K21 Kunstsammlung NRW Ständehaus
Explore contemporary art in a stunning 19th-century building, featuring the iconic walkable 'in orbit' sculpture.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
K21 Kunstsammlung NRW Ständehaus
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore contemporary art in a stunning 19th-century building, featuring the iconic walkable 'in orbit' sculpture.
"Incredible not only because of that fun part where you go to the upper floor and walk on a metal mesh, but because of all the works of art."
🎟️ DüsseldorfCard for Savings
Consider the DüsseldorfCard for free entry & travel. Highly recommended by visitors!
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
Don't rush! You'll want to explore the architecture and installations fully.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

In Orbit
Main Atrium
Walk on a giant, suspended net structure high above the atrium. An unforgettable, immersive art experience!

Ständehaus Architecture
Throughout the building
A stunning blend of 19th-century grandeur and modern design, with unique stairways and atrium views.

Temporary Exhibitions
Various galleries
Discover cutting-edge contemporary art from renowned artists in dynamic, rotating displays.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time
Check Exhibition Schedules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ DüsseldorfCard for Savings
Consider the DüsseldorfCard for free entry & travel. Highly recommended by visitors!
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
Don't rush! You'll want to explore the architecture and installations fully.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the multi-level space.
📸 Capture the Views
The atrium and staircases offer incredible photo opportunities.
Kunst in Düsseldorf
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ DüsseldorfCard for Savings
Consider the DüsseldorfCard for free entry & travel. Highly recommended by visitors!
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
Don't rush! You'll want to explore the architecture and installations fully.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the multi-level space.
📸 Capture the Views
The atrium and staircases offer incredible photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise K21 Kunstsammlung NRW Ständehaus for its stunning architecture and the unique 'in orbit' installation. The building itself is a highlight, offering beautiful views and interesting design elements. However, some find the rules within the museum to be quite strict, and the contemporary art may not appeal to everyone, with some noting it's not ideal for young children.
"Stunning building and setting. You are tied to the installations and unfortunately this in place when we visited didn’t fit our brief. We only just missed the ‘climbing on the roof’ which was incredibly well received.
There is some lovely works but not all matched the beautiful setting. It also wasn’t very child friendly.
We travelled here using the Düsseldorf card (purchased from the tourist office - which includes lots of attractions and all travel and is HIGHLY recommended)."
LASH Golf
"Nice museum. Nice environment. Share my favorite painting here, the style is very special. I asked chatgpt to repaint the Battle of Alexander at Issus (the fourth picture) in this style (the first three pictures). In terms of real creation, AI is still far behind humans."
Max Wu
"This place is incredible not only because of that fun part where you go to the upper floor and walk on a metal metal mesh, but because of all the works of art you'll find here. This museum is super big, make sure to come with enough time to see everything."
Alessandro Stefan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
K21 Ständehaus is easily accessible by public transport. Take tram lines U70, U74, U75, U76, U77, U78, or U79 to the 'Steinstraße/Königsallee' or 'Schadowstraße' stations, followed by a short walk. Many visitors also find the DüsseldorfCard invaluable for seamless travel and entry.
Yes, there are several parking garages near the Ständehaus, including the Königsallee and Graf-Adolf-Platz garages. However, public transport is often more convenient and recommended, especially if you have the DüsseldorfCard.
K21 Ständehaus is located in the city center, making it walkable from areas like the Königsallee shopping street. If you're exploring the Altstadt (Old Town), it's a pleasant walk or a short tram ride away.
The K21 Ständehaus is generally accessible, with elevators available to reach different levels. However, some installations, like 'in orbit,' may have specific access requirements. It's advisable to check with the museum directly for detailed accessibility information.
From Düsseldorf Airport (DUS), take the S-Bahn (lines S1, S11) to the main train station (Hauptbahnhof), then transfer to a tram (e.g., U70, U74, U75) towards the city center, alighting at a nearby stop like 'Steinstraße/Königsallee'.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, especially for special exhibitions. A combined ticket for both K20 and K21 is often available. Check the official Kunstsammlung NRW website for the most current pricing and any discounts. The DüsseldorfCard offers free entry.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for popular temporary exhibitions or during peak visiting times, to avoid queues. You can usually purchase tickets online through the Kunstsammlung NRW website.
K21 Ständehaus typically opens mid-morning and closes in the early evening. It is usually closed on Mondays. Always verify the current opening hours on the official website before your visit, as they can change seasonally or for special events.
Absolutely! The DüsseldorfCard includes free admission to K21 (and many other attractions) and unlimited public transport within the city. Many visitors find it a cost-effective and convenient option.
Yes, often a combined ticket is available that grants access to both K20 (Grabbeplatz) and K21 (Ständehaus). This is a great option if you plan to visit both locations during your trip.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted in most areas of K21. However, specific installations or temporary exhibitions might have restrictions. Always look for signage or ask museum staff if you're unsure. Flash photography is almost always prohibited to protect the artworks.
