Red Dot Design Museum
Explore award-winning global design in stunning industrial settings. Touch, test, and be inspired by innovation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Red Dot Design Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore award-winning global design in stunning industrial settings. Touch, test, and be inspired by innovation.
"Design heaven inside a former powerhouse! The Red Dot Design Museum blends cutting-edge modern design with raw industrial charm."
🎯 Friday 'Pay As You Want'
Fridays are 'Pay As You Want' days, making it a budget-friendly option for experiencing award-winning design.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so comfortable footwear is a must for a full experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Award-Winning Products
Main Exhibition Halls
Discover groundbreaking designs that have won the prestigious Red Dot Award. From tech to furniture, see innovation come to life.
Interactive Displays
Throughout the Museum
Many exhibits invite you to touch, test, and experience the design firsthand. Sit in chairs, try gadgets, and engage with the displays.
Historic Industrial Setting
Zollverein Coal Mine Complex (Essen)
Housed in a former powerhouse, the museum's industrial architecture provides a unique backdrop for modern design.
Apple Hardware Collection
Specific Display Area
A notable collection showcasing the evolution of Apple's iconic hardware designs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Engage with the Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Friday 'Pay As You Want'
Fridays are 'Pay As You Want' days, making it a budget-friendly option for experiencing award-winning design.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so comfortable footwear is a must for a full experience.
⏳ Allow 2 Hours
Give yourself ample time to fully appreciate the exhibits and interactive displays.
📸 Capture the Innovation
The museum is a visual feast! Don't forget your camera or phone to document the incredible designs you encounter.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Friday 'Pay As You Want'
Fridays are 'Pay As You Want' days, making it a budget-friendly option for experiencing award-winning design.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so comfortable footwear is a must for a full experience.
⏳ Allow 2 Hours
Give yourself ample time to fully appreciate the exhibits and interactive displays.
📸 Capture the Innovation
The museum is a visual feast! Don't forget your camera or phone to document the incredible designs you encounter.
💡 Research Exhibits
For deeper understanding, consider researching current exhibitions or specific designers beforehand.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Red Dot Design Museum for its inspiring collection of award-winning designs and interactive exhibits, set against a unique industrial backdrop. While the hands-on nature is a highlight, some wish for more detailed explanations of the products' significance. The 'Pay As You Want' Fridays in Essen are a popular budget-friendly option.
"Design heaven inside a former powerhouse! The Red Dot Design Museum blends cutting-edge modern design with the raw industrial charm of the Zollverein Coal Mine Complex. Every corner showcases innovative products, from everyday gadgets to futuristic concepts, all winners of the prestigious Red Dot Award. The building itself is a work of art — a perfect backdrop for creativity. Whether you’re a design professional or just curious, it’s an inspiring, hands-on experience you won’t forget."
G. Alshaia
"I will start by saying that the Red Dot museum IS worth visiting. However….some feedback and notes for fellow visitors. Though there are some cool state of the art or certainly interesting items, I’m sorry but a “control system” or “car part” does not engage (key word of the day…) or inform me what in Earth it is for, good for them for earning a “design award”. A few videos are more helpful but besides being able to touch some things and sit on some chairs, for things to either be functional or actually explained! Also, for some of the items that can be “tried”, it’d actually be nice to be able to leave feedback on their design or functionality because I’d certainly never buy a modern Chinese fridge that’s impossible to open. Maybe some things are already out for sale in Beijing or Finland but a lot does not leave a wow impression from having plainly seen it at the museum. The cashier is friendly and knowledgeable, and I’m not saying the museum has to sell its soul to the corporations making these products, the wow factor should be the premises of finding out what innovation is"
eki, :*
"The Red Dot Design Museum is a fantastic spot for design lovers! The exhibits showcase award-winning products and innovative concepts from all over the world, from clever everyday items to visionary designs. The museum’s industrial-chic setting complements the modern displays and adds to the experience. I’d recommend giving yourself about 2 hours to really take it all in—you’ll want to explore each piece.
One thing that could be improved is the signage; it was a bit hard to find the entrance, so clearer directions would help. Also, while the museum shop is decent, it didn’t quite live up to the creativity of the exhibits—could be a bit more exciting. Overall, though, the Red Dot Design Museum is a unique and inspiring visit for anyone curious about the world of design"
Charlotte Brittain
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Red Dot Design Museum in Essen is located on the grounds of the Zollverein Coal Mine Complex. You can reach it by public transport; tram lines and buses serve the area. Parking is available on-site, but it can get busy, especially on weekends.
