Whether you love skiing or just want to temporarily escape the hustle and bustle of downtown, odds are you'll enjoy exploring the Holmenkollen Ski Museum. Located in Oslo's Holmenkollen neighborhood roughly 6 miles northwest of the city center, this museum is the world's oldest dedicated to skiing. More than 4,000 years of skiing history are explored in exhibits that display everything from skis used during polar explorations to information about how climate change is expected to impact future skiing conditions. The world's longest skis – which measure 147 inches long – and one of the oldest skis ever found – it's believed to be from around A.D. 600 – are also available for viewing.

Although a few recent visitors found the museum itself to be boring, many felt its displays were informative and thoughtfully laid out. However, the highlight for most former museumgoers was the adjacent Ski Jump. Built in the early 2000s to replace previous iterations of the original jump constructed in 1892, the current structure is made of steel and features a sleek, cantilevered design. Its glass facade protects skiers and spectators from the wind, and a tilted elevator travels up the jump to bring travelers to its public viewing platform. Past visitors highly recommend heading to the top to take in the city views and speed down the zip line – if you're feeling brave.

Entry into the ski museum costs 140 kroner (approximately $17) for adults, 120 kroner (about $14.50) for seniors and students, and 70 kroner (roughly $8.50) for kids ages 6 to 18. Family passes are available as well, and all kids 5 and younger get in for free. If you have an Oslo Pass, your admission is covered in your pass fee. Guided tours and zip lining cost extra. Museum tickets include access to all exhibits, plus the Ski Jump's tower, two souvenir shops and a cafe with coffee, water and snacks. The property is open daily from 9 or 10 a.m. until 4, 5 or 8 p.m., depending on the month. The easiest way to reach the museum and jump is to take Line 1 of the T-bane to Holmenkollen station, which sits about a half mile away. Check out the Holmenkollen Ski Museum website for more information.