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Museums #1 in Oberhausen

Gasometer

4.6 · 17,810 reviews
Awe-inspiring industrial scale
Gasometer, Arenastraße 11, 46047 Oberhausen
Interesting facts
1

The interior volume of the Gasometer is approximately 347,000 cubic meters.

2

The roof observation deck offers visibility up to 10 kilometers away on clear days.

3

During its industrial operation, the gas holder's disc moved up and down depending on the gas pressure inside.

4

The structure is the largest disc-type gas holder in Europe.

5

Its conversion project was a pilot model for the International Building Exhibition (IBA) Emscher Park.

6

The massive internal space has hosted art installations ranging from simulated rain forests to planetary models.

7

The outer skin of the gasometer is composed of steel plating that requires regular maintenance to prevent oxidation.

Overview

The Gasometer Oberhausen is a former industrial gas holder converted into one of Europe's largest exhibition spaces. Standing 117.5 meters tall with a diameter of 67.6 meters, it is a prominent landmark of the industrial heritage route in the Ruhr region. The interior provides an expansive vertical space that allows for large-scale immersive installations. A glass elevator carries visitors to the roof, which serves as a panoramic observation deck. The structure was originally built in the 1920s to store blast furnace gas for the local steel industry. It transitioned into a cultural venue in the mid-1990s following the decline of coal and steel in the area. Each exhibition typically lasts several months, often incorporating the building's massive height and unique acoustics. The space remains unheated and is naturally ventilated, requiring visitors to dress according to the external climate.

Photo spot

The top roof observation deck for 360-degree views of the Ruhr industrial landscape.

Insider tips

Bring a jacket as the interior temperature often matches the outside air.

Use the glass elevator to the roof, but be prepared for high altitude and potential wind exposure.

Check the official website for current exhibition themes before arriving, as the space is empty between major shows.

What to avoid

Do not visit during extreme heatwaves or deep winter if you are sensitive to fluctuating temperatures.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays except during public holidays; often closed between exhibitions for installation periods.

Etiquette

Dress in comfortable walking shoes; the structure involves significant vertical movement and stairs.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring or early autumn for comfortable temperatures inside the unheated space.
Address
Gasometer, Arenastraße 11, 46047 Oberhausen
51.494, 6.870
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsLarge-scale immersive art installations and panoramic observation deck

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early autumn for comfortable temperatures inside the unheated space..

The top roof observation deck for 360-degree views of the Ruhr industrial landscape.

Close by you'll find SEA LIFE Oberhausen, AQUApark Oberhausen GmbH, LUDWIGGALERIE Oberhausen Castle.