Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just a casual admirer of their catchy melodies, ABBA The Museum is a must-visit in Stockholm.
It’s a love letter to the band’s artistry, a sensory overload of pop culture brilliance, and, most importantly, a place where everyone is encouraged to let loose and have fun.
Located on the Djurgården island, Stockholm’s cultural epicenter, the ABBA Museum isn’t your typical museum experience.
It’s part time capsule, part fever dream, and fully dedicated to the glitz, glamour, and undeniable genius of Agnetha, Björn, Benny, and Anni-Frid.
Permanent Exhibitions
The museum’s permanent collection provides a comprehensive look into ABBA’s history.
1) The Story of ABBA: Trace the band’s journey from their early days to global fame, exploring personal stories and significant milestones.
The exhibition starts with the individual stories of the four members before ABBA was formed, showcasing childhood photos, early performances, and musical influences.
It highlights their pre-ABBA careers in folk and schlager music, revealing how fate brought them together.
2) Waterloo & Eurovision Glory: A dedicated section that brings you to 1974, when ABBA won the Eurovision Song Contest with “Waterloo”, which launched them onto the world stage.
The original outfits worn at Eurovision, as well as handwritten notes and setlists from the event, are on display.
3) Inside the Hit-Making Machine: Here, visitors can see how ABBA created their signature sound, from writing lyrics to producing records at Polar Studios.
You will be able to find instruments, handwritten lyrics, and behind-the-scenes footage of recording sessions.
The museum also features a reconstructed Polar Music Studio that lets visitors experience where hits like Dancing Queen and Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! were made.
4) ABBA’s Global Takeover: Displays include gold and platinum records, rare tour footage, and press clippings from around the world.
You can also experience the frenzy of ABBA’s sold-out concerts in Australia, Japan, and the U.S. through immersive visuals and soundscapes
The Costume Room
5) The Fashion & Iconic Costumes: A massive showcase of ABBA’s famous stage outfits, including the glittering capes, knee-high boots, and jumpsuits that defined their style.
It teaches you about the role of fashion in their branding and why Swedish tax laws encouraged them to wear over-the-top costumes.
6) ABBA in Film & Musical Theatre: This section covers ABBA’s impact beyond music, including movies, musicals (Mamma Mia!) and the band’s influence on pop culture.
A special feature lets you step into a scene from Mamma Mia! and experience the movie magic firsthand.
7) A Personal Connection: One of the greatest parts of the exhibition is a collection of letters, gifts, and fan mail sent to ABBA over the years.
Video interviews with band members share personal reflections on their journey, challenges, and creative process.
8) The Ring Ring Phone: This is a unique addition that represents a phone that only the ABBA members know the number to.
On rare occasions, one of them might actually call while visitors are in the museum!
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering their music, this exhibition brings ABBA’s history to life in a way that’s both nostalgic and exciting.
