The Museum of Engineering and Technology (MIT) is more than historic trams and machines — it’s a lively, interactive place: permanent exhibitions, a planetarium and the Garden of Experiences offer hands-on activities for the whole family. A standard visit to the Depot (Zajezdnia) takes about 2 hours. If you plan to visit MIT “with a cat,” first read the section about the museum’s animal policy — it’s important and will save you surprises at the ticket desk. (Main address: 15 Świętego Wawrzyńca Street).
The museum operates as several branches: the Depot (main exhibition), the Stanisław Lem Garden of Experiences (an interactive science park) and Hangar Czyżyny (large aviation and technical exhibits). Each has a slightly different offer and visiting style. Before you leave, check opening hours and entry rules, because for the Depot the last admission is usually around 17:00. (It’s worth reserving tickets or a guided tour — reservation info is available on the museum’s website).
1. Start at the ticket desk/reception — buy a ticket or show your reservation, pick up a map of the exhibitions. Plan your arrival so you don’t miss last admission (usually around 17:00).
2. First 30–40 minutes: the permanent exhibition “City. Technosensitivity” and displays related to transport — historic trams, simulators and large machines. Great for photos and first “wow” moments.
3. Next 30 minutes: interactive zones and the Brick Zone — perfect with children; let them play, build and try the interactive stations.
4. 20–30 minutes: planetarium show (if available that day) or a short visit to a temporary exhibition. Check show times in advance and reserve, as seating can be limited.
5. Finish with the museum shop and a coffee break — if you’re hungry, plan a short stop at one of the nearby cafés.
If you have more time (3–4 hours): add a visit to the Garden of Experiences — a huge outdoor “science playground” with over 100 experiment stations. The Garden deserves its own time slot, especially in good weather.
The permanent exhibition in the Depot tells the story of technology and the city: trams, motoring, printing machines and items related to urban transport. It’s a great place for lovers of mechanics and history.
The Stanisław Lem Garden of Experiences is a large interactive area with devices demonstrating physics and natural phenomena — ideal for families and curious minds. The planetarium and its shows are an excellent complement to your visit, especially on rainy days or when you want a calm break from active exploring.
The Brick Zone is a space where children (and adults!) can build and test structures — I recommend visiting it toward the end of your trip so the youngest can safely burn off energy.
The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions; if you find a thematic show that interests you, set aside extra time — organizers often offer themed tours and workshops.
MIT is very child-friendly: family tours, workshops and special routes for the youngest visitors. The museum’s site lists upcoming workshops and events for children — check them before you come.
The Brick Zone and creative workshops are a program highlight — if you want a relaxed visit to the permanent exhibits, take children to the Brick Zone at the end of the visit or plan a specific workshop time.
Workshops and guided tours often require reservations and have limited places — if you plan to visit on a weekend or during school holidays, book ahead.
Short, important information: animals are not allowed inside the Depot. That means you normally cannot enter the indoor museum spaces with your pet. This rule is stated in the museum’s practical regulations.
If you’re traveling with a pet and cannot leave it alone at your accommodation, the best solution is to arrange pet care in advance: a pet boarding facility, a pet hotel or a trusted person who can look after your cat during your visit. Alternatively, contact the museum staff before your visit — ask about exceptions (for example, assistance animals) and possible arrangements. For assistance animals, it’s a good idea to prepare documentation and agree details in advance.
Practical tip: if you plan to spend several hours in Kraków and visit multiple attractions, arrange pet care for the whole day — tram and city travel, entries to other sites and breaks can take longer than you expect.
The Depot (address: 15 Świętego Wawrzyńca Street) has an estimated visit time of about 2 hours. Typical opening hours for the Depot are Tuesday–Sunday 10:00–18:00; last admission is usually around 17:00. When planning, account for a short ticket desk break that may occur on some days around 14:10–14:30.
Reservations for guided tours and workshops are recommended — a guided tour of the exhibition can last about 90 minutes. Contact details for reservations and information are provided on the museum’s website (phone and email). If you want a specific planetarium show or workshop slot, reserve in advance.
Tip: buying tickets online shortens waiting time at the desk and secures your place for planetarium shows or workshops that have limited seating.
The Depot usually has a small café or rest area; if you plan a longer stay, consider a coffee or light meal at one of the nearby cafés or restaurants. Choose places with good reviews and short waiting times, especially if you’re with children.
If you want a well-rated meal after the visit, consider nearby restaurants in the area where you’re staying — Kraków has a wide choice, from cosy cafés to contemporary Polish cuisine. Keep in mind popular places can be busy — reserving a table is a good idea.
For a quick bite, choose places with good reviews and fast service — this saves time and lets you continue exploring the city.
Not checking hours and entry rules — the museum has specific opening times and rules (e.g., no animals), so check the facility’s site or call ahead. This will help you avoid disappointment at the ticket counter.
Not reserving workshops or planetarium shows — if you want to attend a show or workshop, book in advance; places are limited.
Arriving with a small child without planning breaks — the Brick Zone and workshops are great, but children need breaks and snacks; bring water and small snacks or plan a café stop.
Can I bring a pet into the museum? Generally no — animals are not allowed in the Depot. For assistance animals, contact the museum directly before your visit to arrange details.
How long does it take to visit the Depot? Estimated visit time is about 2 hours; if you add the Garden of Experiences and a planetarium show, allow at least 3–4 hours.
Is it worth coming with children? Definitely — the museum is prepared for families: interactive exhibits, the Brick Zone and educational workshops. Reserving workshops helps plan the day better.
Call or write to the museum if you have unusual questions (e.g., about assistance animals, accessibility needs or school groups). Contact and reservation hours are available on the facility’s website.
When planning your Kraków route, remember MIT is a great family attraction and a nice break between walks around the Old Town and exploring other districts. Wear comfortable shoes — some parts of the exhibition are large and involve a fair amount of walking.
If you found this article helpful, share it with friends or on social media. If you prefer visiting with a guide and want a personalized Kraków route, consider contacting private tour guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details are available on the guide’s site.
