Universeum is a scientific experience centre located in central Gothenburg. It's a place where adults and kids alike can learn more about outer space, birdlife in the rainforest and the latest in artificial intelligence. The permanent exhibitions focus on health, water, different jobs, technology, space, the sea, the rainforest and reptiles. The centre also organises daily activities on a variety of topics such as the physics of the circus, dinosaurs in virtual reality and the chemistry of life. Note that in low season, activities may only be offered in Swedish, so be sure to check in advance before heading down. Universeum is a place where the entire family can learn something new in an entertaining way, although the exhibitions are primarily aimed at children aged between nursery-school and secondary-school age.

Beyond its educational outreach, Universeum is also Sweden's National Science Centre and this is not a title it takes lightly. The Science Centre has been awarded an environmental diploma and works in support of sustainable development and biodiversity. What's more, the entire building is climate-smart. Universeum is also involved in an EU project for sustainable forestry and smarter water management.

Universeum in Gothenburg - one of the highlights of 10 Things to Do in Gothenburg with Kids (Read all about Gothenburg here)

photo by Andrzej Otrębski (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified

What are the highlights of Universeum?

Universeum's expansive, larger-than-life rainforest tends to amaze visitors both large and small. Here you'll find animals from the heights of the Andes to the waters of the Amazon River. You'll have the chance to meet fascinating creatures such as sloths, Goeldi's marmosets and bicolour pied tamarins. Exotic birds chirp and sing from all around you, including larger bird species such as the majestic toucan. And if you aren't afraid of heights, you can make your way up into the treehouse and look out over the rainforest from above.

From the treetops to the depths of the ocean – another absolute must-see is the Aquarium Hall. Here you'll have the chance to get up close and personal with sharks and exotic, colourful fish such as orange clown fish and royal blue palette surgeonfish. Both of which the kids are sure to recognise from the Pixar films Finding Nemo and Finding Dory.

Ever wondered what it must be like to be an astronaut? Then be sure to visit the space exhibition at Universeum. See yourself make land on the moon, have a go at steering a lunar module, check out some equipment from the International Space Station and learn more about both mankind and the final frontier.

What else is there to do at Universeum?

If you've got the time, there is plenty more to do at Universeum. Get a closer look at some creepy snakes and dragon-like lizards at the Reptilarium. Kids can learn all about mixing colours, how soap is made and how pH values work in the Chemistry Lab. And the whole family will have the chance to show what they're made of in Universeum's cardio, balance and endurance tests.

Have you got a little one with you who loves playing and thinking about what they might be when they grow up? At Job Land, kids can dress themselves up and try their hand at different professions. Exciting activities are also held at lunchtimes most weekdays as well as opportunities to meet the animals. Meanwhile, older kids will be able to discover the latest digital technologies, build robots, deep-dive into exciting virtual realities and see what artificial intelligence can do.

Good to know about Universeum

Universeum is located in central Gothenburg, just over half a mile from the inner city and the popular shopping boulevard of Kingsport Avenue (or Avenyn as it's more commonly known). From Gothenburg Central Station, you can take the tram to the stop at Korsvägen Square which is just opposite Universeum. The journey takes around 10 minutes. Or if you decide to come down by car, you'll find parking on the road just in front of Universeum but be aware that spaces are limited. You might find it easier to get parked on Lundgrensgatan or Carlanderplatsen which are just 200 metres away.

The location of the science and experience centre is perfect for packing in a wide array of different family activities all on the same day. Universeum is located right next to the iconic Liseberg Amusement Park where you'll find both pulse-raising rides as well as quality entertainment and great food. Why not plan to spend a half-day at each destination? Or if you'd rather combine Universeum with other more laid-back and educational activities, then take a look at the Museum of World Cultures which is also located right next door. It is home to a great many child-friendly exhibitions and experiences about humanity and culture.

Universeum in Gothenburg

Location: Södra Vägen 50, 412 54 Gothenburg, Sweden

Phone: +46 31 3356400