The AlpenStadtMuseum in Sonthofen is a lively town museum in the Bavarian Allgäu, reopened in 2023 after a major renovation and extension of the historic Heimathaus. It's a great stop for hikers who want to understand the culture and history behind the alpine landscapes surrounding the town.

Set in the historic town centre right next to the parish church of St. Michael, the museum blends a listed farmhouse with a contemporary new building clad in regional white fir wood. Inside, around 1,000 m² of exhibition space brings the region's story to life through interactive and multimedia displays — from alpine farming and mountain tourism to hardship years and local inventiveness. A dedicated section confronts the town's difficult past as home to a Nazi-era Ordensburg, while a timeline traces Sonthofen's history from fossil finds to modern development. Don't miss the restored 19th-century farmhouse interior and the touching Altmummen nativity scene with around 170 figures carved by a deaf master saddler.

• Sonthofen town centre — the museum sits right by the main square near St. Michael's church, an easy walk from the train station or town parking

• Exhibition area: approx. 1,000 m²
• Partially accessible for visitors with limited mobility
• Dedicated children's trail through the exhibition
• Museum café with outdoor terrace
• Multifunctional event room
• Farmhouse garden with useful and medicinal plants

The museum has already won several awards, including the German Design Award and Red Dot Design Award for its exhibition concept, and is nominated for European Museum of the Year 2026.