Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum stands as a testament to the heroic efforts that led to the reunification of Vietnam. With an extensive collection of historical artifacts, documents, and interactive displays, this museum offers an insightful look into one of the most significant moments in Vietnam’s history.

1. Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum: Location & directions

Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum is located at No. 2, Le Duan Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. This museum showcases the campaign that liberated Saigon - Gia Dinh, a powerful victory of Vietnam in the resistance war against the United States.

Here is how you can get to the museum from the center of Ho Chi Minh City (District 1):

Make your way to Pasteur Street
Follow Pasteur Street northeast, then turn right onto Le Duan Street
Follow Le Duan Street for about 1.2 kilometers then turn left to reach the museum.

For an eco-friendly and hassle-free commute, tourists can opt for Xanh SM, Vietnam’s first all-electric taxi company. Xanh SM offers a quiet, comfortable ride while promoting sustainable transportation.

2. Establishment of Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum

Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum provides a comprehensive introduction to the unwavering determination of Vietnamese people in their mission to liberate Southern Vietnam. The museum focuses on the historic Ho Chi Minh Campaign, which culminated in the complete unification of the country on April 30, 1975.

The museum building itself has a rich history. Constructed in the early 20th century by a French architect, it initially served as a military institution. Before 1975, the building was home to the National Defense College, which trained high-ranking officers for the government of Saigon.

Following the victory in 1975, the institution was repurposed into a special exhibition hall dedicated to the Ho Chi Minh Campaign. Recognizing its historical significance, in 2020, Deputy Minister of National Defense Phan Van Giang officially made the exhibition hall into Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum.

With its invaluable artifacts and compelling narratives, the museum now stands as a testament to Vietnam’s struggle for reunification.

>>> Check out other museums in Ho Chi Minh City also!

3. Things to explore at Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum

3.1. Outdoor and indoor exhibitions

Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum features two primary exhibitions: an outdoor exhibition showcasing military equipment and an indoor collection displaying artifacts and documents.

The outdoor exhibition allows visitors to explore a collection of anti-aircraft artillery used by Vietnamese forces during the Ho Chi Minh Campaign, along with various vehicles that played a crucial role in the battle. One of the highlights here is the April 30 Victory Monument, which symbolizes the momentous day of reunification.

Inside, the museum houses hundreds of artifacts, photographs, and documents arranged into six thematic sections:

From the Paris Agreement to the Phuoc Long Victory
The Central Highlands Campaign (Tay Nguyen Campaign)
The Hue - Da Nang Campaign
The Ho Chi Minh Campaign, featuring a 64m² battlefield miniature depicting the campaign’s strategic movements
The Command Headquarters of the Ho Chi Minh Campaign
The Collapse of the government of Saigon

Outdoor space at the Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum

3.2. Historical artifacts

The museum houses numerous artifacts, each telling the story of Vietnam’s final push for reunification. Notably:

The diversion plan of Lieutenant Colonel Khuat Duy Tien - A crucial strategy designed to mislead the enemy about the main attack, which ensures the successful liberation of the Central Highlands and alters the war’s course.
The binoculars of Nguyen Chon - commander of Division 2, Military Region 5, which were used to direct the troops in the liberation of Tam Ky (Quang Nam Province) during the Hue - Da Nang Campaign (March 1975).
The national flag of Tinh Khe (Quang Ngai Province), which was used during political training sessions and protests in 1968. It was later waved during the uprising that led to the liberation of Quang Ngai Province in March 1975.
The original sheet music of "Như có Bác trong ngày đại thắng" - an iconic song by composer Pham Tuyen, which was broadcasted across the country on April 30, 1975, at the moment of Saigon’s liberation.

Other artifacts include:

A secret telegram from General Vo Nguyen Giap to Corps 2
The ceremonial uniform of General Le Duc Anh
The summer military uniform, notebook, and magnifying glass used for map reading by General Van Tien Dung, Commander of the Ho Chi Minh Campaign
Cargo bicycles used to transport supplies and weapons to the frontline

Artifacts in the Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum

3.3. National treasures on display

Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum is also home to two officially recognized national treasures. The Combat Duty Logbook of the Ho Chi Minh Campaign, recorded by the frontline command officers of the campaign at Cam Xe (Binh Duong Province), documents strategic decisions and battlefield developments leading up to the complete liberation of Southern Vietnam.

