Tartu Toy Museum

Welcome to the Tartu Toy Museum, the biggest toy museum in the Baltic States, set inside one of the oldest wooden buildings in Tartu, Estonia, dating from the 1770s. Founded in 1994, this charming destination displays over 5,000 toys from its vast collection. You can explore interactive toys firsthand or head to the playroom and crafts room for hands-on fun.

In the courtyard house, you will discover a fascinating film puppet exhibition featuring animated movie characters, props, and cartoon sketches created in Estonia over the past 50 years. The museum also houses the unique Theatre House, opened in 2010, which combines family plays with a theatre puppet museum, a children's studio for activities, handicraft spaces, and even a medieval house room uncovered during archaeological excavations. Keep an eye out for Teddy Flower-paw, the museum's famous mascot sewn in 1994, who wears a national folk costume skirt with flower-patterned paws.

Whether you want to discover the world of theatre, play with nostalgic toys, or admire historic animation artistry, the Tartu Toy Museum on Lutsu Street offers an unforgettable journey for visitors of all ages.

What to see at Tartu Toy Museum

• Over 5,000 toys on display plus interactive play areas for children
• Courtyard house exhibiting Estonian animation film puppets, props, and sketches
• Theatre House featuring family plays and a specialized theatre puppet museum
• An uncovered medieval house room preserved from archaeological excavations
• Mascot Teddy Flower-paw dressed in a national folk costume skirt

Visiting tips

Be sure to visit the courtyard house to see 50 years of Estonian animation history and movie props.

How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Tartu Toy Museum is easy to reach on Tartu’s public transport, and pairs naturally with St. John's Church and Tartu Art Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Tartu travel guide.