Deutsche Bergbau Museum, Bochum

                            

It's been 3 years in Bochum and we hadn't visited this museum. Just having our thought about how boring museums could be as it wasn't our type of fun. We always skipped museum visits because of our Lil one, but this year since we had purchased the "Ruhr top card" and this museum was listed(Entry free) in it so thought why not just go and have a glance.

This is one of the mining field which has been converted into a museum, Already from afar you can see the large green winding tower, here you can enjoy a great panoramic view over the Ruhr Area at a height of 71.4 m rises above the museum building. The actual events take place underground, the tour of the museum takes place in the demonstration mine underground at a depth of 20 meters. The rope driving simulator gives you the feeling of driving 1,200 meters deep into the earth. Once you have reached  below, the warm temperatures will give you a realistic impression of the conditions underground and the guided tour through numerous tunnels, along large drilling machines begins and the tunnel is around 2.5 kms with wonderful exhibits. 

Tunnel

The cutting machine.

It's interesting to see how actual mining takes place, under parental guidance the kids will love it too.
The exhibits in the upper sections might not be very interesting for kids, my 4 yo enjoyed going below ground level and seeing all the giant machines but eventually got bored in the upper section of exhibits which is also interesting.

Overall it was a good learning experience for a good price. 

How to reach: The museum is well connected with the public transport, one can take U35 towards Herne from Bochum Hbf.

Availability of food: Museum has a fast-food junction, and nearby quite few places are available. Carrying water might be helpful! 

How much time one can spend: Ideally 2-3 hours.

Entrance fee for adults:5 € 

Kids: Below 6 years is free.
Guided Tours: on Sat & Sun- Duration 1 hour 

Museum is closed from 1st January- 1st May.

For more information on charges and opening hours you can go through their official website. https://www.bergbaumuseum.de/en/