Family-Friendly Adventures in Düsseldorf!

Benrath Palace (Schloss Benrath)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Schloss Benrath

Morning Arrival

Start your day at Schloss Benrath, easily accessible via tram (line U74 or U77 from Düsseldorf main station - Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof, exit at Benrath Schloss). Upon arriving, marvel at the pink Rococo facade, set against the lush green backdrop of its extensive gardens.

Palace Exploration

Kick-off your tour by exploring the main palace building, which was completed in 1770 as a summer residence and hunting lodge for Elector Palatine Carl Theodor. Take a guided tour (available in English at specific times; check in advance) to fully appreciate the ornate interiors and learn about the historical lifestyle of the European aristocracy.

Museum Visits

Schloss Benrath houses three museums - the Museum Corps de Logis in the main building, the Museum for European Garden Art in the east wing, and the Museum of Natural History in the west wing. The Natural History Museum is particularly exciting for kids, with interactive exhibits about the local Rhine ecology.

Lunch Break

Enjoy a family picnic in the beautifully landscaped park, or dine at the café located in the former Orangery, offering kid-friendly meals and scenic views of the gardens.

Afternoon Stroll and Activities

Post-lunch, take a leisurely walk along the scenic paths of the 60-hectare park. Don’t miss the picturesque ponds – perfect for a relaxed family stroll. In summer, the palace organizes boat trips on the pond, which can be a delightful experience for children.

Departure

Conclude your day by visiting the gift shop for unique souvenirs like miniature palace models or traditional German crafts. Then, head back to the tram station, filled with memories of a royal day out!

Interesting Fact

Schloss Benrath"s architecture and park are designed to blend into each other, creating the illusion of the palace emerging from its gardens, a concept known as "architecture parlante’ (speaking architecture).

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Media Harbor (MedienHafen)

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating family day out at Düsseldorf’s Media Harbor (MedienHafen), a vibrant blend of modern architecture, historical sights, and family-friendly activities.

Morning: Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at one of the harbor-side cafes. Then, take a stroll along the promenade to admire the iconic architecture. Don"t miss the Gehry Buildings, famous for their twisted facades. These architectural marvels make for a great family photo backdrop! You can reach Media Harbor by tram (706 to Stadttor) or bus (726 to Holzstraße).

Mid-Morning: Visit the Rheinturm (Rhine Tower), just a few minutes" walk from the Gehry Buildings. Take the elevator up to the observation deck for a panoramic view of the city. It"s also home to a revolving restaurant, offering a unique dining experience with stunning views. Entry prices are reasonable, and children under 6 enter for free.

Lunch: Enjoy a meal at one of the family-friendly restaurants in the area, such as Meerbar, which offers a diverse menu that catoes to all ages.

Afternoon: Post-lunch, head to the Düsseldorf Maritime Museum (SchifffahrtMuseum) located in the Schlossturm at the Burgplatz in the old town, a short tram ride away. Explore the nautical history of the Rhine River and engage with interactive exhibits perfect for keeping the kids entertained.

Late Afternoon: Conclude your day by renting a family-sized pedal boat to explore the harbor waters at your own pace. It’s a fun way to see the area from a different perspective and provides a relaxing end to your adventurous day.

Media Harbor beautifully combines historical charm with futuristic design, making it an ideal destination for families seeking both entertainment and culture.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Dusseldorf Old Town (Altstadt)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary in Dusseldorf Old Town (Altstadt)

Morning: Stroll and Play at Hofgarten

Start your day in Dusseldorf by visiting the Hofgarten, Germany"s first and oldest public park. Easily accessible by tram (706 to Schloss Jägerhof), the park features expansive lawns, playgrounds, and picturesque ponds - perfect for a family picnic or a leisurely morning stroll. Don"t miss the sculptures scattered throughout, offering great fun for kids to explore.

Midday: Explore Kunst im Tunnel (KIT)

Next, head to the Kunst im Tunnel, a unique underground contemporary art museum located along the Rhine promenade. Reach it by a 15-minute walk from Hofgarten, going towards the Rhine Tower. This spot is fascinating for older kids and adults alike, showcasing innovative art in a cool, subterranean setting.

