The Bottle Art Museum

The Bottle Art Museum, or Baan Tongkaew, is a unique and fascinating attraction in Pattaya, Thailand. It was founded in 1984 by Khun Lek Viriyapant, a well-known Thai artist and collector. Khun Lek began collecting bottles as a hobby in the 1960s, and his collection grew so large that he eventually decided to open a museum to showcase it.

The museum is home to over 200,000 bottles from all over the world. The bottles are displayed in a variety of ways, including on shelves, in cabinets, and even hanging from the ceiling. The collection includes everything from small, colorful bottles to large, antique bottles.

The artistic value of the bottles is undeniable. Khun Lek has a keen eye for detail, and he has arranged the bottles in such a way that they create a visually stunning display. The museum is a testament to his creativity and his passion for collecting.

Location

The Bottle Art Museum is conveniently situated in the heart of Pattaya, at 23/1-2 Moo 10 Nongprue Banglamung, Chonburi 20150, Thailand. Reaching the museum is a breeze, thanks to its prime location on Sukhumvit Road. To get there, you can hop on a local baht bus or hire a tuk-tuk. Both options are budget-friendly and will drop you off right at the museum's doorstep.

In addition to its proximity to public transportation, the Bottle Art Museum is surrounded by a plethora of tourist attractions. Just a short stroll away, you can explore the vibrant Walking Street, renowned for its lively nightlife and entertainment venues. Moreover, the iconic Pattaya Beach is within easy reach, offering a myriad of water sports activities and sun-soaked relaxation.

Opening Hours

The Bottle Art Museum in Pattaya is open to the public on specific days of the week and at certain times of the day. The museum is usually closed on Mondays, but it remains open every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday between 10:00 AM and 4:30 PM. Visitors are advised to be mindful of these hours and plan their visit accordingly.

The museum also observes certain holidays as a part of its schedule. On Thai national holidays, including important celebrations such as New Year's Day, Songkran Festival, and Makha Bucha Day, the museum may have altered operating hours or be entirely closed. To avoid any inconvenience, visitors are suggested to check the museum's website or make inquiries through their contact information before planning a visit on a holiday.

Admission Fees

The Bottle Art Museum offers different admission fees for adults and children, as well as discounts for students and seniors.

Adults: 200 THB
Children: 100 THB
Students (with valid student ID): 150 THB
Seniors (60 years old and above): 150 THB

The museum also offers family packages, which include admission for two adults and two children. The price for a family package is 500 THB.

Discounts and concessions are available for groups of 10 or more people. The discount is 10% for groups of 10-19 people and 15% for groups of 20 or more people.

Note: Admission fees may change without prior notice. It is recommended to check the museum's official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on admission fees.

Guided Tours

Guided tours of the Bottle Art Museum are available for groups of 10 or more. Tours must be booked in advance by calling the museum or emailing them. Tours are conducted in English, Thai, and Chinese. The cost of a guided tour is 200 baht per person.

Guided tours of the Bottle Art Museum typically last for about an hour. During the tour, visitors will learn about the history of the museum, the different types of bottles in the collection, and the artistic value of the bottles. Visitors will also have the opportunity to ask questions about the museum and the bottles.

Exhibits

The exhibits at The Bottle Art Museum range from historical to contemporary pieces and highlight the artistic value of recycled glass. One of the main themes of the exhibits is the transformation of discarded bottles into works of art, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and upcycling.

Among the highlights of the collection is a series of glass sculptures by renowned Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. His intricate and detailed works depict scenes from Thai mythology and everyday life, capturing the essence of Thai culture and heritage.

Interactive displays are incorporated throughout the museum, providing visitors with an engaging and educational experience. These displays allow visitors to learn about the processes involved in glassblowing and recycling, and to create their own glass art.

Workshops

The Bottle Art Museum offers a variety of workshops for visitors to learn about and create their own bottle art. The workshops are led by experienced artists and are suitable for all levels of experience. The classes range from beginner lessons on basic techniques to advanced workshops on more complex projects.

