Free adventures for children: Discover NRW without a wallet!

Free adventures for children: Discover NRW without a wallet!

Summer, sun, good mood – the perfect time for family trips in North Rhine-Westphalia! If you think that excursions have to be expensive, you are wrong. In North Rhine-Westphalia there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature with children without breaking the bank.

What does the state have to offer? A variety of free activities that are sure to delight explorers young and old. This is a real highlightDinosaur hunt in Barkhausen, where you can admire real dinosaur tracks from the forest 150 million years ago. Here the little ones can learn on an informative hiking trail and experience wonder at the special history of our planet.

Animal parks and petting zoos up close

North Rhine-Westphalia is a true paradise for animal lovers. The region is home to seven animal parks and game reserves, all of which are accessible free of charge. The selection ranges from local animals to something exotic. The Recklinghausen Zoo not only features wild boars and deer, but even Chinese tree chipmunks! It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and offers exciting insights into the animal world.

He's waiting in CologneLindenthal Zoo, another free animal park to be discovered. Here children can observe donkeys, highland cattle and beautiful peacocks. Opening hours are daily from April to September from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., in the other months until 5 p.m.

Furthermore, it enchantsImperial garden in Oberhausenon its 28 hectares with a colorful wildlife ranging from nutrias to lynxes. If you like fish and wildlife, you shouldOlderdissen local zoo in Bielefeldpay a visit that covers 16 hectares and is home to more than 450 animals.

Adventures in nature

But it's not just the zoos that are a hit. There are numerous in the forestsForest adventure trailsandBarefoot paths, where children can not only play but also learn a lot about nature. For example, these are Beaver trails in Rüthen and barefoot paths in Neuss are popular offers. These interactive circular routes make exploring a real adventure.

And cycling isn't neglected either. Disused railway lines have been converted into cycle paths, so thatRailway line cyclingis becoming increasingly popular. Routes like the SauerlandRadring or the Bergischer Panorama Cycle Path are not only scenic, but also ideal for an active day with the family.

If you prefer something quieter, you can spend time in the many free gardens and parks around castles and monasteries and unwind. These places also offer space for relaxation and exquisite views and are a wonderful addition to the adventures that NRW has to offer.

In summary, North Rhine-Westphalia is a real treasure trove for families looking for free and exciting activities in nature. Whether it's zoos, nature playgrounds or adventure trails - there's something for everyone here. Pack up the family, tie up your backpacks and set off on new adventures!