HAPPENING 20 SEP 2025 | Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen opens its doors to the public for a one-day free event this September. Visitors will be given rare access to the inner workings of the iconic art storage facility.
Free access to Depot during 2025 open day
The Depot of Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen will host a public open day on Saturday, 20 September 2025. From 11.00 to 17.00, the institution invites residents and visitors in Rotterdam to explore the building without charge.
Spread across six floors, the event will offer insight into the behind-the-scenes operations of one of the most recognisable art storage facilities in the world. The open day provides opportunities to see how various artworks and materials are stored, maintained and restored. Guided tours led by depot staff will offer further information about the building’s design, function, and architecture.
A look inside the Depot
Throughout the day, attendees will be able to view hundreds of works from the museum's collection. These will be displayed throughout the building, including dedicated exhibition rooms. Special guides—referred to as depotgidsen—will be present to explain the stories behind the pieces and the structure itself.
Children can take part in an educational programme, while live music and other performances will be held throughout the event.
Activities and highlights
Visitors can participate in various activities scheduled during the open day:
- Join guided tours that explore the building’s architectural features
- Observe demonstrations by professional art handlers on how artworks are packed
- Create a personal “Depot collection cabinet” (Depot-verzamelkabinet)
- View selections from the collection of prints and drawings
- Attend a discussion about a book related to the museum building
- Explore current exhibitions on display
All activities are freely accessible throughout the day.
How to get there
The Depot is located at Museumpark in Rotterdam, adjacent to the future site of Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen. The area is easily accessible by public transport, bicycle, or on foot. The nearest tram and metro stations are within walking distance, and there is also ample bicycle parking in the area.
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