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National Military Museum Soesterberg
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The National Military Museum (Nationaal Militair Museum) is located on the grounds of the former Soesterberg Air Base and opened in 2014. The striking museum building features a massive overhanging roof and vast glass walls that offer views of the surrounding heathland and the historic runways. The institution was created by merging the Army Museum from Delft and the Air Force Museum from Soesterberg. Its extensive collection includes tanks, aircraft, helicopters, and a wide array of military equipment from throughout Dutch history. The exhibits focus on the role of the armed forces in society and the technological advancements in warfare over the centuries. Interactive displays and the chance to see military hardware up close make it a significant educational and cultural destination for visitors of all ages.
- Location: Utrecht, Netherlands
- Top sights: Nationaal Militair Museum · Uitzichtpunt Radarheuvel · Landgoedtheater de Kapschuur
- Nearby: Zeist (5 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 | 2 | 3 | 6 | 10 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 15 | 11 | 6 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 75 | 63 | 56 | 39 | 60 | 62 | 81 | 82 | 60 | 67 | 70 | 78 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The National Military Museum is fully open to visitors. You can explore both the indoor exhibitions and the outdoor area with large vehicles.
Typical hours
The museum is typically open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00. It is usually closed on Mondays except public holidays.
Photography
Photography is allowed in most exhibition areas without flash. Some special exhibitions may have restrictions - please follow the signs.
Time needed
Allow at least two to three hours for a visit. The extensive collections covering land, air, and water offer plenty to discover.
Combine with
Combine the museum visit with a walk in the nearby Soesterberg nature reserve. Zeist Castle is also a short drive away.
Getting there
The museum is located off the A28 motorway, Soesterberg exit. Free parking is available on site, and Soesterberg station is about a 20-minute walk away.
Insider tip
Make use of the free audio guide to dive deeper into the stories of the exhibits. Plan your visit on a weekday to avoid crowds.
Geography
Facts
- Opened in 2014 on the site of the former Soesterberg Air Base.
- Formed by merging the Army Museum and the Air Force Museum.
- The museum building features a dramatic 13-meter-high glass wall.
- Displays a collection of over 75 historic aircraft and helicopters.
- The roof spans an impressive area of approximately 110 by 250 meters.
- Houses rare military artifacts, including German V2 rockets.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town National Military Museum Soesterberg (10)
Herman van Veen Arts Center Gallery
Gallery in the Herman van Veen arts centre, with rotating exhibitions.
🌐 hermanvanveenartscenter.com🕒 Tu-Su 11:00-17:00
Landgoed De Paltz🌳 park
Park and estate near Soest, with forest and meadows.
Doolhof met kluizenaarsgrot
Labyrinth with hermit's cave, part of the De Paltz estate.
Numansbos
Nature reserve, wooded area near Soesterberg.
Keienhuisje
Viewpoint, small stone house in nature.
Ravenhorst
Nature reserve, heath and forest landscape nearby.
Zandbergen🏰 castle
Castle or manor house, historic building in the region.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is there to see in the museum?
The museum displays tanks, planes, and helicopters of the Dutch army.
Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes, there are many interactive displays and activities specifically for children.
Where is the museum located?
It is located on the grounds of the former Soesterberg airbase.
Can you see inside the planes?
You can look inside some selected exhibits during special events.
Is there a restaurant on-site?
Yes, there is a large restaurant with a view of the outdoor grounds.
National Military Museum Soesterberg: where is it located?
National Military Museum Soesterberg is located in Utrecht, Netherlands.
National Military Museum Soesterberg: what is there to see?
Highlights include Nationaal Militair Museum, Uitzichtpunt Radarheuvel, Landgoedtheater de Kapschuur.
National Military Museum Soesterberg: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
National Military Museum Soesterberg: why is it worth visiting?
The National Military Museum (Nationaal Militair Museum) is located on the grounds of the former Soesterberg Air Base and opened in 2014.
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