Ars Electronica Center
Linz, Upper Austria, Austria
Step into Austria's Museum of the Future in Linz, where art, technology, and society collide in an indoor space designed to provoke curiosity rather than passive…
What it's like here
Step into Austria's Museum of the Future in Linz, where art, technology, and society collide in an indoor space designed to provoke curiosity rather than passive observation. The Ars Electronica Center has been a pioneer in digital culture since its founding in 1979, and the current building—wrapped in a stunning 5,000-square-meter glass skin embedded with LED panels that transform the facade into a giant display—opened in 2009 as a landmark of innovation.
Inside, you'll encounter interactive installations that invite you to experiment with cutting-edge ideas. The Main Gallery houses "New Views of Humankind," organized into four thematic labs: Brain-Lab explores human perception and medicine, Bio-Lab focuses on biotechnology, Fab-Lab showcases 3D printing and rapid prototyping, and Robo-Lab investigates robotics and prosthetic systems. Whether you're watching a robot tend a virtual flower patch at the Telegarden entrance, stepping into immersive projection experiences, or testing emerging technologies, the museum challenges you to think critically about the future rather than simply observe it from behind glass.
Deep Space stands out as a signature experience—an immersive projection area where physical laws seem to dissolve. Elsewhere, you might interact with Musicbottles, experiment with voice-to-visual translation in the "Hidden Worlds" section, or strap into a virtual reality flight simulator. The museum spans multiple floors, from the ground-level entrance to basement installations, each revealing different dimensions of how technology reshapes human experience.
The building itself is part of Linz's designation as a UNESCO City of Media Arts, reflecting the city's deep commitment to media arts and digital culture. You can fuel your exploration at the CUBUS restaurant on the third floor, which overlooks the city, or relax in the Sky Media Loft café with views across the Danube and the main square—occasionally even the backdrop for local television broadcasts.
Whether you're visiting solo, with a partner, family, or friends, the museum is designed to engage across all ages and interests. An audio guide and guided tours (available in eight languages) help you navigate the layers of innovation, while photography is welcome, so you can capture moments of discovery. Plan for 1–2 hours for a focused visit or a half day to fully immerse yourself in the exhibitions and experiences.
Highlights
- Interactive Main Gallery with four thematic labs exploring the human brain, biotechnology, 3D printing, and robotics
- Deep Space immersive projection area offering 3D virtual environments
- Exterior glass facade with 1,100 LED-equipped panels that transforms into a giant digital display
- CUBUS restaurant with views over Linz and the Danube River
- Virtual reality and interactive installations throughout multiple levels, from robot-tended gardens to voice-to-visual translation exhibits
Good to know
The museum is wheelchair accessible with step-free access throughout. Wi-Fi is available, and you'll find parking, toilets, and a café on site. Photography is allowed. Audio guides and guided tours in multiple languages help navigate the exhibitions. Tickets are valid for 24 hours, and the museum is suitable for visits in the morning or afternoon.
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Questions people ask
What makes this the 'Museum of the Future'?
The Ars Electronica Center focuses on pioneering technologies, digital art, robotics, and artificial intelligence, inviting visitors to experiment with and critically examine emerging technologies and their impact on society rather than simply viewing static displays.
What is Deep Space?
Deep Space is an immersive projection area where visitors can experience 3D virtual environments, with approximately 10 people at a time able to step into worlds where conventional physical laws do not apply.
How long should I plan to spend here?
Most visitors spend 1–2 hours for a focused visit, though a half day allows you to fully explore the multiple exhibition levels and interactive installations.
Is the building accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the Ars Electronica Center has step-free and barrier-free access to the entrance and throughout the building.
Attributes & facilities
Experience
Accessibility
Last verified: August 20, 2026