ABBA The Museum
Stockholms län
ABBA The Museum, located on the island of Djurgården in Stockholm, Sweden, is a permanent, interactive exhibition dedicated to the legendary pop group ABBA. Opened in May 2013, the museum showcases the band's extensive career through original costumes, memorabilia, and recreated environments such as the Polar Studio where much of their music was recorded. Visitors can engage with interactive audio and video stations, including a self-playing piano linked to Benny Andersson's home piano, and perform ABBA's songs themselves. The museum also features a recreation of the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest setting in Brighton and a folk park where the band first met. An audio guide written by Catherine Johnson, the screenwriter of the "Mamma Mia!" musical, provides personal stories from the band members. The museum is housed in a modern building designed by Johan Celsing Arkitektkontor, sharing space with the Backstage Hotel and located near the Gröna Lund amusement park. It offers a unique, immersive experience for fans and visitors to explore ABBA's cultural legacy and musical history in a contemporary setting.
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Tip: The best time to visit ABBA The Museum is during weekdays or outside peak tourist seasons to avoid crowds. It is advisable to purchase tickets online in advance to ensure entry and benefit from any available discounts. Visitors should allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the interactive exhibits. Audio guides are included and enrich the experience with band members' personal stories. The museum is easily accessible by public transport and is close to other attractions on Djurgården island.
Interesting facts
- •The museum features a self-playing piano linked to Benny Andersson's home piano, which plays simultaneously when he plays at home.
- •Visitors can call a special red phone that only the four ABBA members have the number to, creating a unique interactive experience.
- •The museum includes a recreation of the Polar Studio, where ABBA recorded much of their later music.
- •Original stage costumes from ABBA's 1974 Eurovision Song Contest performance are displayed alongside replicas.
- •The audio guide was written by Catherine Johnson, the screenwriter of the musical film 'Mamma Mia!', adding a personal narrative touch.
History
The idea for an ABBA exhibition was first proposed in 2006, inspired by the Beatles museum in Liverpool.
Initial plans to open in 2008 in Stockholm's former customs building were abandoned due to financial difficulties.
A traveling exhibition named ABBAWORLD toured Europe and Australia from 2009 to 2011.
Subsequently, a permanent museum was developed and opened in May 2013 on Djurgården, Stockholm.
The museum building was designed by Johan Celsing Arkitektkontor and shares space with the Backstage Hotel.
Since opening, it has attracted millions of visitors, becoming a significant cultural site dedicated to ABBA's legacy.
Place Guide
Polar Studio Recreation1970s
A faithful reconstruction of the studio where ABBA recorded many of their later hits, complete with original equipment and instruments. Visitors can experience the atmosphere of the band's creative environment.
Waterloo Room1974
This exhibit recreates the setting of the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest in Brighton, featuring original and replica costumes worn by ABBA during their winning performance.
Folkpark Exhibit
A recreation of the Swedish folk park where the members of ABBA first met and performed together, highlighting their early beginnings.
Benny's Piano
A unique interactive exhibit featuring a piano that plays itself when Benny Andersson plays his piano at home, connecting visitors directly to the band member's music-making process.
