I enjoyed Kunsthaus Zürich so much last year that I decided to bring back my entire family…but how did a six-year-old and two-year-old do at fine art museum? Surprisingly well. I recommend it.
Kunsthaus Zürich – Good For Kids?
One of my favorite parts of the museum is a room designed by Swiss artist Pipilotti Rist that provides an ethereal experience of lights and sounds in a 3D space. I could spend hours in here watching the lights change color and listening to the music change, as if to represent the changing seasons (it’s a bit difficult to describe – you must see it yourself). During my last visit, I loved how this room attracted “oohs” and “awes” from both young and old.
One of my main reasons for willing to bring the kids along was to see their reaction to this room. As expected, they were absolutely delighted by it. We spent 20 minutes watching the lights change colors and listening to the choreographed sounds.
That alone made the visit worthwhile: I had to drag them away.
But Augustine is finally to an age which he can appreciate art. Without giving undue preference to the Monet, Picasso, or van Gogh pieces, I asked him what he thought of different pieces, why liked them, and if he had any favorites.
His favorite? The statues…not the paintings, though he did like a painting by Joachim Patinir of the baptism of Christ by John the Baptist.
And of course (when pointed out) he loved the portrait of his namesake, Saint Augustine.
Even little Claire Marie did well, though after two hours both were ready to depart.
It was a beautiful, crisp winter day and my love for the city of Zurich continues to grow.
CONCLUSION
Is the Kunsthaus Zürich appropriate for kids? My answer is yes. Take them at an early age and expose them to the great masters. At the very least, they will love Rist room.
Any museums in Zurich that might be a bit more kid friendly like they have in the US?
None that I have found.
Matthew and all,
If you want to experience something truly magical, then go to Hamburg and visit Miniature Wonderland. The expansive model trains and especially the model operating airport are simply amazing and expertly executed. Plan to spend a whole day there – it is that big. This should be on the bucket list for those who love Planes, Trains and Automobiles. Google it and you will see what I mean. Your kids will have a ball – and so will you!
I love Hamburg (though very sorry that Park Hyatt Hamburg no longer open) and look forward to taking my family there.
The Marriott is just OK and walking distance to MW. It is a very historic city with a lot of WW2 nostalgia affected architecture. A lot to absorb in Hamburg.