Liikuntamylly

Liikuntamylly Helsinki: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Liikuntamylly, situated in the lively Myllypuro district of eastern Helsinki, is more than just an indoor sports center—it’s a dynamic community hub, a model of adaptive reuse, and an exemplary piece of Finnish functionalist architecture. Since its opening in 1979, Liikuntamylly (meaning “Sports Mill”) has evolved from an industrial facility into one of Finland’s leading centers for sports, wellness, and social inclusion. This guide details Liikuntamylly’s historical and architectural significance, outlines practical visitor information, and highlights its key role in Helsinki’s urban and cultural life (palvelukartta.hel.fi; City of Helsinki).

Historical Background
Architectural Significance
Visitor Information
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations
References

Historical Background

Origins and Urban Context

Liikuntamylly is located in Myllypuro, a district with post-war roots reflecting Helsinki’s expansion and modernization. The building itself symbolizes Helsinki’s innovative approach to urban renewal: originally an industrial structure, it was repurposed in the late 1980s into a multi-use sports facility as part of city-led efforts to promote public health, year-round recreation, and social integration (palvelukartta.hel.fi).

Transformation into a National Sports Center

Today, Liikuntamylly is recognized as a national indoor training center for track and field, with 12,060 square meters of adaptable space catering to a wide spectrum of sports and fitness activities. It supports both elite athletes and the general public, hosting athletic clubs, competitions, and community programs. This dual focus reflects Helsinki’s commitment to fostering both grassroots and high-performance sports (suomi.fi).

Beyond athletics, Liikuntamylly serves as a vital meeting place for people of all ages and backgrounds. Its inclusive programming—spanning youth leagues, senior fitness, and adaptive sports—enhances accessibility and social cohesion. During Helsinki’s long winters, it offers invaluable opportunities for physical activity and communal engagement, reinforcing its role as a pillar of neighborhood identity and well-being (palvelukartta.hel.fi).

Architectural Significance

Design Philosophy and Facilities

Liikuntamylly’s architecture exemplifies Finnish functionalism, with a focus on open, flexible spaces that accommodate diverse sporting needs. The layout maximizes usability, featuring:

A full-sized indoor athletics track
Courts for basketball, volleyball, badminton, and floorball
Dedicated areas for martial arts, wrestling, and climbing
Modern gyms for strength and cardio training
Multipurpose rooms for group exercise, dance, and meetings (discoveringfinland.com)

Natural light, intuitive signage, and logical circulation contribute to a welcoming user experience.

Accessibility and Universal Design

Liikuntamylly is fully barrier-free, with step-free entrances, accessible parking, elevators, adapted restrooms, and tactile guidance for the visually impaired. These features reflect Helsinki’s ethos of universal design, ensuring equal access for all visitors (palvelukartta.hel.fi).

Urban Integration and Sustainability

Strategically located next to Myllypuro metro station and served by multiple bus lines, Liikuntamylly is easily accessible by public transit, bicycle, and on foot. The building is constructed with durable, energy-efficient materials, aligning with the city’s sustainability goals.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours

Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Last entry: One hour before closing

Note: Hours may change during holidays or special events; always check the official site before your visit.

Tickets and Entry

Admission fees: Adults from €3.60; children from €2.10 per visit
Discounts: Available for students, seniors (50% off for 64+), and youth
Passes: 10-visit cards and monthly passes available
Purchasing: Tickets can be bought on-site or online

Some classes and events may require separate registration or additional fees.

Getting There and Travel Tips

By metro: Direct access from Myllypuro station (short walk from the exit)
By bus: Multiple routes serve the area
By bicycle: Connected to Helsinki’s cycling paths; bike parking available
By car: Limited parking on site; public transport is recommended, especially during events

Travel tips: Visit early or outside peak hours to avoid crowds; bring your own sports equipment if possible; check the reservation calendar for facility availability.

Amenities and Accessibility

Spacious locker rooms (bring your own padlock)
Accessible changing rooms and showers
Drink/snack vending machines
Free Wi-Fi throughout the facility
Multilingual staff and signage (Finnish, Swedish, English)

Special Events and Guided Tours

Liikuntamylly hosts regular events such as national athletic competitions, “SenioriSäpinät” exercise sessions for seniors, and community gatherings. Guided tours can be arranged for groups by contacting the city’s sports department. Check the event calendar for upcoming activities.

Photographic Highlights

Don’t miss the opportunity to photograph:

The expansive athletics track
The climbing wall
The building’s functionalist exterior juxtaposed with urban greenery

Nearby Attractions

Myllypuro Nature Park: Ideal for walking, cycling, and picnics
Metropolia University of Applied Sciences: Modern campus nearby
Myllypuro Shopping Center: Dining and shopping options adjacent to the facility
Helsinki Cathedral, Töölö Sports Hall, Suomenlinna Sea Fortress: Easily accessible via public transit for those exploring more of Helsinki’s historical and cultural landmarks (myhelsinki.fi; suomenlinna.fi)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Liikuntamylly’s opening hours?
A: Monday to Friday 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Last entry is one hour before closing (palvelukartta.hel.fi).

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Adults from €3.60, children from €2.10 per visit. Multiple-visit cards and discounts for seniors and students are available.

Q: Is Liikuntamylly accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the facility is fully barrier-free, with adapted amenities throughout.

Q: How do I get there by public transport?
A: Take the metro to Myllypuro station or use local buses. The facility is a short walk from public transport stops.

Q: Are guided tours offered?
A: Guided tours can be arranged for groups with advance notice.

Q: What else is there to do nearby?
A: Visit local parks, shopping centers, and key Helsinki cultural sites, easily reached via public transport.

Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations

Liikuntamylly stands as a testament to Helsinki’s vision of inclusive, sustainable urban living. Its transformation from an industrial site into a vibrant community sports center exemplifies the city’s innovative spirit and commitment to public well-being. With its barrier-free design, wide range of facilities, affordable pricing, and central location, Liikuntamylly welcomes both locals and visitors to experience the best of Helsinki’s sports and community life.