If you are looking for kids-friendly museums in Berlin and free attractions for families, the Allied Museum in Dahlem is a place you should definitely add to your list.
We visited recently and honestly wished we had arrived earlier – there was so much to see that we could easily have stayed much longer. The museum tells a fascinating story about Berlin after World War II and during the Cold War, but it presents it in a way that is surprisingly engaging for families and older children.
And the best part? Entry is completely free.
A unique place to learn about Berlin’s Cold War history
The Allied Museum focuses on the period between 1945 and 1994, when the western allies – the United States, the United Kingdom and France – played a crucial role in shaping political life and everyday life in West Berlin.
The permanent exhibition, titled “How enemies became friends”, explores how former wartime enemies gradually became partners in rebuilding Germany and defending West Berlin during the Cold War.
The exhibition is divided into two main historical periods.
Outdoor exhibition: Berlin after the war
Some of the most interesting objects can be seen outside on the museum grounds.
There is also an outdoor exhibition titled “End of the war. Occupation. Division. Berlin 1945–1949.” It explains how Berlin was divided and how the early political decisions after the war eventually led to the Cold War conflict.
One of the highlights of the outdoor area is a historic British aircraft from the Berlin Airlift, which visitors can see up close on the museum grounds. Starting in April, it is also possible to go inside the plane, making it an especially exciting experience for children and anyone interested in Cold War history.
A temporary exhibition kids will love: ColdWarGames
One reason why the Allied Museum works surprisingly well as a family attraction in Berlin is its current temporary exhibition:
“ColdWarGames – It’s all a game” (until June 30, 2026).
Created in cooperation with the Computerspielemuseum, the exhibition explores how the Cold War influenced games and play culture.
Visitors can discover:
- Cold War themed board games from the 1960s and 1970s
- a reconstruction of a GDR computer club
- the only arcade machine produced in East Germany
- modern games inspired by Cold War history
Children can try some of the games themselves, making this part of the museum interactive and very engaging for families.
It is a great example of how history can be explained through play.
Practical information
Allied Museum Berlin
📍 Clayallee 135, Berlin-Dahlem
💰 admission: free
🎮 temporary exhibition: ColdWarGames – It’s all a game (until June 30, 2026)
Final thoughts
If you are looking for free attractions in Berlin, family-friendly museums, or simply an interesting place to learn more about the city’s history, the Allied Museum in Dahlem is absolutely worth visiting.
We had such a great time there and honestly wished we had arrived earlier – there was so much more to explore.
Berlin never stops surprising us with places like this.
For more Berlin’s attractions please check here.
