The birthplace of Arnold Schwarzenegger in Thal is the official and only museum worldwide that bears his name and is personally supported by him.
The museum, which used to be the forester’s house of the Counts of Herberstein, was opened in 2011 and since then offers a journey through the beginnings and careers of probably the most famous Austrian. Numerous exhibits showcase his extraordinary career and guide you through the most important phases of his life, such as his childhood and youth, his bodybuilding and film career, all the way to his governorship. Experience Terminator & Co. up close and immerse yourself in the life of Arnold Schwarzenegger!
Online Shop
Visit our online shop and surprise your loved ones with a special gift! Treat yourself, friends, and family to a piece of Arnold Schwarzenegger with our original merchandise and fan items.
The History of the Museum
1947
Birth of Arnold Schwarzenegger
Arnold Alois Schwarzenegger was born on July 30, 1947, in Graz. He spent his childhood and youth with his family in the company housing of the Gendarmerie in Thal, which was located in the former forester’s house of the Counts of Herberstein. He moved out on August 8, 1966, to begin his journey to conquer the world. Due to his career as a bodybuilder, actor, and Governor of California, he can rightfully be considered the most famous living Austrian today.
In 2004, under Mayor Peter Urdl, a longtime friend of Arnold, the 7.3 km long Arnold Schwarzenegger Hiking Trail was opened. Along the trail, hikers can trace the most important milestones in Arnold Schwarzenegger’s life through six large granite memorial stones with copper plaques. There are also stations near Thalersee that can be discovered on a dedicated lake tour.
2004
Inauguration of the Arnold Schwarzenegger Hiking Trail
2009
Auction of the Birthplace by Investor Christian Baha
To honor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s unique life journey, a museum was needed. When this idea was presented to Arnold in his hometown of Thal in 2007, he pledged his support with numerous personal items. Two years later, in 2009, Superfund owner Christian Baha purchased the house, which was previously privately owned. Renovations quickly followed, and with the support of Peter Urdl, a longtime friend of Arnold Schwarzenegger, the long-held vision of the world’s only Arnold Schwarzenegger Museum became a reality. Since 2011, visitors from around the world have been able to explore Arnold Schwarzenegger’s life through memorabilia and other artifacts.
On Arnold Schwarzenegger’s birthday, July 30, 2011, the house met its destiny as a museum. On October 7 of the same year, the house was officially opened with the unveiling of the life-size bronze statue by Ralph Crawford, in a ceremony led by Arnold himself. Since its opening, the museum has continuously adapted to Arnold’s evolving career, adding new sections, such as his military service, as well as new movie props. And the story continues…
2011
Opening of the Museum
“Stay hungry”
Arnold Schwarzenegger sends a video greeting for the opening of his museum.
Our Partners
Impressions of the museum
Immerse yourself in the life of Arnold Schwarzenegger and marvel at the memorabilia and original exhibits from his childhood, film, and gubernatorial career.
The life of Arnold Schwarzenegger
Documentary
Arnold in the museum
Arnold does not miss the opportunity to return to his birthplace several times a year to give personal tours to friends and family.
Opening hours
Summer Season
From February to October: Monday – Friday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (lunch break from 2:00 PM – 2:30 PM),
Saturday – Sunday (including holidays, bridge days, and vacations) 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, last admission at 5:30 PM
Winter Season
From November to January: Friday – Sunday (including holidays, bridge days, and vacations) 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Last admission at 4:30 PM (lunch break from 2:00 PM – 2:30 PM)
Admission prices
Adults
12,90€
Discounted*
9,90€
Children (5-14 years)
and School Classes
6,90€
One-time Guided Tour Fee
10,00€
Groups
By Appointment Only
*Groups of over 10 people, students up to 27 years old, seniors from 65 years old, people with disabilities, military and civil service members, job seekers, and FSJ participants (Voluntary Social Year) receive discounts with valid proof.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed in the museum, but they are welcome to wait on a leash in front of the house!
Contact Us
Arnold Schwarzenegger Museum
Linakstraße 9
A-8051 Thal, Austria
museum@arnieslife.com
Tel.: +43 (0) 316 571 947