Exhibits and interactive terminals detail the battle's history and the people whom it impacted. You can also sign up for the Generation45 immersive experience, which tells the after-the-war story of an American and a German veteran from 1945 to 1989. Alternatively, download an app that allows you to pay an augmented reality visit to the nearby Bois Jacques battlefield. Many Battle of the Bulge-themed tours stop at the museum, most of which depart from Luxembourg, Brussels, or Amsterdam.
The Bastogne War Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in WWII history and its lasting impact.
On-site facilities include a gift shop, a cafe, and free parking.
The museum is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers—wheelchairs are available on request if you need to borrow one.
The Bastogne War Museum is in the city of Bastogne, which is a 2-hour drive or 3-hour train ride from Brussels, or a 1-hour drive from Luxembourg. The closest train station is Bastogne Pépinière, a 20-minute walk from the museum. You can also take bus number 6 from the city center to the Bastogne Mardasson stop, just across from the museum.
The museum is open every day except Monday in the early spring and late autumn, with extended evening hours in the summer months. Note that the museum closes annually in January and part of February. As opening timings vary, it’s wise to check the museum’s website before heading over for up-to-date information.
Bastogne's tourism industry is primarily focused on the famous battle, with plenty of sights of interest worth checking out. Across from the museum, the Mardasson Memorial commemorates the resistance of American soldiers during the Ardennes Offensive, while the 101 Airborne Museum Le Mess focuses on life in the town during the war. Just north of town stands Bois Jacques (Jack Woods), where you can see foxholes used by American troops.
