Best Things to Do in Vienna with Kids

Vienna is a treasure trove for families, effortlessly blending imperial grandeur with child-friendly fun. From magnificent palaces that spark the imagination to interactive museums and sprawling green spaces, this elegant Austrian capital offers countless adventures for all ages. This master guide will help you navigate both the iconic must-sees and some delightful local secrets, ensuring your family trip to Vienna is unforgettable, whether you’re seeking cultural immersion or pure entertainment.

Planning your family’s Austrian adventure just got easier! Dive into our comprehensive Vienna with Kids guide for even more insights and tips.

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Must-See Landmarks & Attractions

Schönbrunn Palace & Children’s Museum

Step into a fairy tale at Schönbrunn Palace, the former imperial summer residence of the Habsburgs. Kids will love exploring the vast, meticulously manicured gardens, searching for hidden fountains and sculptures around every corner. The highlight for families is undoubtedly the Children’s Museum, located within the palace, where little ones can dress up as princes and princesses, learn fascinating facts about imperial life, and play with historical toys, bringing history to life in a tangible way. The palace grounds also host the world’s oldest zoo, Tiergarten Schönbrunn, making it easy to combine several activities into a full day of family fun.

• Prices vary by ticket type; consider the “Classic Pass Light” for families.
• Stroller access is excellent in gardens and good with lifts in the Children’s Museum, though palace tours may require stroller parking.
• Typical duration for a palace tour is 1-2 hours, Children’s Museum 1-1.5 hours, and Gardens & Zoo can easily fill 3-5 hours or a full day.

Pro-Tip: To ensure you don’t miss out, purchase tickets online well in advance, especially for the Children’s Museum, as time slots often sell out quickly. Arrive early in the day to enjoy the tranquility of the gardens before the biggest crowds gather.

Tiergarten Schönbrunn (Vienna Zoo)

Located seamlessly within the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace grounds, the Vienna Zoo holds the distinguished title of being the world’s oldest continuously operating zoo, making it an absolute highlight for animal-loving families. It offers a diverse array of inhabitants, from the beloved giant pandas and majestic polar bears to playful elephants and an immersive rainforest house that transports you to a different climate. The zoo beautifully combines its rich historical charm with modern, naturalistic enclosures, providing an engaging, educational, and ethical experience for children and adults of all ages as they discover the wonders of the animal kingdom.

• Prices are approximately €24 for adults, €12 for children (6-18), and children under 6 are free; family tickets are available.
• Stroller access is excellent, with wide paved paths ensuring easy navigation throughout the entire zoo.
• Expect to spend 3-5 hours exploring all the different exhibits and enjoying the atmosphere.

Pro-Tip: Plan your visit around the scheduled feeding times for popular animals like the pandas or sea lions; check the daily schedule upon entry to catch these exciting moments. With several playgrounds and ample picnic spots scattered throughout, the zoo is designed for families to comfortably spend a whole day here, combining animal encounters with relaxation.

Prater Amusement Park (Riesenrad)

The Prater is a sprawling public park that is most famous for its Wurstelprater, a classic amusement park offering an enchanting mix of nostalgic and modern rides. The iconic Wiener Riesenrad, Vienna’s Giant Ferris Wheel, stands as a grand centerpiece, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the city below and creating a truly memorable experience for the entire family. Beyond the thrilling attractions, the greater Prater park offers vast green spaces ideal for walking, cycling, or simply finding a quiet spot to enjoy the relaxed Viennese atmosphere.

• Entry to Prater park is free, but individual rides, including the Riesenrad, are paid separately.
• Riesenrad tickets are approximately €13.50 for adults and €6.50 for children.
• Stroller access is excellent due to the flat terrain and wide, well-maintained paths.
• Allow 30 minutes for the Riesenrad and 2-4 hours, or more, for the Wurstelprater depending on how many rides you plan to experience.

Pro-Tip: For an unforgettable vista, visit the Riesenrad at sunset, when the city lights begin to twinkle, offering spectacular views. While the Wurstelprater typically opens from March to late October, many attractions, including the famous Ferris Wheel, operate year-round, so check ahead for specific opening times.

