Vrijheidsmuseum

About the museum

The Vrijheidsmuseum was called the Nationaal Bevrijdingsmuseum 1944–1945 until September 2019. From 1987 to 2019 it consisted largely of containers from the former Neeltje Jans work-island site, and included a "Dome of Honour" in the shape of a parachute, which served as the model for today's building. The new building, about twelve metres high, resembles a giant parachute and commemorates the landing of thousands of American paratroopers along the Wylerbaan and on Klein Amerika on 17 September 1944, as well as the Rhineland Offensive in February 1945. Because of the coronavirus pandemic, the official opening did not take place until 5 July 2023.

The museum lies in the hills near Groesbeek, close to the German border, in the middle of the area of Operations Market Garden and Veritable. It tells the story of "War and Freedom without Borders" from several perspectives: in the Netherlands and in Germany, in Europe and beyond, in connection with the history of the 20th century and current conflicts. Topics include the rise of fascism, occupation, reconstruction and present-day conflicts; freedom and unfreedom form the common thread.

The museum is run by the Stichting Vrijheidsmuseum, which also operates the Infocentrum WO2 Nijmegen. It is a registered museum, belongs to the Dutch Museums Association and works with around 120 volunteers. The building, constructed from sustainable materials, is gas-free and is supplied by heat pumps and solar power.

Highlights

• Permanent exhibition "Oorlog en Vrijheid zonder Grenzen" in Dutch, English and German
• Parachute-shaped domed building with a panoramic terrace overlooking the historic landscape
• Focus on Operation Market Garden and the Rhineland Offensive
• Children's trail "Een koffer vol keuzes" with games and hands-on objects
• Museum café with a view of the paratroopers' landing zones
• Silver "Ongehinderd" quality mark for accessibility

Permanent exhibition

• Oorlog en Vrijheid zonder Grenzen – The permanent exhibition presents the Second World War from different perspectives in the Netherlands, Germany and Europe, and links it to the history of the 20th century and current conflicts.

Operated by

Stichting Vrijheidsmuseum

Director

Esther Horsten

Admission & discounts

The Museumkaart is accepted; admission is also free for VriendenLoterij VIP-KAART holders, Friends of the Museum and foreign WWII veterans. Concessions apply only with the relevant card (usually physical); discounts cannot be combined. Payment by card only, no cash.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom
• Accessible parking
• Service dogs welcome
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

Fully wheelchair accessible; seating in the exhibition every 20 metres. Wheelchairs, walkers, folding stools and noise-reducing headphones can be borrowed free of charge (can be reserved in advance). One companion has free admission, without proof required. All texts and displays in Dutch, English and German; videos are subtitled. Two disabled parking spaces at the main entrance. Silver "Ongehinderd" quality mark. Pets are not allowed (except assistance dogs).

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Activity booklet, scavenger hunt or kids’ audio guide
• Hands-on stations

The children's trail "Een koffer vol keuzes" (from about age 9) guides children through the museum with videos, games and hands-on objects; regular children's activities and family days are also offered. Children up to age 6 have free admission.

Getting there & parking

Bicycle racks and an e-bike charging point at the museum. From 5 to 30 October 2026 the N325 between Nijmegen and Beek is closed (please note the diversions).

Amenities & dining

• Café
• Museum shop
• Wi-Fi

Museum café with panoramic views of the hills and forests of Groesbeek (hot drinks, snacks; lunch buffet can be pre-ordered for groups of 10 or more). Museum shop.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit