Joinville: Museums, History and Park Trails

Joinville invites you to discover archaeology, immigrant culture and experiences in nature as different facets of the city. The Museu Arqueológico de Sambaqui de Joinville focuses on Brazil’s archaeological heritage. Other museums explore the history of immigration and the artistic work of Fritz Alt; at Parque Municipal do Morro do Finder, trails lead to further discoveries. When planning your trip, you can consider whether you would prefer to focus mainly on museums or also include activities in the park.

Archaeological History and Immigration

The Museu Arqueológico de Sambaqui de Joinville preserves Brazil’s archaeological heritage. It generates knowledge about the peoples who built sambaquis and lived in the region more than 5,000 years ago. This brings the people and history of a distant past into focus. Those interested in archaeology will find a specific focus here, distinct from the later historical topics explored by the other institutions.

The Museu Nacional de Imigração e Colonização takes a different approach: it collects cultural artefacts, documents and publications about the history of immigration in southern Brazil. Different types of material offer different ways into the subject. The museum is open to the public Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 16:00. You can take these opening hours into account if you would like to include a museum visit in your stay.

Places of Remembrance and Art

Estação da Memória is located in Joinville’s former railway station. The station was built in 1906 and designated a Brazilian architectural heritage site in 2008. These historical details refer to the station and its protected status; as the home of Estação da Memória, it adds another perspective on Joinville’s history alongside archaeology and immigration.

At Museu Casa Fritz Alt, the exhibition “Formas Biográficas” presents works by Fritz Alt. Information panels explain his creative process. Those who want to explore art and the creation of artistic work as well as historical collections will find a different perspective here. Together, these institutions show the many ways Joinville can be explored through archaeology, immigration, remembrance and art.

Trails and Activities at Parque Municipal do Morro do Finder

Experiences in nature are also among the things to enjoy in Joinville. Parque Municipal do Morro do Finder has a main trail that leads visitors to four other trails in the park. This creates a network of several trail sections, rather than just one path. If you enjoy walking, you might consider making this park a focus of your trip.

Within the park, Pedra do Veloso is located at the summit of Morro do Iririú. It is used for activities such as rappelling, climbing and nature observation. This range extends from active pursuits to observing nature, offering different ways to experience the area. Mirante de Joinville offers another connection with nature: it has an observation tower and an elevated forest trail leading to Janela do Mirante. Mirante de Joinville therefore offers its own nature-focused experience alongside the park trails and activities described above.

When choosing a holiday rental, you can consider what you would like to focus on during your trip: museums and history, art, or trails and activities in the park. Joinville offers a range of themes that you can prioritise according to your interests.

Discover more destinations

Would you like to explore more places? These pages will take you to Piratuba, Vidal Ramos, Abelardo Luz, Penha, Navegantes, Joaçaba, Videira and Orleans.

For the broader travel overview: Santa Catarina.