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Deep within the urban borders of the city of Mannheim, is the 100 acre public park known as Luisenpark. Named after the Grand Duchess Luise von Baden, daughter of Kaiser Wilhelm I, Luisenpark was built between 1892 and 1903. The park is located in the eastern part of the city of Mannheim and can be spotted from almost anywhere because of the large telecommunications tower located near the park’s main entrance.
Luisenpark is open all year around, from 9 a.m. to sunset. It is often recognized as one of the most beautiful parks in all of Europe. Ample activities created around both education and entertainment for children and adults can be had throughout the year. The park offers courses like gardening for adults and “The ABC’s of Ponies” for children.
The vast expanse of land that creates Luisenpark allows for a diversity of landscapes and climates. There is a farm where you can see animals up close and a botanical garden with a tropical butterfly house. On hot days, you can take your shoes off and walk through the 250m long mountain stream that cuts through the park. You can also relax in the KlangOase, a garden below the telecommunications tower while you listen to music floating through the air from speakers hidden among the trees.
A large variety of animals wander through the park so that it feels partly like a zoo except that the animals aren’t confined. African Flamingos wander freely and can be seen up close while you ride the Gondoletta down the lazy river.
Chinese gardens with water lilies of all colors, create a far-east backdrop for the Chinese Tea House, the largest of its kind in Europe. The menu at the Chinese Tea House features a variety of 30 Chinese teas. If you’d like a more western environment for your afternoon tea, consider visiting the revolving restaurant atop the telecommunications tower for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the entire city below.
During the summer, the park hosts a vast amount of festivals and other events. In fact, you can host your own event, like a birthday party.
Luisenpark is truly an oasis in an urban setting. There is a small fee to enter the park and some activities require an additional participation cost. It’s easy to see the philosophy of total mind-body wellness alive in Luisenpark. Activities built with entire families in mind, opportunities for growth and education, and relaxation focus on a total life balance.
The park is great place for kids and there’s enough to do that you won’t get bored. It’s a great place to practice your photography, take a jog or even meditate in a perfectly manicured garden space. Some criticisms of Luisenpark include the entrance fee but considering the diversity of exotic animals and rare plants, the entrance fee is a small price to pay for a lovely spring or summer afternoon.
For more information, visit https://www.luisenpark.de/
