3D anaglyph stereo image of outdoor museum exhibit with statues in The Hague

Museon Omniversum

Museon-Omniversum: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Historical Sites in The Hague

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Museon-Omniversum is a flagship cultural institution in The Hague, renowned for its seamless blend of science, culture, and immersive storytelling. Formed in 2022 through the merger of two iconic venues—the century-old Museon museum and the pioneering Omniversum dome theater—Museon-Omniversum has become a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and interactive education in the Netherlands. Centered around the theme of “One Planet,” the institution’s mission is to inspire global citizenship and sustainable action, reflecting the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) (Museon-Omniversum History, WhichMuseum, SDGs Den Haag).

Whether you’re planning a family day out, a school trip, or a cultural excursion, this guide provides detailed information on Museon-Omniversum’s history, exhibitions, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, travel tips, and nearby attractions.

Historical Evolution

Origins and Early Development (1904–1984)

Museon was founded in 1904 by Frits van Paasschen with the vision of engaging young people in science and culture through experiential learning. Initially operating from temporary locations, Museon found a permanent home in Hemsterhuisstraat in 1929. Throughout the 20th century, it became a leader in hands-on, informal science education and expanded its scope to include world cultures and sustainability (Museon-Omniversum History).

The Arrival of Omniversum (1984–2021)

Omniversum, the Netherlands’ first large-format film theater, opened in 1984 and introduced audiences to the IMAX Dome experience. The theater quickly gained popularity for its spectacular nature and science documentaries, often complementing themes presented at Museon.

Technological Transformation and Merger (2021–2022)

A major technological upgrade in 2021 replaced Omniversum’s traditional film system with digital 4K laser projectors, broadening its programming. In 2022, Museon and Omniversum officially merged, combining educational exhibitions and state-of-the-art dome films under one roof and adopting the “One Planet” vision (Museon-Omniversum History).

One Planet Vision: Sustainability and Education

Museon-Omniversum’s core mission is to promote sustainability and global citizenship, integrating the United Nations’ SDGs into its exhibitions and outreach (SDGs Den Haag, Museon-Omniversum About Us).

Key Exhibitions

One Planet Expo: A permanent, interactive exhibition where each zone represents one SDG, using hands-on displays to explore topics like climate change, biodiversity, and social equity.
One Planet NOW!: Focuses on current solutions, innovations, and visitor participation for a sustainable future.
Rotating Exhibitions: Frequent collaborations with organizations such as National Geographic bring topics like photography, energy, and global cultures to life.

Educational Outreach

Museon-Omniversum is dedicated to active learning for all ages, offering workshops, guided tours, and film screenings that encourage critical thinking and practical action (Museon-Omniversum).

Visiting Museon-Omniversum: Practical Information

Opening Hours

Museon Science Museum: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Omniversum Dome Theater: Daytime shows during museum hours; evening programs after 5:00 PM (only the Dome entrance is open after 17:00)
Confirm seasonal changes or special event schedules on the official website.

Ticketing and Pricing

General Admission: €15 (includes museum and one film)
Youth (4-17 years): €10
Children under 4: Free (on a parent’s lap in the Dome)
Discounts: For seniors, students, group rates, Museum Card holders, and various local passes
Evening Programs: Separate ticket required; Museum Card not valid for evening events
Book tickets online or at the entrance. For film choices, changes can be made at the ticket counter (subject to availability) (Museon-Omniversum FAQ).

Accessibility

Fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators and adapted restrooms
Free wheelchair reservations available
Assistance dogs welcome
Multilingual guides and assisted listening devices provided
Films are primarily in Dutch; English and other languages accessible via the Mobile Connect app (DenHaag.com)

Getting There

Address: Stadhouderslaan 37 (Museon), President Kennedylaan 5 (Omniversum), The Hague
Public Transport: Tram lines 9, 12, 16; bus lines 22, 24
Parking: Nearby parking garages; bike racks available
More information and maps on the museum’s location page.

Exhibitions and Activities

Permanent and Temporary Exhibitions

One Planet Expo & NOW!: Explore the SDGs through interactive, themed rooms and object displays (Museon-Omniversum Exhibitions).
Themed Rooms: Topics include the deep ocean, cosmos, and natural history, featuring items from the museum’s 330,000+ collection.
Temporary Exhibitions: Past highlights include “Pillars of Hope,” “Green Camera” (environmental photography), and National Geographic collaborations.

The Omniversum Dome Experience

Dome Screen: 180-degree panoramic screen with surround sound, offering immersive 45-minute films on science, nature, and sustainability.
Special Events: Evening programs, live performances, and multimedia shows (e.g., U2Two UV Live Tribute, Lemnis: Constellations).
Languages: Films in Dutch with options for English or original languages via the app.

Family and Educational Programs

Workshops and Guided Tours: Interactive activities for children, families, and schools; advance booking recommended.
Museon-Omniversum Southwest: Outreach location in The Hague Southwest for workshops in robotics, sustainability, and more (Stories of Purpose).

Amenities

Shops & Cafés: Museum shops (cashless) and two cafés by Juni Lekkernijen offer sustainable, vegetarian, and vegan food.
Lockers & Cloakroom: Free, unattended lockers for visitors.
Photography: Allowed in exhibitions (no flash); prohibited in the Dome during films.

Nearby Attractions

Expand your cultural itinerary by visiting:

Mauritshuis Museum: Home to Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring”
Kunstmuseum Den Haag
Panorama Mesdag
The Peace Palace
Binnenhof and Dutch Parliament
Scheveningen Beach

All are within easy reach and complement your visit to Museon-Omniversum.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the opening hours?
Museon: 10:00–17:00 daily; Dome: daytime and evening programs

How do I buy tickets?
Online or at the entrance. Choose films during checkout; changes possible at the counter.

Is the museum accessible?
Yes, for wheelchairs, assistance dogs, and visitors with special needs.

Is Museon-Omniversum family-friendly?
Absolutely, with dedicated children’s activities, family facilities, and interactive exhibits.

Can I watch films in English?
Yes, via the Mobile Connect or Audiala app.

What are the transportation options?
Tram, bus, car, and bicycle; see the directions page.

Recognition and Impact

Museon-Omniversum ranks among the top museums in The Hague for science, technology, and children’s education (WhichMuseum). Its interactive approach, commitment to SDGs, and innovative programming draw families, school groups, and international visitors. The institution is widely praised for its informative exhibitions and immersive films, with ongoing improvements ensuring continued excellence and accessibility.

Plan Your Visit

Visit Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours, longer if attending films or workshops
Tickets: Book online here
Newsletter: Subscribe for updates on exhibitions, events, and special offers
App: Download the Audiala app for interactive tours and live updates

For the latest information, always check the Museon-Omniversum official website.

Summary

Museon-Omniversum is a dynamic fusion of history, science, and sustainability—a must-visit for anyone in The Hague. From its roots in early 20th-century education to its current role as a leader in informal science learning and immersive cinema, the institution continues to innovate and inspire. With accessible facilities, a strong focus on the SDGs, and a prime location among The Hague’s historical sites, Museon-Omniversum offers an enriching, interactive experience for all ages. Plan ahead, book online, and make the most of your visit to this cultural landmark (Museon-Omniversum, WhichMuseum, SDGs Den Haag).