Steiff Museum
Photo: Own work — Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Explore the world of Steiff with over 2,000 animals, historical exhibits, and interactive experiences.
Planning your visit
Margarete Steiff had polio as a child and used a wheelchair her whole life. She trained as a seamstress, began making felt elephants as pincushions in the 1880s, found children wanted them as toys, and built a company. Her nephew Richard designed a jointed bear in 1902; an American buyer took a batch, and the teddy bear became a global industry.
The museum in Giengen holds over 2,000 animals and covers that history, along with the manufacturing — Steiff bears are still made partly by hand, and the button in the ear introduced in 1904 to distinguish them from imitations remains the mark.
The visit is designed for children, with a ride through animated scenes and a large play area, and the factory is nearby.
Giengen is in Baden-Württemberg between Stuttgart and Ulm. Allow two hours. The main booking is an entry ticket. Current availability is listed below.
Before you book
Where is Steiff Museum?
Steiff Museum is in Giengen an der Brenz, Germany. The map on this page marks its exact location.
How long should I allow for Steiff Museum?
Allow two hours. That is the time the collection itself takes at an unhurried pace, before any queue.
Do I need to book Steiff Museum in advance?
Tickets can be bought on the door at quiet times, but booking ahead fixes the date and avoids the queue at busy ones. Live availability is shown on this page.