Arktikum Science Museum & Finland Destination

Arktikum in Rovaniemi is a museum, science centre, attraction and a popular culture destination in Rovaniemi. Extremelly interactive, lots of Sami history and the environmental part is especially very educational. Great for a rainy day.

Something else to consider during your visit - Arktikum Beach! In the foregrounds of Arktikum, along the shoreline of the Ounasjoki River, resides an Arctic garden and one of Rovaniemi’s most picturesqe parks. Situated on about seven hectares, and spanning a small island, this arboretum park boasts a scenic location along the banks of the Ounasjoki River. The Arktikum Beach Park displays a variery of species of plants and alpine vegetation that have uniquely adapted to survive the harsh nothern climate of Lapland and the Arctic.

The Arctic garden is maintained by the University of Lapland. Additionally, here you will find copies of ancient runestones and runic symbols, as well as sculptor and artist Risto Immonen’s ”Nätti-Jussi”; inspired by the legendary woodcutter and lumberjack Johan Viktor Nätti (1890 - 1964).

During the summer months, the midnight sun shines its light on the beach park from the north; making for an ideal spot to enjoy a picnic or go for a refreshing swim. As summer gives way to autumn and winter, along with it comes shorter days and longer nights. It’s during this darker period, Arktikum beach transforms into a stupendous place from which to observe the Northern Lights.