If you’ve ever caught yourself humming Dancing Queen or secretly love belting out Mamma Mia in the shower, then you’re going to love this place. On a chilly winter day, I finally made my way to the ABBA Museum and let me tell you, it was one of the most joyful and surprising museum experiences I’ve had since moving to Sweden.
First Impressions
The museum is located on Djurgården, which is already a beautiful area to explore. Surrounded by other major attractions like Skansen and the Vasa Museum, it fits right in but has its own very unique energy. Even from the outside, the ABBA Museum feels playful and bright, with its signature golden letters and colorful posters.
Once you step inside, it’s clear that this is not your typical museum. It’s not about walking quietly and reading long plaques on walls, it’s more like stepping into a pop music time machine, with sparkles, disco lights, and actual music in the air.
What Makes It Special
One of the things I loved most was how interactive it is. You don’t just look at ABBA’s story, you join in.
You can:
– Record yourself singing along with ABBA in a virtual studio
– Dance with holograms of the band on stage (I did this… and yes, it was recorded!)
– Mix your own ABBA track in a mini sound booth
– Pose in their famous stage outfits (digitally, but still fabulous)
And for the true fans, yes, the original costumes are there too, and they are just as fabulous and shiny as you’d hope. The museum also tells the personal stories of each band member, Agnetha, Björn, Benny, and Anni-Frid, through video clips, interviews, and old home footage.
My Favorite Part
Hands down, the replica of the Polar Studio (where ABBA recorded many of their hits) was my favorite. It felt like being part of music history. I didn’t realize how involved ABBA was in the technical production of their music, it was so much more than catchy melodies. They were total perfectionists!
Also, seeing Björn and Benny’s handwritten lyrics and original instruments was weirdly emotional. There’s something special about being so close to the creative process behind songs that have traveled the world.
Good to Know
– You can buy your ticket online to skip the line (recommended during weekends or holidays).
– The museum is cash-free, so bring your card or phone for payments.
– Plan to spend at least 1.5 to 2 hours if you want to enjoy everything, especially the interactive parts.
– There’s a cute gift shop with ABBA-themed everything, T-shirts, mugs, posters, even glitter socks.
Even if you’re not a die-hard ABBA fan, the museum is a fun and feel-good experience. It’s full of music, color, history, and heart. And honestly, where else do you get to sing and dance in a museum without anyone judging you?
If you’re in Stockholm and looking for something unique, a bit nostalgic, and full of Swedish pop magic, this is the place. And yes, I left with Dancing Queen stuck in my head… and no regrets.
Hey,
Wow, this is like a Madame Tussauds just for Abba. Goes to show how important they are in their home country of Sweden.
To be honest I was never a huge fan of Abba, but I certainly appreciate why they why were and still are so huge around the world.
I am in the UK and they are still talked about on Eurovision when it is held each year, and they still play their songs in bars and pubs all over the country.
The museum looks like an amazing place to visit for the avid fan, and I am going to share this article with various members of my family who are huge Abba fans.
Thank you for sharing and keep up the amazing work on your website.
All the best,
Tom