The 'in orbit' installation offers a unique perspective, especially from below. The grand atrium with its intricate staircases and the exterior architecture are also highly photogenic. Many visitors capture the interplay of light and shadow throughout the building.
Professional photography or videography usually requires prior permission from the museum and may incur additional fees. This is typically reserved for media or specific projects. Personal snapshots are generally fine.
Tripods and selfie sticks are usually not allowed inside the museum to prevent damage to artworks and to ensure a comfortable experience for other visitors. It's best to leave these items at your accommodation.
Visitors often share photos of the 'in orbit' sculpture, the striking architecture of the Ständehaus, and details of the contemporary art installations. The unique perspectives from the elevated walkways are also popular.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, K21 typically has a cafe or restaurant located within the Ständehaus, offering refreshments and light meals. It's a great place to take a break and enjoy the ambiance. Check their website for current offerings and opening hours.
The cafe usually serves coffee, cakes, pastries, and light snacks. It's a convenient option for a quick bite while visiting the museum, often with views of the atrium or surrounding area.
The area around K21, particularly near Königsallee and the city center, offers a wide range of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. You can find various cuisines to suit your taste and budget.
Generally, bringing outside food and drinks into the exhibition spaces is not permitted to protect the artworks. There might be designated areas where you can consume your own refreshments, but it's best to check the museum's policy.
While specific menus can change, most museum cafes offer a selection of vegetarian options. Vegan choices might be more limited, but it's worth inquiring directly with the cafe staff about their current offerings.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
The 'in orbit' by Tomás Saraceno is a large, walkable net sculpture suspended in the K21 atrium. Visitors can carefully walk on it, experiencing art from a unique, elevated perspective.
While K21 showcases contemporary art, some visitors note it might not be the most child-friendly museum. However, installations like 'in orbit' can be engaging for older children. It's best to gauge your child's interest in modern art.
To fully appreciate the art and the architecture, it's recommended to allocate at least 2-3 hours. Some visitors spend even longer if they want to delve deeply into each exhibition.
Yes, guided tours are often available, providing deeper insights into the artworks and the history of the Ständehaus. Check the Kunstsammlung NRW website for tour schedules and booking information.
Visitors should be mindful of museum rules, which may include restrictions on touching artworks, carrying large bags or jackets inside certain rooms, and using flash photography. Some visitors have found the rules to be quite stringent.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to prepare children for the type of art they will see and to focus on the more visually engaging pieces. Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow for a more relaxed experience. The DüsseldorfCard is also a great way to manage costs if you're traveling with family.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for combined tickets that include access to K20 as well, if you plan to visit both locations. Packing your own snacks and drinks to enjoy outside the museum can also save money, as museum cafes can be pricey. Prioritize visiting during free admission days or special offers if available, though these are less common for major institutions.
couples
Experiencing the 'in orbit' installation together can be a memorable and exhilarating activity. Afterward, enjoy a coffee or a light meal at the museum's cafe, or explore the upscale dining options nearby on Königsallee. The combination of art, architecture, and a pleasant atmosphere makes for a delightful outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'In Orbit' Experience
Navigating 'in orbit' requires a certain level of physical confidence. Visitors are often guided by museum staff to ensure safety and to manage the flow of people. The feeling of being high above the ground, with the intricate structure surrounding you, is truly breathtaking and unlike any other museum experience. It's a testament to how contemporary art can be both visually stunning and physically engaging.
Due to its popularity, there can be queues to enter 'in orbit,' and time limits are often imposed to allow everyone a chance to experience it. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable, non-slip shoes and to follow all instructions from the museum attendants. The experience is often described as exhilarating and a must-do for anyone visiting K21.
Architectural Marvel: The Ständehaus
Architects Annette Gigon and Mike Guyer undertook the extensive renovation, transforming the former state parliament building into a state-of-the-art museum. They preserved the building's historical character while introducing modern materials and spatial concepts. The interplay of light, glass, and steel creates a dynamic environment that complements the diverse range of contemporary art on display. The unique staircases and walkways within the atrium are not just functional but are architectural features in themselves, inviting exploration.
Visitors often remark on how the building's design enhances the art. The large windows frame views of the surrounding city, and the open spaces allow for the display of large-scale installations. The Ständehaus provides a beautiful and inspiring backdrop, making the visit to K21 a holistic experience of art and architecture combined. It’s a space that encourages visitors to linger and appreciate the details, both old and new.
Navigating the Collection and Exhibitions
The collection spans various media, including painting, sculpture, video art, and installations. Visitors can expect to encounter thought-provoking pieces that engage with current social, political, and cultural themes. The museum's approach is to present art in a way that encourages dialogue and personal interpretation, making it accessible to a broad audience. The layout of the galleries is designed to guide visitors through different artistic movements and concepts.
Social
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