Everything you need to know about visiting the Gasometer in Oberhausen, Germany, from ticket prices to rooftop views at Europe’s tallest exhibition hall.
An industrial monument transformed into exhibition space
The Gasometer Oberhausen rises 117 metres above the Ruhr region. It’s a cylindrical former gas storage facility that once served the region’s heavy industry. Decommissioned in the 1980s, the structure now hosts large-scale exhibitions in its vast interior space.
The building’s sheer dimensions impress immediately. At 67.6 metres in diameter, the interior can accommodate entire forests, floating globes, or upside-down mountains, depending on the current exhibition theme.
Getting to the Gasometer
From Oberhausen Hauptbahnhof (main station), take any bus or tram from Terminal 1 to the stop “Neue Mitte”. The journey takes roughly 10 minutes. From there, it’s a short walk to the Gasometer.
If driving, take the A42 motorway to exit “Oberhausen-Zentrum” and follow signs for “Zentrum”, then signs for “Gasometer”. The address for navigation systems is Arenastraße 11, 46047 Oberhausen.
Oberhausen is a short drive away from other North Rhine-Westphalia cities such as Dortmund and Essen.
Parking at the Gasometer
Free parking is available in sufficient numbers around the Gasometer, including lots serving the nearby Rudolf Weber-Arena. Many visitors combine their Gasometer trip with a visit to Westfield Centro shopping mall, which is about 10 to 15 minutes’ walk away and offers additional parking.
Disabled parking spaces are located directly in front of the entrance. The Gasometer provides wheelchair access, and two wheelchairs can be borrowed from the cloakroom.
Opening hours and ticket prices
The Gasometer opens Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. During North Rhine-Westphalia school holidays or public holidays, it also opens on Mondays. The ticket office closes at 5:30 p.m.
The building begins clearing at 5:45 p.m., starting with the panoramic roof, then the first level, and finally the ground floor, ensuring all visitors exit by 6:00 p.m.
Current exhibition and admission prices
From 20 March 2026, the “Myth of the Forest” exhibition showcases forest landscapes through impressive photography, films, and interactive installations. The highlight is an art installation called “The Tree” that rises high into the Gasometer’s interior.
Adult tickets cost €14, reduced admission €11. A family ticket (2 adults and up to 5 children under 18) costs €33. Mini-family tickets (1 adult and up to 2 children aged 6-17) are €28. Season tickets valid for the exhibition’s entire duration cost €32.
When to visit for the best experience
Weekday mornings see fewer visitors than weekends or afternoons. The Gasometer is an unheated industrial monument, so temperatures inside reflect outdoor conditions — cold in winter, warm on sunny days.
Dress accordingly. Layering works best, as you’ll be moving between different levels and spending time both indoors and on the exposed rooftop platform.
The panoramic elevator and rooftop views
A glass panoramic elevator travels up through the exhibition space to a viewing level below the roof. From there, an external staircase leads to three panoramic platforms mounted on the Gasometer’s roof.
The views from 117 metres encompass the western Ruhr region, including Westfield Centro shopping mall and the sprawling urban landscape. Clear weather provides the best visibility for photography.
What to expect inside
Exhibitions typically combine large-format photography, video installations, audio experiences, and immersive art pieces that exploit the Gasometer’s extraordinary volume. Past exhibitions have featured a 20-metre floating Earth globe, a 40-metre jungle tree, and an upside-down Matterhorn.
Allow at least two hours to explore the exhibition properly and enjoy the rooftop views. You’ll be walking and standing throughout, so comfortable footwear matters.
Facilities at the site
A small cafe operates inside the Gasometer, serving drinks and light refreshments. A gift shop sells exhibition catalogues, books, and souvenirs. Toilets are located just outside the main structure.
Audio guides are available to enhance your visit. Dogs must stay outside, though registered assistance animals are permitted.
Nearby attractions worth combining
Westfield Centro, Germany’s largest shopping mall, sits within easy walking distance. The complex includes not just shops but also Sea Life Oberhausen aquarium, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, and numerous restaurants.
The Ludwig Galerie in Schloss Oberhausen (Oberhausen Castle) displays changing art exhibitions. Combination tickets with the Gasometer cost €19 and are available at the ticket office only.
Industrial heritage routes
The Gasometer serves as an anchor point on the European Route of Industrial Heritage. Other nearby sites include Duisburg-Nord Landscape Park, the UNESCO World Heritage Zollverein Coal Mine in Essen, and Jahrhunderthalle Bochum — all reachable by car or public transport.
The region’s industrial monuments collectively tell the story of the Ruhr’s transformation from coal and steel powerhouse to cultural destination.
How much time to budget
Most people spend two to three hours at the Gasometer, including exhibition time and the rooftop visit. If you’re combining it with Westfield Centro or other nearby attractions, budget half a day.
The Gasometer’s exhibitions change every year or two, so repeat visits offer entirely different experiences. Season tickets make sense if you’re staying in the area and want to return multiple times.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Gasometer Oberhausen wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Gasometer is largely barrier-free. Disabled parking spaces are located directly at the entrance. Two wheelchairs can be borrowed from the cloakroom. An external elevator on the outside of the Gasometer can take wheelchair users directly to one of the rooftop platforms — ask staff for assistance.
When are the quietest times to visit?
Weekday mornings, particularly Tuesday and Wednesday, see the lightest crowds. Avoid weekends and school holidays when families visit in larger numbers. The period between October and March generally brings fewer tourists, though the unheated building becomes cold.
Can you bring your own food?
Food isn’t explicitly prohibited, but the Gasometer functions as an exhibition space similar to a museum, so eating inside the exhibition areas isn’t appropriate. The small on-site cafe provides refreshments. Westfield Centro nearby offers extensive dining options.
Are photos allowed inside the exhibition?
Personal photography is generally permitted, though flash photography may be restricted depending on the specific exhibition. Commercial photography requires advance permission. The rooftop platforms present excellent opportunities for cityscape photography.
What’s the best time for rooftop views?
Clear days provide the best visibility across the Ruhr region. Late morning through early afternoon typically offers good light for photography. The external staircase to the rooftop platforms can be exposed to wind, so secure loose items and dress accordingly.
Is the site suitable for children?
Yes. The Gasometer’s scale and immersive exhibitions appeal to children, though very young ones may find the rooftop staircase intimidating. The glass elevator ride proves exciting for kids. Consider that exhibitions run two to three hours, which may test shorter attention spans.
More Germany travel
Other Germany travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Dortmund’s Christmas market: Home of the world’s largest Christmas tree.
- Berlin to Dortmund train times and prices.
- A Bonn city guide for first time visitors.
- A Haribo pilgrimage in Bonn.
- Cologne Cathedral ticket price guide.
