Far beyond the famous beaches and Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro is home to an architectural jewel that seems to be straight out of the future, and which is attracting more and more visitors. The Museum of Tomorrow, with its striking visuals and immersive exhibitions, is located in the revitalized Porto Maravilha area, in Praça Mauá, and has become one of the city’s busiest cultural spaces .
Since its opening in 2015, the museum has attracted millions of people and continues to surprise those who pass through. With a focus on science, technology and sustainability, the space offers interactive experiences that make visitors think about tomorrow, from the future of the planet to the advances that will transform our lives.
History of the Museum of Tomorrow
Designed by renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the Museum of Tomorrow is a work of art in itself, seemingly floating over the waters of Guanabara Bay, inspired by the forms of nature and designed to be sustainable.
The experience begins even before you enter, with the sight of a building that looks like something out of a science fiction movie. This space is much more than a traditional museum – it’s an immersive experience that brings together science, technology and sustainability to rethink the future of the planet.
What can you do at the Museum of Tomorrow?
The Museum offers a diverse program that combines permanent and temporary exhibitions, as well as educational and cultural activities , and workshops, debates, workshops and special events that complement the public’s experience. For information on the current program, we recommend consulting the Museum of Tomorrow’s official website.
Candlelight concerts at the Museum of Tomorrow
If you think the Museum of Tomorrow is all about science and technology, prepare yourself for a surprise: it transforms under the soft light of thousands of candles to host the Candlelight Rio de Janeiro concerts, with tributes to great names in music such as Coldplay or Vivaldi. The perfect opportunity for those who want to escape the routine and experience a magical evening.
If you’re looking for a special program, take note:
Facts and Curiosities
The main exhibition, divided into five main areas – Cosmos, Earth, Anthropocene, Tomorrow and Us – offers a deep reflection on the human impact on the planet and what we can expect for the future. You can explore themes such as climate change, technological advances and the relationship between human beings and nature in an engaging and educational way.
The Museum of Tomorrow has already received several international awards, including the Leading Culture Destination Award for “Best New Fields Museum” in 2016.
With adjustable solar panels and a rainwater harvesting system, the museum uses 9% less energy than a typical building, and its shape allows maximum use of natural light. It captures water from Guanabara Bay for its cooling system, reducing its environmental impact.
When to visit?
The Museum of Tomorrow is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10am to 6pm, with the last entry allowed at 5pm.
Is it accessible to people with disabilities?
Yes, the museum has the infrastructure to ensure accessibility, including ramps and materials in Braille.
Entrances
🎫 F ree admission on all national holidays, including: April 18, April 21, May 1, September 7, November 2 and November 15.
How to get there?
The Museum of Tomorrow is located in Praça Mauá, in Porto Maravilha, Rio de Janeiro. It is accessible by several bus lines, such as 474, 380, 396 and 307, with stops nearby.
For those going by car, the museum has its own parking lot, but with limited spaces. There are also paid parking lots in nearby streets. In addition, the museum is well connected to the VLT, making access easy.
Other cultural venues near the Museum of Tomorrow
In addition to the Museum of Tomorrow, the Rio Art Museum (MAR) is just a few minutes away and offers contemporary art exhibitions. AquaRio, the largest marine aquarium in Latin America, is also nearby.
Another highlight for those who want to explore Rio’s history, Cais do Valongo, a World Heritage Site, is an essential visit. All these spaces are easily accessible and complement the experience in the center of Rio.
The Museum of Tomorrow is one of the most innovative cultural spaces in Rio de Janeiro, combining science, technology and art. Whether for an unusual evening under candlelight or to learn more about climate change, artificial intelligence or sustainability, a visit to the Museum of Tomorrow is an enriching and essential experience for locals and visitors alike.