Museums in Emmen: A List of the 7 Most Unique Museums
Planning a trip to a museum in Emmen? These museums will surprise and move you, bringing you closer to life in Southeast Drenthe—from stories about peat-cutting to Tibetan art. Many museums around Emmen are located on historic sites or in the heart of nature reserves. This makes it easy to combine a trip to the museum with a bike ride or a hike in nature.
Whether you want to learn more about Drenthe’s rich history or are interested in modern art, you’ll find small, unique museums full of character in and around Emmen. We’ve compiled a list of the most extraordinary museums for you.
Discover the most beautiful museums in Emmen
Old peat-mining villages and new art installations: you’ll find both in Emmen’s museums! In this area, you’ll discover the culture and stories of Drenthe—from the past and the present. These special museums in Emmen are one-of-a-kind and not to be missed:
1. Van Gogh House Drenthe
Vincent van Gogh stayed in Nieuw-Amsterdam/Veenoord in 1883. The Van Gogh House Drenthe now stands on the site of his room. In the museum, you can, of course, view that room. You’ll also learn more about Vincent’s daily life in Drenthe, his search for peace, and his interest in the simple lives of the people living in the peatlands. Additionally, you’ll find letters he wrote at the time and copies of his paintings from that period.
2. Industrial Narrow-Gauge Railway Museum
Erica is home to the Industrial Narrow-Gauge Railway Museum, located in the heart of an area where peat was once extensively harvested. At this museum, you’ll discover how people used narrow-gauge rail lines to transport blocks of peat right through the peat bog. You’ll see old locomotives, railcars, and tools that were once used on a daily basis.
The best part? You get to take a ride yourself on an original narrow-gauge train along a real track. Along the way, you’ll learn just how hard the work was and how important peat once was to this region. It’s one of the most educational museums in Emmen for all ages.
3. Museum of Contemporary Tibetan Art
Located in the heart of Rensenpark in Emmen is the Museum of Contemporary Tibetan Art—a unique museum in Drenthe! Here you can view works of art, ritual objects, and paintings from Tibet, Bhutan, and Nepal. All the art and historical objects are thoughtfully displayed in a serene space where you’ll naturally find yourself walking more slowly.
At this museum, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the rich Tibetan culture. It’s perfect for anyone looking to discover something new in downtown Emmen.
4. Janning Museum
In Nieuw-Schoonebeek, you can visit the Janning Museum. Here, a large collection of religious art tells the story of the faith and traditions of the past. Think of colorful sculptures, handwritten books, and relics. The collection was assembled by Father Janning. In keeping with the theme, the museum is located in a rectory: the former home of the priest, right next to the church.
The rooms are cozily decorated and make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. The museum is a peaceful place. Highly recommended for anyone who loves heritage with a personal story.
5. Brands Museum Collection
The Brands Collection Museum originated from Jans Brands’ personal collection. What began as a passion for books grew into a collection filled with everyday objects, documents, and unique finds. From old school supplies to rare books, everything has a story and is on display in Nieuw-Dordrecht.
As you walk through Jans’ former home, you can see his love for history. This museum is rightly called a treasure trove for anyone curious about everyday life in the past.
6. Museum Somewhere in the Netherlands
Museum Ergens in Nederland, located in Emmen, is a small but impressive museum about World War II. The uniforms, everyday objects, and documents tell personal stories from that time. Sometimes poignant, sometimes surprisingly relatable. A museum visit that moves you and makes you think, right in the heart of the city.
7. Sand-Spreading Farm
Schoonebeek is home to Zwaantje Hans-Stokman’s Hof, a museum and sand-spreading farm. At this historic site, you’ll learn about life on the sand dunes and the tradition of sand spreading. Through old artifacts, photos, and stories from the village, you’ll discover how people used to live and work in this part of Drenthe.
Guided tours are led by enthusiastic volunteers who know the area well. This museum is an ideal stop along the way during a bike ride around Emmen, especially if you’re interested in local history.
Combine museums, nature, and dining in Emmen
Are you visiting a museum in Emmen? If so, you’ll always find beautiful nature or cozy restaurants just around the corner. So you can easily combine a day of history or culture with a lovely walk or bike ride. Whether you’re walking through the greenery or relaxing on a patio—the choice is yours!
Tip: If you take a bike route from Erica, through Nieuw-Amsterdam to downtown Emmen, you’ll pass by several museums! Along the way, you can visit dolmens, peatlands, local markets, and charming villages.
Curious about current exhibitions?
Want to know what special exhibitions and creative workshops are happening this month? Emmen’s events calendar provides a clear overview of the latest offerings. Check out the list and plan your next museum visit right away!
Frequently Asked Questions About Museums in Emmen
What are the best museums in Emmen for kids?
A fun option is the Industrial Narrow-Gauge Railway Museum in Erica. Here, children can ride on old narrow-gauge trains and discover how people used to transport peat. The combination of technology, the great outdoors, and hands-on activities makes this museum both fun and educational.
Are the museums in Emmen easily accessible?
Absolutely! Most museums in and around Emmen are easily accessible by car, bike, and public transportation. Many museums offer parking right outside or nearby.
In the center of Emmen, there are several museums within walking distance of each other, such as DIEP in Rensenpark, the Nabershof, and the Museum of Tibetan Art. Planning to visit a museum just outside Emmen? Then take a bike or drive—for example, to Erica, Nieuw-Dordrecht, or Nieuw-Amsterdam.
Would you like to visit several museums in one day? Then a bike route through Erica, Barger-Compascuum, and Emmen is a great way to combine culture and nature.
Can you combine a museum visit with another activity?
Absolutely. Many museums are located in areas where there are other things to do as well. For example, you can easily combine a visit to the Van Gogh House Drenthe with lunch or a walk along the canal in Nieuw-Amsterdam/Veenoord.