Hofburg Palace (Spanish Riding School & Imperial Treasury)

The Hofburg Imperial Palace complex, once the winter residence of the Habsburg emperors, houses centuries of rich history and several distinct attractions. While some areas might be less engaging for younger kids, the Imperial Treasury, with its dazzling collection of crowns, jewels, and religious artifacts, can truly capture their imaginations with its sheer sparkle and grandeur. The undeniable highlight for many families is often the Spanish Riding School, where the world-renowned Lipizzaner horses train and perform their exquisite classical dressage movements. Witnessing their graceful morning exercise provides a unique glimpse into equestrian artistry and a piece of living history.

• Prices are approximately €16 for adults to the Imperial Treasury (children free) and €16 for adults for Spanish Riding School Morning Exercise (children 3-6 free, 6-18 approx. €8).
• Stroller access is good for the Treasury, with lifts available, but Morning Exercise viewing is standing-room-only and less ideal for strollers.
• Allocate 1.5-2 hours for the Treasury and 1 hour for the Morning Exercise.

Pro-Tip: If you’re planning to attend the Spanish Riding School morning exercise, make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes early. This will allow you to secure a good spot along the railings, especially if you wish to see the magnificent riders and horses up close during their training session.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom)

The majestic St. Stephen’s Cathedral stands proudly as Vienna’s most important Gothic landmark, dominating the city’s skyline. While a full, lengthy tour might prove too much for younger children, a quick visit to admire its stunning architectural grandeur and intricate details is still highly impressive for all ages. For an added thrill, families can climb the 343 steps of the South Tower for panoramic views across Vienna, or embark on a fascinating, albeit slightly spooky, peek into the catacombs below the cathedral.

• Cathedral entry is free, but climbing the South Tower (approx. €6 adults, €2.50 children) or taking a Catacombs tour (approx. €6 adults, €2.50 children) has a fee.
• Stroller access is good on the ground level of the cathedral, but neither the tower climbs nor the catacomb tours are accessible with strollers.
• A quick look can take 30 minutes, while adding a tower climb or catacombs tour extends the visit to about 1 hour.

Pro-Tip: Climbing the 343 steps of the South Tower offers incredible, expansive views and a great physical challenge for older kids and active parents. If you prefer an easier ascent, the North Tower features an elevator to its Pummerin Bell, providing a slightly lower but still impressive viewpoint.

Haus des Meeres – Aqua Terra Zoo

Housed in a former Flak Tower from WWII, the Haus des Meeres offers a truly unique vertical zoo experience that culminates in impressive panoramic views from its rooftop terrace. Kids will be absolutely fascinated by the diverse array of marine life, including various sharks, along with playful monkeys and exotic birds that inhabit this repurposed historical landmark. The transformation of a wartime structure into such an engaging and educational space is not only remarkable but provides a captivating blend of history and nature, perfect for an afternoon outing.

• Prices are approximately €21 for adults, €10.50 for children (6-15), and children under 6 are free.
• Stroller access is excellent, with multiple elevators efficiently transporting visitors to all floors.
• Plan for a typical duration of 2-3 hours to fully explore all the exhibits and enjoy the views.

Pro-Tip: Make sure to ascend to the rooftop terrace on the 11th floor; it offers stunning 360-degree views of Vienna that are not to be missed. There is also a convenient cafe located up there, perfect for a refreshment break with a view.

Natural History Museum Vienna

The Natural History Museum Vienna is not only an architectural marvel in itself but also a treasure trove filled with wonders from the natural world. Kids will be utterly enthralled by the enormous, towering dinosaur skeletons that dominate the grand halls, the intriguing Hall of Prehistory which delves into ancient human life, and the mesmerizing meteorite collection. Interactive displays and a vast array of taxidermied animals make this museum both profoundly educational and incredibly exciting for curious young minds, offering a comprehensive look at Earth’s biodiversity and history.

• Prices are approximately €16 for adults, with the excellent bonus that children under 19 are admitted free.
• Stroller access is excellent, with accessible ramps and elevators providing smooth navigation to all floors.
• Anticipate spending 2-4 hours to properly explore the extensive collections and interactive exhibits.