The second treasure is the "Determination Map" of the Ho Chi Minh Campaign (restored copy), which was originally used from April 15 to April 21, 1975, at the Ho Chi Minh Campaign Command Headquarters in Ta Thiet (Binh Phuoc Province). This map features the signatures of General Van Tien Dung and Pham Hung, marking a pivotal moment in Vietnamese military history.

3.4. Photographs and visuals

A visit to Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum is incomplete without exploring its extensive visual archives, which capture the leadership, resilience, and collective efforts of Vietnamese people during the Spring Offensive of 1975. The museum features:

Rare photographs of key figures in the Politburo, the Central Military Commission, and the General Staff, showcasing their leadership in planning the final offensive.
Images of mass mobilization efforts, which illustrate how civilians and soldiers worked together across rural areas, urban centers, mountainous regions, and river deltas to create an unstoppable force during the uprising.
A large electronic battlefield diorama, paired with multilingual video presentations (Vietnamese, English, and French), which allows visitors to relive the strategic movements of the Ho Chi Minh Campaign in an immersive way.

>>> Discover other things to do in Ho Chi Minh City also!

4. Must-know information for visitors

4.1. Opening hours & entrance fee

Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum welcomes visitors free of charge on weekdays. The opening hours are from 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM and from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM. The museum is closed on weekends.

4.2. Regulations

To ensure a respectful visit to Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum, visitors should keep in mind the following regulations:

Wear modest clothing as the museum is a solemn site.
Do not litter
Keep noise levels low
Set mobile phones to silent mode to avoid disturbing other guests.
Take photos only in designated areas, and do not use flash when photographing artifacts
Consider hiring a tour guide for a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits and historical narratives
Utilize the available visitor services, including luggage storage, waiting lounge, and restrooms

5. Historical sites near Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum

For those who want to explore more historical sites nearby, here are some must-visit destinations:

History Museum of Ho Chi Minh City (300 meters away): This museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts from Vietnam’s ancient and modern history, including relics from the country’s feudal dynasties and wartime periods.
Independence Palace (1.3 kilometers away): The former presidential residence of Southern Vietnam and the historic site where the war officially ended on April 30, 1975.
Ho Chi Minh City Museum (1.7 kilometers away): Showcasing the city’s transformation through colonial, wartime, and modern periods, this museum provides valuable insights into Ho Chi Minh City’s development.
War Remnants Museum (1.9 kilometers away): A powerful and emotional museum featuring photographs, military equipment, and documents that depict the harsh realities of war and its impact on civilians.

Historical sites near the Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum

>>> Explore other popular places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City!

Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum is a must-visit for history lovers and those seeking a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s path to reunification. With its collection of exhibits and national treasures, the museum offers a profound glimpse of the country’s heroic past.

After exploring Ho Chi Minh Campaign Museum, if you’re looking for a vibrant recreational experience right in Ho Chi Minh City, Grand Park in Thu Duc City is a fantastic destination. This entertainment complex offers thrilling attractions, immersive experiences, and family-friendly activities, making it a perfect stop for visitors of all ages.

Book Grand Park ticket now

Beyond Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam has plenty to offer in terms of travel and leisure. Whether you are strolling through the charming streets of Hanoi, soaking up the sun on the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc and Nha Trang, immersing yourself in the ancient charm of Hoi An, or marveling at the breathtaking landscapes of Ha Long, each destination promises unforgettable experiences.

For a truly relaxing getaway, consider staying at the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl, where world-class amenities, exceptional services, and breathtaking views await. Whether you are looking for beachfront serenity, indulgent spas, or gourmet dining, Vinpearl provides a perfect retreat after a day of exploration.

Additionally, thrill-seekers and families can enjoy the entertainment complexes of VinWonders, where a world of adventure and culture comes to life.