Ton Duc Thang Museum, Ho Chi Minh City: Guide for visitors

Contents

1. Introduction to Ton Duc Thang Museum

1.1. Location, opening hours, ticket fees

• Address: 5 Ton Duc Thang Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

• Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 11:30 AM | 1 PM – 5 PM

• Entrance fee: Free of charge

District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City has a reputation of being home to the most interesting attractions the city has to offer. Notably, Ton Duc Thang Museum is a testament to Vietnam’s rich revolutionary history. It serves as a pivotal space not only to show visitors educational exhibitions but also to let them pay respect to a founding father of Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnam – former President Ton Duc Thang.

Ton Duc Thang Museum is a must-see attraction in Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Collected)

1.2. Establishment and significance

Founded in commemoration of the 100th birth anniversary of Ton Duc Thang, the museum aims to be a vibrant educational hub for both Vietnamese people and foreign tourists. In its early days, Ton Duc Thang Museum welcomed people from across Vietnam with a burgeoning interest in studying the revolutionary journey of a well-respected leader. 

However, the building you can see today has come a long way from its inception. In January 2025, the city unveiled the results of a renovation project in celebration of the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s Reunification Day (April 30th) – new facilities and exhibits for Ton Duc Thang Museum. With nearly 2,000 square meters of new exhibition areas, the museum aims to expand its role in educating generations by preserving and honoring the legacy of a great leader.

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2. Exhibitions at Ton Duc Thang Museum

It would not be an exaggeration to call Ton Duc Thang Museum one of the best museums in Ho Chi Minh City solely because of the amazing exhibits available. There are 5 recurring main themes in permanent galleries and 1 gallery reserved for limited-time exhibitions in the museum. The eye-catching exhibitions are arranged in chronological order. On floor 3 and 4 of the museum, you can catch these exhibition themes:

• Third floor: 3 themes
  • Theme 1: Adolescence of Ton Duc Thang
  • Theme 2: From handyman to the leading man of the working class movement in Saigon
  • Theme 3: 15-year incarceration in Con Dao
• Fourth floor: 2 themes and an interactive room
  • Theme 4: The nucleus of unification
  • Theme 5: The time as President

The themed exhibitions in Ton Duc Thang Museum are all part of a large story (Source: Collected)

Explore: Ho Chi Minh City travel tips: 7 crucial notes for you

3. Things to experience at Ton Duc Thang Museum

3.1. Learn history via QR codes or audio guides

Ton Duc Thang Museum brings history to life through an engaging mix of technology and storytelling. QR codes are placed in the exhibitions, inviting you to delve deeper and understand the context of each exhibit and its significance. Alongside that, audio guides are also available, making it easy for you to absorb the historical context behind every display. 

Right from the start of your tour on the third floor, a concise overview of Ton Duc Thang’s life sets the stage for your journey, ensuring that even newcomers can quickly grasp the significant milestones of his legacy. This vibrant approach not only makes learning both intuitive and dynamic but also transforms a regular museum visit into a personalized adventure through history.

3.2. Explore themed exhibitions

Ton Duc Thang Museum is very committed to delivering an immense experience for visitors. Every corner of the museum is meticulously crafted to tell a unique chapter of Ton Duc Thang’s extraordinary life. From the rural atmosphere of the Mekong Delta in the adolescence themed exhibition to sections like “Tales of the Black Sea” and “Ba Son Shipyard,” the museum adds a layer of immersion by featuring the sights and sounds associated with the location, making the visitor feel as if they are there themselves.

As you continue your visit, you will come across the Gaz 69 car, which used to be Ton Duc Thang’s car during official trips. This artifact, along with many more of its caliber, will give you a glimpse into the life of a revered figure in Ho Chi Minh City history.

Ton Duc Thang Museum goes above and beyond to give you an immersive experience (Source: Collected)

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4. Tips for visitors to Ton Duc Thang Museum

4.1. How to get there?

Ton Duc Thang Museum is situated in the city center, so you can reach it quite easily. If you are in District 1, follow Nguyen Hue Street southeast, then turn left onto Mac Thi Buoi Street. Turn right onto Phan Van Dat Street, then left onto Cong Truong Me Linh Street, and left onto Ton Duc Thang Street, where you will find the museum on your left.

In case you are departing from Thu Thiem, make your way to Ba Son Bridge and take the ramp down to Ton Duc Thang Street. Stay on the street until you see the museum on your right.

4.2. What to note?

Ton Duc Thang Museum in Ho Chi Minh City has established clear guidelines and visitors are kindly requested to:

• Display general courtesy: Dress appropriately and conduct yourself in a manner that honors the historical significance of the space. Children must be accompanied by adults at all times.
• Respect the exhibits: Avoid touching the exhibits, ensuring that every piece remains preserved. Compensation and legal prosecution are potential consequences of vandalism.
• Maintain a quiet environment: Keep noise to a minimum.
• Follow instructions: Adhere to the instructions provided by the museum staff, which are in place for both your safety and the protection of the exhibits. You can check your bags and belongings at the lockers.
• Photography guidelines: Only take photos after being given permission and in designated areas.
• No eating or drinking: To maintain cleanliness, refrain from consuming food or beverages inside the museum.
• No harmful substances: Weapons, flammable items, and illegal substances are all prohibited.

Remember to dress appropriately to Ton Duc Thang Museum (Source: Collected)

4.3. Where to go nearby?

Ton Duc Thang Museum is in District 1, which is a haven for tourists in Ho Chi Minh City. You can continue your urban adventure at:

• Bach Dang Wharf (250 meters away): A modern landmark that captures the dynamic urban spirit of Ho Chi Minh City. With an immense view and a wide selection of cafes, the vibrant waterfront here is the place to experience the local culture of Ho Chi Minh City.
• Ho Chi Minh City Opera House (650 meters away): A stunning example of French colonial architecture. The elegant façade and historical aura of the Opera House continue to host spectacular showings that celebrate the city’s cultural heritage and arts from around the world.
• Nguyen Hue Street (700 meters away): This bustling pedestrian boulevard encapsulates the vibrant energy of the city. Lined with cafes, shops, and just about anything you can think of, this lively attraction is a favorite destination for both locals and tourists.
• Ho Chi Minh City Museum (1.2 kilometers away): From one museum to another, Ho Chi Minh City Museum is an architectural gem that chronicles the city’s fascinating evolution over the decades. The engaging exhibits here detail the transformation of this metropolis.

Visit Ho Chi Minh City’s best attractions during your trip (Source: Collected)

Ton Duc Thang Museum offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s revolutionary history and honors the legacy of its notable leader. Thanks to the collection of engaging exhibits, the museum invites visitors to explore the stories that built a revered figure. For that reason, it has earned a spot on the itinerary of many tourists in Ho Chi Minh City.

On the topic of itinerary, Grand Park in Thu Duc City will be a great addition. This entertainment complex is your gateway to a world of fun and adventure in Ho Chi Minh City, bringing you a perfect blend of interactive activities and themed zones.

Book Grand Park ticket now