Lunch: Traditional Cuisine at Zum Schiffchen

For lunch, walk to Zum Schiffchen, Dusseldorf"s oldest restaurant, just a 10-minute walk back into the heart of the Old Town. Serving traditional Rhineland dishes in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, it"s a great spot to experience local flavors like Alt beer for adults and sausages for the kids.

Afternoon: Time Travel at Schlossturm Museum

After lunch, visit the Maritime Museum (SchifffahrtMuseum) in the Schlossturm, located in the Burgplatz area. It"s about a 5-minute walk from Zum Schiffchen. The museum offers fascinating insights into the naval history of the Rhine region and features interactive exhibits that engage children’s curiosity about river life and navigation.

Evening: Relax by the Rhine Promenade

Conclude your day with a relaxing walk along the Rhine Promenade. It’s a great place for families to enjoy scenic views of the river, watch boats, and savor ice cream from one of the many kiosks. If your visit aligns with a weekend, you might also catch street performers and musicians, adding a lively vibe to your evening stroll.

This itinerary not only covers the cultural richness of Dusseldorf’s Old Town but also ensures a fun and engaging experience for the whole family!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Rhine Tower (Rheinturm)

Why Visit?

Welcome to a delightful family day at the Rhine Tower (Rheinturm) in Düsseldorf, an iconic landmark soaring 240.5 meters above the city! Here’s how to make the most of your visit:

Morning - Arrival and Ascent of the Rhine Tower

Start your family adventure by heading to the Rhine Tower located at Stromstraße 20. It"s easily accessible by public transport; take the tram to the “Stadttor” stop, which is just a short walk to the tower. The tower opens at 10:00 AM, perfect for getting an early start.

Upon arrival, purchase your tickets. A family ticket option often provides savings. As you ascend, talk to your kids about how this is the tallest building in Düsseldorf and also functions as a telecommunications tower.

Midday - Enjoy the View and a Meal

Once at the top, take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Rhine River and the city. Don"t miss the revolving restaurant for a lunch with a view; it completes a full rotation every hour. The kids will love the dynamic perspective on the city!

Afternoon - Explore Local Attractions

After descending the tower, walk over to the nearby Rheinuferpromenade, a scenic riverside promenade perfect for a relaxing stroll. Enjoy ice cream or snacks from local vendors as you watch boats glide by.

Then, visit the Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum, a 10-minute drive away. This unique blend of zoo and natural history museum will captivate the kids with its aquariums, terrariums, and exhibits on evolution and biodiversity.

Late Afternoon - Leisure in the Park

Conclude your day at the Nordpark, located next to the Aquazoo. This beautifully landscaped park features themed gardens, playgrounds, and plenty of open space for children to run around or enjoy a family picnic.

Each step of your journey is filled with opportunities for learning and fun, making your visit to the Rheinturm and its surroundings a memorable family outing.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

SEA LIFE® Oberhausen

Why Visit?

Embark on an aquatic adventure at SEA LIFE® Oberhausen, the perfect family destination to explore underwater worlds! Begin your exploration by conveniently reaching the venue. Located at Zum Aquarium 1, 46047 Oberhausen, it"s easily accessible by public transport; just a short walk from the "Neue Mitte" station on the tram or bus.

Start your tour by diving into the "Tropical Ocean" zone. Gaze at the fascinating world of coral reefs and their vibrant inhabitants. Learn fun facts from the knowledgeable staff, like how corals are animals, not plants! Next, lead your family to the mesmerizing "Shark Nursery." Kids will be thrilled to learn about the shark breeding program and might even spot some baby sharks!

Don"t miss the highlight: the 360-degree underwater tunnel. It provides a unique view of majestic sharks and graceful rays swimming overhead. Capture this unforgettable moment as the marine life glides around you. Continue to the "Ray Lagoon" and enjoy the interactive touch pool where children can gently touch a ray under careful supervision, learning about the texture and movement of these fascinating creatures.

For a hands-on educational experience, participate in the feeding sessions scheduled throughout the day. Check the times upon arrival and set reminders to witness these engaging displays in different zones.

Wind down your visit at the themed play area where kids can burn off some energy. If hunger strikes, the onsite café offers a variety of snacks and meals suitable for children and adults alike.

Before leaving, stroll through the gift shop. It’s a great spot to pick up educational books or souvenirs to remember your underwater journey at SEA LIFE® Oberhausen. This visit is not just fun but an enriching educational experience that will spark a lifelong interest in marine conservation for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.