Historic sports equipment and sportswear, photographs from a variety of sporting events - the Latvian Sports Museum offers extensive information on the greatest personalities in Latvian sports and the history of sports in Latvia, spanning several centuries. The museum showcases achievements in various sports, ranging from team sports like basketball and hockey to individual disciplines, like athletics and cycling. Visitors can explore the evolution of sports culture, Olympic highlights, and the role of sports during different political eras.
From a private collection to a national museum
Latvian Sports Museum is located in an ancient building in Riga's Old Town. The first collection of museum exhibits was provided by Voldemārs Šmidbergs who bequeathed around 10,000 unique historic items to the museum.
The museum's exhibition includes various medals, cups, prizes, lapel pins, documents, photographs, posters, sports equipment and sportswear, audio and video materials and periodicals dating back to the second half of the 19th century until today. While in the museum, note the medals awarded to cyclists and track and field athletes at the turn of the 19th century - they may well be considered works of art! On the other hand, the sports equipment and sportswear offer a look back on not just the history of sports but also the history of fashion, telling the visitors about the evolution of sportswear.
Library and interactive experiences
The museum also houses a library that includes books and materials on sports statistics, sports education, history of various sports, biographies, chess and draughts. Visitors of the museum can also take part in various activities while visiting: those who feel physically fit may try a cliff wall, whilst others can play a board game.
One of the aspects of the museum's work is the creation of photography exhibitions about sports, the museum also organises thematic events on key sporting events and the most outstanding athletes who have made a profound contribution to the history of Latvian sports.
Why visit
The Latvian Sports Museum is an engaging destination for sports fans, families and anyone curious about how athletic traditions have shaped society. The museum features a rich collection of historic sports equipment, uniforms, medals, photographs and memorabilia that bring to life the achievements of Latvia’s greatest athletes. Visitors can explore exhibits on different team sports and individual disciplines and learn about Olympic highlights and iconic sporting moments. Interactive displays and occasional activities make the experience both educational and enjoyable.
Historical highlight
Founded on a large private collection donated by sports enthusiast Voldemārs Šimdbergs, the museum traces the development of sports in Latvia from the late 19th century to the present. The exhibits highlight how sports culture evolved through different eras, including pre-war competitions, Soviet-period athletic achievements and modern international success. One of the standout features is a display of beautifully crafted medals and awards that reflect not only athletic accomplishment but also artistic design and cultural history.
How to get there
The Latvian Sports Museum is located in Riga’s Old Town, within easy walking distance of major city attractions, shops and cafés. It is also well served by public transport - buses and trams stop nearby along central routes. From these stops the museum’s entrance can be reached by a short stroll through picturesque streets of the historic centre.