The History of the Patton Memorial Plzeň Museum

The museum opened in 2005 on the 60th anniversary of the liberation. It is the only museum in the Czech Republic dedicated to the US Army. The exhibits tell the story of the 16th Armored Division.

You can view over 1,000 items on display. These include uniforms, weapons, and medical equipment. You can also read a detailed exhibit guide to learn more. The stories of local citizens and soldiers come to life here.

The museum is located in the KD Peklo building. This building has its own historical charm. It is close to the city center, making it easy to visit. Most people spend about an hour exploring the collections.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the authenticity of the artifacts. Many were donated by veterans or their families. It is a place of reflection and gratitude. The museum ensures the events of 1945 are never forgotten.

10 Best Things to Do Near Patton Memorial Plzeň Museum

Plzeň is a compact city with many treasures. You can easily walk between most major sites. Here are the top picks for your itinerary in 2026.

• Best overall: Pilsner Urquell Brewery
• Best for families: Puppet Museum
• Best rainy-day: Historical Underground
• Best free: Cathedral of St. Bartholomew (interior)

1. Name: Patton Memorial Plzeň Type: Museum Why go: It is the only museum dedicated to the US liberation of the city. Best for: History lovers and families. Where: Pobřežní street. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Walk from the main square. Tip: Check for special events during the Liberation Festival in May.
2. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Type: Sight/Activity Why go: It is the birthplace of the world's most famous lager. Best for: Beer fans and foodies. Where: U Prazdroje. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Higher range for tours. Getting there: 15-minute walk from the city center. Tip: Book your tour online in advance to skip the lines.
3. Name: Cathedral of St. Bartholomew Type: Viewpoint Why go: It features the highest church tower in the Czech Republic. Best for: Photographers and active travelers. Where: Republic Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small fee for the tower. Getting there: Located in the very center of town. Tip: Climb the tower for the best panoramic views of the city.
4. Name: Adolf Loos Interiors Type: Museum Why go: See stunning modernist apartment designs from the early 20th century. Best for: Design and architecture enthusiasts. Where: Various locations near the center. Time: 1.5 hours per tour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Guided tours start from the official tourism site office. Tip: You must book Adolf Loos interiors tours weeks ahead.
5. Name: Plzeň Historical Underground Type: Unique Experience Why go: Explore a labyrinth of tunnels dating back to the 14th century. Best for: Adventure seekers and history buffs. Where: Veleslavínova street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Entrance is near the Brewery Museum. Tip: Wear a jacket as the historical underground is cold year-round.
6. Name: Great Synagogue Type: Iconic Sight Why go: It is the second-largest synagogue in Europe and very beautiful. Best for: Culture and history lovers. Where: Smetanovy sady. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: A short walk from the Patton Memorial. Tip: Check the concert schedule for amazing acoustics.
7. Name: Puppet Museum Type: Museum Why go: Plzeň has a long tradition of puppetry and famous characters like Spejbl and Hurvínek. Best for: Families with children. Where: Republic Square. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Located on the main square. Tip: Read our Puppet Museum guide for the best interactive exhibits.
8. Name: DEPO2015 Type: Neighborhood/Market Why go: A former bus depot turned into a vibrant cultural and creative space. Best for: Hipsters, artists, and coffee lovers. Where: Presslova street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free entry to the site; exhibitions vary. Getting there: 10-minute walk south of the center. Tip: Visit the DEPO2015 cultural space for unique local markets.
9. Name: Meditation Garden Type: Nature Why go: A peaceful park with many sculptures and rare plants. Best for: Those seeking quiet and reflection. Where: Doudlevce district. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: Take bus number 30 from the center. Tip: It is a great place to escape the city noise.
10. Name: Radyně Castle Type: Day Trip Why go: Visit the ruins of a royal castle with a massive tower. Best for: Hikers and history fans. Where: Near Starý Plzenec. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Short train or bus ride plus a hike. Tip: Explore the Radyně Castle ruins for amazing views of the region.

Planning Your 2026 Visit to Plzeň

Plzeň is a welcoming city that is easy to navigate. Most people speak some English, especially in tourist areas. The local currency is the Czech Koruna (CZK).

Public transport is efficient and cheap. You can buy tickets using a contactless card on trams and buses. Walking is often the best way to see the city center.

For the best experience, visit during the spring or autumn. The weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. May is particularly special due to the liberation celebrations.

Check the Plzeň Region website for local news. You can find updates on festivals and museum hours. Always carry a small amount of cash for smaller shops.