Guide to Visiting the ARoS The Next Level Extension in 2026
ARoS Aarhus Art Museum is expanding with a bold new vision. The Next Level extension transforms how guests experience art. This guide explains how to visit ARoS The Next Level extension in 2026 successfully. You will find essential tips for tickets, timing, and navigation.
Planning Your Visit to The Next Level
The Next Level project is a massive cultural milestone for Denmark. It features a spectacular underground gallery and a massive dome. Artist James Turrell designed the primary installation to play with light and color. It is one of the most exciting new Aarhus attractions 2026 has to offer.
Construction creates a seamless flow between the old and new wings. The extension adds over 1,000 square meters of exhibition space. Most of this new area sits deep beneath the museum garden. Visitors will find themselves immersed in a unique subterranean world.
This venue is perfect for lovers of contemporary art and architecture. The design focuses on heightening the human senses during the visit. Expect to spend at least two hours exploring this specific section. The scale of the art requires time to fully appreciate.
Travelers should prepare for a sensory journey through light. The Dome acts as a celestial observatory within the city. It allows people to view the sky in a framed perspective. This creates a peaceful and meditative atmosphere for all guests.
Tickets and Opening Times for 2026
Securing your entry early is vital for a smooth 2026 trip. Adult tickets for the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum cost around 175 DKK. Prices may vary slightly during special exhibitions or peak festivals. Children and youths under 18 usually enter the museum for free.
The museum typically operates from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM on weekdays. Weekend hours are often shorter, closing around 6:00 PM. We recommend visiting on a Tuesday or Wednesday for fewer crowds. This allows you to view the installations in silence.
Online booking is the most efficient way to get tickets. You can skip the long queues at the main entrance desk. Digital tickets are easily scanned from a smartphone at the gate. Check the official website for current holiday closure dates in 2026.
Group tours are available for those seeking deeper art insights. These should be booked at least two weeks in advance. Professional guides provide context on James Turrell's complex lighting techniques. This adds significant value to the overall gallery experience.
Getting to the ARoS Museum in Aarhus
ARoS is located centrally in the heart of Aarhus city. Most visitors find it easiest to walk from the railway station. The stroll takes approximately 10 minutes through the scenic downtown area. You will see the iconic rainbow roof from far away.
Local buses also stop frequently near the Musikhuset Aarhus entrance. These routes connect the museum to distant suburbs and coastal hotels. Use the VisitAarhus website to plan your specific bus route. Cycling is another great option due to the city's bike paths.
If you are driving, parking is available in the underground garage. Be aware that these spaces fill up quickly during the summer. Nearby shopping centers also offer paid parking for museum guests. Most areas require an easy mobile app for payment.
Aarhus is a very walkable city for most international tourists. Clear signage directs you toward the cultural district from the harbor. Accessible ramps are located at every major museum entrance. Getting around is simple for travelers of all mobility levels.
Inside the New Underground Gallery
The Journey into The Next Level begins in the basement. A wide corridor leads guests toward the new subterranean spheres. The lighting changes gradually as you move away from the main hall. This transition prepares the mind for the upcoming art experience.
The Dome is the crown jewel of this massive expansion project. It stands 40 meters wide and sits beneath the museum garden. It serves as a monumental light installation and a physical building. Many consider it a highlight of the Aarhus latest tourist developments for the decade.
Inside, the acoustics are just as impressive as the visuals. Sound echoes softly against the curved concrete and plaster walls. Guests often sit on the floor to watch the sky change. The experience shifts dramatically between midday sun and evening twilight.
Additional galleries surround the central dome for rotating exhibits. These spaces host international works that require large, open floor plans. The temperature is strictly controlled to protect sensitive modern art pieces. Wear a light sweater as it can feel cool underground.
Tips for the Best Museum Experience
Standard photography is allowed in most areas of the extension. However, using a flash is strictly prohibited near the light art. Tripods are generally not permitted without a prior commercial permit. Respect the quiet zones to preserve the atmosphere for others.
Start your day at Your Rainbow Panorama on the roof. This provides a colorful view of the city before you go deep. Contrast the bright heights with the dark depths of the extension. This gives you a complete perspective of the museum’s architecture.
Lockers are available on the ground floor for your heavy bags. Small bags are allowed inside the underground galleries for convenience. The museum cafe offers great Danish meals for a midday break. Try the local organic coffee and traditional rye bread snacks.
Visit during the late evening for a special light show. The Dome looks different when the sun starts setting in Denmark. 2026 will see many evening events hosted in this new space. Check the museum calendar for live music or art lectures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Next Level extension at ARoS open now?
Yes, the extension is fully operational for public visits in 2026. You can access the underground gallery and The Dome daily. It is recommended to check the museum website for any temporary maintenance closures before you travel to Aarhus.
How much time do I need for ARoS in 2026?
Plan for at least three to four hours for the whole museum. The Next Level extension alone takes about one hour to enjoy. This allows time for the rooftop rainbow and the various permanent collections on higher floors.
Are there student discounts for ARoS Aarhus Art Museum?
Students with a valid ID receive a discounted entry rate in 2026. This usually brings the price down to approximately 140 DKK. Always carry your physical or digital student card to show at the ticket counter for verification.
Visiting the ARoS The Next Level extension in 2026 is a memorable experience. It combines world-class architecture with deeply moving light installations. Plan your trip early to enjoy everything this Danish landmark provides. We hope this guide helps you explore the best art in Aarhus.