enjoy STRAAT?
This experience suits a broad audience: art lovers, urban culture enthusiasts, and those simply curious about street art. It’s particularly ideal if you enjoy large, open spaces and are interested in contemporary, street-led art forms. Families with older children or teens who appreciate modern art might find it engaging, but it’s not specifically tailored for small children.
The Bottom Line
Visiting STRAAT in Amsterdam is more than just a museum trip; it’s an immersion into the vibrant world of street art, housed in a historic industrial building that amplifies the urban vibe. The collection is broad, lively, and constantly evolving, making it a destination that’s worth the short journey from the city center.
The combination of large-scale works, onsite creation, panoramic views, and access via a free ferry makes it an accessible, memorable outing. It’s a place that invites you to see street art as a serious, expressive art form, rather than just graffiti.
If you’re after a relaxed, authentic experience that blends contemporary art with a bit of city adventure, STRAAT hits the mark. It’s especially good for those who want to explore Amsterdam’s modern cultural scene away from the usual tourist spots.
Amsterdam: Streetart Museum STRAAT Entrance Ticket
“I love street art and the stories behind the paintings and this certainly didn't disappoint. Great way to spend a couple of hours.”
FAQs
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, STRAAT is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the exhibits comfortably.
How long should I plan for my visit?
Most visitors spend about an hour to two hours exploring the collection at their own pace. It’s flexible depending on your interest level.
Can I visit the museum at night?
Yes, visiting at night offers a different experience, with artworks lit in a way that emphasizes their details and textures.
Are guided tours available?
Guided tours are not included in the ticket price, and there’s no mention of scheduled guided walks. However, you might find the free audio guide helpful.
What’s the best way to get there?
Take the free ferry from behind Amsterdam Central Station, which takes about 5 minutes and offers great views of the city.
Is food available on-site?
Yes, there is a café where you can grab drinks and snacks, though some reviews say prices can be high.
Is this experience suitable for children?
While primarily geared toward those interested in contemporary and street art, it may suit older children or teens with an interest in modern art. Small children might not find it as engaging.
What is the general feedback from visitors?
With a 4.8 star rating from over 1,750 reviews, visitors consistently praise the diversity, scale, and quality of the art, along with the relaxed atmosphere and stunning views. Many mention it as a highlight of their trip to Amsterdam.
In short, the STRAAT Museum offers a compelling look at the energy, creativity, and boldness of street art on a global scale. It’s a dynamic space that’s worth a detour from the typical tourist trail, especially if you appreciate contemporary culture and enjoy discovering new artistic expressions.
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