Museo del Pasillo Ecuatoriano
Discover Ecuador's soul through pasillo music at this free, interactive museum celebrating national heritage and iconic artists.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live music performances
Museo del Pasillo Ecuatoriano
Best Time
Live music performances
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Ecuador's soul through pasillo music at this free, interactive museum celebrating national heritage and iconic artists.
"A fantastic free museum to learn, listen, dance, and sing Pasillo!"
🎯 Free Admission!
Entry to the Museo del Pasillo Ecuatoriano is completely free, making it a fantastic budget-friendly cultural experience.
🎶 Live Music Fridays
Catch live pasillo music performances every Friday afternoon at 3:30 PM.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ecuadorian Pasillo Music
Immerse yourself in the history and soul of Ecuador's national music genre, a blend of waltz and indigenous rhythms.

Interactive Exhibits
Engage with music through dancing video games and curated listening stations for a fun, educational experience.

Julio Jaramillo Legacy
Discover the enduring impact of 'El Ruiseñor de América,' Ecuador's most iconic pasillo singer.

Live Music Performances
Experience the vibrant sounds of pasillo with live singing shows, often held on Saturdays.
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Planning Your Visit
Free Entry & Live Music
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Entry to the Museo del Pasillo Ecuatoriano is completely free, making it a fantastic budget-friendly cultural experience.
🎶 Live Music Fridays
Catch live pasillo music performances every Friday afternoon at 3:30 PM.
🎟️ Saturday Show Tickets
Tickets for Saturday singing shows are often distributed on Thursdays and Fridays. Inquire early!
📚 Guided Tours Available
Ask about guided tours to get the most out of your visit and learn about Ecuadorian music history.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Entry to the Museo del Pasillo Ecuatoriano is completely free, making it a fantastic budget-friendly cultural experience.
🎶 Live Music Fridays
Catch live pasillo music performances every Friday afternoon at 3:30 PM.
🎟️ Saturday Show Tickets
Tickets for Saturday singing shows are often distributed on Thursdays and Fridays. Inquire early!
📚 Guided Tours Available
Ask about guided tours to get the most out of your visit and learn about Ecuadorian music history.
🤝 Support the Music School
The music school upstairs is free; consider donating funds or instruments to support its operations.
⚠️ Check Opening Hours
Some visitors have found the museum closed even during stated hours. It's wise to confirm before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Museo del Pasillo Ecuatoriano for its free admission, engaging interactive exhibits, and the opportunity to experience live pasillo music. It's highlighted as a valuable cultural resource for learning about Ecuador's national music genre and its iconic artists. However, some have noted potential issues with same-day reservations and inconsistent opening hours.
"Opened in 2018... Not too big but the entrance is free...you can also enjoy some life music past 17 or so. Explanations in English, Spanish and Quechua"
Mario Egas
"Historical museum with an excellent collection of national ecuadorian music "Pasillo" that comes from vals mixed with local precolonial music.
There are interactive activities like a dancing video game or listening selected music. Every saturday we can enjoy a singing show, it is free but tickets are given on thursdays and fridays. We can found souvenirs to purchase too."
Miguel Teran
"New museum loaded with interactive exhibits and well developed content. It has quickly become a key cultural resource in the city centre, and the music school on the top floor is absolutely free of charge, including use of instruments. The public can support by donating funds or instruments for the school's use."
Ray Fankhauser
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in the historic center of Quito, making it accessible by public transport or a short taxi ride from many central locations. Many TikTok videos showcase free activities in the city center, suggesting it's a well-connected area.
Parking in Quito's historic center can be challenging. It's often recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services to reach the museum.
If you are staying in or near the historic center of Quito, walking to the Museo del Pasillo Ecuatoriano is a pleasant option, allowing you to explore the surrounding area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Museo del Pasillo Ecuatoriano offers free admission to all visitors, making it an accessible cultural experience.
Some reviews suggest that same-day reservations might not be possible and that it's best to inquire about booking requirements in advance.
Opening hours can sometimes be inconsistent, with some visitors reporting finding the museum closed during stated times. It's advisable to check their official channels or call ahead.
Yes, the museum often hosts live music, including singing shows on Saturdays. Tickets for these may be distributed on Thursdays and Fridays.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore exhibits on the history of Ecuadorian pasillo music, learn about iconic artists like Julio Jaramillo, and engage with interactive displays such as dancing video games and music listening stations.
Explanations are available in English, Spanish, and Quechua, making the museum accessible to a wider range of visitors.
The interactive exhibits, like the dancing video game, can be fun for children, offering an engaging way to learn about music.
Yes, there are souvenirs available for purchase, allowing you to take a piece of Ecuadorian culture home with you.
Indeed, there is a free music school on the top floor where visitors can use instruments. Donations of funds or instruments are welcomed.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside the museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on exhibits or during special events.
The exhibits themselves, along with any live performances, offer great opportunities for capturing the vibrant culture of Ecuadorian pasillo music.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🎶 Music Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heartbeat of Ecuador: Pasillo Music
Visitors can expect to delve into the rich history of pasillo through a variety of engaging displays. The museum features interactive exhibits that allow you to not only listen to selected pieces but also to experience the music physically, with features like a dancing video game. This hands-on approach makes learning about the genre enjoyable and memorable for all ages.
Beyond the interactive elements, the museum pays homage to the legendary artists who have shaped pasillo music. A significant focus is placed on Julio Jaramillo, often referred to as 'El Ruiseñor de América' (The Nightingale of America), whose voice and songs are iconic. Learning about his life and legacy provides a deeper understanding of the genre's emotional depth and widespread appeal.
Experiencing the Museum: Beyond Exhibits
For those eager to participate, the museum also houses a free music school on its upper floor. This initiative provides access to instruments and learning opportunities, fostering the next generation of Ecuadorian musicians. Visitors are encouraged to support this valuable program through donations, whether monetary or by contributing instruments.
While the museum's mission is to share Ecuadorian culture, some visitors have noted that advance planning might be necessary. There have been instances where same-day reservations were not possible, and confirming opening hours is also recommended due to occasional inconsistencies. This advice, gleaned from traveler experiences, can help ensure a smoother visit.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit