Heureka
Introduction
Heureka, the Finnish Science Centre, is a vibrant and interactive destination located in the Tikkurila district of Vantaa, just north of Helsinki. Since its opening in 1989, Heureka has inspired curiosity and discovery in nearly three hundred thousand visitors each year by offering hands‑on science experiences, memorable exhibitions, and immersive events in a welcoming, family‑friendly atmosphere.
About the Museum
Heureka is designed to democratize scientific knowledge by encouraging visitors to actively explore scientific concepts. At its heart is the main exhibition area—an expansive space with around two hundred interactive exhibits, including iconic installations, such as a wire wheel and a Foucault pendulum demonstrating Earth’s rotation. Visitors of all ages can dive into topics ranging from biology and physics to technology and urban design.
The museum features a digital planetarium with one hundred and thirty‑five seats, offering astronomy shows with language options in Finnish, Swedish, English, and Russian via audio guides. A diverse range of temporary exhibitions further enrich the experience; current highlights include Giants of the Ice Age—with life‑size animatronic animals like mammoths and saber‑toothed cats—and Our Journey in Space, an engaging exploration of space travel and Earth’s role in the universe.
In summer, visitors can also explore Science Park Galilei, a seven‑thousand square‑metre outdoor science playground featuring large‑scale installations related to music, mathematics, and physics, as well as geological displays reflecting Finland’s natural heritage.
The museum’s dynamic programming includes live science demonstrations, laboratory workshops, rat‑feeding shows, creative “Idea Workshop” challenges, science theatre performances, and themed evenings for adults. The onsite Science Restaurant and Heureka Shop round out the visit, offering meals and science‑inspired souvenirs.
Interesting Facts
- Heureka is a non‑profit institution managed by the Finnish Science Centre Foundation, supported by universities, industry, and government, plus its own revenues.
- Over its history, the centre has welcomed around three hundred thousand annual visitors, cementing its position as a top Finnish leisure destination.
- The planetarium will undergo a full renovation and reopen in late 2025 with updated digital capabilities.
- The current major exhibit, Giants of the Ice Age, runs from February 2025 to September 2026, featuring nearly twenty full‑size robotic Ice Age creatures.
- Science Park Galilei’s outdoor installations combine art and science—with music, movement, and geology showcasing phenomena like sand‑plotters and conifer gardens.
- Visitors can build and race model derby cars using engineering principles in a ‘nerdy’ workshop, even racing against a robot friend.
- Heureka plays an important educational role, supporting school curricula and influencing students’ interest in science through tailored programs and resources for teachers.
Photo Gallery
Physical Location
Contact Details
Phone: +3589 857 9288
Website: www.heureka.fi/
Facebook: facebook.com/heurekafi
Conclusion
Heureka is more than a museum—it is a hands‑on adventure into the world of science, where curiosity, learning, and play merge seamlessly. From the thrill of constructing and testing your own experiment to the wonder of reliving the Ice Age or soaring into space in a planetarium dome, every moment offers insight and inspiration. Perfect for families, school groups, or anyone eager to engage with science in a fun, interactive environment, Heureka leaves visitors with lasting memories, fresh perspectives, and perhaps their own “Eureka!” moment. Whether you are exploring indoor exhibits, attending a live science show, or enjoying the summer outdoor installations, Heureka promises a rich and rewarding experience for all ages.
