Things to do in Trollhättan: the falls, locks and Innovatum

1. Trollhättan's waterfall area

The waterfall channel is worth seeing for the landscape, not just a release of water. Around it you'll find historic stops including Kungsgrottan, while Oskarsbron gives you a clear destination for a walk from the centre. Follow part of the De Laval Walk if you want to explore both sides of the falls.

Good to know

• The falls are not a continuously running water show. Check official information for any scheduled release before planning around one.
• The waterfall area is about 1 km from Drottningtorget; the official directions lead via Klaffbron to Oskarsbron.
• The De Laval Walk is 1.6 km and includes uneven forest terrain as well as paved streets; wear suitable shoes.

2. The locks and Gamle Dal

Three generations of locks make this one of the clearest places to see how Trollhättan changed over time. The lock staircases from 1800, 1844 and 1916 sit in a park landscape, so you can mix engineering history with a gentle wander. You don't need to catch a boat passing to enjoy the visit.

Good to know

• Nils Ericson's Walk is a 1.6 km route around the lock staircases and Gamle Dal.
• For a longer outing from the centre, Slussrundan is a 7.5 km return walk along the canal.
• The Canal Museum and Slusscaféet are summer-open; check current hours before counting on either.

3. Innovatum Science Center

At Innovatum you can test the ideas behind technology instead of only looking at finished machines. Interactive stations, experiments and creative play spaces sit alongside the area's industrial story. It's a good way to balance the canal walks, especially if you're visiting with children.

Good to know

• Admission is paid; check weekday, weekend and family options on innovatumsciencecenter.se.
• Normally open Tuesday–Sunday, with later opening on Thursdays; check exceptions before visiting.
• Find it at Åkerssjövägen 16, Building 60, in the Innovatum district, about 1.5 km from Drottningtorget.

4. Saab Car Museum

Saab's story is part of Trollhättan's identity, and this collection follows it through production cars, prototypes and rally machines. The original Saab is one of the highlights, but the experiments that never became everyday cars are just as interesting. Make this a planned stop rather than assuming it is open alongside Innovatum.

Good to know

• Important closure: the operator lists the museum as closed from 1 October 2026 through 19 February 2027, with reopening on 20 February 2027.
• Check the operator's opening page and current admission information before travelling; after reopening, the normal pattern is Tuesday–Sunday.
• The listed permanent address is Åkerssjövägen 18, Building 61, in the Innovatum district.

5. Älvrummet nature reserve

Älvrummet gives you forest and riverside scenery between the falls and the locks. Combine Kärlekens stig and Träbrostigen for a walk that changes from water views to woodland. It's a useful choice when you want a proper stretch of walking rather than another indoor attraction.

Good to know

• The two trails form a 2.5 km loop; the official guide suggests starting near Olidan power station.
• Expect hilly natural paths, not a level paved promenade. Wear walking shoes and choose another route if footing is poor.
• Take refreshments with you rather than relying on the summer café at the locks.

6. Spikön

For a more relaxed walk near the centre, head to Spikön. The island has sculptures, an outdoor gym and a themed playground, so different members of the group can find something to enjoy. Walk back along Strandgatan for a simple canal-side loop.

Good to know

• Spikörundan is a 2.5 km route taking in Spikön and Strandgatan.
• The island café is summer-open, so plan another refreshment stop outside that season.
• Use the official sculpture information if you'd like to turn the stroll into a small art walk.

Quick tips

• A simple day: the falls and locks in daylight, then experiments at Innovatum.
• Choose one walking route rather than adding all the published loops together; the distances soon add up.
• Check Saab Car Museum's closure notice first if cars are a main reason for your trip.
• Want company? Check upcoming events in Trollhättan on Socroo below and find someone to go with.