The Kingdom of Railways shows Vienna in miniature format and offers numerous hands-on opportunities that are particularly exciting for children. The model railway system recreates well-known sights as well as trams and subways, supplemented by interactive elements such as action buttons and a day-night cycle. However, the model railway system is smaller than expected and the lack of daylighting can make the atmosphere seem a bit oppressive.
The exhibition is complemented by attractions such as a mirror labyrinth and a historic tram that you can operate yourself.
Short info:
- Where is it located?: Prater 119, 1020 Vienna (near the Schweizerhaus)
- What awaits you?: Miniature world of Vienna's city center, interactive stations, mirror labyrinth and historic tram.
- When open?: Thursday to Sunday (also on public holidays and during the holidays in Vienna) from 09:00 – 19:00
- Entrance fees?: Children from 1m approx. 16€, under free. Adults approx. 22€. Free with the NÖ-CardHere you will find all admission prices and discounts.
- How much time should I plan for? Approx. 2 hours
What is there to discover in the Kingdom of Railways?
miniature model of Vienna's city center
The heart of the exhibition shows Vienna in miniature format. Sights, trams and subways are lovingly designed, and additional effects can be activated using interactive buttons. The day-night switch is particularly beautiful, bathing the miniature city in atmospheric light. Nevertheless, the system is smaller overall than expected.
Interactive attractions
In addition to the model railway, the Kingdom of Railways offers a variety of interactive options that are particularly exciting for children. The attractions are designed to be fun and at the same time arouse curiosity. Here is an overview of the most important offers:
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Tram Cockpit: A historic tram on display that children and adults can operate themselves. Here, all the buttons can be tried out, which is especially fun for younger visitors.
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mirror labyrinth: A highlight for young and old, where you feel your way through the mirrored corridors. Gloves are provided at the entrance to avoid fingerprints on the mirrors - a thoughtful addition to the experience.
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Electric cars: Children can drive remote-controlled cars on a small track and test their skills.
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photo corner: A specially set up station to take souvenir photos with the miniature world or other backdrops.
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Controllable mini-train: A mini train that children can drive themselves offers an exciting way to immerse themselves in the world of railways in a playful way.
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adventure room for children: Here children can let off steam, be creative and try out different games.
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play corner with wooden trains and game pieces: This corner offers plenty of opportunities for the little ones to build and play creatively.
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RC race track: A Carrera-like race track on which remote-controlled cars can drive. Unfortunately, this attraction was not working properly when we visited.
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marble race track: A simple but fascinating pastime where children can roll marbles through different tracks.
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pedal car exhibition (Pedal Planet): An exhibition of historic pedal cars that evokes nostalgic feelings.
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garbage separation game: An educational station where children can learn the principle of waste separation in a playful way.
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garden railway and outdoor playground: Outside there is a garden railway and a playground, which makes the stay even more varied when the weather is good.
atmosphere and criticism
The exhibition hall has no daylight, which can make the atmosphere a bit oppressive. Some exhibits, such as a Carrera track, are not interactive, which spoils the overall impression. The entrance fee also seems rather high in relation to the size of the model railway.
A visit to the Kingdom of Railways offers families with children a nice change in PraterThe trip is particularly worthwhile with the Lower Austria Card or for smaller children.