Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum in Riga: photos, reviews

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2025 Museums

The Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia, established in 1924, stands in Riga and offers an immersive dive into the nation's architectural and cultural heritage. With an average Google rating of 4.6, it promises an enriching experience. Set aside 2-3 hours to explore its well-preserved wooden buildings, windmill, and churches, all beautifully situated within a lush green landscape, especially stunning during the summer months.

Guided by Georg, an enthusiastic and knowledgeable historian, your journey through Latvia's past feels both informative and engaging. The museum is family-friendly, accessible via bus, Tram 1, or Bolt services, and features essential facilities like free parking, toilets, and a souvenir shop selling quality amber at reasonable prices.

During the visit in June 2024, the museum's charm was highlighted by the unique structures and expansive forest trails. Enjoy a delightful home-cooked lunch at one of the two cafes, offering drinks, snacks, and warm meals. The fairly priced entry fee of 4 Euros includes discounts for pensioners and students, adding to its appeal.

While the museum is a highly recommended summer destination, more English signage and additional open buildings would enhance the experience. Nevertheless, the winter night display and extensive walking trails make this a year-round attraction worth admiring.

Recommended visit time

2-3 hours

Features

Wheelchair accessible, Suitable for children

How to get here?

The nearest public transport options for your convenience.

Berģi

Bus stop 518 m walk

4.6

based on 5,910 reviews

Google

4.6/5 5,632 reviews

Facebook

4.6/5 278 reviews

Noemi Acuña

Hermoso

c10

Lieu magique à faire absolument, de préférence le weekend ou pendant les vacances locales si on veut qu'il y ait de l'animation. Peu de maisons étaient ouvertes lorsque nous sommes passés (fin juillet en semaine), mais cela nous a suffit. C'était très beau et calme, dans un environnement très verdoyant. Il y a même deux endroits pour manger (de vrais plats, pas juste des snacks) ! Seul problème, les moustiques ! Ils étaient très agressifs, il faut donc soit se couvrir soit amener une lotion insecticide pour les zones découvertes.

jürgen wagner

Das ethnografische Freilichtmuseum ist auf jeden Fall einen Besuch wert. Eingebettet in einen schönen Kierfernwald kann man auf 86 ha einen tollen Einblick in das bäuerliche Leben der Letten aus dem 17. bis 19. Jahrhundert bekommen. Allerdings hätte bei allem Nationalgefühl auch ein Hinweis auf die Gasamtstruktur des Landlebens welche ja geprägt war durch die großen Güter, dem Museum gut getan.