The renovated Brussels stock exchange building has already welcomed 200,000 visitors since its reopening. The renovated Beursgebouw reopened in September 2023. It includes a restaurant, a café and, of course, the beer museum Belgian Beer World that is swiftly becoming one of Brussels’ most popular attractions.
"Brussels residents have rediscovered the Beursgebouw," says director Nel Vandevannet. "When most people thought of the stock exchange, they used to think of the steps where people could sit, but now we see that people also come to eat in the restaurant. It is even said that we have the best americain preparé (minced beef with pepper and egg added), and we are proud of that."
A home for local associations
The stock exchange building also offers rooms that are available to all kinds of associations. "Dance classes are held here, and exhibitions can be organised here too. In the evening you can also get a beer. There’s a special hall at the disposal of Brussels residents. It will soon be given a name after a public vote."
The building also boasts a public toilet and even a shower. "We don't want people to urinate against the walls of the Stock Exchange. That’s why there are public toilets that are accessible from the outside. There is also a public shower, which can be used for free by the homeless and sports enthusiasts."
Ms Vandevannet is happy with the 200,000 visitors that found the stock exchange in only four months. "Our ambition was to welcome 800,000 visitors in the first year. Since the tourist season only starts in March, we are well on track to reach that figure, but we remain cautiously optimistic as we are coming out of a difficult period with the terrorist threat behind us."
A beer museum too!
Over the past four months beer museum Belgian Beer World, housed in the Beursgebouw, has already welcomed more than 40,000 paying visitors . The ambition is to attract 300,000 visitors this year.