Exploradom Cologne: EDUTAIN AG Announces New FEC for 2026
The Odysseum is being transformed into a school. EDUTAIN AG’s offerings will continue in the new "Exploradom". Photo: Courtesy of Edutain AG
(eap) The former Odysseum in Cologne is set to be converted into a school, prompting EDUTAIN AG to continue its operations at a new location. Last week, the company signed the lease agreement for a building on Mercedes-Allee 1 in Cologne’s district of Ehrenfeld, where it plans to open the new “Exploradom” in April 2026. The concept envisions the transformation of the former Mercedes showroom into a Family Entertainment Center (FEC) spanning over 30,000 square meters, combining experience, education and co-working opportunities under one roof.
Photo: Courtesy of Edutain AG
According to the company, proven elements from the Odysseum will be retained and expanded with new digital and interactive learning and play offerings. At the heart of the facility will be educationally designed exhibits, STEM-focused hands-on stations and movement zones. The experience will be complemented by a modern co-working area tailored especially to the needs of families.
“We are turning a former retail space into a place that connects people – a space for education, experiences, exchange, and quality of life. Exploradom will be a meeting point for the neighborhood and a beacon for modern family entertainment with purpose,” said Stefanie Ziegler, Chief Experience and Operations Officer at Edutain.
In addition to its educational and recreational ambitions, the venue also aims to address social topics such as inclusion, work-life balance and equal access to education – particularly relevant in light of increasing demands on parents, schools and childcare systems. “We are creating a place that conveys knowledge through fun and movement. Just like the Odysseum, the Exploradom will be a place where children can explore, families can recharge, and companies can take on social responsibility,” stated Janine Jaensch, Member of the Board at Edutain.
In addition to regular visitor access, annual and corporate memberships are planned, providing access to educational and experiential areas, childcare contingents, meeting rooms, and a range of other benefits. According to Edutain, businesses will also be able to take an active role in shaping the center’s content, e.g. by providing exhibits themselves. ■
