Johann Strauss Museum – New Dimensions: A Multimedia Journey into the Life of the Waltz King

Mika Vepsalainen
13 minutes ago
2 min read

Join us and step into the rhythm of 19th-century Vienna with "Johann Strauss – New Dimensions," an Art & Tech exhibition that brings the life and legacy of the “Waltz King” to new life. To celebrate the 200th birthday of Johann Strauss II in 2025, renowned music enthusiast and private investor Peter Hosek has created a unique tribute unlike any traditional museum. Located in the heart of Vienna, this state-of-the-art experience reimagines Strauss’s story using multimedia technologies that stir both the senses and the soul.

This isn’t your typical museum. Spanning over 800 square meters, visitors are invited to explore at their own pace, guided by a high-quality audio system that takes you in Strauss’s music and story. The exhibition follows Strauss’s life chronologically, showcasing his remarkable achievements against the backdrop of the cultural, social, and political transformations of 19th-century Europe.

Born in Vienna on October 25, 1825, Johann Strauss II grew up surrounded by music. His father, Johann Strauss I, was already a celebrated composer, best known for the rousing “Radetzky March.” Yet, despite his musical upbringing, Strauss’s father discouraged him from pursuing music professionally.

With the quiet support of his mother Anna, young Johann secretly studied the violin and composition and his early steps would lead to an extraordinary career as a composer and conductor. His talent soon eclipsed that of his father, earning him the title “Waltz King” and a permanent place in music history.

From “The Blue Danube” to “Die Fledermaus,” Strauss’s works remain iconic and beloved. His compositions perfectly capture the spirit of Vienna: elegant, joyous, and timeless. Today, his music continues to enchant audiences at concert halls, opera houses, and grand balls around the world.

The museum is fully accessible with a ramp, elevator, and ground-floor accessible restroom. A bit surprisingly for an establishment of this caliber, there is no café on-site – grab a drink from the vending machine near the shop, or explore nearby cafés around Karlsplatz. It would be so Viennese to sit down with a glass of bubbly or a proper Mélange in a museum café...

Vienna truly loves the Strauss family - just imagine, this is now their third Strauss museum. You might want to check the two other ones that we have reviewed previously: Johan Straus Wohnung and House of Strauss.

Don’t miss the gift shop at the end of your visit – an interesting spot to possibly pick up something.