Westfalenpark in Dortmund, Germany, is a sprawling public park transformed from a former industrial site into a vibrant green space and popular event venue. Spanning over 70 hectares, this urban oasis offers a perfect escape from the bustling city with its lush gardens, sculptures, and recreational facilities. Whether you're a nature lover, art enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun day out with the family, Westfalenpark has something for everyone.
Highlights
- Floriansturm Observation Tower: Climb to this iconic 48-meter-high tower for panoramic views of the park and the surrounding city.
- Bundesgartenschau 1959: Explore the park's rich history as the site of the 1959 Federal Garden Show, which transformed the former freight yard into a beautiful green space.
- Diverse Events and Festivals: Attend exciting events throughout the year, such as the Dortmunder U festival, Christmas market, and Dortmunder Maiabendfest.
Contents
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Here is Why Your Kids Will Find it Interesting
Westfalenpark is a perfect destination for families with children of all ages. Kids can explore the park's many playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas while discovering the fascinating sculptures and works of art scattered throughout the grounds. The park's annual events, such as the Christmas market and ice skating rink, excite and entertain young visitors.
Family-friendly features
- Playgrounds: Westfalenpark offers playgrounds with age-appropriate equipment for children of all ages.
- Sports Fields: The park's well-maintained fields allow kids to play football, basketball, and other sports.
- Picnic Areas: Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic in one of the park's many scenic areas.
History of Westfalenpark
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The site of today's Westfalenpark has a long and varied history. As early as 1816, it was the location of the "Am Busch" coal pit, which featured Dortmund's first steam engine. After the pit closed, the area was used as a landfill and for allotments.
The transformation of the site into a public park began in 1959, when it hosted the first of three Federal Garden Shows (Bundesgartenschau) in Dortmund. On the grounds of the old Kaiser Wilhelm-Hain (grove), the Buschmühlenpark, a waste disposal site, and overgrown allotments, a new park was created. The centerpiece of this park was the Florianturm, a 220-meter-tall tower that was the highest building in Germany at the time.
The park was expanded by 10 hectares for the 1969 Federal Garden Show (Euroflor). This expansion included the creation of the Rosarium, a rose garden featuring over 3,000 different varieties, and the Water Heart, a basin with a periodically changing water level.
The park continued to evolve over the decades, with the addition of attractions like the German Rosarium, event spaces, and recreational facilities. Today, Westfalenpark hosts a variety of concerts, festivals, and events throughout the year, including the Juicy Beats Festival, Festival of Lights, and a cappella festival.
In 2007, a research project called "Florians Garten" began, which aimed to fundamentally change the park's structures. As part of this project, in 2019, the Bauckloh Foundation supported the installation of bat boxes, bird nesting cavities, dormouse nests, insect hotels, hedgehog domes, and plantings of old apple varieties and bird-friendly shrubs.
The Rombergpark Botanical Garden is another excellent place to walk 2.5 km from the park.
Main Attractions and Features
Floriansturm Observation Tower
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The Floriansturm is the iconic centerpiece of Westfalenpark. Standing 48 meters tall, it offers panoramic views of the park and the city of Dortmund from its observation deck. Completed in 1959 for the Federal Garden Show, this distinctive tower has become a symbol of the park and a popular spot for visitors to take in the scenery.
Sculptures and Works of Art
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Westfalenpark is home to a diverse collection of sculptures and art installations created by both local and international artists. As you stroll through the park's lush gardens and green spaces, you'll discover thought-provoking works in a variety of styles and mediums. Some notable pieces include Bernhard Heiliger's "Ruhender Wanderer" and Henry Moore's Liegende Figur.
Recreational Facilities
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In addition to its natural beauty, Westfalenpark offers a wide range of recreational facilities for visitors of all ages. The park features several playgrounds with age-appropriate equipment for children, as well as sports fields for football, basketball, and other activities. Picnic areas are scattered throughout the park, providing the perfect spot to enjoy a meal outdoor
Event Spaces
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Throughout the year, Westfalenpark hosts a variety of concerts, festivals, and exhibitions at its various event venues. The Dortmunder U, a former brewery turned cultural center, is a popular spot for art exhibitions and performances. The Westfalenhallen, a large convention center, also hosts events and trade fairs in the park. These spaces provide opportunities for visitors to experience the park in new and exciting ways.
Annual Events and Festivals
- Dortmunder U Festival: This summer festival celebrates art, music, and culture in the park and surrounding area.
- Christmas Market and Ice Skating Rink: Experience the magic of the holiday season at the park's festive Christmas market and ice skating rink.
- Dortmunder Maiabendfest: This traditional May festival features live music, food stalls, and family-friendly activities.
Best Time to Visit
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The best time to visit Westfalenpark with children is during the warmer months, from April to October. Weekends and school holidays are busier, so consider visiting on a weekday. The park is open from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm daily.
Recommended Duration: Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the park, depending on your interests and the activities you choose to participate in.
Our Recap
Westfalenpark is a must-visit destination for families looking for a fun and educational day in Dortmund. With its rich history, diverse attractions, and family-friendly features, the park offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in art, nature, or simply enjoying a day outdoors, Westfalenpark will leave a lasting impression on you and your children.