Pro-Tip: To immediately capture your kids’ attention, head straight for the dinosaur hall on the ground floor upon entry. It’s an instant hit! Also, remember to check their website for any special temporary exhibitions that might be particularly engaging and relevant for families during your visit.

Belvedere Palace & Gardens

Belvedere Palace is a stunning baroque complex that is globally famous for housing Gustav Klimt’s iconic painting, “The Kiss.” While the profound art collection within the palace may not captivate all children for extended periods, the magnificent gardens that surround it are an absolute joy for a family stroll. These tiered gardens, adorned with grand fountains, classical sculptures, and sweeping views of the palace and city, provide a perfect setting for kids to run, explore, and simply enjoy the grandeur of the setting, making it a beautiful spot for a relaxed and picturesque afternoon.

• Prices for the Upper Belvedere (home to “The Kiss”) are approximately €24 for adults, while the Lower Belvedere is around €16 for adults. The extensive gardens, however, are free to enter and enjoy.
• Stroller access in the gardens is excellent, with wide, paved paths. Palace interiors do have lifts, but they can become quite crowded during peak times.
• Allow 1-2 hours to enjoy the gardens and another 1-2 hours if you plan to visit the Upper Belvedere.

Pro-Tip: If time is limited, focus your palace visit on the Upper Belvedere to see “The Kiss” and absorb the incredible views from its terrace, but dedicate a significant portion of your time to enjoying the expansive, stroller-friendly gardens. Packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful landscaping can make for a truly memorable family experience.

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Hands-on Activities & Local Favorites

ZOOM Children’s Museum

Designed specifically with children in mind, the ZOOM Children’s Museum offers a vibrant, engaging, and highly interactive world of discovery for young explorers. With distinct themed areas carefully catering to a wide range of age groups, from curious babies to inquisitive teenagers, kids are encouraged to actively explore, experiment, and engage in creative play. It’s an absolutely fantastic place for hands-on learning, fostering curiosity and imagination through thoughtfully designed exhibits that cover art, science, and technology in an accessible way. This is one of the best things to do in Vienna with kids, especially on a day when you need an indoor activity.

• Prices vary by exhibition, typically around €6-€8 per child, with accompanying adults often free or at a reduced rate.
• Advance booking is highly recommended due to limited capacity.
• Stroller access is excellent, as the museum is fully accessible, making it easy to navigate with little ones.
• Each exhibition typically takes 1.5-2 hours to fully enjoy.

Pro-Tip: To guarantee your family’s spot, book your tickets online well in advance, particularly for popular weekend slots, as capacity is strictly limited for each interactive workshop and play area. It’s also wise to confirm the specific age recommendations for each exhibit before you go, ensuring it’s the perfect fit for your children’s developmental stage.

Donauinsel (Danube Island)

Donauinsel, or Danube Island, is a remarkable 21 km long artificial island situated in the heart of the Danube River, serving as a vast green oasis that promises endless outdoor fun for families. Here, you can rent bikes and cycle along dedicated paths, swim in designated safe areas, play at numerous well-equipped playgrounds, or simply relax by the water”s edge, soaking in the natural beauty. It’s a fantastic and refreshing escape from the city bustle, offering plenty of space for kids to run free, burn energy, and connect with nature, with everything from sandy beaches to quiet picnic spots readily available.

• Entry to Donauinsel is completely free, though bike rentals and some specific activities may have a fee.
• Stroller access is excellent, thanks to its wide, flat, and well-maintained paths, making it very easy to navigate with young children.
• Families can spend anywhere from 2-4 hours, or even a full day, depending on the activities they choose to enjoy.

Pro-Tip: For a more lively atmosphere with sandy beaches and a variety of food kiosks, head towards the “Copa Beach” area. If you’re seeking quieter spots for a more relaxed family outing, venture further north or south along the island, where you’ll find more secluded picnic and play areas.

Wurstelprater

Beyond the impressive Riesenrad, the Wurstelprater truly shines as Vienna’s historic amusement park, packed with a delightful array of rides and attractions suitable for all ages. From charming traditional carousels and mildly spooky ghost trains to exhilarating modern roller coasters and other thrill rides, there’s something to get everyone’s adrenaline pumping. It masterfully retains a wonderful old-world charm, creating a nostalgic atmosphere, while simultaneously offering contemporary entertainment, making it a truly unique and memorable experience for families visiting Vienna.

• Entry to the Wurstelprater park itself is free, but each individual ride requires a separate payment, usually ranging from €1.50 to €5 per ride.
• Stroller access is generally good, with wide paths, though some areas can become quite crowded, especially during peak hours.
• Plan for a visit duration of 2-4 hours, depending on how many rides your family wants to experience.

Pro-Tip: Before you enter, it’s a good idea to set a budget for rides, as the individual costs can add up surprisingly quickly. For a truly unique Viennese experience without excessive queues, seek out the quieter, more nostalgic rides that often embody the park’s traditional charm.

Naschmarkt

Vienna’s most famous market, the Naschmarkt, is an absolute feast for the senses, offering a vibrant kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and smells. While it can certainly be bustling and lively, kids will undoubtedly enjoy seeing the colorful array of fresh fruits, aromatic spices, and fascinating exotic foods from around the world. Many stalls graciously offer samples, providing a fun and interactive way for children to try new flavors and expand their culinary horizons. It’s also an excellent spot to grab a quick, casual, and internationally-inspired lunch at one of the many diverse eateries dotted throughout the market.

• Browsing the market is free, with food costs varying by vendor.
• Stroller access can be challenging due to crowds, especially on Saturdays; visiting during weekday mornings is highly recommended for a more relaxed experience.
• Plan for a typical duration of 1-2 hours to explore and sample the various offerings.

Pro-Tip: To avoid the biggest crowds and enjoy a more relaxed and comfortable stroll through the market, aim to visit early on a weekday. Many vendors are happy to offer small samples of delicious cheese, olives, or fruit, which can turn into a delightful and unexpected tasting adventure for curious kids.

Time Travel Vienna

Time Travel Vienna offers an immersive and incredibly entertaining journey through Vienna’s rich and storied history, spanning from its ancient Roman origins right up to the present day. Utilizing cutting-edge 5D cinema technology, lifelike animatronics, and captivating virtual reality experiences, it brings historical events and figures to life in a way that is both engaging and remarkably easy for kids to understand and appreciate. It’s a perfect indoor activity, especially on a rainy day, as it seamlessly combines education with excitement, making history feel like an adventure.

• Prices are approximately €21 for adults and €17 for children (5-14).
• This attraction is generally not recommended for children under 5 due to potentially loud noises and dark scenes that might be unsettling.
• Stroller access is limited within the experience, so it’s generally better to visit without one if possible.
• The show itself runs for a duration of 50 minutes.

Pro-Tip: To guarantee your preferred time slot, it is highly advisable to buy your tickets online in advance, as shows run regularly throughout the day and can fill up quickly. This attraction serves as a fantastic and accessible way to introduce children to Austrian history in a fun and interactive format.

Spanish Riding School Morning Exercise

While the formal performances of the Lipizzaner horses at the Spanish Riding School are undeniably spectacular, attending their morning exercise offers a more relaxed, behind-the-scenes, and cost-effective way for families to witness these magnificent animals in their daily training. During this session, you’ll observe the skilled riders practicing their classical dressage movements, often gracefully accompanied by classical Viennese music, in the historic Winter Riding Arena. It’s a truly unique cultural experience that beautifully showcases the profound bond and artistry between horse and rider, providing an authentic glimpse into centuries of tradition.

• Prices are approximately €16 for adults, with children aged 3-6 entering free, and children aged 6-18 priced at around €8.
• Stroller access is not ideal as viewing for the morning exercise is standing-room-only in the arena, which can be challenging with a stroller.
• The morning exercise typically lasts for 1 hour.

Pro-Tip: To secure a prime viewing spot along the railings, it is essential to arrive early. The horses are often rotated throughout the hour, so staying for the full duration gives you a wonderful opportunity to see various horses and riders demonstrating different aspects of their classical training.

Vienna Technical Museum

The Vienna Technical Museum is a hands-on paradise for budding scientists, engineers, and curious minds of all ages. With a vast array of interactive exhibits covering an impressive range of topics, from powerful steam engines and the marvels of aviation to communication technologies and sustainable energy sources, kids can truly engage by pressing buttons, pulling levers, and experimenting to their heart’s content. There are also dedicated children’s areas designed to make complex scientific principles fun and accessible, making it the perfect place for inquisitive young minds to explore and learn.

• Prices are approximately €16 for adults, and a fantastic benefit is that children under 19 are admitted free.
• Stroller access is excellent throughout the museum, with convenient ramps and elevators to all floors.
• Plan for a substantial visit, typically 3-4 hours, to fully explore all the engaging exhibits.

Pro-Tip: Be sure to check the daily program for special demonstrations, such as the thrilling high-voltage show, which are incredibly popular and highly entertaining, especially for older kids. The museum also features a fantastic restaurant and a cafe, perfect for a convenient lunch break or a quick snack during your visit.

Schmetterlinghaus (Butterfly House)

Escape into a vibrant tropical paradise at the Schmetterlinghaus, Vienna’s beautiful butterfly house, conveniently located within the serene Burggarten. Here, kids will be utterly mesmerized by hundreds of free-flying, colorful butterflies gracefully fluttering amidst lush, exotic vegetation and gentle waterfalls. It’s a wonderfully warm and humid environment that offers a magical, tranquil, and utterly delightful experience, providing a charming contrast to the city’s grand and imposing architecture. This is a lovely, unique activity to include in your list of things to do in Vienna with kids.

• Prices are approximately €7.50 for adults and €5.50 for children (3-18).
• Stroller access is generally good, with paths that are wide enough to navigate comfortably.
• It’s a relatively small attraction, perfect for a short, enchanting visit of about 1 hour.

Pro-Tip: Dress in layers, as the indoor environment is intentionally very warm and humid to suit the butterflies. Wearing bright colors might even encourage a friendly butterfly to land on you, creating a truly memorable moment! It’s an ideal short stop for a dose of natural beauty and wonder.

Kinderbauernhof Landgut Wien Cobenzl (Children’s Farm)

For a delightful taste of rural life just a short distance outside the bustling city, make your way to Kinderbauernhof Landgut Wien Cobenzl, a charming children’s farm. This wonderful destination allows kids to get up close and personal with a variety of friendly farm animals, including fluffy sheep, curious goats, snorting pigs, and clucking chickens. It’s a fantastic opportunity for hands-on learning about farm life, responsible animal care, and understanding where food truly comes from, offering a delightful and educational break from traditional urban sightseeing.

• Entry to the Kinderbauernhof Landgut Wien Cobenzl is completely free.
• Stroller access is good, with most paths being either paved or composed of smooth gravel.
• Plan for a visit duration of 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the farm and its activities.

Pro-Tip: The farm also features a lovely, well-maintained playground for extra fun and a cozy cafe serving delicious local treats. Consider combining your visit with a trip to the nearby Cobenzl viewpoint, which offers stunning panoramic views of Vienna, making for a truly memorable half-day excursion.

Schönbrunn Maze & Labyrinthikon Playground

Located within the extensive and beautiful gardens of Schönbrunn Palace, the Schönbrunn Maze offers a fun and engaging challenge for both kids and adults to find their way to the center and then back out again. Adjacent to the maze, you’ll discover the Labyrinthikon Playground, a fantastic interactive play area brimming with intriguing puzzles, diverse climbing structures, and refreshing water features. It’s the perfect spot for children to energetically burn off steam, engage their problem-solving minds in a playful environment, and cool down on a warm day, making it an excellent addition to your list of things to do in Vienna with kids.

• Prices are approximately €8 for adults and €4 for children (6-18).
• Paths within the maze are generally good for strollers, but some parts of the Labyrinthikon Playground might be harder to navigate with one.
• Plan for a typical duration of 1-1.5 hours to enjoy both the maze and the playground.

Pro-Tip: A great strategy is to visit the maze and playground after exploring the main palace or the zoo. This can serve as a fantastic reward for the kids after a more structured activity. During the summer months, remember to bring swimwear for children so they can fully enjoy the refreshing water features in the Labyrinthikon!

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Planning Smart: Logistics & Timing

Public Transportation & Strollers

Vienna boasts an excellent and incredibly efficient public transportation system, managed by Wiener Linien, which includes the U-Bahn (metro), Strassenbahn (trams), and a comprehensive bus network. The U-Bahn is generally very stroller-friendly, with elevators and escalators conveniently located at most stations, making it easy to navigate with little ones. However, be aware that some older tram lines might have steps, making them less convenient if you’re traveling with a stroller. For cost-effectiveness and ease of use, especially for multiple days of exploration, consider purchasing a multi-day pass.

When traveling with little ones, having a reliable and compact airline-friendly stroller can make all the difference, especially in bustling European cities like Vienna where you’ll be doing a lot of walking. It’s also smart to equip your kids with their own kids travel backpacks filled with snacks, small toys, and other distractions to keep them entertained on the go, whether you’re on a tram or exploring a museum.

Dining Hours & Kid-Friendly Eateries

Viennese dinner hours typically start a bit later than what some families might be used to, usually around 6 PM or 7 PM. Many traditional restaurants might not be fully open for dinner service before this time. To accommodate earlier eaters, look for welcoming “Gasthäuser” (traditional inns) or modern cafes that explicitly cater to families, often offering earlier dining options or extensive afternoon snack menus featuring delicious pastries and light bites. And for a quick, authentic, and budget-friendly bite, don’t be afraid to try a traditional Würstelstand (sausage stand) which is a quintessential Viennese experience.

Comfortable footwear is absolutely essential for exploring cities like Vienna, where charming cobblestone streets and extensive walking tours are part of the adventure! Ensure your family has the best cushioned kids sneakers for family travel to keep their feet happy and free from fatigue while sightseeing, allowing everyone to enjoy more of the city’s wonders.

Vienna Pass & Flexi Pass

For families who plan to visit a significant number of Vienna’s attractions, it’s highly worthwhile to evaluate the benefits of either the Vienna Pass or the Flexi Pass. The comprehensive Vienna Pass offers free entry to over 60 attractions, which typically includes major sites like Schönbrunn Palace, the Prater, and most museums, plus the convenience of unlimited hop-on-hop-off bus tours. Alternatively, the Flexi Pass provides more flexibility, allowing you to choose 2, 3, 4, or 5 specific attractions from a curated list. To determine which, if any, offers the best value for your family, carefully do the math based on your meticulously planned itinerary and the specific things to do in Vienna with kids that you prioritize.

Free Drinking Water

Vienna is renowned for its exceptionally high-quality tap water, which is sourced directly from pristine alpine springs and delivered throughout the city. You’ll find numerous easily accessible public drinking fountains, locally known as “Trinkbrunnen,” conveniently located throughout the city, especially in the many beautiful parks and bustling squares. Bringing reusable kids water bottles is a smart move, allowing you to refill them effortlessly, stay well-hydrated without constantly buying bottled water, and embrace an eco-friendly approach that’s also budget-friendly for families.

Sunday Closures for Shopping

When planning your itinerary, be aware that most shops and supermarkets in Vienna are typically closed on Sundays and all public holidays. Plan your grocery shopping or souvenir hunting accordingly, perhaps scheduling these activities for weekdays. However, tourist attractions, museums, and restaurants usually remain open on these days, making Sundays a perfect opportunity for dedicated sightseeing and leisurely family meals rather than retail therapy. If needed, pharmacies (Apotheken) operate on a rotating emergency service schedule, so there’s always one available in case of necessity.

Don’t forget the essentials for international trips! Our guides on best kids luggage and travel adapters for families will help you prepare seamlessly, ensuring you have everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable journey. For more family travel inspiration and practical advice, be sure to check out our extensive family travel guides.

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Final Thoughts on Your Vienna Adventure

Vienna truly offers a unique and unforgettable blend of imperial history, rich cultural experiences, and delightful child-friendly activities that will undoubtedly create lasting memories for your family. From the awe-inspiring grandeur of its magnificent palaces to the thrilling excitement of its amusement park and the interactive engagement of its museums, there’s an endless array of things to do in Vienna with kids to keep everyone engaged and entertained. Embrace the elegant Viennese charm, savor the delicious local treats, and cherish every moment of your family’s grand adventure in this magnificent and welcoming city. Ready to map out your perfect family getaway? Use our tool to build a personalized trip tailored to your family’s unique needs.

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