


SMK – Statens Museum for Kunst
About
Denmark's National Gallery offers a surprisingly engaging experience for families, with dedicated children's workshops, interactive activities, and family programs that make art accessible and fun. The museum's diverse collections span seven centuries, providing plenty of visual stimulation and conversation starters, while special family-friendly spaces ensure kids can explore creativity hands-on without the typical museum stress.
Highlights
- ✓Dedicated children's workshops where kids create their own art inspired by the collections
- ✓Interactive family programs designed to make art accessible and engaging for all ages
- ✓Beautiful sculpture garden perfect for running around between gallery visits
- ✓Diverse collection including Danish Golden Age paintings that tell compelling stories
- ✓Modern and contemporary art sections that spark interesting conversations with older kids
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on Wednesday for extended hours until 8:00 PM, giving you a more relaxed schedule if traveling with jet-lagged kids
- 2.Admission is free for visitors under 18, making this an excellent budget-friendly activity for families
- 3.Check the museum's website before visiting to book children's workshops in advance, as they can fill up quickly, especially during school holidays
- 4.The museum has excellent facilities including clean restrooms and a cafe, but consider bringing snacks for younger children
- 5.English signage and materials are widely available, and staff typically speak excellent English
Best Time to Visit
Tuesday or Thursday mornings (10:00 AM opening) offer the quietest experience. Avoid weekends when local families visit. Wednesday evenings can work well for jet-lagged families adjusting to Copenhagen time.
What to Know
Entry is free for children under 18, and adults pay a modest fee (typically around 120 DKK). The museum is easily accessible by Copenhagen's Metro and bus system, with the Nørreport Station just a short walk away.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent hours. Holiday periods may feature special family programming and workshops. Note that the museum is closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly when building your Copenhagen itinerary.
Nearby Eats
Torvehallerne food market is a 5-minute walk away, offering diverse kid-friendly options from Danish pastries to international cuisine in a covered market setting. The museum's own cafe serves simple meals and snacks, though options may be limited for picky eaters.
More Activities Near Copenhagen
Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek transforms art appreciation into family fun with dedicated children's workshops, interactive programs, and a stunning Winter Garden complete with palm trees where kids can explore. This world-class museum welcomes young visitors with open arms, offering impressive collections of ancient sculptures and modern art in a beautiful, accessible setting that never feels stuffy or overwhelming for little ones.
National Museum of Denmark
The National Museum of Denmark offers an exceptional family experience with its dedicated Children's Museum where kids can dress up as Vikings, climb aboard ships, and explore hands-on exhibits about Danish history. With free admission and interactive displays throughout, it's one of Copenhagen's best value attractions for families wanting to combine education with entertainment.
War Museum
The War Museum in Copenhagen offers an engaging journey through maritime and military history that captivates young minds with interactive exhibits and real naval vessels to explore. Kids can climb aboard submarines, discover naval artifacts, and participate in hands-on activities that bring Danish maritime heritage to life. The museum strikes a perfect balance between education and entertainment, making history accessible and exciting for children.
Thorvaldsens Museum
Thorvaldsens Museum offers a surprisingly engaging introduction to classical art for families, housed in a stunning neoclassical building with a peaceful central courtyard. The museum's family programs and workshops help children connect with the marble sculptures and plaster casts in hands-on ways, making ancient mythology and art accessible to young minds.