Some of the types of workshops offered include:

Bottle cutting: Learn how to safely cut and shape bottles using a variety of tools.
Bottle painting: Learn different techniques for painting bottles, including using brushes, sponges, and spray paint.
Bottle etching: Learn how to etch designs into bottles using a variety of acids and tools.
Bottle fusing: Learn how to fuse glass bottles together to create unique and colorful pieces of art.

Each workshop is typically two to three hours long and the cost varies depending on the type of workshop. The schedule of workshops is available on the museum's website.

Souvenirs

At The Bottle Art Museum, you can find a treasure trove of souvenirs to commemorate your visit. These unique mementos are created by local artists using various techniques, including glassblowing, etching, and painting.

From intricate miniature bottles to colorful decorative pieces, there's something for every taste and budget. You can find small trinkets like keychains and magnets, as well as larger works of art that make beautiful additions to any home or office.

The museum's gift shop is a great place to find souvenirs. The friendly staff is always happy to help you find the perfect memento of your visit.

Food and Drinks

The Bottle Art Museum does not have a dedicated restaurant or cafe, but there are several options for food and drinks nearby. Visitors can find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors within a short walk of the museum.

These establishments offer a wide range of cuisines, from traditional Thai dishes to international fare. Prices are generally reasonable, and there are options to suit all budgets.

Some of the most popular restaurants near the Bottle Art Museum include:

The Glasshouse is a popular spot for lunch and dinner, offering a variety of Thai and international dishes.
The Wine Bar is a great place to relax and enjoy a glass of wine or beer, along with some light snacks.
The Coffee Shop is a popular spot for a quick cup of coffee or a pastry.

There are also several street food vendors located near the Bottle Art Museum, offering a variety of Thai dishes at very affordable prices. These vendors are a great option for a quick and easy snack or meal.

Accessibility

The Bottle Art Museum is committed to providing a welcoming and accessible environment for all visitors, regardless of their abilities. The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators providing access to all floors. Strollers are also welcome, and there is plenty of space to navigate the museum with a stroller. Service animals are also welcome in the museum.

Restrooms

The Bottle Art Museum has a clean and well-maintained restroom facility that can be easily located within the premises. Visitors can find the restrooms in a convenient spot, ensuring easy access during their visit. The restrooms are designed to accommodate both male and female visitors, providing a comfortable and private experience. To ensure inclusivity, the museum also features accessible restrooms equipped with grab bars and ample space for wheelchair users. The cleanliness of the restrooms is regularly checked and maintained by the museum staff, ensuring a hygienic environment for all visitors.

Parking

There is ample parking space available for visitors to the Bottle Art Museum. The parking lot is located directly across the street from the museum and is able to accommodate both cars and tour buses. Parking is free of charge, making it a convenient option for those driving to the museum.

The museum's parking lot is well-lit and secure, providing peace of mind for visitors leaving their vehicles. It is also easily accessible, as it is located on the main road leading to the museum.

For those who prefer to take public transportation, the museum is conveniently located near several bus stops. Visitors can easily catch a bus from Pattaya Beach or other popular tourist areas, making it easy to reach the museum without the need for a car.

Pet Policy

Pets are not allowed inside the Bottle Art Museum. This is to ensure the safety and well-being of the artworks and other visitors. If you are planning to visit the museum with your furry friend, you will need to make arrangements for someone to watch them while you are inside.

There are several pet-friendly cafes and restaurants in Pattaya where you can leave your pet while you explore the museum. You can also find pet sitters or dog walkers who can take care of your pet while you are away.

Insider Tip

Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Bottle Art Museum is during the weekday mornings, as it's less crowded, allowing for a more peaceful and enjoyable experience.
What to wear: Dress comfortably, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring. Avoid wearing anything too revealing or flashy, as it may not be appropriate for the cultural context.
What to bring: Bring a camera to capture the unique and beautiful bottles on display. A pair of comfortable shoes is also recommended, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.

The Bottle Art Museum