The Maison d’Ailleurs in Yverdon-les-Bains is a museum devoted to science fiction, utopia and extraordinary voyages. Explore a permanent exhibition on the history of the genre, a space dedicated to Jules Verne and temporary exhibitions.
Themed museums
Main highlights
- Permanent exhibition “Souvenirs du Futur” on the history and aesthetics of science fiction
- Jules Verne Space with manuscripts, rare editions and adaptations of the Extraordinary Voyages
- Temporary exhibitions on themes such as cities of the future or space travel
Overview
The Maison d’Ailleurs is both a museum for the general public and a specialised research centre. It is devoted to science fiction, utopia and extraordinary voyages, and more broadly to popular culture. The museum is located in the centre of Yverdon-les-Bains.
Its collections show how science fiction shapes our view of the world and our relationship with the future. They highlight the links between scientific speculation and artistic creation, and the ways authors imagine the worlds of tomorrow.
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What to see and do
The permanent exhibition “Souvenirs du Futur” is the heart of the visit. It traces the history and aesthetics of science fiction in the 20th and 21st centuries through literature, film, comics, video games and everyday objects. You will also see film costumes, spaceship models, vintage robots and collectible figurines.
The Jules Verne Space, opened in 2008, explores the world of the French writer and his influence on speculative fiction. It features manuscripts, rare editions and film adaptations of the Extraordinary Voyages.
The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions on themes such as cities of the future or space travel. These often involve contemporary artists, with interactive installations and digital works. A documentation centre holds several thousand books, magazines and archives.
Practical information
Getting there : the museum is a 5-minute walk from Yverdon-les-Bains SBB station.
Visit duration : around 2 hours for all the exhibitions, half a day including the documentation centre.
Audience : all ages, though some themes are better suited to teenagers and adults.
Groups : guided tours on request.
Visiting tips
With children, focus on the playful objects and references to films they know. During certain events, the museum offers creative workshops on science fiction themes.
If you are passionate about the genre, set aside time for the documentation centre, a valuable resource for researchers and enthusiasts alike.
Nearby attractions
- The Yverdon-les-Bains Thermal Centre, set in a wooded park, uses natural sulphurous waters.
- Grandson Castle is a medieval fortress overlooking Lake Neuchâtel.
- The Yverdon Contemporary Art Centre is a free exhibition venue dedicated to contemporary art.
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