The Arktikum Museum in Rovaniemi can easily be missed by visitors unfamiliar with its unique design. Unlike most museums where grand facades are prominently displayed, this architectural marvel’s most spectacular feature is subtly presented: a 172-meter glass tunnel that appears to burrow straight into the hillside before being directed like an arrow toward the Arctic.

This glass tunnel, when bathed in the low winter sun or illuminated by summer’s midnight glow, serves as a perfect introduction to Finnish Lapland for travellers. It can be seen as a symbol of what makes this region exceptional, a thoughtful blend of modern design with ancient wilderness, guiding visitors northward toward adventure.

Architecture That Tells a Story

The museum was designed by Danish architects Birch-Bonderup & Thorup-Waade, and the structure itself can be appreciated not just for its beauty but for its meaning. The famous glass corridor represents the region’s most distinctive feature: light. During summer months, sunshine floods through uninterrupted. In winter, darkness allows the structure to be illuminated from within, resembling a beacon in the Arctic landscape.

Visits can be made in both seasons, with each offering an entirely different experience. During winter’s blue twilight, standing inside the tunnel can be likened to being suspended between worlds. During summer’s endless day, the sunlight creates ever-changing patterns across the minimalist interior.

The building itself serves as the first exhibit, teaching visitors about Arctic light conditions before coats are even checked. Water elements have been cleverly incorporated both inside and outside by the architects, with the museum being positioned along the shoreline of the Ounasjoki River. When frozen in winter, a seamless visual connection is created between the museum and the white landscape beyond.

Your Northern Lights Launchpad

For traveller’s hoping to witness the aurora borealis, the Arktikum can be utilized as both practical and educational preparation. The museum’s exhibits explain the science behind this natural phenomenon in accessible ways that can heighten appreciation when the real thing is later observed.

After time is spent learning about northern light traditions across Arctic cultures, arrangements can be made with local aurora photographers who guide visitors to preferred viewing spots outside the city. The background knowledge gained at Arktikum transforms what might be perceived as simply “pretty lights” into a deeper, more meaningful experience.

It is generally advised that the museum be visited at the beginning of a Lapland stay. Not only is context provided for everything else that will be experienced, but the museum’s late closing hours (8 PM in winter) allow for a direct transition from cultural education to aurora adventure on the same day.

Surprisingly Kid-Friendly!

The words “museum” and “children” are not always considered compatible in travel planning, but Arktikum successfully breaks this pattern. Children who might typically avoid museums have been known to spend three enthralled hours here without expressions of boredom.

The success can be attributed to the interactive exhibits. Children are given opportunities to crawl into a replica of a traditional Sámi dwelling, try on indigenous clothing, and touch real reindeer antlers. The Northern Lights exhibit includes a simulation room where aurora displays can be “created” by children through the manipulation of particles on a giant screen.

The museum has evidently been designed with young visitors in mind, with exhibits positioned at various heights and numerous hands-on activities provided. Even the café is accommodating to smaller appetites with half-portions of traditional Lappish dishes offered, a perfect introduction to local flavours without the commitment to a full restaurant experience.

One particularly engaging exhibit allows children to “excavate” artifacts from different historical periods, after which findings can be scanned to learn more about each item’s significance. This activity has been known to inspire continued “excavation” throughout a Lapland trip (though hopefully only in designated areas where digging is permitted).

Timing Your Visit

“How much time should be allocated for Arktikum?” is perhaps the most frequently asked question when Rovaniemi itineraries are being planned. The straightforward answer: more than might initially be anticipated.

At least two hours should be set aside for a satisfying visit. When the museum is rushed through in less time, the contemplative aspects that make Arktikum special may be missed. The building was designed with numerous seating areas overlooking the river or glass tunnel, ideal locations for visitors to absorb what has been learned before proceeding to the next exhibit.

If children are included in the visit, closer to three hours might be necessary, taking into account their pace through interactive displays and inevitable return visits to favourite activities. Fortunately, the museum’s layout allows adults to enjoy nearby exhibits while children spend additional time in areas designed specifically for them.

Winter visitors might consider arriving around 2 PM. This timing allows the museum to be experienced first in what little daylight exists, then the stunning transition can be witnessed as darkness falls and the glass corridor is illuminated against the snow. In summer, timing is less critical given the constant light, though evening visits typically mean fewer crowds.

Beyond the Exhibits

While the permanent and temporary exhibitions form Arktikum’s core, the museum’s excellent café and shop should not be overlooked. Unlike many museum restaurants that are treated as afterthoughts, Arktikum’s café serves authentic Lappish cuisine worthy of being experienced on its own merits.

The creamy salmon soup with local rye bread can be particularly appreciated, a perfect warming lunch after morning explorations. Large windows overlooking the river make dining here an integral part of the Arctic immersion experience.

The museum shop is also noteworthy, as items from local artisans are stocked rather than generic souvenirs. Everything from handcrafted wooden kuksa cups to modern Finnish design objects can be found. The shop is especially well-regarded for children’s books about the Arctic in multiple languages.

Practical Matters

Arktikum sits about a 15-minute walk from Rovaniemi’s center – pleasant in summer but potentially challenging in winter’s deep snow. Taxis are readily available, and public buses stop nearby. 

Ticket prices include both museums, with children under 15 receiving significant discounts. Family tickets offer the best value.

For the most enriching experience, it is suggested that you book one of the guided tours offered several times daily in multiple languages. Guides bring local perspective that deepens understanding of the exhibits and often share personal stories about life in the Arctic that you won’t find on information panels.

A Beginning, Not an End

Perhaps what is most important about Arktikum is how it serves not as a substitute for experiencing the Arctic, but as an invitation to explore further. After visiting, you’ll understand why local traditions developed as they did, why the environment demands respect, and why northern communities face unique challenges in a changing world.

This context transforms everything else you’ll do in Lapland; whether it’s meeting reindeer, sleeping in ice hotels, or watching those magical northern lights dance across the sky. Understanding deepens appreciation, turning tourist activities into meaningful connections.

Start your Lapland adventure at Arktikum, then step outside and experience the real thing. The Arctic is waiting!