Hidden History and Offbeat Museums

Plzeň is not just about industrial history. The city center holds peculiar collections that you won't find elsewhere. These museums dive deep into local legends and niche arts.

Families and solo travelers will enjoy these stops. They offer a break from standard sightseeing. Here are three distinctive museums to start your journey.

• Name: Puppet Museum (Muzeum loutek) Type: Museum Why go: Plzeň is a cradle of puppetry. This museum honors famous characters like Spejbl and Hurvínek. It is interactive and fun for all ages. Read our guide on the Puppet Museum here. Best for: Families and culture lovers. Where: Main Square (Náměstí Republiky). Time: 1–1.5 hours. Cost: Low (approx. 4–6 EUR). Getting there: Walk from the Cathedral of St. Bartholomew. Tip: Try operating the puppets yourself in the interactive playroom on the top floor.
• Name: Museum of Ghosts and Fairy Tales Type: Attraction Why go: This spooky spot explores the legends of Plzeň. It is located in the cellars of a former pub. You will see mythical creatures and darker folklore figures. Check out the Plzeň Ghost Museum guide. Best for: Kids and fans of the macabre. Where: West side of the main square. Time: 30–45 minutes. Cost: Low. Getting there: Located right on Náměstí Republiky. Tip: It can be scary for very young children, so check the vibe first.
• Name: Patton Memorial Pilsen Type: History Museum Why go: Plzeň was liberated by the US Army in 1945. This museum tells that rare story in the Czech Republic. It features authentic equipment, uniforms, and personal diaries from American soldiers. Learn more about the Patton Memorial. Best for: History buffs and Americans. Where: Near the KD Peklo cultural center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low to Medium. Getting there: A short walk from the Sady Pětatřicátníků tram stop. Tip: Visit in May during the Liberation Festival for a huge celebration.

Secret Spaces and Underground Wonders

Some of the best sights in spectacular Plzeň are hidden from plain view. You have to look under the streets or inside private apartments. These tours require a bit of planning but are worth it.

Always book these experiences in advance. Visitor numbers are often limited to protect the historic structures. Prepare for unique environments.

4. Name: Adolf Loos Interiors Type: Architecture/Design Why go: Famous architect Adolf Loos designed stunning minimalist apartments here. They were hidden inside ordinary bourgeois houses for decades. You can see rare marble, wood, and functional design. Plan your visit to Adolf Loos Interiors. Best for: Architecture fans and design lovers. Where: Various locations (Klatovská street and Bendova street). Time: 1–2 hours per tour route. Cost: Medium/High. Getting there: Most are accessible by tram line 4. Tip: Tours sell out weeks in advance, so book online as soon as possible.
5. Name: Plzeň Historical Underground Type: Adventure Why go: This is one of the longest tunnel systems in Central Europe. The labyrinth runs under the entire city center. You will see old wells, storage cellars, and historic artifacts. Discover the Historical Underground secrets. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: Entrance near the Brewery Museum. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Medium. Getting there: Walk from the main square towards Veleslavínova street. Tip: Even in summer, the temperature is around 6°C (43°F). Bring a jacket.

Industrial Cool and Creative Zones

Plzeň has transformed its industrial past into a modern cultural future. Old factories are now lively hubs for locals. These spots offer a glimpse into the real daily life of the city.

You can find art installations, street food, and science exhibits here. It is a great way to escape the main tourist crowds.

• Name: DEPO2015 Type: Creative Zone Why go: This former bus depot is now a cultural hotspot. It hosts art exhibitions, markets, and concerts. The industrial architecture makes for great photos. See what's on at DEPO2015. Best for: Hipsters, families, and art lovers. Where: Presslova street, near the Radbuza river. Time: 1–3 hours. Cost: Entry to grounds is free; exhibitions vary. Getting there: Trolleybus 14 or a 15-minute walk from the center. Tip: Check their calendar for street food festivals on weekends.
• Name: Techmania Science Center Type: Science Museum Why go: Located in historic Škoda factory halls, this place is huge. It features a 3D planetarium and hundreds of interactive exhibits. It is perfect for strange physics experiments. Explore the Techmania exhibits. Best for: Families and science geeks. Where: Borska street (Škoda complex). Time: 3–5 hours. Cost: Medium/High. Getting there: Train to Plzeň-Jižní Předměstí or Walk. Tip: The "Entropa" sculpture by David Černý is often on display here.

Unique Wellness and Day Trips Near Plzeň

Sometimes the most unusual things to do in Plzeň require a short trip. You can find relaxation or eccentric collections just outside the city limits. These final picks are truly memorable.

Public transport in the region is reliable. You can reach these spots easily by bus or train. They offer a distinct change of pace.

8. Name: Purkmistr Beer Spa Type: Wellness Experience Why go: Bathing in beer is a Czech tradition. This spa lets you soak in warm wort and yeast. It is great for skin and includes unlimited beer consumption while bathing. Read about the Purkmistr Beer Spa experience. Best for: Couples and relaxation. Where: Selská náves, Plzeň-Černice. Time: 2 hours. Cost: High (luxury treat). Getting there: Trolleybus 13 to Černice. Tip: Don't shower for a few hours after to let the vitamins soak in.
9. Name: Air Park Zruč Type: Private Outdoor Museum Why go: This family-run site feels like a post-apocalyptic movie set. It is packed with old planes, tanks, and helicopters. You can even walk inside some of the decaying aircraft. View details for Air Park Zruč. Best for: Photographers and aviation fans. Where: Zruč-Senec (north of Plzeň). Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Low (Cash only). Getting there: Bus from main terminal to Zruč. Tip: The atmosphere is raw and unpolished, which adds to the charm.