Yes, the Red Dot Design Museum in Singapore is generally accessible. It's located in the Marina Bay area, which is well-connected by public transport.
In Essen, public transport is recommended. In Singapore, it's easily reachable via MRT and bus services, making it convenient for visitors.
Yes, parking is available at the Zollverein Coal Mine Complex in Essen. However, it's advisable to check for availability and potential fees, especially during peak times.
Depending on your starting point, walking might be an option, especially if you are already exploring the Zollverein site in Essen or the Marina Bay area in Singapore.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary. Fridays in Essen are 'Pay As You Want' days, offering a flexible pricing option. It's best to check the official website for current admission fees and any special offers.
Opening hours can differ between the Essen and Singapore locations and may vary seasonally. Typically, museums are open daily, but it's crucial to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for weekend visits or during special exhibitions, to avoid queues.
Look out for potential discounts for students, seniors, or families. Fridays in Essen offer a 'Pay As You Want' model, which is a significant saving.
In Essen, Fridays are 'Pay As You Want' days, allowing visitors to contribute what they feel is appropriate for their visit, making it very accessible.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect to see award-winning products from around the globe, covering categories like furniture, consumer electronics, vehicles, and more. Many exhibits are interactive.
Yes, a key feature is that many exhibits are hands-on, allowing you to interact with and test the products. This is a highlight for many visitors.
Most visitors recommend spending at least 2 hours to fully explore the museum and engage with the exhibits.
Yes, the interactive nature of many exhibits makes it engaging for children, though some complex product explanations might be more suited for older kids or adults.
Information on guided tours can vary. It's best to check the museum's official website or inquire at the information desk upon arrival for availability and scheduling.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the exhibits. Always check for specific signage within the museum.
The museum's unique architecture, both inside and out, offers great photo opportunities. The displays of innovative products themselves are also highly photogenic.
Professional photography or videography usually requires special permission and may incur additional fees. Contact the museum directly for their policy on this.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around public attractions for safety and privacy reasons. Always adhere to local regulations regarding drone operation.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial, as some areas might be dimly lit to highlight exhibits. A wide-angle lens can also be useful for capturing the scale of the displays and architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for exhibits that are particularly tactile or visually stimulating. While some explanations might be complex, the sheer variety of objects on display, from toys to gadgets, will likely capture children's attention. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and allow kids more freedom to explore.
💰 Budget Travelers
Even on other days, checking for potential discounts or family packages can help manage costs. The value derived from exploring innovative designs and interactive exhibits often exceeds the admission fee, especially when considering the unique historical setting in Essen.
💡 Design Enthusiasts & Professionals
Pay close attention to the details of each exhibit, the materials used, and the functional aspects. Engaging with the interactive displays can provide practical understanding of design principles. Consider visiting during exhibition changeovers to see the newest award recipients.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Red Dot Award: A Legacy of Innovation
This constant refresh means that each visit can offer a new perspective on contemporary design trends. From everyday objects reimagined to futuristic concepts, the museum highlights how design impacts our lives in countless ways. It's a testament to the power of innovation and the pursuit of aesthetic and functional perfection.
Visitors often express a desire for more context behind the designs. While the interactive nature is a plus, understanding why a product won an award can deepen the appreciation. This is where the museum's role in educating the public about the design process becomes crucial.
Design Meets Industrial Heritage
The building itself, a former boiler house, has been masterfully adapted by renowned architect Norman Foster. Its industrial-chic aesthetic provides a dramatic backdrop for the innovative products on display. This setting not only honors the site's history but also emphasizes the evolution of design from industrial utility to contemporary artistry.
This blend of old and new is a significant draw for visitors, offering a multi-layered experience. It’s not just about the products; it’s about the environment in which they are presented, making the visit to the Red Dot Design Museum Zollverein a truly immersive experience.
Singapore's Design Hub
+1This location makes it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike, integrating seamlessly with other iconic attractions in the Marina Bay area. The museum acts as a platform for designers to gain international recognition and for the public to engage with the latest in design thinking.
While the Essen location emphasizes industrial heritage, the Singapore branch focuses on contemporary global and regional design, offering a slightly different but equally inspiring experience for design enthusiasts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit