NeighbourhoodNDSM Wharf (Amsterdam North)
NDSM Wharf Art Space
STRAAT Museum Amsterdam
Step into a colossal 8,000-square-meter warehouse where the world's most vibrant street art and graffiti are elevated to a museum setting.
Best forStreet art fans and urban culture enthusiasts
Plan for1.5 to 2 hours
Worth knowingArtworks are created on-site and are wall-sized
Urban Canvas
A Monument to Street Culture
STRAAT Museum is situated in a former warehouse at the NDSM wharf, a location that is both a national monument and a historic shipyard. This massive 8,000 m2 space serves as the ultimate playground for street art and graffiti, bringing the raw energy of the outdoors into a curated gallery environment. The museum aims to provide context and information, sharing the untold stories of the artists and the movements that define urban landscapes globally.
The current exhibition showcases more than 180 artworks by over 170 artists from around the world. Unlike traditional galleries, the pieces here are often as large as actual outdoor walls, offering a mind-blowing visual experience. Because the artworks are created on-site, the museum captures the specific scale and impact that street art intended for the public domain usually commands, but with the added benefit of educational depth.
Industrial Roots
From Shipyard to Street Art Hub
The NDSM wharf was once one of the largest shipyards in the world, a hub of industrial activity on the banks of the IJ river. Following the decline of the shipbuilding industry, the area evolved into a creative haven for artists and skaters. The warehouse that now houses STRAAT is a remnant of this industrial past, preserved as a national monument while being repurposed for contemporary culture.
By transforming this cavernous industrial shell into a museum, STRAAT bridges the gap between the grit of the streets and the formal recognition of the art world. It honors the NDSM wharf's reputation as the biggest outdoor playground for graffiti in Amsterdam while providing a permanent, weather-protected home for large-scale commissions that might otherwise be lost to time or the elements.
Must-See
Museum Highlights
Scale
Wall-Sized Murals
Experience over 180 massive artworks created on-site, designed to mimic the scale of city buildings and outdoor urban environments.
Diversity
Global Artist Collective
The collection features contributions from more than 170 international artists, representing a wide variety of styles, techniques, and cultural backgrounds.
Context
The Untold Stories
Gain insight into the history and meaning behind graffiti and street art through curated information that explains the evolution of the movement.
Visitor Experience
When to Visit
Weekends
Guided Tours
Regular guided tours are available on Saturdays and Sundays at noon and 1:30 PM, providing a 60-minute deep dive into the collection.
Monthly
Friday Night Openings
On the first Friday of every month, the museum extends its hours until 9 PM, offering a unique evening atmosphere for viewing the art.
Weekdays
Off-Peak Access
Visiting on weekdays before 1:00 PM can offer a quieter experience, though certain local discount cards may apply during these hours.
Visual Journey
Art in the Warehouse
The sheer volume of the warehouse allows for a unique perspective on street art. Visitors can view the works from various angles, appreciating the intricate details of the spray paint and the massive physical effort required to complete these pieces. The industrial architecture of the building, with its high ceilings and steel beams, complements the bold colors and modern aesthetics of the graffiti.
Need to Know
Visitor Information
STRAAT Museum offers a total museal experience including educational opportunities and creative workshops. The facility includes a meeting room for presentations and talks, and workshops can be combined with food and drink options for groups.
Official websiteDiscounts
City Cards & Passes
Free entry is available for holders of the I amsterdam City Card and Stadspas. Members of the museum also receive free admission and can bring a guest.
Accessibility
Companion Policy
Visitors with disabilities who require a companion for their visit may bring one person free of charge, provided the visitor has a valid ticket.
Bookable experiences
Experiences around STRAAT Museum.
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Getting There
Transport to NDSM
STRAAT is located at the NDSM wharf in Amsterdam North. The most common way to reach the museum is by taking the free ferry from behind Amsterdam Centraal Station to NDSM. Once you arrive at the wharf, the museum is housed in a large, clearly marked warehouse within walking distance of the ferry terminal.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the I amsterdam City Card at STRAAT?⌄
Yes, the I amsterdam City Card grants free entry, but the card must be presented and scanned at the entrance.
Are there guided tours available?⌄
Yes, 60-minute guided tours are offered on Saturdays and Sundays starting at 12 PM and 1:30 PM for an additional fee.
Does the museum offer workshops?⌄
Yes, STRAAT offers creative workshops that can be booked for groups and combined with catering services.
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