ABBA are just so hot right now.
Nearly five decades from their debut, the prolific foursome continue to be relevant, with the release of critically-acclaimed Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again, Cher’s disco-tastic album Dancing Queen and fans saying ‘Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!’ about the group’s eagerly awaited new tracks due for release in early 2019.
However, if you’re looking for an ABBA fix in the meantime, where better to do so than in the city where it all began: the Open City of Stockholm.
So say ‘thank you for the music’ because these places and experiences in Stockholm will let you really unleash your inner Dancing Queen.
1 ABBA: The Museum
With the motto ‘Walk in. Dance out.’, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience at this fully interactive museum. And with holographic dance lessons, karaoke booths and hyper-realistic waxworks, this is the closest you can get to Agnetha, Björn, Benny and Anni-frid without risking a restraining order.
Don’t miss the new, special exhibition that chronicles the members’ careers post their ABBA heyday.
2 Pop House hotel
Did watching Mamma Mia have you hankering to visit Donna’s idyllic Greek island? Well now you can experience the atmosphere for yourself in Pop House hotel’s Mamma Mia: The Party suite.
You’ll be transported to the world of the musical, complete with grape vines, white-plastered walls and a starry-night sky once darkness falls. There’s also a stylish black and gold ABBA Gold suite inspired by the groups’ prolific hits.
3 Hotel Skeppsholmen
Set on a small island at the entrance to the city – in former military barracks that date back to 1699 – this stunning heritage building has been given a 21st-century update and is now one of Stockholm’s hottest spots for those in the know.
So much so, that when it came to choosing a venue to record their new music, ABBA were quick to choose the Skeppsholmen. Whether you decide to stay or not, the meatballs are a must try.
4 Hotel Rival
This gorgeous art deco building oozes sophistication and a touch of fun with its plush lobby and cocktail bar. The atmosphere is open and the crowd mixed. Owned by ABBA’s very own Benny Andersson, entertainment is of course on point – with live music and shows (including appearances from the city’s best drag performers) to get you in the mood whilst you enjoy a cocktail.
5 Club King Kong
Just next door to Rival, this gay club is the perfect spot for Dancing Queens to continue their night. With two dance floors, one playing contemporary pop hits and the other playing Swedish cheesy classics, the music is guaranteed to get the fun and friendly crowd on their feet. And you won’t be short of an ABBA tune or two.
6 StandOut Travel
Erik and Sofia are the premier LGBT+ private tour operators, offering personal guides to the city that inspired the songs. Just give them a ‘Ring Ring’ and they’ll be sure to put together a bespoke itinerary for you, featuring the spots that led to ABBA’s formation and success.
Stockholm LGBT is a client of Gay Star News.
For more LGBT+ travel inspiration from the world’s most Open City, visit www.StockholmLGBT.com or follow the conversation on social media at #stockholmlgbt