The Story Train track was designed by artist Marit Törnqvist in collaboration with Astrid Lindgren.
The building was inaugurated by the Swedish Royal Family in 1996.
Junibacken hosts the annual Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award press conference.
The interior is intentionally designed with low ceilings and small-scale elements to favor a child's perspective.
Several of the permanent sets were crafted by professional stage designers from the Royal Dramatic Theatre.
Junibacken is a cultural center located on Djurgården island that celebrates Swedish children's literature, with a primary focus on the works of Astrid Lindgren. The centerpiece is the Story Train, a suspended indoor rail ride that transports visitors through miniature scenes depicting classic Lindgren stories like Pippi Longstocking and The Brothers Lionheart. The park features immersive, interactive play areas designed for children, including a recreation of Villa Villekulla. Rotating exhibitions highlight various Swedish children's authors and illustrators, changing periodically to feature new themes. It houses the largest children's bookstore in Sweden, offering an extensive selection of titles translated into multiple languages. Live theatrical performances are held daily in the on-site theater, catering specifically to young audiences. The facility is designed to encourage play through tactile environments rather than typical museum displays. It operates year-round as an indoor destination, independent of Stockholm’s weather.
In front of the Pippi Longstocking statue or inside the life-sized Villa Villekulla house.
Visit the Story Train early upon arrival to avoid potential queues later in the day.
Check the daily program schedule upon entry to align your visit with specific theater performance times.
Leave bulky bags and coats in the designated storage lockers to navigate the play areas comfortably.
Avoid arriving during peak weekend afternoons when the Story Train line can significantly lengthen.
Closed on certain Mondays during the low season; check the official calendar for specific monthly closures.
Visitors must remove outdoor shoes in most play areas; socks are required. Running and active play are encouraged.