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Museum of Tomorrow
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Landmark
The Museum of Tomorrow (Museu do Amanhã) in Rio de Janeiro is a cutting-edge science museum focused on sustainability and the potential future of humanity. Designed by the acclaimed Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, it was opened in December 2015 as part of the Porto Maravilha harbor redevelopment project. The building features a remarkable neofuturistic design, characterized by a cantilevered roof with mobile solar panels that move like wings to follow the sun. Its interactive exhibits use digital media to explore global themes such as climate change, population growth, and technological evolution. Ecological efficiency is a core part of the design, with the structure using water from Guanabara Bay for its cooling system and recycling rainwater. Located on Pier Mauá, the museum has expansive views of the bay and has received numerous international awards for its architecture and environmental commitment. It serves as a visual icon of Rio's modern urban renewal.
- Location: Brazil
- Top sights: Morro do Ouro · Morro do Cabaceiro · Morro do Zumbi
- Nearby: Niterói (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 22 | 22 | 21 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 23 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 208 | 152 | 173 | 101 | 71 | 49 | 45 | 42 | 69 | 108 | 220 | 232 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Museum of Tomorrow is open daily to visitors, except Mondays. The permanent and temporary exhibitions are accessible to wheelchair users.
Typical hours
The museum typically opens Tuesday through Sunday at 10:00 am and closes at 5:00 or 6:00 pm. Last entry is about one hour before closing.
Photography
Photography is allowed in exhibition areas without flash. In some interactive zones, photography may be restricted for conservation reasons.
Time needed
An average museum visit takes about two hours. Science enthusiasts should allow three hours to explore all stations.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby AquaRio or MAR (Museu de Arte do Rio). The area also gives nice walks along the bay.
Getting there
The museum is located in the port area (Porto Maravilha), reachable by metro (Carioca or Cinelândia station plus a walk). Buses and VLT (light rail) also stop nearby.
Insider tip
Visit the museum on a weekday to avoid crowds. The rooftop observation platform gives a fantastic view of Guanabara Bay.
Geography
Facts
- Opened to the public on December 17, 2015.
- The cantilevered roof extends 75 meters beyond the pier.
- It incorporates 5,492 mobile solar panels on its exterior.
- The building uses 9.2 million liters of bay water daily for cooling.
- It attracted over 1.4 million visitors in its first year of operation.
- The project was a central part of the 'Porto Maravilha' initiative.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Museum of Tomorrow (13)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Museum of Tomorrow about?
It is a science museum focused on sustainability and the future of the planet.
Do I need to buy tickets online?
Yes, tickets must be purchased exclusively online for fixed time slots.
Is there a day with free entry?
Tuesdays used to be free; check their website for current promotions.
Who is the architect of the building?
The futuristic building was designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava.
How much time should I plan for the visit?
Plan for about 2 to 3 hours to enjoy the interactive exhibits.
Museum of Tomorrow: where is it located?
Museum of Tomorrow is located in Brazil.
Museum of Tomorrow: what is there to see?
Highlights include Morro do Ouro, Morro do Cabaceiro, Morro do Zumbi.
Museum of Tomorrow: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Museum of Tomorrow: why is it worth visiting?
The Museum of Tomorrow (Museu do Amanhã) in Rio de Janeiro is a cutting-edge science museum focused on sustainability and the potential future of humanity.
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