A Day at the Riverside

Ahoy, fellow wanderlusters!

If you find yourself in Glasgow and think the Riverside Museum is just a fancy name for a river-themed retreat, think again!

I decided to dive headfirst into this treasure trove of transport and technology, and boy did I enjoy the ride!

Exploring unique museums that focus on science and innovation, and how they have helped shape a city’s industry and way of life, is always on my ‘must-see’ attractions list.

Especially when entry is free!

A Journey Through Time

From the moment I stepped inside, I felt like I was transported back in time, surrounded by the echoes of the city’s vibrant history. The museum’s architecture itself is a work of art. The building was designed by internationally renowned architect Dame Zaha Hadid. The museum was also named European Museum of the Year for 2013.

Strolling Down Main Street

As I wandered through the exhibits, I was immediately drawn to the Main Street exhibit, a reconstruction of a Glasgow street scene of the 1890s to 1930s, complete with shops, houses, and bygone forms of transport.

Close your eyes and picture it:

The cobblestones beneath your feet, glistening like enchanted jewels, click-clacking softly as you wander through a fantastical world. Quaint shops, each a treasure trove of history, beckon you with their whimsical charm, while the sweet aroma of nostalgia dances on the breeze, wrapping around you like a warm embrace. As you stroll, the air shimmers with possibility, every step revealing a story waiting to be discovered, and every corner promising a sprinkle of magic.

Wow! I loved the attention to detail each shop showcased. My favorite was the Photographer Studio. It showcases how the photographer transformed the ordinary into something magical and iconic.

The Mitre: Suds & Scandal

The restoration of the Mitre pub captivated me, mainly due to its intriguing history of enforcing a strict “no women allowed” policy. This storied establishment, steeped in tradition, carries the weight of a bygone era, where the very act of crossing its threshold was an exclusive privilege. Its walls, now revived, whisper tales of the past, inviting curiosity and conversation about the complexities of its legacy.

Spinning Around: Glasgow Vinyl Paradise

The Record Shop exhibit was a hoot. It’s a love letter to Glasgow’s groovy record shops from 1980 to 1995, and let me tell you, it was like taking a time machine through vinyl paradise. I was jazzed by the sheer kaleidoscope of genres on display — it felt like the ultimate mixtape of musical history! Imagine it: records spinning, colors bursting, and tunes dancing through the air.

I mean, who knew nostalgia could feel this groovy?

Cinema City

Oh wow! The recreation of the Picture House was fun for this filmmaker to view with her own eyes.

I felt whisked away to the golden age of cinema, back when Glasgow proudly wore the title of ‘Cinema City.’ The vibrant colors and vintage decor wrapped around me like a cozy blanket. At the same time, the atmosphere crackled with nostalgia at every corner.

It was as if the ghosts of movie legends were playfully whispering, “Welcome back to the show!” — igniting a delightful spark of wonder that made me feel like I was part of a classic film myself.

The City’s Engineering Marvels

As I wandered through the exhibits, I enjoyed learning more about the impressive collection of vehicles that showcase Glasgow’s remarkable contributions to transport and technology.

Each display offered a story of ingenuity and perseverance, reminding me of the city’s pivotal role in shaping the industrial landscape not just in Scotland but across the world. It was fascinating to see the classic ships that once navigated the River Clyde, a testament to the shipbuilding legacy that has left an indelible mark on this city.

Imagining Life on the Tram

One of my favorite moments was sitting in an old tramcar, letting my imagination run wild as I envisioned the bustling streets of Glasgow from decades past.

I felt a connection to the countless lives that had traveled through this very vehicle, and it sparked a sense of appreciation for the incredible advancements in transportation that have transformed our world.

An Ode to Dreamers and Builders

The exhibit on the engineering marvels of the city left me in awe. It made me think about the pioneers who worked tirelessly in the factories and shipyards, shaping not only Glasgow’s future but also influencing the way we live today.

I found myself reflecting on my own journey and the importance of following one’s passion — much like those before me who dared to dream and built the foundation of modern engineering.

Until We Meet Again, Glasgow!

Leaving the museum, I felt inspired to embrace my own adventures with the same spirit of curiosity and discovery that characterized the journeys of those who came before me.

Glasgow ignited a fire within me, and I departed the city with a renewed sense of purpose and excitement for what lies ahead.

Thank you for a day bursting with inspiration and unforgettable memories.

Now, onward to my next escapade.

As always …

Have Passport, Will Travel 🌍